how to write thesis for bachelor

How to Write a Bachelor’s Thesis: A Step-by-Step Guide

The bachelor’s degree is an important milestone in your academic life, and creating a successful bachelor’s thesis is an essential part of this process.

Although it can be a challenge, with a structured approach and a clear timetable, a well-researched, informed, and organized bachelor’s thesis can be created.

In this article, we explain how to write a bachelor’s thesis.

11 Facts About Bachelor’s Theses

• The average length of a bachelor’s thesis is about 30-60 pages.
• Most bachelor’s theses are written in the field of economics.
• The average processing time for a bachelor’s thesis is 3-6 months.
• Typically, bachelor’s theses are supervised by a professor or lecturer.
• Most bachelor’s theses are still written and submitted on paper.
• A bachelor’s thesis is always written within the framework of a study program and is an important part of the degree completion.
• The topic selection for a bachelor’s thesis is usually free, as long as it falls within the field of study.
• Adherence to citation rules and source references is an important part of a bachelor’s thesis.
• Submission of a bachelor’s thesis is usually combined with an oral examination.
• The bachelor’s thesis is the first longer scientific work that a student writes during their studies and therefore represents an important hurdle.
• In 2021, approximately 260,000 students achieved their bachelor’s degree.

Scientific Formulations in Minutes Seconds

11 Tips for Academic Writing (Bachelor’s Theses)

• Start your bachelor’s thesis early to have enough time for research, writing, and revision.
• Choose an interesting and relevant topic that fits well with your field of study.
• Create a detailed work plan to keep track of your steps and deadlines.
• Use trustworthy and current sources to underpin your work.
• Write clearly and precisely, avoid using unnecessarily complicated sentences.
• Use a consistent citation style and pay attention to the correct source citation.
• Logically structure your bachelor’s thesis and ensure that the common thread is recognizable.
• Revise and polish your work multiple times to ensure that it is free from spelling and grammar errors.
• Have your work read by others and seek feedback to recognize areas for improvement.
• Consider publishing your bachelor’s thesis to make it accessible to others and to present your work.
• Have your text scientifically rephrased by Mimir. Sample input : Potatoes are healthy… ➔ Result : Potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals and can contribute to a balanced diet.

The Process of Writing a Bachelor’s Thesis: Step by Step Guide

The writing process of a bachelor’s thesis is a challenge for many students. In this section, we give an overview of the most important steps and tips to successfully master the process.

• Determine the topic of the bachelor’s thesis and discuss it with the supervisor.
• Conduct comprehensive research and collect relevant sources.
• Create an outline and divide the topic into individual sections.
• Write the main part of the paper by processing and summarizing the insights gained from the research.
• Compose the concluding part, summarizing the main findings of the work and outlining possible further steps or implications.
• Proofread the work and check for formal requirements.
• Submit and defend the bachelor’s thesis.

Choosing a Topic: How to Find the Perfect Topic for Your Bachelor’s Thesis

The first step in creating a bachelor’s thesis is selecting the topic. It’s important that your topic is specific and answers a clear research question. If your topic is too general, it will be harder to achieve meaningful results.

Why is the topic important?

An interesting and relevant topic not only captivates your readers but also gives you the motivation to successfully complete the work.

The topic of your bachelor’s thesis is crucial for the success of your work.

A difficult or boring topic, on the other hand, can lead to you finding the writing process frustrating and ultimately not successfully completing the work. Therefore, it’s important to think carefully about which topic you choose for your bachelor’s thesis.

If you have difficulty finding a topic, you can turn to your supervisors and present your ideas to them.

Research & Study: The Right Way to the Perfect Bachelor’s Thesis

Once the topic is set, it’s time to collect the necessary information. This can be done by searching through libraries and databases, reading specialist literature, and interviewing experts. It’s important to carefully organize and document the collected information so that it’s easily accessible when writing the work.

It’s also important that your sources are current, as research and opinions in your subject area are constantly changing.

Possible Sources

• Academic Publications
• Professional Journals
• Reputable Websites (you should consult your supervisor beforehand)

Structure: Setup and Organization of the Bachelor Thesis

It is important to have a clear structure for your bachelor thesis. This should include an introduction, a main part, and a conclusion. Within the main part, you can divide your arguments into different sections. This helps you to structure your thought process and ensure a smooth and logical flow.

Introduction

• Summary of the research thesis
• Definition of the main terms
• Explanation of the research question and area of interest
• Conduct literature research
• Develop arguments and hypotheses
• Draw conclusions and results
• Cite sources
• Summary of the results
• Comparison of hypotheses and results
• Explanation of the implications of the results
• Recommendations for further research

Writing: Tips and Tricks for the Writing Process

After you have completed your research and established your structure, it is time to write.

It is important that you write your work in simple, academic German/English.

Avoid using too many technical terms and ensure that each sentence conveys a clear thought.

Compose a clear introduction that explains your topic and presents your argumentation. In the main part of your work, you should provide your arguments and examples to prove your thesis. Make sure that your arguments are logical and understandable.

• Write a simple and clear introduction
• Compose the main part of your work
• Ensure that each sentence conveys a clear thought
• Provide your arguments and examples to prove your thesis
• Ensure logical and understandable argumentation
• Avoid too many technical terms
• Avoid vague formulations
• Avoid subjective opinions

Tip: Let Mimir formulate your bullet point ( Example input : Running is great ➔ Result (1/3) : Running is a healthy and effective form of physical activity that can contribute to improving cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and mental health.)

Formatting: How to Properly Format Your Bachelor Thesis

It is important that you adhere to your university’s guidelines when formatting your bachelor thesis. Check the requirements for margins, line spacing, font size, and font type prescribed by your university.

It is also important to format your work consistently to achieve a professional look.

• Adhere to your university’s guidelines
• Check margins, line spacing, font size, and font type
• Consistently format your work
• Create a professional layout

Citing and Referencing: Rules for Citing and Referencing in the Bachelor Thesis

When referring to the ideas of other authors in your work, it is important to cite and reference them correctly. There are various citation styles you can use, but most universities use the Harvard or APA style.

Make sure to properly cite and reference all sources you refer to, to avoid plagiarism.

• Use the Harvard or APA style
• Cite and reference all sources you refer to
• Avoid plagiarism

Proofreading: Error Sources and Tips for a Flawless Bachelor Thesis

After you have written your bachelor thesis, it is important to thoroughly review it. Check the content for correct grammar, spelling, and structure. Also ensure that your arguments are clear and logical and that your statements are supported by your research.

It is important to proofread and edit your work several times. Make sure to correct all spelling and grammar errors so that your work looks professional.

• Read your work aloud to detect errors in grammar, sentence structure, and pronunciation.
• Use a dictionary or an online proofreading program to find errors in spelling and punctuation.
• Have someone else read your work and ask for feedback to gain additional perspectives and suggestions for improvement.
• Carefully review and revise your work to improve its quality and content. This can be done by adding examples, removing unnecessary information, or refining arguments.

Tip: Have your text checked by Mimir (Unscientific words, gender conformity, and more…)

Submission: How to Safely Submit and Defend Your Bachelor Thesis

Writing a bachelor thesis can be a challenging task, but if you follow the steps mentioned above, you will complete your work in a professional manner.

Don’t forget to adhere to the guidelines of your university.

Once you have reviewed and revised your bachelor’s thesis, it’s time to submit it. Make sure your work meets the requirements of your examiner and contains the correct information. If possible, have a friend or family member review it before you submit it.

Earning a bachelor’s degree is a great achievement, and creating a successful bachelor’s thesis is an essential part of this process. Remember, choosing a topic, conducting research, and writing a bachelor’s thesis can be a laborious process. However, if you have a clear schedule and follow the steps mentioned above, you can create a well-researched, informed, and organized bachelor’s thesis.

And last but not least: Congratulations!

Two Practical Examples of the Process

To better understand the steps and tips mentioned above, here are two examples from different academic areas:

• A psychology student writes a bachelor’s thesis on the effects of social media on the mental health of adolescents. She chooses this topic because it combines her personal interest and her expertise in psychology. She gathers information by reading textbooks and conducting interviews with adolescents and experts. She creates an outline consisting of an introduction, three main chapters, and a conclusion, and writes her paper accordingly. She makes sure to use quotes and references and to adhere to the APA formatting requirements. Finally, she carefully corrects her work and has it read by her teacher and a fellow student for improvement suggestions.
• A computer science student writes a bachelor’s thesis on the development of a new algorithm for machine learning. He chooses this topic because it reflects his expertise in computer science and his curiosity about new technologies. He gathers information by reading academic articles and communicating with other experts in his field. He creates an outline consisting of an introduction, three main chapters, a section on results, and a conclusion, and writes his paper accordingly. He makes sure to use citations and references and to adhere to the IEEE formatting requirements. Finally, he carefully corrects his work and has it read by his supervisor and a reviewer from a professional journal for improvement suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start writing a bachelor’s thesis.

Before you start writing your bachelor’s thesis, you should first plan the topic and structure of the paper. This also includes researching relevant sources and creating an outline. Once you have an overview of the structure of the paper, you can start writing.

How quickly can you write a bachelor’s thesis?

The duration of writing a bachelor’s thesis can vary greatly and depends on various factors, such as the complexity of the topic, the size of the paper, and the time spent on research. However, you should generally plan several weeks or even months for the actual writing of a bachelor’s thesis.

How do you properly write a bachelor’s thesis?

1. Start by selecting an interesting and relevant topic for your bachelor’s thesis. 2. Create a clear and detailed research plan that outlines the goals, methods, and timeline for your work. 3. Gather comprehensive and reliable sources to support your arguments and substantiate your theses. 4. Compose a clear and structured introduction that highlights the topic and significance of your work. 5. Develop your arguments in the main chapters of your bachelor’s thesis and use examples and evidence to support your statements. 6. Conclude your findings and conclusion in a conclusive and detailed section that summarizes the significance and implications of your work. 7. Thoroughly correct and revise your bachelor’s thesis to ensure it is logical, coherent, and error-free.

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HOW TO WRITE A THESIS: Steps by step guide

Introduction

In the academic world, one of the hallmark rites signifying mastery of a course or academic area is the writing of a thesis . Essentially a thesis is a typewritten work, usually 50 to 350 pages in length depending on institutions, discipline, and educational level which is often aimed at addressing a particular problem in a given field.

While a thesis is inadequate to address all the problems in a given field, it is succinct enough to address a specialized aspect of the problem by taking a stance or making a claim on what the resolution of the problem should be. Writing a thesis can be a very daunting task because most times it is the first complex research undertaking for the student. The lack of research and writing skills to write a thesis coupled with fear and a limited time frame are factors that makes the writing of a thesis daunting. However, commitment to excellence on the part of the student combined with some of the techniques and methods that will be discussed below gives a fair chance that the student will be able to deliver an excellent thesis regardless of the subject area, the depth of the research specialization and the daunting amount of materials that must be comprehended(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

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What is a thesis?

A thesis is a statement, theory, argument, proposal or proposition, which is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved. It explains the stand someone takes on an issue and how the person intends to justify the stand. It is always better to pick a topic that will be able to render professional help, a topic that you will be happy to talk about with anybody, a topic you have personal interest and passion for, because when writing a thesis gets frustrating personal interest, happiness and passion coupled with the professional help it will be easier to write a great thesis (see you through the thesis). One has to source for a lot of information concerning the topic one is writing a thesis on in order to know the important question, because for you to take a good stand on an issue you have to study the evidence first.

Qualities of a good thesis

A good thesis has the following qualities

• A good thesis must solve an existing problem in the society, organisation, government among others.
• A good thesis should be contestable, it should propose a point that is arguable which people can agree with or disagree.
• It is specific, clear and focused.
•   A good thesis does not use general terms and abstractions.  
• The claims of a good thesis should be definable and arguable.
• It anticipates the counter-argument s
• It does not use unclear language
• It avoids the first person. (“In my opinion”)
• A strong thesis should be able to take a stand and not just taking a stand but should be able to justify the stand that is taken, so that the reader will be tempted to ask questions like how or why.
• The thesis should be arguable, contestable, focused, specific, and clear. Make your thesis clear, strong and easy to find.
• The conclusion of a thesis should be based on evidence.

Steps in writing a Thesis

• First, think about good topics and theories that you can write before writing the thesis, then pick a topic. The topic or thesis statement is derived from a review of existing literature in the area of study that the researcher wants to explore. This route is taken when the unknowns in an area of study are not yet defined. Some areas of study have existing problems yearning to be solved and the drafting of the thesis topic or statement revolves around a selection of one of these problems.
• Once you have a good thesis, put it down and draw an outline . The outline is like a map of the whole thesis and it covers more commonly the introduction, literature review, discussion of methodology, discussion of results and the thesis’ conclusions and recommendations. The outline might differ from one institution to another but the one described in the preceding sentence is what is more commonly obtainable. It is imperative at this point to note that the outline drew still requires other mini- outlines for each of the sections mentioned. The outlines and mini- outlines provide a graphical over- view of the whole project and can also be used in allocating the word- count for each section and sub- section based on the overall word- count requirement of the thesis(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
• Literature search. Remember to draw a good outline you need to do literature search to familiarize yourself with the concepts and the works of others. Similarly, to achieve this, you need to read as much material that contains necessary information as you can. There will always be a counter argument for everything so anticipate it because it will help shape your thesis. Read everything you can–academic research, trade literature, and information in the popular press and on the Internet(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
• After getting all the information you need, the knowledge you gathered should help in suggesting the aim of your thesis.

Remember; a thesis is not supposed to be a question or a list, thesis should specific and as clear as possible. The claims of a thesis should be definable and also arguable.

• Then collecting and analyzing data, after data analysis, the result of the analysis should be written and discussed, followed by summary, conclusion, recommendations, list of references and the appendices
• The last step is editing of the thesis and proper spell checking.

Structure of a Thesis

A conventional thesis has five chapters – chapter 1-5 which will be discussed in detail below. However, it is important to state that a thesis is not limited to any chapter or section as the case may be. In fact, a thesis can be five, six, seven or even eight chapters.  What determines the number of chapters in a thesis includes institution rules/ guideline, researcher choice, supervisor choice, programme or educational level. In fact, most PhD thesis are usually more than 5 chapters(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

Preliminaries Pages: The preliminaries are the cover page, the title page, the table of contents page, and the abstract.

The introduction: The introduction is the first section and it provides as the name implies an introduction to the thesis. The introduction contains such aspects as the background to the study which provides information on the topic in the context of what is happening in the world as related to the topic. It also discusses the relevance of the topic to society, policies formulated success and failure. The introduction also contains the statement of the problem which is essentially a succinct description of the problem that the thesis want to solve and what the trend will be if the problem is not solved. The concluding part of the statement of problem ends with an outline of the research questions. These are the questions which when answered helps in achieving the aim of the thesis. The third section is the outline of research objectives. Conventionally research objectives re a conversion the research questions into an active statement form. Other parts of the introduction are a discussion of hypotheses (if any), the significance of the study, delimitations, proposed methodology and a discussion of the structure of the study(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The main body includes the following; the literature review, methodology, research results and discussion of the result, the summary, conclusion and recommendations, the list of references and the appendices.

The literature review : The literature review is often the most voluminous aspects of a thesis because it reviews past empirical and theoretical literature about the problem being studied. This section starts by discussing the concepts relevant to the problem as indicated in the topic, the relationship between the concepts and what discoveries have being made on topic based on the choice of methodologies. The validity of the studies reviewed are questioned and findings are compared in order to get a comprehensive picture of the problem. The literature review also discusses the theories and theoretical frameworks that are relevant to the problem, the gaps that are evident in literature and how the thesis being written helps in resolving some of the gaps.

The major importance of Literature review is that it specifies the gap in the existing knowledge (gap in literature). The source of the literature that is being reviewed should be specified. For instance; ‘It has been argued that if the rural youth are to be aware of their community development role they need to be educated’ Effiong, (1992). The author’s name can be at the beginning, end or in between the literature. The literature should be discussed and not just stated (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The methodology: The third section is a discussion of the research methodology adopted in the thesis and touches on aspects such as the research design, the area, population and sample that will be considered for the study as well as the sampling procedure. These aspects are discussed in terms of choice, method and rationale. This section also covers the sub- section of data collection, data analysis and measures of ensuring validity of study. It is the chapter 3. This chapter explains the method used in data collection and data analysis. It explains the methodology adopted and why it is the best method to be used, it also explains every step of data collection and analysis. The data used could be primary data or secondary data. While analysing the data, proper statistical tool should be used in order to fit the stated objectives of the thesis. The statistical tool could be; the spearman rank order correlation, chi square, analysis of variance (ANOVA) etc (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The findings and discussion of result : The next section is a discussion of findings based on the data collection instrumentation used and the objectives or hypotheses of study if any. It is the chapter 4. It is research results. This is the part that describes the research. It shows the result gotten from data that is collected and analysed. It discusses the result and how it relates to your profession.

Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation: This is normally the chapter 5. The last section discusses the summary of the study and the conclusions arrived at based on the findings discussed in the previous section. This section also presents any policy recommendations that the researcher wants to propose (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

References: It cite all ideas, concepts, text, data that are not your own. It is acceptable to put the initials of the individual authors behind their last names. The way single author is referenced is different from the way more than one author is referenced (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The appendices; it includes all data in the appendix. Reference data or materials that is not easily available. It includes tables and calculations, List of equipment used for an experiment or details of complicated procedures. If a large number of references are consulted but all are not cited, it may also be included in the appendix. The appendices also contain supportive or complementary information like the questionnaire, the interview schedule, tables and charts while the references section contain an ordered list of all literature, academic and contemporary cited in the thesis. Different schools have their own preferred referencing styles(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).   

Follow the following steps to achieve successful thesis writing

Start writing early. Do not delay writing until you have finished your project or research. Write complete and concise “Technical Reports” as and when you finish each nugget of work. This way, you will remember everything you did and document it accurately, when the work is still fresh in your mind. This is especially so if your work involves programming.

Spot errors early. A well-written “Technical Report” will force you to think about what you have done, before you move on to something else. If anything is amiss, you will detect it at once and can easily correct it, rather than have to re-visit the work later, when you may be pressured for time and have lost touch with it.

Write your thesis from the inside out. Begin with the chapters on your own experimental work. You will develop confidence in writing them because you know your own work better than anyone else. Once you have overcome the initial inertia, move on to the other chapters.

End with a bang, not a whimper. First things first, and save the best for last. First and last impressions persist. Arrange your chapters so that your first and last experimental chapters are sound and solid.

Write the Introduction after writing the Conclusions. The examiner will read the Introduction first, and then the Conclusions, to see if the promises made in the former are indeed fulfilled in the latter. Ensure that your introduction and Conclusions match.

“No man is an Island”. The critical review of the literature places your work in context. Usually, one third of the PhD thesis is about others’ work; two thirds, what you have done yourself. After a thorough and critical literature review, the PhD candidate must be able to identify the major researchers in the field and make a sound proposal for doctoral research. Estimate the time to write your thesis and then multiply it by three to get the correct estimate. Writing at one stretch is very demanding and it is all too easy to underestimate the time required for it; inflating your first estimate by a factor of three is more realistic.

Punctuating your thesis

Punctuation Good punctuation makes reading easy. The simplest way to find out where to punctuate is to read aloud what you have written. Each time you pause, you should add a punctuation symbol. There are four major pause symbols, arranged below in ascending order of “degree of pause”:

• Comma. Use the comma to indicate a short pause or to separate items in a list. A pair of commas may delimit the beginning and end of a subordinate clause or phrase. Sometimes, this is also done with a pair of “em dashes” which are printed like this:
• Semi-colon. The semi-colon signifies a longer pause than the comma. It separates segments of a sentence that are “further apart” in position, or meaning, but which are nevertheless related. If the ideas were “closer together”, a comma would have been used. It is also used to separate two clauses that may stand on their own but which are too closely related for a colon or full stop to intervene between them.
• Colon. The colon is used before one or more examples of a concept, and whenever items are to be listed in a visually separate fashion. The sentence that introduced the itemized list you are now reading ended in a colon. It may also be used to separate two fairly—but not totally—independent clauses in a sentence.
• Full stop or period. The full stop ends a sentence. If the sentence embodies a question or an exclamation, then, of course, it is ended with a question mark or exclamation mark, respectively. The full stop is also used to terminate abbreviations like etc., (for et cetera), e.g., (for exempli gratia), et al., (for et alia) etc., but not with abbreviations for SI units. The readability of your writing will improve greatly if you take the trouble to learn the basic rules of punctuation given above.

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How to Write a Bachelor Thesis: Tips and Tricks

Writing a bachelor thesis is a significant milestone in any student's academic journey. It requires meticulous planning, in-depth research, and dedicated writing efforts. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to write a bachelor thesis, offering valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate through the various stages of the process.

Key Takeaways

• Selecting a research topic that aligns with your interests and is feasible to study is crucial for a successful thesis.
• Conducting a thorough literature review helps in understanding the existing research and identifying gaps your study can fill.
• Developing a clear and ethical research methodology is essential for gathering reliable data.
• Writing a well-structured thesis with a strong introduction, clear arguments, and a concise conclusion enhances readability and impact.
• Revising and editing your work meticulously ensures academic integrity and improves the overall quality of your thesis.

Selecting a Research Topic

Choosing a research topic is the foundational step in writing your bachelor thesis. A well-chosen topic not only captivates your interest but also sets the stage for a successful thesis. Here are some strategies to help you select the perfect topic for your research question.

Conducting a Literature Review

A literature review is a crucial step in writing your bachelor thesis. It involves researching and analyzing existing academic publications related to your topic. Through this process, you gain an understanding of the current state of knowledge and identify gaps and opportunities for further research. Conducting a thorough review of previous studies will help you understand what information is needed and how it should be presented.

Developing a Research Methodology

Creating a robust research methodology is crucial for the success of your bachelor thesis. This section will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your research is methodologically sound and reliable.

Writing and Structuring Your Thesis

Creating an effective thesis structure is crucial for clearly communicating your research. Start by crafting a strong introduction that sets the stage for your study. This section should provide background information, state the research problem, and outline the objectives of your work. A well-written introduction captures the reader's interest and provides a roadmap for the rest of the thesis.

When developing clear arguments, ensure each chapter or section logically flows from one to the next. Use headings and subheadings to organize your content and make it easier to follow. Each argument should be supported by evidence from your research, and you should critically analyze this evidence to demonstrate your understanding of the topic.

Concluding effectively involves summarizing your main findings and discussing their implications. This section should tie together all the threads of your thesis and suggest areas for future research. A strong conclusion not only reinforces your arguments but also leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Revising and Editing Your Work

To ensure your thesis is polished, read your work aloud to catch errors in grammar and sentence structure. Utilize a dictionary or an online proofreading tool to identify spelling and punctuation mistakes. Proofreading should be your final step after making other structural changes.

Seek feedback from peers or advisors to gain new perspectives. This can help you identify areas that need improvement. Addressing feedback rigorously will enhance the clarity and quality of your thesis.

Maintain academic integrity by properly citing all sources and avoiding plagiarism. Use plagiarism detection software to double-check your work. This step is crucial to meet your academic needs and ensure your thesis shines.

Preparing for the Thesis Defense

Preparing for your thesis defense can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can navigate it successfully. Here are some essential tips to help you get ready for this critical stage of your academic journey.

Preparing for your thesis defense can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can overcome the anxiety and sleepless nights. Our step-by-step Thesis Action Plan is designed to help you navigate every stage of your thesis journey with confidence. Don't let uncertainty hold you back. Visit our website to claim your special offer now and take the first step towards a stress-free thesis defense.

Writing a bachelor thesis is a significant academic endeavor that requires careful planning, thorough research, and meticulous execution. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, students can navigate the complexities of thesis writing with greater confidence and efficiency. From selecting a compelling topic to adhering to proper formatting and citation guidelines, each step is crucial in producing a well-crafted thesis. Remember, the key to success lies in starting early, staying organized, and seeking guidance when needed. With dedication and the right strategies, completing a bachelor thesis can be a rewarding and intellectually enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start writing a bachelor’s thesis.

Begin by selecting a research topic that interests you and is feasible. Consult with your advisors for guidance and conduct a thorough literature review to understand the existing research in your field.

How quickly can you write a bachelor’s thesis?

The time required to write a bachelor’s thesis varies depending on the complexity of the topic and your writing skills. It’s recommended to start early and create a detailed work plan to manage your time effectively.

What are the key components of a bachelor’s thesis?

A bachelor’s thesis typically includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, analysis, discussion, conclusion, references, and appendices. Each section should be clearly written and well-organized.

How do you choose a research methodology for your thesis?

Choose a research methodology that aligns with your research questions and objectives. Consult with your advisors and review similar studies to determine the most appropriate methods for your research.

What are some effective proofreading techniques?

Effective proofreading techniques include reading your work aloud, using spell-check tools, and having peers or advisors review your thesis. Take breaks between writing and proofreading to approach your work with fresh eyes.

How do you prepare for a thesis defense?

Prepare for your thesis defense by creating a clear and concise presentation, anticipating potential questions from the committee, and practicing your delivery multiple times. Seek feedback from peers and advisors to improve your performance.

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How to Structure a Thesis: A Complete Guide

Writing a thesis can be an overwhelming task for many college and graduate students. Managing all the elements associated with a thesis while ensuring that the quality is not compromised can be challenging. However, what is even more strenuous is deciding on a thesis's layout. "How to structure a thesis" is a question that several final-year students struggle to answer. And understandably so, as all colleges and universities have their guidelines for drafting a thesis. However, there is an immutable structure that's common for every thesis. In this brief guide, we will take a look at this structure and analyze each of its components.

This guide discusses how to structure a thesis effectively. To give you an opportunity to practice proofreading, we have left a few spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors in the text. See if you can spot them! If you spot the errors correctly, you will be entitled to a 10% discount.  

A thesis or dissertation is a long academic document that a master's or doctoral candidate writes to obtain a relevant academic degree. Hence, writing a quality thesis is crucial for college and university students. A good thesis demonstrates a student's academic prowess in their field of study as well as helps hone their analytical and research skills. Writing a thesis can be an overwhelming task for many college and graduate students. Managing all the elements associated with a thesis while ensuring that the quality is not compromised can be challenging. However, what is even more strenuous is deciding on a thesis's layout.

"How to structure a thesis" is a question that several final-year students struggle to answer. And understandably so, as all colleges and universities have their guidelines for drafting a thesis. However, there is an immutable structure that's common for every thesis. In this brief guide, we will take a look at this structure and analyze each of its components. If you are also struggling to initiate the writing process for your thesis, follow this guide and get over your writer’s block.

How to Structure a Thesis: Examining the Constituents of a Thesis Structure

Here we have a list of all major sections that a thesis structure generally comprises. The entire thesis structure is segregated into 3 sections, with each section comprising its relevant subsections to facilitate greater legibility.

Front/Preliminary Matter of a Thesis Structure

1. abstract.

An abstract is a concise summary of an entire thesis and consists of the condensation of your entire thesis. A good abstract  is precise, concise (usually not more than 250 words) and emphasizes the importance of the document. When writing an abstract, make sure you explicitly mention the crux of your thesis. Also, avoid reiterating what you have mentioned in the title of your document.

Body of a Thesis Structure

2. introduction/preface.

The introduction chapter of your thesis outlines its core arguments, hypotheses, and results. It is longer than the abstract and contains adequate background information on your topic of interest. Furthermore, it establishes the relevance of your thesis by highlighting its contribution to the knowledge base of its topic. Writing a gripping introduction helps the readers understand the context of your thesis. According to USNSW Sydney, the introduction of a thesis should have the following stages:

State the general topic and give some background

Provide a review of the literature related to the thesis subject

Define the terms and scope of the thesis topic

Outline the existing situation

Evaluate the current situation and identify the gap in the literature

Identify the importance of the proposed research

State the main research questions

State the purpose of the study and/or research objectives

State the study hypotheses

Outline the order of information in the thesis

Outline the methodology.

3. Literature review

The literature review chapter sets the premise of your thesis. It examines and evaluates the research works that’s been conducted so far on your thesis topic and passively highlights the contributions of your thesis.

A literature review is a survey of academic sources on a specific subject, providing an overview of current knowledge, allowing you to discuss relevant theories, methods, and gaps in the existing research. Writing a literature review contains finding relevant publications, critically analyzing the sources, and explaining your findings in the literature. A well-written literature review doesn’t only summarize sources, it also aims to analyze, synthesize, and critically evaluate to give a clear picture of the state of knowledge on the topic.

To write an impeccable literature review, consult a plethora of sources and mention the canon related to your thesis topic. Also, put forward your review in a logical, chronological, and structured manner to better outline the knowledge gaps in your field of study and how your thesis will fill them.

The following simple and straightforward tips can act as the exhaustive rubric and offer meaningful insight to prospective authors on how to formulate a flawless literature review:

Step 1. Probe similar works for a well-structured literature review

Step 2. Analyze, not just synthesize: Authors should provide a detailed critique of the subject

Step 3. Organize your literature review systematically

Step 4. Establish the purview: Authors should specify the scope of the literature review

Step 5. Abstain from plagiarism

Step 6 . Be mindful of the language

4. Methodology

As the name suggests, the methodology section of a thesis consists of all methods and procedures you have used in your thesis. A well-written methodology accentuates the plausibility of your research methods. In addition, it enables your readers to understand why you chose specific methods and how they are justified for your research.

To garner more credibility, you can include the pitfalls and difficulties associated with your choice of research methods. The methodology section is an unavoidable part of a thesis or a research paper. Considering errors in the methodology section enervates the entire thesis.

Follow the steps below to write a perfect methodology for a thesis: 

a. Give an outline of the research design

b. Don’t forget to define the philosophy behind the research

c. Mention the research approach

d. Introduce the research methods

e. Note the following points to highlight in the methodology. No matter what methodology you have chosen, you have to focus on the following points:

Explain sampling strategy.

Clearly state the procedure of the research paper.

Mention how you collect the data. (Data collection)

Explain how data are analyzed for your research. (Data analysis). Suppose you have written in qualitative strategy like thematic analysis, mention the researcher you have followed.

Mention the validity of the data and result.

Discuss all ethical aspects of your research paper.

f. Avail professional proofreading and editing services

g. Most important tips to compose an impactful methodology for a dissertation

Don’t drift from your objective and the purpose of your dissertation.

Explore scholarly research papers and their methodology sections to have a better idea.

Plan a proper writing structure.

Understand your audience and target group.

Don’t make mistakes in citing relevant sources. You may use  APA  and  MLA citation

Refer to all the hurdles you have experienced while writing your dissertation.

Make sure to rectify grammatical and punctuation errors.

Ensure that the section is readable and doesn’t consist of long and complex sentences. Long sentences can hamper the tone of the methodology.

This section comprises the outcomes of your research work. It includes all the observations you made and the answers to all your hypotheses in the thesis. When writing the “results” chapter, include only factual data and format it to be distinguishable. Use tables, graphs, subheadings, and generic comments for the results. The aim is to enable your readers to discern the result of your research.

6. Discussion

The discussion chapter of your thesis should begin with a brief summarization of the outcome of your research work. It should explain how your results address your hypotheses and highlight any repetitions in your observations. You can also add comments on how you want the readers to interpret your results and about your agreements and disagreements with the available research work in your field. 

Writing a flawless thesis requires much more than only subject matter expertise. It requires expertise, experience, and in-depth thinking, along with sharp intelligence. Though most students add a discussion chapter in their thesis or dissertation, many of them end up messing up the essay or missing out on the central issues.

A discussion chapter in a thesis is a place where you have the chance to delving into the analysis, importance, and relevance of your research. This section focuses on explaining and analyzing what you have researched, presenting how it is associated with the existing literature. It is also a place for argument supporting your entire discussion.

We often find that people seek thesis writing help from experienced editing and proofreading services to prepare a flawless discussion chapter. However, the following helpful tips can help you design a perfect master's or Ph.D.. thesis with an excellent discussion chapter: 

Understand the objective of your thesis

Determine a clear structure

Usage of grammar and tense

Refer to hypotheses and literature review

Evaluate your results and compare them with existing studies

Understand the limitation of your research

Don’t be afraid to be unique

Don’t forget to avail a professional thesis editing and proofreading service 

Click here to review the details of the aforementioned tips. 

The following 5 questions might be helpful to write a sound discussion section: 

How well do you understand the objective of your study? 

What message is conveyed by your results? 

How do your findings compare to findings in literature? 

Why should your findings matter? 

In what light should your findings be viewed?

7. Conclusion

The final section of your document consists of a precise answer to your hypothesis. In addition, the “conclusion” chapter of your thesis should stress the achievement of the aims of your thesis. You should also include certain limitations of your research to convey the fact that there is still scope for further research in your field. 

The end matter of a thesis structure

The components of this section include an acknowledgment, a bibliography, and (occasionally) an appendix. 

Parting words

The first step to writing a thesis is to chalk out its layout. Doing so not only helps you deal with the writing process one step at a time but also enables you to better attend to each component of a thesis structure.

Also, before you follow this thesis structure, make sure to check with your university for “how to structure a thesis” guidelines. If the guidelines offered by your institution deviate slightly from what’s mentioned in this guide, then make sure to prioritize the former.

If you need us to make your thesis shine, contact us unhesitatingly!

Best Edit & Proof expert editors and proofreaders focus on offering papers with proper tone, content, and style of  academic writing,  and also provide an upscale  editing and proofreading service  for you. If you consider our pieces of advice, you will witness a notable increase in the chance for your research manuscript to be accepted by the publishers. We work together as an academic writing style guide by bestowing subject-area editing and proofreading around several categorized writing styles. With the group of our expert editors, you will always find us all set to help you identify the tone and style that your manuscript needs to get a nod from the publishers.

English formatting service for theses and dissertations

You can also avail of our assistance if you are looking for editors who can format your manuscript, or just check on the  particular styles  for the formatting task as per the guidelines provided to you, e.g.,  APA,  MLA, or Chicago/Turabian styles. Best Edit & Proof editors and proofreaders provide all sorts of academic writing help, including editing and proofreading services, using our user-friendly website, and a streamlined ordering process.

Get a free quote for editing and proofreading now!

Visit our  order page  if you want our subject-area editors or language experts to work on your manuscript to improve its tone and style and give it a perfect academic tone and style through proper editing and proofreading. The process of submitting a paper is very easy and quick. Click here to find out how it  works.

Our pricing is based on the type of service you avail of here, be it editing or proofreading. We charge on the basis of the word count of your manuscript that you submit for editing and proofreading and the turnaround time it takes to get it done. If you want to get an instant price quote for your project, copy and paste your document or enter your word count into our  pricing calculator.

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What is a thesis | A Complete Guide with Examples

Table of Contents

A thesis is a comprehensive academic paper based on your original research that presents new findings, arguments, and ideas of your study. It’s typically submitted at the end of your master’s degree or as a capstone of your bachelor’s degree.

However, writing a thesis can be laborious, especially for beginners. From the initial challenge of pinpointing a compelling research topic to organizing and presenting findings, the process is filled with potential pitfalls.

Therefore, to help you, this guide talks about what is a thesis. Additionally, it offers revelations and methodologies to transform it from an overwhelming task to a manageable and rewarding academic milestone.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a particular topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic using evidence and logic.

Writing a thesis showcases your ability of critical thinking, gathering evidence, and making a compelling argument. Integral to these competencies is thorough research, which not only fortifies your propositions but also confers credibility to your entire study.

Furthermore, there's another phenomenon you might often confuse with the thesis: the ' working thesis .' However, they aren't similar and shouldn't be used interchangeably.

A working thesis, often referred to as a preliminary or tentative thesis, is an initial version of your thesis statement. It serves as a draft or a starting point that guides your research in its early stages.

As you research more and gather more evidence, your initial thesis (aka working thesis) might change. It's like a starting point that can be adjusted as you learn more. It's normal for your main topic to change a few times before you finalize it.

While a thesis identifies and provides an overarching argument, the key to clearly communicating the central point of that argument lies in writing a strong thesis statement.

What is a thesis statement?

A strong thesis statement (aka thesis sentence) is a concise summary of the main argument or claim of the paper. It serves as a critical anchor in any academic work, succinctly encapsulating the primary argument or main idea of the entire paper.

Typically found within the introductory section, a strong thesis statement acts as a roadmap of your thesis, directing readers through your arguments and findings. By delineating the core focus of your investigation, it offers readers an immediate understanding of the context and the gravity of your study.

Furthermore, an effectively crafted thesis statement can set forth the boundaries of your research, helping readers anticipate the specific areas of inquiry you are addressing.

Different types of thesis statements

A good thesis statement is clear, specific, and arguable. Therefore, it is necessary for you to choose the right type of thesis statement for your academic papers.

Thesis statements can be classified based on their purpose and structure. Here are the primary types of thesis statements:

Argumentative (or Persuasive) thesis statement

Purpose : To convince the reader of a particular stance or point of view by presenting evidence and formulating a compelling argument.

Example : Reducing plastic use in daily life is essential for environmental health.

Analytical thesis statement

Purpose : To break down an idea or issue into its components and evaluate it.

Example : By examining the long-term effects, social implications, and economic impact of climate change, it becomes evident that immediate global action is necessary.

Expository (or Descriptive) thesis statement

Purpose : To explain a topic or subject to the reader.

Example : The Great Depression, spanning the 1930s, was a severe worldwide economic downturn triggered by a stock market crash, bank failures, and reduced consumer spending.

Cause and effect thesis statement

Purpose : To demonstrate a cause and its resulting effect.

Example : Overuse of smartphones can lead to impaired sleep patterns, reduced face-to-face social interactions, and increased levels of anxiety.

Compare and contrast thesis statement

Purpose : To highlight similarities and differences between two subjects.

Example : "While both novels '1984' and 'Brave New World' delve into dystopian futures, they differ in their portrayal of individual freedom, societal control, and the role of technology."

When you write a thesis statement , it's important to ensure clarity and precision, so the reader immediately understands the central focus of your work.

What is the difference between a thesis and a thesis statement?

While both terms are frequently used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings.

A thesis refers to the entire research document, encompassing all its chapters and sections. In contrast, a thesis statement is a brief assertion that encapsulates the central argument of the research.

Here’s an in-depth differentiation table of a thesis and a thesis statement.

Now, to craft a compelling thesis, it's crucial to adhere to a specific structure. Let’s break down these essential components that make up a thesis structure

15 components of a thesis structure

Navigating a thesis can be daunting. However, understanding its structure can make the process more manageable.

Here are the key components or different sections of a thesis structure:

Your thesis begins with the title page. It's not just a formality but the gateway to your research.

Here, you'll prominently display the necessary information about you (the author) and your institutional details.

• Title of your thesis
• Your full name
• Your department
• Your institution and degree program
• Your submission date
• Your Supervisor's name (in some cases)
• Your Department or faculty (in some cases)
• Your University's logo (in some cases)
• Your Student ID (in some cases)

In a concise manner, you'll have to summarize the critical aspects of your research in typically no more than 200-300 words.

This includes the problem statement, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. For many, the abstract will determine if they delve deeper into your work, so ensure it's clear and compelling.

Acknowledgments

Research is rarely a solitary endeavor. In the acknowledgments section, you have the chance to express gratitude to those who've supported your journey.

This might include advisors, peers, institutions, or even personal sources of inspiration and support. It's a personal touch, reflecting the humanity behind the academic rigor.

Table of contents

A roadmap for your readers, the table of contents lists the chapters, sections, and subsections of your thesis.

By providing page numbers, you allow readers to navigate your work easily, jumping to sections that pique their interest.

List of figures and tables

Research often involves data, and presenting this data visually can enhance understanding. This section provides an organized listing of all figures and tables in your thesis.

It's a visual index, ensuring that readers can quickly locate and reference your graphical data.

Introduction

Here's where you introduce your research topic, articulate the research question or objective, and outline the significance of your study.

• Present the research topic : Clearly articulate the central theme or subject of your research.
• Background information : Ground your research topic, providing any necessary context or background information your readers might need to understand the significance of your study.
• Define the scope : Clearly delineate the boundaries of your research, indicating what will and won't be covered.
• Literature review : Introduce any relevant existing research on your topic, situating your work within the broader academic conversation and highlighting where your research fits in.
• State the research Question(s) or objective(s) : Clearly articulate the primary questions or objectives your research aims to address.
• Outline the study's structure : Give a brief overview of how the subsequent sections of your work will unfold, guiding your readers through the journey ahead.

The introduction should captivate your readers, making them eager to delve deeper into your research journey.

Literature review section

Your study correlates with existing research. Therefore, in the literature review section, you'll engage in a dialogue with existing knowledge, highlighting relevant studies, theories, and findings.

It's here that you identify gaps in the current knowledge, positioning your research as a bridge to new insights.

To streamline this process, consider leveraging AI tools. For example, the SciSpace literature review tool enables you to efficiently explore and delve into research papers, simplifying your literature review journey.

Methodology

In the research methodology section, you’ll detail the tools, techniques, and processes you employed to gather and analyze data. This section will inform the readers about how you approached your research questions and ensures the reproducibility of your study.

Here's a breakdown of what it should encompass:

• Research Design : Describe the overall structure and approach of your research. Are you conducting a qualitative study with in-depth interviews? Or is it a quantitative study using statistical analysis? Perhaps it's a mixed-methods approach?
• Data Collection : Detail the methods you used to gather data. This could include surveys, experiments, observations, interviews, archival research, etc. Mention where you sourced your data, the duration of data collection, and any tools or instruments used.
• Sampling : If applicable, explain how you selected participants or data sources for your study. Discuss the size of your sample and the rationale behind choosing it.
• Data Analysis : Describe the techniques and tools you used to process and analyze the data. This could range from statistical tests in quantitative research to thematic analysis in qualitative research.
• Validity and Reliability : Address the steps you took to ensure the validity and reliability of your findings to ensure that your results are both accurate and consistent.
• Ethical Considerations : Highlight any ethical issues related to your research and the measures you took to address them, including — informed consent, confidentiality, and data storage and protection measures.

Moreover, different research questions necessitate different types of methodologies. For instance:

• Experimental methodology : Often used in sciences, this involves a controlled experiment to discern causality.
• Qualitative methodology : Employed when exploring patterns or phenomena without numerical data. Methods can include interviews, focus groups, or content analysis.
• Quantitative methodology : Concerned with measurable data and often involves statistical analysis. Surveys and structured observations are common tools here.
• Mixed methods : As the name implies, this combines both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

The Methodology section isn’t just about detailing the methods but also justifying why they were chosen. The appropriateness of the methods in addressing your research question can significantly impact the credibility of your findings.

Results (or Findings)

This section presents the outcomes of your research. It's crucial to note that the nature of your results may vary; they could be quantitative, qualitative, or a mix of both.

Quantitative results often present statistical data, showcasing measurable outcomes, and they benefit from tables, graphs, and figures to depict these data points.

Qualitative results , on the other hand, might delve into patterns, themes, or narratives derived from non-numerical data, such as interviews or observations.

Regardless of the nature of your results, clarity is essential. This section is purely about presenting the data without offering interpretations — that comes later in the discussion.

In the discussion section, the raw data transforms into valuable insights.

Start by revisiting your research question and contrast it with the findings. How do your results expand, constrict, or challenge current academic conversations?

Dive into the intricacies of the data, guiding the reader through its implications. Detail potential limitations transparently, signaling your awareness of the research's boundaries. This is where your academic voice should be resonant and confident.

Practical implications (Recommendation) section

Based on the insights derived from your research, this section provides actionable suggestions or proposed solutions.

Whether aimed at industry professionals or the general public, recommendations translate your academic findings into potential real-world actions. They help readers understand the practical implications of your work and how it can be applied to effect change or improvement in a given field.

When crafting recommendations, it's essential to ensure they're feasible and rooted in the evidence provided by your research. They shouldn't merely be aspirational but should offer a clear path forward, grounded in your findings.

The conclusion provides closure to your research narrative.

It's not merely a recap but a synthesis of your main findings and their broader implications. Reconnect with the research questions or hypotheses posited at the beginning, offering clear answers based on your findings.

Reflect on the broader contributions of your study, considering its impact on the academic community and potential real-world applications.

Lastly, the conclusion should leave your readers with a clear understanding of the value and impact of your study.

References (or Bibliography)

Every theory you've expounded upon, every data point you've cited, and every methodological precedent you've followed finds its acknowledgment here.

In references, it's crucial to ensure meticulous consistency in formatting, mirroring the specific guidelines of the chosen citation style .

Proper referencing helps to avoid plagiarism , gives credit to original ideas, and allows readers to explore topics of interest. Moreover, it situates your work within the continuum of academic knowledge.

To properly cite the sources used in the study, you can rely on online citation generator tools  to generate accurate citations!

Here’s more on how you can cite your sources.

Often, the depth of research produces a wealth of material that, while crucial, can make the core content of the thesis cumbersome. The appendix is where you mention extra information that supports your research but isn't central to the main text.

Whether it's raw datasets, detailed procedural methodologies, extended case studies, or any other ancillary material, the appendices ensure that these elements are archived for reference without breaking the main narrative's flow.

For thorough researchers and readers keen on meticulous details, the appendices provide a treasure trove of insights.

Glossary (optional)

In academics, specialized terminologies, and jargon are inevitable. However, not every reader is versed in every term.

The glossary, while optional, is a critical tool for accessibility. It's a bridge ensuring that even readers from outside the discipline can access, understand, and appreciate your work.

By defining complex terms and providing context, you're inviting a wider audience to engage with your research, enhancing its reach and impact.

Remember, while these components provide a structured framework, the essence of your thesis lies in the originality of your ideas, the rigor of your research, and the clarity of your presentation.

As you craft each section, keep your readers in mind, ensuring that your passion and dedication shine through every page.

Thesis examples

To further elucidate the concept of a thesis, here are illustrative examples from various fields:

Example 1 (History): Abolition, Africans, and Abstraction: the Influence of the ‘Noble Savage’ on British and French Antislavery Thought, 1787-1807 by Suchait Kahlon.

Example 2 (Climate Dynamics): Influence of external forcings on abrupt millennial-scale climate changes: a statistical modelling study by Takahito Mitsui · Michel Crucifix

Checklist for your thesis evaluation

Evaluating your thesis ensures that your research meets the standards of academia. Here's an elaborate checklist to guide you through this critical process.

Content and structure

• Is the thesis statement clear, concise, and debatable?
• Does the introduction provide sufficient background and context?
• Is the literature review comprehensive, relevant, and well-organized?
• Does the methodology section clearly describe and justify the research methods?
• Are the results/findings presented clearly and logically?
• Does the discussion interpret the results in light of the research question and existing literature?
• Is the conclusion summarizing the research and suggesting future directions or implications?

Clarity and coherence

• Is the writing clear and free of jargon?
• Are ideas and sections logically connected and flowing?
• Is there a clear narrative or argument throughout the thesis?

Research quality

• Is the research question significant and relevant?
• Are the research methods appropriate for the question?
• Is the sample size (if applicable) adequate?
• Are the data analysis techniques appropriate and correctly applied?
• Are potential biases or limitations addressed?

Originality and significance

• Does the thesis contribute new knowledge or insights to the field?
• Is the research grounded in existing literature while offering fresh perspectives?

Formatting and presentation

• Is the thesis formatted according to institutional guidelines?
• Are figures, tables, and charts clear, labeled, and referenced in the text?
• Is the bibliography or reference list complete and consistently formatted?
• Are appendices relevant and appropriately referenced in the main text?

Grammar and language

• Is the thesis free of grammatical and spelling errors?
• Is the language professional, consistent, and appropriate for an academic audience?
• Are quotations and paraphrased material correctly cited?

Feedback and revision

• Have you sought feedback from peers, advisors, or experts in the field?
• Have you addressed the feedback and made the necessary revisions?

Overall assessment

• Does the thesis as a whole feel cohesive and comprehensive?
• Would the thesis be understandable and valuable to someone in your field?

Ensure to use this checklist to leave no ground for doubt or missed information in your thesis.

After writing your thesis, the next step is to discuss and defend your findings verbally in front of a knowledgeable panel. You’ve to be well prepared as your professors may grade your presentation abilities.

Preparing your thesis defense

A thesis defense, also known as "defending the thesis," is the culmination of a scholar's research journey. It's the final frontier, where you’ll present their findings and face scrutiny from a panel of experts.

Typically, the defense involves a public presentation where you’ll have to outline your study, followed by a question-and-answer session with a committee of experts. This committee assesses the validity, originality, and significance of the research.

The defense serves as a rite of passage for scholars. It's an opportunity to showcase expertise, address criticisms, and refine arguments. A successful defense not only validates the research but also establishes your authority as a researcher in your field.

Here’s how you can effectively prepare for your thesis defense .

Now, having touched upon the process of defending a thesis, it's worth noting that scholarly work can take various forms, depending on academic and regional practices.

One such form, often paralleled with the thesis, is the 'dissertation.' But what differentiates the two?

Dissertation vs. Thesis

Often used interchangeably in casual discourse, they refer to distinct research projects undertaken at different levels of higher education.

To the uninitiated, understanding their meaning might be elusive. So, let's demystify these terms and delve into their core differences.

Here's a table differentiating between the two.

Wrapping up

From understanding the foundational concept of a thesis to navigating its various components, differentiating it from a dissertation, and recognizing the importance of proper citation — this guide covers it all.

As scholars and readers, understanding these nuances not only aids in academic pursuits but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the relentless quest for knowledge that drives academia.

It’s important to remember that every thesis is a testament to curiosity, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of discovery.

Good luck with your thesis writing!

Frequently Asked Questions

A thesis typically ranges between 40-80 pages, but its length can vary based on the research topic, institution guidelines, and level of study.

A PhD thesis usually spans 200-300 pages, though this can vary based on the discipline, complexity of the research, and institutional requirements.

To identify a thesis topic, consider current trends in your field, gaps in existing literature, personal interests, and discussions with advisors or mentors. Additionally, reviewing related journals and conference proceedings can provide insights into potential areas of exploration.

The conceptual framework is often situated in the literature review or theoretical framework section of a thesis. It helps set the stage by providing the context, defining key concepts, and explaining the relationships between variables.

A thesis statement should be concise, clear, and specific. It should state the main argument or point of your research. Start by pinpointing the central question or issue your research addresses, then condense that into a single statement, ensuring it reflects the essence of your paper.

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How to write a fantastic thesis introduction (+15 examples)

The thesis introduction, usually chapter 1, is one of the most important chapters of a thesis. It sets the scene. It previews key arguments and findings. And it helps the reader to understand the structure of the thesis. In short, a lot is riding on this first chapter. With the following tips, you can write a powerful thesis introduction.

Elements of a fantastic thesis introduction

An introductory chapter plays an integral part in every thesis. The first chapter has to include quite a lot of information to contextualise the research. At the same time, a good thesis introduction is not too long, but clear and to the point.

This list can feel quite overwhelming. However, with some easy tips and tricks, you can accomplish all these goals in your thesis introduction. (And if you struggle with finding the right wording, have a look at academic key phrases for introductions .)

Ways to capture the reader’s attention

Open with a (personal) story.

An established way to capture the reader’s attention in a thesis introduction is by starting with a story. Regardless of how abstract and ‘scientific’ the actual thesis content is, it can be useful to ease the reader into the topic with a short story.

Start by providing data or statistics

So if your thesis topic lends itself to being kick-started with data or statistics, you are in for a quick and easy way to write a memorable thesis introduction.

Begin with a problem

Emphasising the thesis’ relevance

A good thesis is a relevant thesis. No one wants to read about a concept that has already been explored hundreds of times, or that no one cares about.

Define a clear research gap

Every thesis needs a crystal-clear research gap. Spell it out instead of letting your reader figure out why your thesis is relevant.

Describe the scientific relevance of the thesis

Scientific relevance comes in different forms. For instance, you can critically assess a prominent theory explaining a specific phenomenon. Maybe something is missing? Or you can develop a novel framework that combines different frameworks used by other scholars. Or you can draw attention to the context-specific nature of a phenomenon that is discussed in the international literature.

Describe the societal relevance of the thesis

Formulating a compelling argument.

Arguments are sets of reasons supporting an idea, which – in academia – often integrate theoretical and empirical insights. Think of an argument as an umbrella statement, or core claim. It should be no longer than one or two sentences.

Write down the thesis’ core claim in 1-2 sentences

Support your argument with sufficient evidence.

The core claim of your thesis should be accompanied by sufficient evidence. This does not mean that you have to write 10 pages about your results at this point.

Consider possible objections

Think about reasons or opposing positions that people can come up with to disagree with your claim. Then, try to address them head-on.

Providing a captivating preview of findings

Address the empirical research context.

If you did all your research in a lab, this section is obviously irrelevant. However, in that case you should explain the setup of your experiment, etcetera.

Give a taste of the thesis’ empirical analysis

Hint at the practical implications of the research.

You already highlighted the practical relevance of your thesis in the introductory chapter. However, you should also provide a preview of some of the practical implications that you will develop in your thesis based on your findings.

Presenting a crystal clear thesis structure

Provide a reading guide.

The reading guide basically tells the reader what to expect in the chapters to come.

Briefly summarise all chapters to come

Design a figure illustrating the thesis structure.

Especially for longer theses, it tends to be a good idea to design a simple figure that illustrates the structure of your thesis. It helps the reader to better grasp the logic of your thesis.

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Writing a Bachelor Thesis step-by-step instructions

Writing a bachelor thesis: step-by-step instructions for your top grade

Step 1: Choosing a topic

Choosing a suitable topic is the first and one of the most important steps in writing a Bachelor's thesis. A well-chosen topic can make the entire work process easier and keep motivation high. You should consider several aspects when choosing a topic:

• Interest and passion: choose a topic that really interests and excites you. Since you will be spending a lot of time on the work, it is important that you can commit to the topic.
• Subject relevance: Make sure your topic is relevant and current within your field of study. It should include a question that is significant in the scientific discussion.
• Feasibility: Check whether the topic can be dealt with within the time and resources available. Make sure that there is sufficient literature and data material available to produce a well-founded paper.
• Supervision: It is helpful to choose a topic that can be supervised by a lecturer who specializes in this area. Good supervision can make all the difference and provide valuable support.

Once you have found a topic, you should narrow it down and specify it clearly. This makes it easier to create a structured research question and a concrete work plan.

If you would like to learn how to write a term paper, then take a look at our dedicated page:

Step 2: Find a supervisor

Choosing a suitable supervisor is a crucial step in writing your Bachelor's thesis, as they can make a significant contribution to the success of the project. Here are some tips for finding the right supervisor:

Once you have selected a supervisor, you should formally request and present your topic and a rough plan. Be open to suggestions and willing to make adjustments to further refine the topic. A good working relationship with your supervisor can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the writing process.

Step 3: Selecting the methodology

Choosing the right methodology is a key step in writing your Bachelor's thesis, as it determines how you systematically investigate and answer your research question. A well thought-out methodology ensures that your results are valid and reliable. Here are the essential steps for choosing the right methodology:

• Understanding the research question: Your research question largely determines which methodology is most suitable. Consider whether your question requires a qualitative, quantitative or mixed method. A clear and precise research question makes it easier to decide on the appropriate methodology.
• Qualitative methods are suitable if you want to gain deeper insights into complex phenomena, opinions or behaviors. Typical qualitative methods are interviews, case studies or content analyses.
• Quantitative methods are ideal if you want to collect numerical data and analyze it statistically. These are often used when it comes to testing hypotheses or recognizing patterns in large amounts of data. Surveys, experiments and statistical analyses are all quantitative methods.
• Mixed methods: In some cases, it can be useful to combine qualitative and quantitative approaches. This is called a mixed methods approach and allows you to capture both detailed insights and general patterns.
• Availability of data: Consider what data you need and whether it is accessible. For example, if you are planning a survey, you need to make sure that you can reach a sufficient number of participants. For qualitative studies, you should check whether you have access to the required information or interview partners.
• Resources and time management: Your method should be feasible in the time frame and with the resources available. Some methods, such as experiments or extensive interviews, can be very time-consuming and require careful planning.
• Ethical considerations: Ensure that your methodology meets ethical standards. This is especially important if you are working with personal data or interacting directly with people. Approval from ethics committees is often required.

Once you have decided on a methodology, you should describe it in detail in your methods section of the paper and explain why it is the best choice for your research question. A transparent presentation of the method increases the credibility of your research and enables others to understand your work.

Step 4: Time planning & time management

Writing your bachelor thesis Step 4: Scheduling & time management

How long it takes you to write a bachelor thesis depends on various factors, such as your topic, the time available, your working style and the complexity of the research. However, effective time management is crucial to make the process smooth and stress-free. This is an overview of how you can plan the time frame for your Bachelor thesis. With well thought-out time management, you can effectively manage the writing process of your bachelor thesis and minimize stress. Realistic planning, regular reviews of your progress and taking breaks are key to success.

Step 5: Structure and outline of the bachelor thesis

The structure and outline of a Bachelor's thesis are crucial for presenting your research findings in a structured and comprehensible way. A clear and logical outline helps the reader to recognize the common thread of your argument and to quickly grasp the most important findings. Here is a proven structure that is used in many disciplines:

1. Cover sheet

• Title of the thesis
• Name and matriculation number of the author
• Name of the supervisor
• Name of the university and degree program
• Date of submission

2. Abstract/Summary

• Short summary of the work (approx. 150-300 words)
• Description of the research question, methodology, main results and conclusions
• The aim is to give the reader a quick overview of the content of the thesis

3. Table of contents

• Overview of all chapters and subchapters with page numbers
• Should be clearly and logically structured so that the reader can follow the structure of the work

4. List of figures and tables (if applicable)

• List of all figures and tables used in the work with page numbers
• Numbering and labeling according to the formal requirements

5. List of abbreviations (if applicable)

• List of all abbreviations used in the work with explanations

6. Introduction

• Introduction to the topic of the paper
• Presentation of the problem and relevance of the topic
• Formulation of the research question or hypothesis
• Objectives of the thesis
• Overview of the structure of the thesis (brief description of the chapter structure)

7. Theoretical framework

• Presentation and explanation of the theoretical foundations and concepts relevant to the topic
• Overview of the current state of research
• Definition of central terms and concepts
• Presentation of models or theories used in the thesis

8. Methodology

• Description of the research methods used
• Justification of the choice of methods
• Description of the research design (e.g. qualitative or quantitative methods, data collection, sample selection)
• Explanation of the procedure for data collection and analysis
• Notes on possible limitations of the method
• Presentation of the research results
• Presentation of the data and its analysis
• Use of figures, tables and diagrams for illustration
• Objective and factual presentation of the findings without interpretation

10. Discussion

• Interpretation of the results in the context of the research question
• Comparison of the results with the existing literature and the theories presented in the theoretical framework
• Discussion of possible causes and implications of the results
• Indications of limitations of the study and suggestions for future research

11 Conclusion

• Summary of the most important findings of the study
• Answering the research question
• Presentation of the significance of the results for the field of research
• Outlook for further research or practical applications

12. Bibliography

• Complete list of all sources cited in the paper
• Formatting according to the specifications of the chosen citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)
• Alphabetical order according to the authors' surnames

13. Appendix (optional)

• Additional materials that are relevant to the understanding of the paper but would interrupt the main text too much (e.g. questionnaires, raw data, additional tables or figures)
• Each appendix should be numbered and titled

14. Affidavit

• Declaration by the author that the work was prepared independently and without unauthorized help
• Statement that all sources used have been cited
• Signature and date

This structure may vary slightly depending on the subject area and specific requirements, but in general these elements should be included. A clear and well-thought-out structure not only makes it easier to write, but also to read and understand your work.

Step 6: Literature research

Literature research is a key step in writing your Bachelor's thesis, as it forms the basis for your academic work. Thorough research will give you an overview of the current state of research on your topic and enable you to place your own research question in a scientific context. Here are the steps you should follow when researching the literature:

Thorough literature research lays the foundation for a scientifically sound bachelor thesis. Through a systematic approach, critical analysis and targeted selection of relevant sources, you create the basis for a convincing and well-founded thesis.

Step 7: Scientific writing

Scientific writing is a central aspect of your Bachelor's thesis, as it is not only about presenting your research findings, but also formulating them clearly, precisely and comprehensibly. A good scientific style lends credibility to your work and demonstrates your ability to explain complex issues in an understandable way. Here are the most important steps and tips for academic writing:

• Prefer simplicity: Use clear and precise wording. Avoid unnecessarily complicated sentences and technical jargon that is not absolutely necessary.
• Concise expression: Formulate your thoughts as precisely and to the point as possible. Long and convoluted sentences often lead to confusion.
• Logical structure: Ensure a clear structure and logical flow in your argumentation. Every statement should be comprehensible and well-founded.
• Red thread: Make sure that your work follows a common thread and that the individual chapters and sections build on each other in a meaningful way.
• Objective presentation: Formulate your statements objectively and factually. Avoid judgmental or subjective formulations that are not supported by scientific evidence.
• Supporting statements: Every claim should be supported by literature or your own research findings. Avoid unproven or speculative statements.
• Adhere to citations: Make sure you cite correctly according to your university's guidelines. This applies to both direct quotations and paraphrases.
• Avoid plagiarism: Make sure that all sources used are cited correctly to avoid plagiarism. Accusations of plagiarism can have serious consequences.
• Consistent style: adhere to the formal requirements for academic papers, such as font, font size, line spacing and margins.
• Structure and headings: Use a clear structure with meaningful headings that provide orientation for the reader.
• Smooth transitions: Ensure smooth transitions between sections and chapters to maintain the flow of reading. Avoid abrupt jumps in the argumentation.
• Coherence of arguments: Make sure that your arguments are coherent and consistent.
• Spelling and grammar: Pay attention to correct spelling, grammar and punctuation. Errors can affect the professional impression of your work.
• Avoid redundancies: Do not repeat arguments unnecessarily. Each paragraph should present a new aspect of your argument.
• Multiple read-throughs: Read through your work several times and revise it to eliminate linguistic inaccuracies and logical errors.
• Get feedback: Have your work proofread by other people, such as fellow students or your supervisor. External feedback can help to discover blind spots.
• Fluent language: Aim for a fluent and readable writing style that captures the reader's interest without losing academic rigor.
• Active vs. passive voice: Preferably use the active voice to make your sentences more lively and direct. The passive sentence should only be used when the focus is on the action and not on the actor.
• Honesty in presentation: Present your results and their interpretation honestly. Distortions or concealment of data is unethical and can undermine the credibility of your work.
• Scientific responsibility: Consider the ethical implications of your research and write in such a way that your work makes a responsible contribution to the scientific debate.

By observing these principles, you ensure that your Bachelor's thesis is not only convincing in terms of content, but also in terms of language. A clear, precise and factual style is the hallmark of a good scientific paper and contributes significantly to its success.

Step 8: Strategies for motivation and writing flow

Motivation and the flow of writing (writing flow) are decisive factors in writing your Bachelor's thesis efficiently and with a good result. Many students struggle with writer's block or the feeling of not making progress. Here are some strategies to stay motivated and maintain a constant writing flow:

Overview: Strategies for motivation and writing flow

This graphic shows an overview of the strategies that help you maintain your motivation and writing flow.

Explanation: Strategies for motivation and writing flow

By applying these strategies, you can improve your motivation and writing flow, which will help you to write your Bachelor's thesis efficiently and successfully.

Setting goals and celebrating progress

• Small milestones: Set yourself realistic, daily or weekly goals, e.g. a certain number of pages or sections. Small successes motivate you and make your progress visible.
• Document your progress: Keep a record of what you have achieved. Visualized progress (e.g. in the form of a checklist or a bar chart) can be very motivating.
• Rewards: Reward yourself when you have achieved a goal, be it with a break, a snack or a leisure activity.

Develop a routine

• Fixed writing times: Establish set times for writing. A daily routine helps to maintain the flow of writing and turn work into a habit.
• Create a working environment: Create a pleasant and distraction-free workplace. Make sure you have a tidy environment in which you can concentrate.
• Rituals: Develop small rituals before writing, such as a cup of tea, a short warm-up with brainstorming or going over the last thing you wrote.

Overcome writer's block

• Free writing: If you're stuck, try to just write away without worrying about the perfect wording. It often helps to get the flow of writing going by writing down your thoughts freely.
• Mind maps and sketches: Use mind maps or outlines to organize your ideas and see more clearly how you want to proceed.
• Change topics: If you are stuck on a certain section, temporarily switch to another part of your work. Sometimes it helps to continue writing another chapter.

Breaks and self-care

• Regular breaks: Plan regular breaks to maintain your concentration. Short exercise breaks or a walk can work wonders.
• Get enough sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep to stay mentally fit and creative. Exhaustion often leads to a loss of motivation and writer's block.
• Diet and exercise: A balanced diet and regular physical activity support your mental performance and motivation.

Positive mindset

• Self-motivation: Remind yourself why you chose the topic and what significance the Bachelor's thesis has for your academic and professional career. Focus on the positive aspects of your work.
• Self-talk: Positive self-talk can help you overcome doubts and negative thoughts. Tell yourself that you are capable and well prepared.
• Visualization: Imagine yourself successfully completing and handing in your work. This visualization can have a motivating effect.

Feedback and exchange

• Get feedback: Exchange ideas with fellow students or your supervisor to get feedback. Constructive feedback can help to eliminate uncertainties and provide new motivation.
• Writing groups: Consider joining a writing group where you can motivate and support each other.

Understand writing as a process

• Allow drafts: Accept that the first draft doesn't have to be perfect. Knowing that you can revise later takes the pressure off.
• Step-by-step approach: See writing as a process that takes time. Start with rough drafts and refine them as you go.

Techniques for the flow of writing

• Pomodoro technique: Work in short, intensive sections (e.g. 25 minutes) with subsequent breaks. This promotes concentration and writing flow.
• Morning pages: Write three pages every morning on anything that comes to mind. This helps to promote the flow of writing and to clear your head for the actual work.

If you need more help with motivation and writing flow, then take a look at our pages on study strategies and learning types, for example.

Step 9: Proper citation

Writing a bachelor thesis Step 9: Correct citation

Correct citation is an essential part of academic work and serves to make the sources on which your argumentation is based transparent and to give due credit to the authors of the ideas. Errors in citation can have serious consequences, including accusations of plagiarism. These are the most important steps and rules you should follow when citing correctly. By citing carefully and correctly, you show respect for the work of other scientists and ensure the scientific quality and integrity of your own work. It is therefore advisable to familiarize yourself with the citation rules at an early stage and to apply them consistently.

Step 10: Proofreading

Proofreading is the final step before submitting your Bachelor's thesis and is crucial to ensure that your work is error-free, clear and well-structured. In this step, you not only check spelling and grammar, but also the coherence of the content and compliance with the formal requirements. Here are the most important steps for effective proofreading:

• Buffer time: Allow sufficient time for proofreading, ideally at least a week. Avoid putting this step off until the last minute to avoid stress and careless mistakes.
• Several passes: Proofreading requires several passes, each of which should focus on different aspects of the work.
• Gain distance: Take a short break of a few days after writing before you start proofreading. A little distance will help you to look at your work with fresh eyes and recognize errors more easily.
• Automatic tools: Use spelling and grammar checkers such as those built into word processing programs. Be careful, however, as these don't always catch all errors or make sensible suggestions.
• Manual checking: Read each sentence carefully and look for common errors such as missing commas, typos or incorrect sentence structure.
• Read backwards: Read paragraphs or sentences backwards (from back to front) to focus on spelling without being distracted from the content.
• Red thread: Make sure that your argumentation is logical and stringent. Each section should clearly lead to the next and the entire paper should follow a common thread.
• Coherence: Make sure that all parts of your work are consistent with each other, especially the introduction, the research question, the methodology and the conclusion.
• Citation style: Check the consistency and accuracy of your citations and bibliography. Make sure that all sources are formatted correctly and consistently.
• Formatting: Check compliance with the formal requirements of your university, such as font, font size, margins, line spacing and page numbers.
• Figures and tables: Ensure that all figures and tables are correctly numbered and labeled and that they are properly referenced in the text.
• Clarity: Revise sentences that are unclear or too complicated. The aim is to make your arguments clear and understandable.
• Remove redundancies: Delete repetitions and unnecessary repetitions. Each piece of information should only be presented clearly and concisely once.
• Active voice: Use the active voice rather than the passive voice to make your statements more dynamic and precise.
• External proofreaders: Ask friends, fellow students or family to read your work. They can spot errors that you may have missed and give you feedback on the clarity and logic of your argument.
• Professional proofreaders: If possible, also consider professional proofreading services that specialize specifically in academic papers.
• Headings: Make sure the headings are consistent and the hierarchy is clearly recognizable.
• Paragraph structure: Make sure that the paragraphs are clearly and sensibly structured. Each paragraph should express a clear idea and lead logically to the next.
• Page numbering: Check the page numbering and the correct allocation of the table of contents, list of figures and bibliography.
• Plagiarism check: Use plagiarism software to ensure that all cited sources are correct and that you have not unknowingly included any plagiarism.
• Overall impression: Read through the entire paper again to check the overall impression. Pay attention to the readability and flow of the text.
• Final changes: Make final adjustments and corrections before printing or submitting the paper.

Careful proofreading ensures that your bachelor thesis is of the highest standard in terms of language and content and makes a professional impression. It is the final but crucial step to ensure that your hard work is presented in the best possible way.

Checklist: Bachelor thesis tips

Writing your bachelor's thesis is a challenging task that requires both academic rigor and ethical integrity. Here are some important tips to help you successfully navigate the process, including advice on plagiarism checking, the use of ghostwriters and artificial intelligence (AI).

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Bachelor's thesis is not only convincing in terms of content, but also meets the formal and ethical requirements. Take the opportunity to master this challenge independently and successfully in order to grow both academically and personally.

Similar Study Guide Topics:

Writing a term paper Study strategies Learning types Studying in Munich

Is ghostwriting bachelor thesis legal?

No, ghostwriting for a Bachelor's thesis is not legal. If you submit a thesis that you did not write yourself, this is against the examination regulations and can have serious consequences such as the withdrawal of your degree.

How do I write the methodology in the Bachelor's thesis?

In the methodology of your Bachelor's thesis, describe which research approaches and methods you have chosen and why. Explain how you collected and analyzed data and show that your approach is appropriate to answer the research question. Make sure to be clear and precise so that your work is comprehensible.

Is it difficult to write a Bachelor's thesis?

It can be challenging to write a Bachelor's thesis, but with good planning and motivation it is doable.

Can you write your Bachelor's thesis in English?

Yes, you can write your Bachelor's thesis in English if your university allows it. At Munich Business School , for example, it is permitted and often happens that papers, including the Bachelor's thesis, are written in English.

In which program should I write my bachelor thesis?

It is best to write your bachelor thesis in Microsoft Word or LaTeX.

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Search the site, search suggestions, to thesis or not to thesis.

For many students at Harvard, whether or not to write a thesis is a question that comes up at least once during our four years.

For some concentrations, thesising is mandatory – you know when you declare that you will write a senior thesis, and this often factors into the decision-making process when it comes to declaring that field. For other concentrations, thesising is pretty rare – sometimes slightly discouraged by the department, depending on how well the subject lends itself to independent undergraduate research. 

In my concentration, Neuroscience on the Neurobiology track, thesising is absolutely optional. If you want to do research and writing a thesis is something that interests you, you can totally go for it, if you like research but just don’t want to write a super long paper detailing it, that’s cool too, and if you decide that neither is for you, there’s no pressure. 

Some Thesis Work From My Thesis That Wasn't Meant To Be

This is from back when I thought I was writing a thesis! Yay data! Claire Hoffman

While this is super nice from the perspective that it allows students to create the undergraduate experiences that work best for them, it can be really confusing if you’re someone like me who can struggle a little with the weight of such a (seemingly) huge decision. So for anyone pondering this question, or thinking they might be in the future, here’s Claire’s patented list of advice:

1.    If you really want to thesis, thesis.

If it’s going to be something you’re passionate about, do it! When it comes to spending that much time doing something, if you’re excited about it and feel like it’s something you really want to do, it will be a rewarding experience. Don’t feel discouraged, yes it will be tough, but you can absolutely do this!

2.    If you really don’t want to write one, don’t let anyone tell you you should.  This is more the camp I fell into myself. I had somehow ended up writing a junior thesis proposal, and suddenly found myself on track to thesis, something I hadn’t fully intended to do. I almost stuck with it, but it mostly would have been because I felt guilty leaving my lab after leading them on- and guilt will not write a thesis for you. I decided to drop at the beginning of senior year, and pandemic or no, it was definitely one of the best decisions I made.

3.    This is one of those times where what your friends are doing doesn’t matter. I’m also someone who can (sometimes) be susceptible to peer pressure. Originally, I was worried because so many of my friends were planning to write theses that I would feel left out if I did not also do it. This turned out to be unfounded because one, a bunch of my friends also dropped their theses (senior year in a global pandemic is hard ok?), and two, I realized that even if they were all writing them and loved it, their joy would not mean that I could not be happy NOT writing one. It just wasn’t how I wanted to spend my (limited) time as a senior! On the other hand, if none of your friends are planning to thesis but you really want to, don’t let that stop you. Speaking from experience, they’ll happily hang out with you while you work, and ply you with snacks and fun times during your breaks.

Overall, deciding to write a thesis can be an intensely personal choice. At the end of the day, you just have to do what’s right for you! And as we come up on thesis submission deadlines, good luck to all my amazing senior friends out there who are turning in theses right now.  

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What makes a Bachelor's thesis different from Master's and PhD theses? [duplicate]

All the three types of research revolve around an argument, a thesis. They of course differ in terms of student level, that is complexity.

But, what makes a bachelor's thesis different from master's and PhD theses in terms of procedures of researching given that all of them may follow the same process of research, questions or hypotheses, review of the literature, methodology, results and discussion?

• research-process
• research-undergraduate

• 13 In a bachelor thesis you are usually not expected to expand the existing body of human knowledge in contrast to a PhD. Bachelor theses are closer to literature reviews. –  Marc Claesen Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 9:08
• 1 I see what you meant but I'm not really convinced. Concerning the contribution to human knowledge, I think this depends on whether the thesis is innovative. If an undergraduate thesis is genuine, it can be published in a respectable academic journal. In that case, it would expand existing body of human knowledge. Concerning its similarity with literature reviews, how can it be similar if the literature review is but a chapter of the thesis? –  EasternRiver Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 10:26
• 5 You are very unlikely to do anything really innovative as a BA, unless you just happen to be lucky to be working in a very new field, or under a very, very good mentor. The idea that you're going to make a meaningful contribution to some well established, famous open problem at 22 is really, really low. –  user10636 Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 12:00
• 2 A PhD thesis requires original research, a master's does not required it, and a bachelor's thesis ... they just do assignments. –  Philip Gibbs Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 15:25
• 6 This graphic is a bit instructive: An illustrated guide to a Ph.D. –  Matthew G. Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 16:37

3 Answers 3

The PhD thesis should be on a much higher level than the Honours/Masters thesis, offering a contribution to human knowledge that is of a sufficient level of "significance" to warrant publication in a respected journal.

Significance is highly subjective, and you also do not necessarily have to publish to be awarded the PhD (sometimes the peer-review delay means that they come out afterwards, or there may be some intellectual property issues that make it beneficial to refrain from publication). It is awarded based on your supervisors consent and a review of academics in your field. So the "significance" would probably be judged by them in terms of how much original work they see as a reasonable expectation at that stage of your development (first 3 years of serious/committed research). Unfortunately it also means that some people who probably do not deserve PhD's are awarded them anyway for fulfilling grunt work for their easy-going supervisors.

It is possible that some Honours/Masters thesis might even be more significant/higher quality than a PhD thesis. Unfortunately, this does not mean that the submission of the thesis will award the degree that they deserve. The university may have a policy to upgrade the student's enrolment if the supervisor senses that such progress is being made. However, it is impossible to upgrade to a PhD without completing Honours and I believe nearly every single university has a policy of a minimum period of enrolment before submission is allowed. A subsequent question that you may have is how to gain a PhD without enrolling in one, which is another level of achievement completely.

As for the difference between Honours/Bachelor and Masters it would depend on your university, but both have no requirement for publication quality research and are usually small tasks/ideas that are not worth the supervisors time to think about alone, or involve a lot of labor. In fact, in my school, many Honours thesis are of a higher level than the Masters, because the smart Honours students will either graduate into the work force or go straight into a PhD. The Masters students are usually those who cannot find a job and are not suited to research. However, I believe some other universities may require a mandatory Masters degree to start the PhD.

You may get a better idea by looking at some titles/abstracts of completed theses. The PhD level will be something like a new method/observation/application whereas the Masters/Honours will be an application specific set of measurements/simulations or even simply a literature review to gauge the needs of future work. The word limits are also typically different (although note that quality is NOT proportional to the number of words), with PhD at 100K, Masters at 50K and Honours at 30K at my university.

Go back to basic definitions... In history of university degrees (500 years ago)

A bachelors degree is about learning existing knowledge. Historically from the book(s) written by the univ staff.

A masters degree, after you have learnt what is already known and in books in your topic area, is about learning evolving knowledge - that is near recent and current literature in academic journals and conference presentations.

A doctorate degree is about creating new knowledge by research.

So it is now easy to understand a thesis/dissertation for each degree.

A bachelors degree should be a critique of existing knowledge, often looking for inconsistencies in view points from different sources and synthesising arguments or positions in a DISSERTATION )that is you disserting !

A masters thesis (thesis is Greek for 'I believe') can be either an assembly of new knowledge from new published research or simply a critique and integration. It might have propositions (not hypotheses) that the masters student offers as a conclusion from bringing together new knowledge from different sources.

A doctoral thesis is where the author undertakes research, usually collecting primary new data which is presented as both factual findings and conceptual findings and thus new knowledge in the form of a new model or theory. Also possible, is to challenge existing knowledge and show earlier published knowledge is invalid.

Well that's what they all should be. In practice there is some overlap and different universities and faculties have their own custom and practice. It all starts to break down about 40 years ago when a masters degree become post graduate in time rather than post graduate in level. Thus engineers with a bachelor degree might take an MBA to make them more employable and did more a less a bachelor degree in business in 18 months rather than 3 years as they were already a graduate.

But still thinking in the above categories can help students today focus on the overall agenda.

I have examined over 55 PhD theses. And several hundred masters theses and I base my approach to assessment on the above.

Prof Peter Woolliams, B.Sc(hons), B.A., PhD, Emeritus professor, Anglian Ruskin College Cambridge, U K

• Your answer is very clear. However, I have come across many Bachelor's and especially Master's theses following the processes of research. personally, I am writing my Bachelor's thesis. I've followed the same of research. Specifically I've used online ethnography, collected data through participant observation and interviews, and trying to analyze data through constant comparative method. My supervisor did not impose this on me, but students have to follow the processes of research, literature review, data collection and analysis and discussion, etc. I really wonder if I am doing it wrong. –  EasternRiver Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 20:51
• 1 As I said, many units and supervisor have their local specific requirements, peter –  Prof Peter Woolliams Commented Mar 30, 2014 at 10:14

Roughly speaking, there are three levels of tasks:

• Application

For a Bachelor's thesis, you would only expect 1 and 2, that is the student should do something (e.g. solve a well-defined problem) with the knowledge they have aquired during their studies.

For Master's thesis, you would want to have a non-trivial amount of 3, that is the student should transfer the competences aquired during studies to new problems. This usually includes (more) extensive literature research.

A formal difference that (imho) derives from the above is volume; Bachelor's theses typically award less credits than Master's theses and should thus take up less time and fewer pages.

• 1 Note that excellent students will often move to 3 in their Bachelor's thesis and on to independent research in their Master's thesis. That's fair, encouraged even, but should by no means be required. –  Raphael Commented Mar 29, 2014 at 14:26

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged phd research-process masters research-undergraduate .

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How do I write a good bachelor thesis quickly?

The official variant of the bachelor’s thesis: It is an examination in the form of a text on a specific topic. You are to collect and evaluate previous knowledge on the topic then gain new insight using so-called scientific techniques and methods.

The bachelor’s thesis is the final project of the Bachelor's program. You should prove that you can work and write scientifically. It’s a unique work because both the topic and the grade are written DIRECTLY and in the wording on the certificate. Thus, the bachelor’s thesis is the ONLY independent achievement of your entire studies that can be recognized by outsiders.

A top grade looks fantastic on the certificate!

That was the official description of the thesis...

The truth about the bachelor’s thesis (unofficial version):

• The bachelor’s thesis is a tough nut to crack.
• It is the ultimate barrier between you and your dream job or dream master’s degree.
• The work shows you mercilessly what you can and cannot do.
• You're alone with it.
• No one understands you or your problems.
• You feel more overwhelmed than you’ve ever been before in your entire life.
• You read so many good articles that you feel very small and incompetent.
• In addition, there is also the feeling of deteriorating good sentences from other texts. This feels completely meaningless.
• Friends are constantly advising you not to worry so much and just write something down.
• You are struggling with motivation, suffering from procrastination, receiving hardly any feedback and wishing this was all over as soon as possible.

In the end you are not even proud of your bachelor’s thesis. You can't rid yourself of the feeling that you have simply copied everything and hardly created anything by yourself. The many obviously copied passages in textbooks of other authors can puzzle you as well. Their apparent inability (or laziness?) makes you doubt the whole project even more. You lost your faith in the honesty of science long ago...

But there are ways and means not only to get through the project, but to complete your bachelor’s thesis fast and efficiently so you receive top marks!

What is the best approach to the bachelor’s thesis?

As a rule, 8-12 weeks are allowed for the bachelor’s thesis. However, an extension is usually necessary. In the end there is almost always stress, night shifts and dissatisfaction with the result of days and nights worked.

But you can plan your bachelor’s thesis like a project by dividing the work into 7 milestones and 30 sprints. The most important stages of the bachelor’s thesis are:

Milestone 1: The topic and suitable sources have been found.

Milestone 2: The outline and a proposal or introduction is written

Milestone 3: The theory chapter is finished.

Milestone 4: The chapter on the state of research is complete.

Milestone 5: The analysis and the results chapter are finished.

Milestone 6: The entire text is finished.

Milestone 7: The work is printed and submitted.

The grade of the thesis depends on:

• The quality of the content,
• Outline of the work,
• Formalities and language.
• The requirements are clear. Think carefully about what you need to do to receive the highest mark.

What are the hardest problems when it comes to writing the bachelor’s thesis:

• Finding the topic at the beginning,
• Finding enough suitable sources,
• Quoting sources correctly,
• Obtaining a functioning outline,
• Creating a real personal contribution instead of just writing it off,
• Formulating and writing scientifically,
• Resisting the temptation of copy&paste of sources from the Internet,
• Having a storyline in the text,
• Producing a text free of errors,
• and all within a tight schedule…

In addition, there are about 30 to 40 other challenges such as formatting, preparing presentations, citing obscure sources, setting up consultations, gathering data, finding survey participants, and so on and so forth. The right methods and Aristolo's thesis guide will help you overcome all of these problems.

Methods play an important role in the bachelor’s thesis.

Methods are all kinds of approaches, concepts, tools or aids with which knowledge can be gained. Most of the methods are not trained at the university. But now you need them. The following methods are important:

• Methods for researching books and articles,
• Evaluation of sources,
• Formalizing and modeling,
• Questioning techniques for interviews and surveys,
• Evaluation of interviews,
• Data analysis,
• Writing techniques.

There are endless explanations for these methods on the Internet, but they require some time to get used to them.

What role do supervisors play in the bachelor’s thesis and what do they expect?

Supervisors are available for consultations. They accept your topic or help individually with the topic search. They often also evaluate your work. But in most cases, the supervisor is an assistant and the professor ultimately evaluates the bachelor’s thesis.

Supervisors expect two things above all: disciplined adherence to the rules of academic research and writing in addition to the student’s personal intellectual achievement. What they do not like are certain sayings.

The tiresome topic of Internet sources

Hardly anything is as frowned upon in a bachelor’s thesis as internet sources: Why is that? Because copy and paste has made it easy to build a text from bits and pieces from the Internet.

But there are very different types of Internet sources, and they're not all bad. Some can be used appropriately, which will allow you to make faster progress. In particular, Wikipedia offers many advantages for the thesis.

What aids will help me with the bachelor’s thesis?

There are numerous aids, helpers and assistance programs. But some of these sources are no helpful at all because they are frauds such as ghostwriting. By the way, it is not the ghostwriter who is the cheater, but the one who submits a foreign text as his or her own text. That's why ghostwriters have no inhibitions about actively advertising...

Beware of plagiarism!

The biggest risk of a bachelor’s thesis is plagiarism, copying without sufficient indication of the source or even completely without indication of the source. This violation will be severely punished. One should be happy if he/she is allowed to write the work again, if at all. However, the worst case is that you can't receive your degree...

The issue of plagiarism is widely discussed. However, hardly anyone knows how to spot plagiarism, how it can be recognized and how to avoid plagiarism in your own text. Unfortunately, anti-counterfeiting techniques are not on the curriculum...

I don't feel like it anymore...

Of course motivation is extremely important to the progression of your bachelor’s thesis. To be motivated, you need to create small successes in the bachelor’s thesis again and again. Complete work packages along the master plan and you'll feel better. That's how you will have "intermediate wins". Such easily measurable successes inspire the bachelor’s thesis:

• Written pages,
• Read pages,
• Procured sources,
• Topic is registered,
• Outline is ready,
• Outline is adopted,
• Introduction is written,
• Chapters are written,
• Dates with experts are agreed upon,
• Data is collected,
• Personal contribution is written,
• Conclusion is written and much more.

Unfortunately, motivation always goes down the drain when you need it most... This is when the work packages from the master plan help!

So, to sum up:

You need a plan, the right methods, motivation, tips and techniques against problems, tools against the time wasters and one goal: to do the work quickly and well. Aristolo's thesis guide will help you finish your bachelor’s thesis in 31 days and receive a top grade. Good luck writing your text!

Silvio and the Aristolo Team

PS: Check out the Thesis-ABC and the Thesis Guide for writing a bachelor thesis in 31 days.

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Graduate Writing Resources

Whether it’s writing your thesis, brainstorming for a seminar paper, or completing final formatting edits, CSULB offers various writing resources to its graduate students. 

The Thesis and Dissertation Office offers formatting support to graduate thesis/dissertation students in preparation for their submission to the office (usually around the time of committee approval/the student’s thesis defense). The online formatting resources linked below are a great place to start. To schedule an appointment with the Thesis Office staff, click the link below to email them at [email protected]

Thesis Formatting Resources

CSULB Format Manual

Mini Manuscript

Email Thesis Office

For CSULB graduate students seeking writing help earlier in the process, the Graduate Center’s Writing Specialist is available to assist as well as advise on general academic writing concerns (e.g., avoiding plagiarism or overcoming writing anxiety).

To schedule a writing support appointment, see the Graduate Writing Specialist’s webpage: 

Request Appointment

The CSULB Library is also a well of resources for all students to receive support as they research their topics and refine their citation knowledge and skills. Each discipline has its own librarian dedicated to offering specialized assistance in that area. To view your department/topic’s research guides and connect with your librarian, click the button below.

Library Research Guides

In addition, the following resources offer various types of writing support to the CSULB community:

• University Writing Center (open to all CSULB students, both graduate and undergraduate)
• Career Development Center (offers career-development support--including career counseling, job searches, and assistance with résumés--for CSULB students and alumni) 
• BMAC Center (offers writing support to students with disabilities)
• The CSULB Learning Center (offers Language and Writing Tutoring for ESL students) 
• Succeeding at the Beach website (offers text-based resources on academic writing, study skills, maintaining mental health, and other useful topics)
• The Graduate Writing Guy website (writing resource site maintained by our Graduate Writing Specialist; offers tutorials, videos, and other resources on graduate writing and graduate admissions).

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• Dissertation

How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion

Published on September 6, 2022 by Tegan George and Shona McCombes. Revised on November 20, 2023.

The conclusion is the very last part of your thesis or dissertation . It should be concise and engaging, leaving your reader with a clear understanding of your main findings, as well as the answer to your research question .

In it, you should:

• Clearly state the answer to your main research question
• Summarize and reflect on your research process
• Make recommendations for future work on your thesis or dissertation topic
• Show what new knowledge you have contributed to your field
• Wrap up your thesis or dissertation

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Table of contents

Discussion vs. conclusion, how long should your conclusion be, step 1: answer your research question, step 2: summarize and reflect on your research, step 3: make future recommendations, step 4: emphasize your contributions to your field, step 5: wrap up your thesis or dissertation, full conclusion example, conclusion checklist, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about conclusion sections.

While your conclusion contains similar elements to your discussion section , they are not the same thing.

Your conclusion should be shorter and more general than your discussion. Instead of repeating literature from your literature review , discussing specific research results , or interpreting your data in detail, concentrate on making broad statements that sum up the most important insights of your research.

As a rule of thumb, your conclusion should not introduce new data, interpretations, or arguments.

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Depending on whether you are writing a thesis or dissertation, your length will vary. Generally, a conclusion should make up around 5–7% of your overall word count.

An empirical scientific study will often have a short conclusion, concisely stating the main findings and recommendations for future research. A humanities dissertation topic or systematic review , on the other hand, might require more space to conclude its analysis, tying all the previous sections together in an overall argument.

Your conclusion should begin with the main question that your thesis or dissertation aimed to address. This is your final chance to show that you’ve done what you set out to do, so make sure to formulate a clear, concise answer.

• Don’t repeat a list of all the results that you already discussed
• Do synthesize them into a final takeaway that the reader will remember.

An empirical thesis or dissertation conclusion may begin like this:

A case study –based thesis or dissertation conclusion may begin like this:

In the second example, the research aim is not directly restated, but rather added implicitly to the statement. To avoid repeating yourself, it is helpful to reformulate your aims and questions into an overall statement of what you did and how you did it.

Your conclusion is an opportunity to remind your reader why you took the approach you did, what you expected to find, and how well the results matched your expectations.

To avoid repetition , consider writing more reflectively here, rather than just writing a summary of each preceding section. Consider mentioning the effectiveness of your methodology , or perhaps any new questions or unexpected insights that arose in the process.

You can also mention any limitations of your research, but only if you haven’t already included these in the discussion. Don’t dwell on them at length, though—focus on the positives of your work.

• While x limits the generalizability of the results, this approach provides new insight into y .
• This research clearly illustrates x , but it also raises the question of y .

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You may already have made a few recommendations for future research in your discussion section, but the conclusion is a good place to elaborate and look ahead, considering the implications of your findings in both theoretical and practical terms.

• Based on these conclusions, practitioners should consider …
• To better understand the implications of these results, future studies could address …
• Further research is needed to determine the causes of/effects of/relationship between …

When making recommendations for further research, be sure not to undermine your own work. Relatedly, while future studies might confirm, build on, or enrich your conclusions, they shouldn’t be required for your argument to feel complete. Your work should stand alone on its own merits.

Just as you should avoid too much self-criticism, you should also avoid exaggerating the applicability of your research. If you’re making recommendations for policy, business, or other practical implementations, it’s generally best to frame them as “shoulds” rather than “musts.” All in all, the purpose of academic research is to inform, explain, and explore—not to demand.

Make sure your reader is left with a strong impression of what your research has contributed to the state of your field.

Some strategies to achieve this include:

• Returning to your problem statement to explain how your research helps solve the problem
• Referring back to the literature review and showing how you have addressed a gap in knowledge
• Discussing how your findings confirm or challenge an existing theory or assumption

Again, avoid simply repeating what you’ve already covered in the discussion in your conclusion. Instead, pick out the most important points and sum them up succinctly, situating your project in a broader context.

The end is near! Once you’ve finished writing your conclusion, it’s time to wrap up your thesis or dissertation with a few final steps:

• It’s a good idea to write your abstract next, while the research is still fresh in your mind.
• Next, make sure your reference list is complete and correctly formatted. To speed up the process, you can use our free APA citation generator .
• Once you’ve added any appendices , you can create a table of contents and title page .
• Finally, read through the whole document again to make sure your thesis is clearly written and free from language errors. You can proofread it yourself , ask a friend, or consider Scribbr’s proofreading and editing service .

Here is an example of how you can write your conclusion section. Notice how it includes everything mentioned above:

V. Conclusion

The current research aimed to identify acoustic speech characteristics which mark the beginning of an exacerbation in COPD patients.

The central questions for this research were as follows: 1. Which acoustic measures extracted from read speech differ between COPD speakers in stable condition and healthy speakers? 2. In what ways does the speech of COPD patients during an exacerbation differ from speech of COPD patients during stable periods?

All recordings were aligned using a script. Subsequently, they were manually annotated to indicate respiratory actions such as inhaling and exhaling. The recordings of 9 stable COPD patients reading aloud were then compared with the recordings of 5 healthy control subjects reading aloud. The results showed a significant effect of condition on the number of in- and exhalations per syllable, the number of non-linguistic in- and exhalations per syllable, and the ratio of voiced and silence intervals. The number of in- and exhalations per syllable and the number of non-linguistic in- and exhalations per syllable were higher for COPD patients than for healthy controls, which confirmed both hypotheses.

However, the higher ratio of voiced and silence intervals for COPD patients compared to healthy controls was not in line with the hypotheses. This unpredicted result might have been caused by the different reading materials or recording procedures for both groups, or by a difference in reading skills. Moreover, there was a trend regarding the effect of condition on the number of syllables per breath group. The number of syllables per breath group was higher for healthy controls than for COPD patients, which was in line with the hypothesis. There was no effect of condition on pitch, intensity, center of gravity, pitch variability, speaking rate, or articulation rate.

This research has shown that the speech of COPD patients in exacerbation differs from the speech of COPD patients in stable condition. This might have potential for the detection of exacerbations. However, sustained vowels rarely occur in spontaneous speech. Therefore, the last two outcome measures might have greater potential for the detection of beginning exacerbations, but further research on the different outcome measures and their potential for the detection of exacerbations is needed due to the limitations of the current study.

Checklist: Conclusion

I have clearly and concisely answered the main research question .

I have summarized my overall argument or key takeaways.

I have mentioned any important limitations of the research.

I have given relevant recommendations .

I have clearly explained what my research has contributed to my field.

I have  not introduced any new data or arguments.

You've written a great conclusion! Use the other checklists to further improve your dissertation.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or research bias, make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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In a thesis or dissertation, the discussion is an in-depth exploration of the results, going into detail about the meaning of your findings and citing relevant sources to put them in context.

The conclusion is more shorter and more general: it concisely answers your main research question and makes recommendations based on your overall findings.

While it may be tempting to present new arguments or evidence in your thesis or disseration conclusion , especially if you have a particularly striking argument you’d like to finish your analysis with, you shouldn’t. Theses and dissertations follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the discussion section and results section .) The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

For a stronger dissertation conclusion , avoid including:

• Important evidence or analysis that wasn’t mentioned in the discussion section and results section
• Generic concluding phrases (e.g. “In conclusion …”)
• Weak statements that undermine your argument (e.g., “There are good points on both sides of this issue.”)

Your conclusion should leave the reader with a strong, decisive impression of your work.

The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation shouldn’t take up more than 5–7% of your overall word count.

The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation should include the following:

• A restatement of your research question
• A summary of your key arguments and/or results
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

George, T. & McCombes, S. (2023, November 20). How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion. Scribbr. Retrieved September 27, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/write-conclusion/

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