bachelor thesis support

Thesis support for your academic project

Looking for professional support for your thesis? Discover how Rock your Thesis helps you succeed with targeted thesis support and why we're the first choice for your thesis project.

Table of content

• 1 . How does Rock your Thesis support your thesis?
• 2 . What challenges does our support address in thesis writing?
• 3 . How does thesis support work at Rock your Thesis?
• 4 . Why is Rock your Thesis's thesis support the best choice?
• 5 . What does thesis support cost at Rock your Thesis?

1. How does Rock your Thesis support your thesis?

Rock your Thesis understands that writing a thesis is a significant challenge. That's why we offer professional thesis support through a network of highly qualified academic coaches , who support you at every step. Our coaches meet the highest quality standards:

• 1 They hold at least a doctorate, state examination, or are in a doctoral program.
• 2 They are experienced thesis supervisors at renowned universities in the DACH region, having supported over 15 students each.
• 3 Our experts come from various disciplines like engineering, sciences, business, and social sciences, and publish in leading journals.

The quality of our thesis support is recognized by practice and science, making us a trustworthy partner for your thesis. We are proud to guide you towards the perfect thesis.

Our excellent coaches at a glance:

Jonas Ryberg

University of St.Gallen (HSG)

PhD candidate

Dr. Arne Heimendahl

University of Cologne

In practice

Dr. Alexander Stuckert

Technical University of Darmstadt

Laura Benyei

Dr. Simon Bründl

Dr. Maximilian Knapp

University of Mannheim

Dr. Katja Knops

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Dr. Maximilian Poth

Dr. Julius Berges

RWTH Aachen University

David Nawrath

Stanford University

Dr. Martin Schumacher

Jenny Zimmermann

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Bjarne Schwarz

Technical University of Munich

Tiziana Schopper

Dr. Florian Schaefer

RWTH Aachen

Dr. Linda Bandelow

Postdoctoral Researcher

Roger Heines

Dr. Arne Grüttner

Jan Spiekermann

University of Münster

Dr. Maximilian Schacker

Dr. Daniel Proba

Dr. Maximilian Richter

Joscha Krug

Angeliki Kalogeraki

Dr. Lena-Marie Pätzmann

Eric Klebeck

Sina Plietzsch

HHL Leipzig

Yann Müller

Tobias Maier

Alexander Mueller

Edwards School of Business

Timo Brunner

Francie Lange

Felix Mosner

Pia Seimetz

Hanna Brosch

Richard Turinsky

University of Strathclyde

Tobias Großbölting

Dr. Sven Kannler

Dr. Michael Greineder

Harvard University

Saskia Spang

Frankfurt School

Rafael Bischof

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

Said Kdimati

Rostock University Medical Center

Tim Fischer

Heidelberg University

Heinrich Habe

Björn Klages

Sebastian Reiners

Niklas Roulands

University of Bielefeld

Christian Geitmann

University of Bonn

Karolin Lauck

Dr. Birte Manke

Michael Koddebusch

Kingston University London

Dr. Birgit Fordinal

University of Vienna

Rebecca Heigl

Goethe University Frankfurt

Leonardo Bellinato Giacomelli

University of Innsbruck

Carolin Häffner

Mareike Hockmann

University of Siegen

Laura Lohoff

Dr. Saira Moinuddin-Huber

ESB Reutlingen

You can find a detailed presentation of our coaches and their qualifications here .

2. What challenges does our thesis support address?

Our thesis support offers the crucial advantage of customized 1-on-1 support . Whether you're at the beginning, searching for a topic, need to write a proposal, or require help with data analysis – our thesis support is flexible and adapts to your needs, topic, and specific requirements.

Some of the key areas our thesis support covers include:

• Selecting a suitable topic and formulating a research question.
• Writing a compelling proposal.
• Structuring your work for coherent argumentation.
• Comprehensive literature research.
• Design and statistical evaluation of surveys.
• Conducting and analyzing expert interviews.
• Overcoming writer's block.
• Applying academic writing style.
• And many more essential aspects for the success of your thesis.

3. How does thesis support work at Rock your Thesis?

Based on our extensive experience and in collaboration with academic experts, we've developed an effective coaching program that has already helped over 250 students successfully complete their theses. Our structured approach is based on five specially tailored pillars that cater to your individual needs and learning style. An overview of the five pillars:

• 1 Free initial meeting to find the ideal coach for your requirements.
• 2 Personal 1-on-1 coaching tailored precisely to your thesis's specific needs.
• 3 Comprehensive writing feedback to ensure the quality and scientific rigor of your work.
• 4 Easy WhatsApp support for quick questions and guidance from your coaching team.
• 5 Personalized action plan with clear goals and milestones to effectively guide you through your thesis.

A detailed description of our five pillars and the associated services can be found on our website. .

“Thank you for the excellent collaboration 😊. I've now submitted my thesis and wanted to say thank you again overall.”

4. Why is Rock your Thesis's thesis support the best choice?

There are many providers of thesis support on the market, but not all are transparent and fair. Many students report bad experiences with opaque cost structures and dubious methods. Essentially, providers can be divided into two groups:

These coaches mostly offer their services individually, often only have a basic academic degree, and mainly come from the humanities, not specialized disciplines.

These agencies mediate between students and coaches without clear information on the coaches' qualifications. Detailed information about the coaches is often missing online, especially when searched for on Google.

Thesis support from Rock your Thesis stands out for its transparency and quality among other providers. Our strengths include:

• 1 Highly qualified coaches with doctorates, state examinations, or doctoral students who possess extensive subject knowledge and methodological competence.
• 2 Transparent presentation of our coaches and their qualifications with easily accessible additional information.
• 3 Coaches who understand the challenges from their own experience and provide support at eye level, including easy accessibility, such as via WhatsApp.
• 4 A fair, transparent pricing structure with installment payment options and often tax-deductible services.
• 5 Partnerships with leading academic institutions that confirm the legitimacy and subject-matter expertise of our thesis support program.

5. What does thesis support cost at Rock your Thesis?

Thanks to the support of subject matter experts and academic institutions, Rock your Thesis can offer affordable prices. We understand that investing in professional thesis support is an important decision.

We offer flexible payment options including installment payments to ensure our thesis support is accessible to all students. This way, you can focus entirely on your work and sort out financial details later. Additionally, our support is often tax-deductible , further reducing the financial burden.

Our pricing is transparent and offers various packages tailored to individual needs. From basic to premium packages, we provide the support you need for your thesis.

Our coaching packages in a nutshell:

1-hour-package..

One-hour session to address specific questions or challenges of your thesis.

€99,99 /hour

• Online 1-on-1 coaching
• Precise writing feedback

5-hours-package.

Comprehensive support on key aspects of your thesis to help strengthen your work.

€94,99 /hour

• WhatsApp-Support
• Flexible payment options*

10-hours-package.

Thorough guidance to provide extensive coaching, covering multiple facets of your thesis.

€84,99 /hour

• Individualized action plan
• -5% Proofreading

20-hours-package.

End-to-end coaching for a polished, well-researched, and submission-ready thesis.

€74,99 /hour

• -10% Proofreading

Frequently asked questions explained for you

Do you need help.

Get in touch with us. Together we will always find the right support for your bachelor thesis. We will be happy to advise you free of charge.

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What is a thesis?

What is a dissertation, getting started, staying on track.

A thesis is a long-term project that you work on over the course of a semester or a year. Theses have a very wide variety of styles and content, so we encourage you to look at prior examples and work closely with faculty to develop yours. 

Before you begin, make sure that you are familiar with the dissertation genre—what it is for and what it looks like.

Generally speaking, a dissertation’s purpose is to prove that you have the expertise necessary to fulfill your doctoral-degree requirements by showing depth of knowledge and independent thinking.

The form of a dissertation may vary by discipline. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines of your department.

• PhD This site directs candidates to the GSAS website about dissertations , with links to checklists,  planning, formatting, acknowledgments, submission, and publishing options. There is also a link to guidelines for the prospectus . Consult with your committee chair about specific requirements and standards for your dissertation.
• DDES This document covers planning, patent filing, submission guidelines, publishing options, formatting guidelines, sample pages, citation guidelines, and a list of common errors to avoid. There is also a link to guidelines for the prospectus .
• Scholarly Pursuits (GSAS) This searchable booklet from Harvard GSAS is a comprehensive guide to writing dissertations, dissertation-fellowship applications, academic journal articles, and academic job documents.

Finding an original topic can be a daunting and overwhelming task. These key concepts can help you focus and save time.

Finding a topic for your thesis or dissertation should start with a research question that excites or at least interests you. A rigorous, engaging, and original project will require continuous curiosity about your topic, about your own thoughts on the topic, and about what other scholars have said on your topic. Avoid getting boxed in by thinking you know what you want to say from the beginning; let your research and your writing evolve as you explore and fine-tune your focus through constant questioning and exploration.

Get a sense of the broader picture before you narrow your focus and attempt to frame an argument. Read, skim, and otherwise familiarize yourself with what other scholars have done in areas related to your proposed topic. Briefly explore topics tangentially related to yours to broaden your perspective and increase your chance of finding a unique angle to pursue.

Critical Reading

Critical reading is the opposite of passive reading. Instead of merely reading for information to absorb, critical reading also involves careful, sustained thinking about what you are reading. This process may include analyzing the author’s motives and assumptions, asking what might be left out of the discussion, considering what you agree with or disagree with in the author’s statements and why you agree or disagree, and exploring connections or contradictions between scholarly arguments. Here is a resource to help hone your critical-reading skills:

http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/criticalread.pdf

Conversation

Your thesis or dissertation will incorporate some ideas from other scholars whose work you researched. By reading critically and following your curiosity, you will develop your own ideas and claims, and these contributions are the core of your project. You will also acknowledge the work of scholars who came before you, and you must accurately and fairly attribute this work and define your place within the larger discussion. Make sure that you know how to quote, summarize, paraphrase ,  integrate , and cite secondary sources to avoid plagiarism and to show the depth and breadth of your knowledge.

A thesis is a long-term, large project that involves both research and writing; it is easy to lose focus, motivation, and momentum. Here are suggestions for achieving the result you want in the time you have.

The dissertation is probably the largest project you have undertaken, and a lot of the work is self-directed. The project can feel daunting or even overwhelming unless you break it down into manageable pieces and create a timeline for completing each smaller task. Be realistic but also challenge yourself, and be forgiving of yourself if you miss a self-imposed deadline here and there.

Your program will also have specific deadlines for different requirements, including establishing a committee, submitting a prospectus, completing the dissertation, defending the dissertation, and submitting your work. Consult your department’s website for these dates and incorporate them into the timeline for your work.

Accountability

Sometimes self-imposed deadlines do not feel urgent unless there is accountability to someone beyond yourself. To increase your motivation to complete tasks on schedule, set dates with your committee chair to submit pre-determined pieces of a chapter. You can also arrange with a fellow doctoral student to check on each other’s progress. Research and writing can be lonely, so it is also nice to share that journey with someone and support each other through the process.

Common Pitfalls

The most common challenges for students writing a dissertation are writer’s block, information-overload, and the compulsion to keep researching forever.

There are many strategies for avoiding writer’s block, such as freewriting, outlining, taking a walk, starting in the middle, and creating an ideal work environment for your particular learning style. Pay attention to what helps you and try different things until you find what works.

Efficient researching techniques are essential to avoiding information-overload. Here are a couple of resources about strategies for finding sources and quickly obtaining essential information from them.

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_in_literature_detailed_discussion/reading_criticism.html

https://students.dartmouth.edu/academic-skills/learning-resources/learning-strategies/reading-techniques

Finally, remember that there is always more to learn and your dissertation cannot incorporate everything. Follow your curiosity but also set limits on the scope of your work. It helps to create a folder entitled “future projects” for topics and sources that interest you but that do not fit neatly into the dissertation. Also remember that future scholars will build off of your work, so leave something for them to do.

Browsing through theses and dissertations of the past can help to get a sense of your options and gain inspiration but be careful to use current guidelines and refer to your committee instead of relying on these examples for form or formatting.

DASH Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard.

HOLLIS Harvard Library’s catalog provides access to ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global .

MIT Architecture has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

Rhode Island School of Design has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

University of South Florida has a list of their graduates’ dissertations and theses.

Harvard GSD has a list of projects, including theses and professors’ research.

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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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Thesis and Dissertation Support

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The Grad Center is here to help you get started, make steady progress, and complete your thesis or dissertation on time. 

Workshops and Events 

Writing Programs and Support 

Penn Three Minute Thesis (3MT)

Thesis and Dissertation Resources

We offer workshops and information sessions throughout the year designed to support productive research, writing, and degree completion.  

Popular workshops include: 

Publishing Workshop Series  Curious about publishing but not sure where to start? Join the library staff and the Graduate Student Center for workshops on different aspects of the publishing process!

Reference Management Tools  Reference management software can save researchers considerable time and energy in compiling and formatting references for publications. One-hour workshop demonstrating the most widely-used citation management tools. 

Setting Writing Goals We recognize that depending on where you are in your Masters, PhD, or professional program, it may be challenging to find the motivation to write or to establish a routine that is balanced with your personal tasks and obligations. Join the Weingarten Center and Graduate Student Center for our writing goals workshops to learn effective strategies for setting and keeping clear, achievable writing goals and a balanced schedule. 

See all upcoming events

Whether you need intensive writing time or are looking for ongoing writing motivation and feedback, we work with campus partners to provide range of academic writing support. 

Dissertation Boot Camp   Looking for an environment where you can focus solely on writing your dissertation? The Graduate Student Center's popular Dissertation Boot Camp is your two-week writers' retreat. Dissertation Boot Camp was  created at Penn in 2005  to help students progress through the difficult writing stages of the dissertation process. By offering an environment and support for intense, focused writing time, the Camp provides participants with the structure and motivation to overcome typical roadblocks in the dissertation process.   Boot Camp is a two-week long, bi-annual event.  Drop-in Writing Consultations   Weekly drop-in writing consultations with experts from the  Weingarten Center , held throughout the academic year. Weingarten staff can discuss work at every stage, and help you move past difficult roadblocks in the process. Writing Accountability Groups  Whether you’re working on a dissertation, journal article, or other writing project, forming a group with other students working on writing projects is a great way to help one another make progress and meet deadlines, by providing accountability and encouragement along the way. Check out our resources for existing writing groups or fill out the group matching form below and we will help connect you with a writing group or partner!  Writers Retreats & Graduate Writers Rooms  The Grad Center collaborates with campus partners to provide graduate students with the space, structure, and encouragement to make progress towards completing major research-related writing projects. 

See all Academic Writing Programs

Penn Libraries : Offers a great many  workshops  to help in the research and dissertation process. In addition,  subject librarians  are standing by to support teaching, research, and learning. The  Using Electronic Resources  guide provides information on accessing e-resources, optimal browser settings, as well as common connection problems and solutions. They also maintain lists of free or reduced-price  online journals & ebooks  and  streaming video ! 

Office of Regulatory Affairs : Helps to assure that all research conducted at Penn honors Penn's standards for the treatment of people and animals .

Office of the Vice Provost for Research : Provides information on funding opportunities and links to graduate student resources.

Penn Electronic Research Administration (PennERA) : PennERA is a full life-cycle system for research project development, support, and management.

Weigle Information Commons : Supports study groups and collaborative learning and offers training, equipment, and support for digital media. Several support services are provided for students as they work to improve their effectiveness in writing, speaking, and original inquiry. 

Research Tools and Websites  

Penn Libraries guide to  Statistical Software  

Bibliomania : Provides free online literature with more than 2000 classic texts.

Elements of Style Online book : the classic reference book for all writers.

Library of Congress Online research center : provides free educational materials including access to the Library of Congress archives.

Bibliographic & Reference Management Software

BiblioScape : Free Download

Endnote  works well for the health sciences and for large collections of articles, despite some technical and installation issues. Available for a discount at  Penn Computer Connection

Mendeley  is a cloud-based proprietary system that includes Facebook-style social networking, PDF annotation, a platform for self-promotion and crowd-sourcing of citations and annotations. Mendeley has a wide range of functionality but suffers from performance and accuracy issues.

RefWorks  is a stable, well-established platform, but has limitations in terms of working with PDF files. Provided by and integrated with the  Penn Library

Zotero  is an open-source software program that is notable for its ease of use, its ability to grab screenshots, and its capabilities for archiving website content for local storage.

For more details and a handy comparison chart, check out the Penn Libraries'  Citation Management Tools Guide . 

Print Resources  

Wayne C. Booth, Joseph M. Williams, Gregory G. Colomb,  The Craft of Research, Third Edition  (Chicago Guides to Writing, Editing, and Publishing), (Chicago: U of Chicago Press, 2008)

Carol M. Roberts,  The Dissertation Journey: A Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation  (Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press, 2004) -  Google Books

Kiel Erik Rudestam, Rae R. Newton,  Surviving Your Dissertation: A Comprehensive Guide to Content and Process  (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 2007) -  Google Books

Dissertation Process

Writing and revising .

The Weingarten Center provides writing consultations to help you organize and make progress on your writing through their Learning Consultations.

LaTeX Fundamentals Tutorials from Penn Libraries: If you're new to using LaTeX to format your thesis or dissertation, check out these short video tutorials from Penn Libraries that include examples and practice exercises!

Defending your Thesis/Dissertation 

Preparing for the Oral Defense of the Dissertation by Marianne Di Pierro  (PDF, opens in new tab)

CWiC : Provides courses and workshops for students to improve speaking abilities.

Productivity

PhinisheD : Discord server group for people working on their dissertations.

Print Resources 

Joan Bolker,  Writing Your Dissertation in Fifteen Minutes a Day: A Guide to Starting, Revising, and Finishing Your Doctoral Thesis  (New York: Holt, 1998) -  Google Books

Sonja Foss and William Waters,  Destination Dissertation: A Traveler's Guide to a Done Dissertation (Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield, 2007) -  Google Books

Jane Burka with Lenora M. Yuen,  Procrastination: Why You Do It, What to Do About It Now  (Cambridge, Mass: Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2008)

Guidelines and Policies

Most academic polices and procedures at Penn are school-based. Students should consult with their school or graduate group with questions or for help in understanding academic policies and procedures.

See our complete list of academic policies in our resource guide or search for university policies by topic in the Graduate Catalog .

Academic Rules for Research Programs

• Academic Rules for PhD Programs
• Academic Rules for Research Master's Programs

Academic Integrity All members of the Penn Community are responsible for upholding the highest standards of honesty and complying Code of Academic Integrity  at all times. 

• Guides on how to properly cite materials included in your document

Research Policies and Guidelines

• Fairness of Authorship Credit in Collaborative Faculty-Student Publications for PhD, AM, and MS Students
• Guidelines for Research in the Community
• Guidelines for Student Protection in Sponsored Research Projects
• Patent and Tangible Research Property Policies and Procedures
• Policy Regarding Human Subject Research in the Sociobehavioral Sciences
• Procedures Regarding Misconduct in Research for Nonfaculty members of the Research Community

Leaves of Absence PhD students will be granted a leave of absence for military duty, medical reasons, or  family leave ; any of these may require documentation. Read more in the PhD Student Leave of Absence Policy .

Dissertation Guides The University's requirements for preparing, formatting, and submitting the dissertation are documented on the Provost's Graduate Degrees website . The website also includes helpful resources, a graduation calendar and checklist, and links to external resources. 

Submission and Graduation

Preparing and filing your thesis/dissertation are the key final steps leading to the awarding of your degree. 

Preparation and Formatting 

University Style Guide for Master's Theses

Dissertation Formatting Guide  (DOCX, opens a download window) The University's requirements for preparing, formatting, and submitting the dissertation are documented in the Dissertation Formatting Guide. The manual also includes helpful resources, a graduation calendar and checklist, and links to external resources. 

Graduation Requirements

The  Office of the Provost  oversees the graduation process for all PhD and Research Master's degrees as well as PhD dissertation and research master’s thesis deposits . The University of Pennsylvania confers degrees in May, August, and December. Commencement and diploma ceremonies are held in May.

Degree candidates must apply to graduate by the date listed in the  Graduation Calendar  to be eligible for the conferral of their degree and issuance of their diploma in a given term. The specific deadlines for deposit and graduation for each degree term are listed in the  Graduation Calendar .

Please note  the deadline to complete all degree requirements and sign up for graduation is several weeks in advance of the graduation date.  

Dissertation Submission At the University of Pennsylvania, each doctoral student presents the dissertation publicly, defends it, and, with the approval of the dissertation committee, submits the final manuscript for publication.

To successfully deposit a PhD dissertation, the University's requirements for formatting the dissertation must be followed, per the  Dissertation Formatting Guide (DOCX, opens a download window) . Research Master's students must follow the Master's Thesis Style Guide . Please read the Formatting FAQs for assistance with formatting your work, as proper formatting may take more time than you anticipate. 

Additional Resources

Penn resources and support.

Office of Student Disabilities Services : Provides comprehensive, professional services and programs for students with disabilities.

Weingarten Center : Offers instruction in academic reading, writing, and study strategies.  The Weingarten Center offers access to  academic support resources  and advising. Students can schedule 50-minute virtual or in-person meetings or sign up for 25-minute virtual or in-person drop-in sessions with a learning instructor  via the MyWeingartenCenter portal  to discuss their study strategies and approaches to a variety of academic assignments and assessments.

Counseling Services : Offers counseling and graduate student specific support groups.

Funding your research : Visit our Graduate Funding page 

Graduate Group Review Student Feedback Form Graduate Groups are periodically reviewed by the Graduate Council of the Faculties (GCF) in order to identify strengths and weaknesses within each program, and to recommend any changes that may help to improve the Graduate Group. This feedback form is intended to solicit general information and impressions about your graduate school experiences to share with GCF. If there is a specific incident you would like to report, please use the University’s  Bias Incident Reporting Form .

Global Resources

Penn Global  Before going abroad for academic work, be sure to check out Penn Global's International Travel Guidance page, which provides help during an emergency abroad, research concerns when abroad, travel arrangements, visa information and more. Be sure to register your trip  to stay connected to Penn resources in the event of an emergency and pre-authorize any necessary medical insurance coverage. 

Perry World House  Perry World House at the University of Pennsylvania (PWH) is a global policy research center that aims to advance interdisciplinary, policy-relevant research on the world’s most urgent global affairs challenges. At a time of increasing ideological division and highly politicized of policymaking, PWH draws on the wide range of expertise found across Penn’s 12 Schools, connecting Penn with policymakers, practitioners, and researchers from around the world to develop and advance innovative policy proposals.  

Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement  The Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement at the University of Pennsylvania is founded on the principle that a democratic, open, secure, tolerant, and interconnected world benefits all Americans. Based in Washington, D.C., the Penn Biden Center engages more of our fellow citizens in shaping this world, while ensuring the gains of global engagement are widely shared.  

Penn Abroad Penn Abroad serves as the hub for student global opportunities at the University of Pennsylvania. Each year Penn Abroad sends more than 1,000 Penn students to over 50 countries around the world on semester study abroad, summer internships, and embedded Global Seminars. Explore our website to find information about the many global opportunities available to Penn students. 

International Student and Scholar Services International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) aims to provide immigration assistance as well as a sense of community for the international population at Penn.  In addition to answering your technical questions about immigration, ISSS also offers student programs and leadership opportunities for students, such as Forerunner and the Intercultural Leadership Program (ILP), to foster meaningful engagement throughout their journey with Penn. 

Resources in Print

Robert L. Peters,  Getting What You Came for: The Smart Student's Guide to Earning a Master's or a Ph.D.  (New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1997)

Emily Toth,  Ms Mentor's New and Ever More Impeccable Advice for Women and Men in Academia   (Philadelphia, U Penn Press, 2008)

Penn's Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an annual, university-wide competition for doctoral and research students to develop and showcase their research communication skills through brief, 3-minute presentations. 

Learn more 

Have suggestions for more helpful resources? Let us know !

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Thesis support.

Are you about to start, or have you been working on your bachelor or master thesis for a while now? That is hardly an easy process for anyone. Fortunately, there are many things that can help you work on your thesis more successfully. We have put together a wide range of UU offers on this page.

Thesis support newsletter

Do you want to be kept informed about support for thesis writers? Then sign up for our thesis support newsletter and receive an email up to 6 times per academic year.

Complete overview

The link below will take you to an overview of all the thesis support offerings: from webinars and workshops to tips and tools.

Featured support

Book a tutoring session

The Skills Lab offers  free writing tutoring and study coaching . You can discuss your academic writing assignment and/or any questions you have about studying with a trained student! 

Contact Skills Lab

• Mail to [email protected]  or call +3130 253 630
• University Library Utrecht Science Park | Room 2.45
• Heidelberglaan 3, 3584 CS Utrecht

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Thesis SupportAll

Getting started.

Finding your way in academic writing

Starting to write a thesis is quite a challenge. Where to begin? How to choose a topic? The Thesis SupportAll provides basic information for bachelor and master students on how to get started.

For help in searching and writing, you can also contact  Peer Point .

For support with scoping review, systematic review or meta-analysis please visit our dedicated Literature research & systematic reviews page .

Personal Issues

Common non-writing-related issues

The topics under personal issues may not only help students in reflecting on concerns they seek support for, but hopefully also bridge the gap between student and supervisor. If these kinds of issues are obstructing your thesis process, consider contacting a student advisor.

Resources for every step in thesis writing

Get in touch!

Study advisers

Study advisers offer guidance and coaching to thesis students. You can contact them for support on:

• how to create an overview of the practical, as well as the academic tasks to come;
• the work process, e.g. time management, study/work/life-balance, relationship with your supervisor;
• personal issues, e.g. motivational issues, stress management, etc.

More information on the study advisers

UM Career services

UM Career Services aims to assist students in a successful preparation for their future career. This goal is achieved by providing students with the required education, information, advice and counselling.

Visiting address: Studenten Service Centrum, First floor, room B1.21 (secretariat) Bonnefantenstraat 2, 6211 KL Maastricht

Contact details: Contact via email:  [email protected] Contact by phone: +31 (0)43 388 5263 (secretariat)

Student psychologists

If you’re experiencing personal problems like stress or fear of failure relating to your thesis, you can consult a student psychologist.You’re welcome to make an appointment, even if you’re not sure what’s wrong. In your first meeting, you’ll discuss and clarify the nature of the issue and – together with your student psychologist – decide what to do next. Sometimes, one meeting may be enough to get back on track. In other cases, some follow-up meetings may help. If long-term or more specialised help is needed, your student psychologist will consult with you and may refer you to a specialist.

Workshops are also organised to help with psychological issues; examples include stress management, time management and assertiveness training.

More information on the student psychologists  

Language Coaches

Language coaches are academic language professionals in the employment of the University’s Language Centre, who can offer guidance and coaching to thesis students on:

• How to create an overview on the practical as well as the academic tasks to come;
• Linguistic matters for academic papers as work in progress.

The Language Centre also runs additional classes, which are open for students from any academic discipline.

• Visit the Language Centre website
• or send an email to  [email protected] for more information

University Library

The University Library gives support on information skills, data management and many other subjects regarding your studies. Use the following links for more information.

• University Library website
• Information Literacy pages
• For questions about library facilities and services, as well as the Thesis SupportAll,  send a message through Ask Your Librarian .

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.

Interested in a study program? Request our information material now!

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Writing your degree project

How to succeed with your thesis paper.

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How to search for information and write references. Plan your thesis work to avoid stress. Find other students' theses. Get support during the writing process and with your academic writing.

Searching for information and writing references

https://play.mau.se/media/t/0_t3yt79ds?enablejsapi=1

The Library guides you on how to search for source material and gives some advice on writing your references.

• Searching for information – a step by step guide
• Writing references

Plan your work

https://play.mau.se/media/t/0_w7ixewwx?enablejsapi=1

Student Health Service gives advice on how to plan your work and avoid stress.

Read other theses

Reading other students' theses or other papers within the same subject can be helpful if you're lacking inspiration.

• Theses from Malmö University
• Theses from other universities (in Swedish)

Academic writing

https://play.mau.se/media/t/0_u9o8s8k6?enablejsapi=1

The Writing Centre can guide you in your work with different writing tasks and can answer questions about texts and language.

• Writing center webpage

Related pages

What is a scholarly text?

A scholarly text is written by a researcher to present the results of their research or to summarise the research of others....

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Cover page templates and writing guidelines for your thesis or degree project, what you need to do regarding your project.

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Dissertation/Thesis Template

The fastest (and smartest) way to craft a winning dissertation that showcases your study and earns you marks. 

Available in Google Doc, Word & PDF format 4.9 star rating, 5000 + downloads

Step-by-step instructions

Tried & tested academic format

Fill-in-the-blanks simplicity

Pro tips, tricks and resources

What’s Covered In The Template?

This dissertation template is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research projects. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your document has a smooth, logical flow. Here’s how it’s structured:

• The title page/cover page
• Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
• Table of contents
• List of figures /list of tables
• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Chapter 2: Literature review
• Chapter 3: Methodology
• Chapter 4: Research findings /results 
• Chapter 5: Discussion /analysis of findings
• Chapter 6: Conclusion
• Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required in each section.

Download The Template

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FAQs: Dissertation & Thesis Template

Faqs: dissertation template, what format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The dissertation template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of dissertations/theses can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research projects such as dissertations or theses, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Will this work for a research paper?

A research paper follows a similar format, but there are a few differences. You can find our research paper template here .

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my dissertation/thesis be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. As a general ballpark, Masters-level projects are usually 15,000 – 20,000 words in length, while Doctoral-level projects are often in excess of 60,000 words.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this dissertation template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our dissertation and thesis coaching services .

Additional Resources

If you’re working on a dissertation or thesis, be sure to also check these resources out…

1-On-1 Private Coaching

The Grad Coach Resource Center

The Grad Coach YouTube Channel

The Grad Coach Podcast

Bachelor's thesis

Objectives of a bachelor’s thesis and the supervisor’s responsibilities at the different stages of the thesis process.

With a bachelor’s thesis, students demonstrate their ability to apply their acquired knowledge and skills, engage in scientific or artistic thinking and activities and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in their mother tongue. Students typically attend a bachelor's thesis seminar while working on their bachelor’s thesis.

Students write their bachelor’s thesis under the supervision of a member of teaching and research staff who holds at least a master’s degree and is familiar with the topic and field of the thesis and the relevant assessment criteria. The supervisor is expected to offer advice on the academic content of the work and the research process and support the student throughout the project.   

The stages of a bachelor’s thesis process are outlined below: 

The supervisor and student must discuss the student's goals and expectations for the thesis and the relevant assessment criteria. The role of a supervisor is to guide and support the student in the process of engaging in scientific inquiry and the development of scientific thinking. Students are entitled to a reasonable level of supervision. Supervisors and students should be familiar with their respective roles and responsibilities in the thesis process.

Academic guidance and counselling

The supervisor is a person who is a member of the University’s teaching and research staff, holds at least a master’s degree and is familiar with the field and topic of the thesis as well as the assessment criteria of theses. The supervisor’s task is to support the preparation of your thesis in terms of content and research process at the different stages of working on the thesis. In the seminar, you are assigned a thesis supervisor based on your topic.

Discuss with your supervisor the goals and assessment criteria of the thesis as well as your goals relative to the assessment criteria. As the supervisory process starts, you draw up a supervisory plan detailing the aims, schedule and language of the thesis. A common understanding of the scientific requirements of the thesis and of good scientific practice is also formed. The timing of supervision and the stages of the thesis process are also agreed upon.

Your own work and mastering the scientific thinking and practices supported by the supervision is at the core of the supervision process of a Bachelor’s thesis. You are entitled to a reasonable amount of supervision. A sensible number of supervisors is determined in accordance with the faculty’s guidelines and the work plans of the teaching staff.

Other help and support during the writing of a thesis

You are not alone with your thesis. Support is available, for example, on information searching and data management as well as writing and making progress . Support is offered by the University’s joint counselling services, Language Centre and Library and Data Service.

Thesis as work done in pairs or groups

Make an agreement with your supervisor if you want to do the thesis work in a pair or a group. If the thesis is undertaken in a pair or a group, each student must be able to demonstrate his/her own share of the work because the thesis is fundamentally about practising independent scientific work. The thesis is assessed for each student individually.

Language of the thesis

The language of the Bachelor’s thesis is either Finnish, the language defined in the curriculum or the main language used in the studies. The responsible supervisor decides on the use of other languages. 

A student studying in an English-language degree programme may write his/her thesis in Finnish. However, if the student wants his/her academic record to show that he/she has earned the degree in English, an English-language thesis may be required. 

Students must demonstrate language and communication skills in their field in connection to their thesis. The demonstration of language skills in relation to the thesis is described in more detail in the section on the maturity test.

Thesis seminar

The thesis seminar focuses on the scientific requirements and good scientific practices of the thesis, academic writing and language and communication skills, information seeking, and scientific debate through peer learning. The seminar, together with other supervision, supports the student’s independent work on the thesis. The aim should be to complete the thesis during the seminar. 

Adherence to good scientific practice

Learning outcomes related to good scientific practice are included in all theses and the seminars cover the topic. Review the guidelines for sound scientific practice and, if necessary, seek guidance from your supervisor. As part of supervising the writing process, the supervisor should ensure that you are familiar with good scientific practice and able to act accordingly.

Also remember the accessibility of the thesis.

The originality check of a thesis

During the writing process, you may use the originality check tool that is found on your supervisor’s Turnitin section on Moodle. It will give you a comparative report on your text that helps you to evaluate the appropriateness of your citation practices. You can always ask your thesis supervisor for advice on interpreting the comparison report.

The student and the thesis supervisor agree about the point when the thesis is ready for the official originality check and the subsequent assessment proper. You enter the text of your completed thesis in the originality checking software and the supervisor reviews the originality report. After the supervisor has checked the originality report, you may submit the thesis for the actual assessment process.

From 1 August 2019, the electronic originality check is done to all theses and dissertations at Tampere University.

Commissioned theses

The thesis can be done as a commissioned study for a principal that can be a company or another party. The thesis is a piece of scientific work that is evaluated according to academic criteria. Thus, the principal must also be aware of the academic nature of the work and the publicity of the completed thesis. The student, the supervisor and the principal agree on the topic, schedule and objectives of the thesis. The responsible supervisor at the University is in charge of the scientific supervision of the thesis. The principal may appoint a contact person to deal with matters related to the thesis. The principal may also participate in the supervision of the thesis. The student agrees in writing with the principal on any fee paid to the student. 

As a basis for such discussions, a guideline has been drawn up that applies to Master’s theses but which can also be applied to Bachelor’s theses.

Copyright of the thesis

Copyright issues are also related to the publicity of the thesis. The student is responsible for the contents of the thesis and ascertaining his/her rights to it. The author of a published thesis must have full copyright to the thesis, including any pictorial, table or other material included in it, or have the right to publish such material online. 

Further information on copyright is available on the Library’s Open Access guide and on the following website:  

• ImagOA : Open science and use of images: a guide on the Aalto University website  

Publicity and confidentiality of the thesis

Under law, a thesis is a public document (1999/621). A thesis becomes public as soon as it has been approved. Confidential information cannot be included in a thesis. Publishing the thesis or its parts elsewhere – for example as articles – does not change the publicity requirement.  

If confidential information is processed in relation to the thesis, its use should be prearranged with the supervisor and the possible principal. The actual thesis should be written in a manner that allows the publication of all parts. The possible confidential information should be incorporated in the appendices or background data that are not published. Such separate data is not archived at the University.

Submitting the thesis for assessment

Make an agreement with your supervisor on submitting the thesis for assessment. By submitting your Bachelor’s thesis for assessment, you also confirm that the originality check has also been completed. You also decide what kind of a publication permission you give for your thesis.

Submit the thesis for evaluation via the Library’s publishing archive Trepo . Use your tuni basic user account to login via Haka login. After the Library’s inspection (within 3 working days), the publication archive sends a message to both the student and the faculty saying that the thesis has been submitted. It is the student’s responsibility to inform the supervisor that he/she has submitted the thesis for evaluation. The supervisor gets the thesis from the publication archive. Please note that you must be registered as present in order to submit a thesis on Trepo.

If there is any suspicion of fraud in a thesis that has been submitted for examination, the matter is dealt with in line with the University’s protocol on suspected fraud. 

Maturity test

Visit the maturity test section for further information.

Assessment and grading of the thesis

The examiner of the thesis has 21 days to assess your thesis after you have submitted it for assessment (i.e. when you have sent the link from the Library to the examiner) or 28 days if you are taking the maturity test in connection with the examination of your thesis.  The results on theses submitted for examination during the period from 1 June to 31 August may take longer to be published. For justified reasons, the Dean may make an exception to the deadline. Students are informed about such exceptions in advance.   

The Faculty Council decides on the assessment criteria of theses. Bachelor’s theses are assessed with the grading scale of 0 – 5. In addition, the examiner issues a written statement. The grades are 1 (sufficient), 2 (satisfactory), 3 (good), 4 (very good) and 5 (excellent). 

A student cannot submit a new thesis to replace an already approved one.    

Rectification requests

See more information on the Appeals against grades page.

Electronic archiving and publishing of the thesis

All Bachelor’s theses are electronically archived and stored for ten years. Tampere University’s Library is in charge of archiving theses and dissertations on the university’s publication database. 

All theses and dissertations are public and stored on the university’s publication database Trepo. According to the University’s strategic alignment on open science, all theses and dissertations are openly published unless the publisher’s conditions prevent it. All theses may be read with the computers in the Library and online if the student has granted permission to publish on the internet.

After approval, all theses are stored in the comparison database of the originality checking software. 

Open How do I write an abstract about my thesis?

Open faculty of built environment (ben), open faculty of education and culture (edu), open faculty of engineering and natural sciences (ens), open faculty of medicine and health technology (met).

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Bachelorette winner Devin Strader faced restraining order from ex-girlfriend in 2017

Strader was also arrested on allegations that he burglarized his ex’s home, article bookmarked.

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The Bachelorette ’s most recent winner Devin Strader, who was briefly engaged to the show’s star Jenn Tran , was arrested for alleged burglary seven years before featuring on season 21 of ABC ’s hit dating show.

The 28-year-old’s criminal past was exposed on a recent YouTube livestream hosted by popular Bachelor Nation fan RealitySteve, who regularly reports on the franchise.

In the video, RealitySteve shared scans of an affidavit from Strader’s supposed 2017 arrest warrant on one felony count of “simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling.”

Variety has separately verified the filing as legitimate. According to Variety , attached to Strader’s arrest warrant were documents filed on March 19, 2017, by an unnamed ex-girlfriend who alleged that while she was out of town, her home was burglarized and a diamond necklace that Strader had gifted her had been stolen.

She also alleged that Strader had come to her Louisiana house several times, pounding on the door and yelling at her, which led her to file a restraining order against him on March 22, 2017.

While The Hollywood Reporter reported that the details in the restraining order were originally sealed when producers conducted their background check, Entertainment Weekly has since obtained the now-unsealed petition.

A source close to the show told EW : “We take the safety of our contestants very seriously and make every effort to conduct thorough diligence. As exhaustive as our vetting process is, this protective order did not surface in our searches.”

In the restraining order, it’s alleged that “[Strader] made a fire out in the street with what appeared to be the actual restraining order. [The ex-girlfriend] also had a tire flattened in her vehicle and when it was getting changed, [Strader] came outside and began laughing at her.”

It’s additionally alleged that Strader once “put me in a chokehold covering my mouth” and “spit on me and threw his drink on me at [a] Pelicans game in front of everyone in the stands.”

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The abuse allegations go beyond the physical, with claims he mentally abused her, too. “He has degraded me and taken everything from me. My self confidence, self-esteem, and I hope no other girl ever has to go through what I went through.”

The Independent has contacted ABC for further comment. A representative for Strader was not immediately found.

After Strader was arrested on burglary charges, he pleaded guilty to charges of criminal trespass and simple criminal damage to property of less than $500 and was ordered to complete one year of unsupervised probation, per EW.

These revelations come just weeks after Strader reunited with Tran on The Bachelorette season 21 finale in front of a live studio audience to discuss the downfall of their relationship .

During the episode, Tran recalled how Strader broke off their engagement over a phone call.

“He had basically said that he didn’t love me anymore and didn’t feel the same way and felt like something had been off since the second he proposed, and regretted getting engaged,” she said, adding that “he denied ever being in love.”

In a later attempt to try and defend his actions, Strader posted a since-deleted video on Instagram in which he exposed private texts shared between him and Tran.

Tran will next compete on the new season of Dancing with the Stars , debuting September 17 on ABC at 8pm ET.

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• Knowledge Base
• Dissertation
• What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples

What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples

Published on September 14, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on April 16, 2024.

A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master’s program or a capstone to a bachelor’s degree.

Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation , it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete. It relies on your ability to conduct research from start to finish: choosing a relevant topic , crafting a proposal , designing your research , collecting data , developing a robust analysis, drawing strong conclusions , and writing concisely .

Thesis template

You can also download our full thesis template in the format of your choice below. Our template includes a ready-made table of contents , as well as guidance for what each chapter should include. It’s easy to make it your own, and can help you get started.

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

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Table of contents

Thesis vs. thesis statement, how to structure a thesis, acknowledgements or preface, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review, methodology, reference list, proofreading and editing, defending your thesis, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about theses.

You may have heard the word thesis as a standalone term or as a component of academic writing called a thesis statement . Keep in mind that these are two very different things.

• A thesis statement is a very common component of an essay, particularly in the humanities. It usually comprises 1 or 2 sentences in the introduction of your essay , and should clearly and concisely summarize the central points of your academic essay .
• A thesis is a long-form piece of academic writing, often taking more than a full semester to complete. It is generally a degree requirement for Master’s programs, and is also sometimes required to complete a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts colleges.
• In the US, a dissertation is generally written as a final step toward obtaining a PhD.
• In other countries (particularly the UK), a dissertation is generally written at the bachelor’s or master’s level.

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The final structure of your thesis depends on a variety of components, such as:

• Your discipline
• Your theoretical approach

Humanities theses are often structured more like a longer-form essay . Just like in an essay, you build an argument to support a central thesis.

In both hard and social sciences, theses typically include an introduction , literature review , methodology section ,  results section , discussion section , and conclusion section . These are each presented in their own dedicated section or chapter. In some cases, you might want to add an appendix .

Thesis examples

We’ve compiled a short list of thesis examples to help you get started.

• Example thesis #1:   “Abolition, Africans, and Abstraction: the Influence of the ‘Noble Savage’ on British and French Antislavery Thought, 1787-1807” by Suchait Kahlon.
• Example thesis #2: “’A Starving Man Helping Another Starving Man’: UNRRA, India, and the Genesis of Global Relief, 1943-1947″ by Julian Saint Reiman.

The very first page of your thesis contains all necessary identifying information, including:

• Your full title
• Your full name
• Your department
• Your institution and degree program
• Your submission date.

Sometimes the title page also includes your student ID, the name of your supervisor, or the university’s logo. Check out your university’s guidelines if you’re not sure.

Read more about title pages

The acknowledgements section is usually optional. Its main point is to allow you to thank everyone who helped you in your thesis journey, such as supervisors, friends, or family. You can also choose to write a preface , but it’s typically one or the other, not both.

Read more about acknowledgements Read more about prefaces

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An abstract is a short summary of your thesis. Usually a maximum of 300 words long, it’s should include brief descriptions of your research objectives , methods, results, and conclusions. Though it may seem short, it introduces your work to your audience, serving as a first impression of your thesis.

Read more about abstracts

A table of contents lists all of your sections, plus their corresponding page numbers and subheadings if you have them. This helps your reader seamlessly navigate your document.

Your table of contents should include all the major parts of your thesis. In particular, don’t forget the the appendices. If you used heading styles, it’s easy to generate an automatic table Microsoft Word.

Read more about tables of contents

While not mandatory, if you used a lot of tables and/or figures, it’s nice to include a list of them to help guide your reader. It’s also easy to generate one of these in Word: just use the “Insert Caption” feature.

Read more about lists of figures and tables

If you have used a lot of industry- or field-specific abbreviations in your thesis, you should include them in an alphabetized list of abbreviations . This way, your readers can easily look up any meanings they aren’t familiar with.

Read more about lists of abbreviations

Relatedly, if you find yourself using a lot of very specialized or field-specific terms that may not be familiar to your reader, consider including a glossary . Alphabetize the terms you want to include with a brief definition.

Read more about glossaries

An introduction sets up the topic, purpose, and relevance of your thesis, as well as expectations for your reader. This should:

• Ground your research topic , sharing any background information your reader may need
• Define the scope of your work
• Introduce any existing research on your topic, situating your work within a broader problem or debate
• State your research question(s)
• Outline (briefly) how the remainder of your work will proceed

In other words, your introduction should clearly and concisely show your reader the “what, why, and how” of your research.

Read more about introductions

A literature review helps you gain a robust understanding of any extant academic work on your topic, encompassing:

• Selecting relevant sources
• Determining the credibility of your sources
• Critically evaluating each of your sources
• Drawing connections between sources, including any themes, patterns, conflicts, or gaps

A literature review is not merely a summary of existing work. Rather, your literature review should ultimately lead to a clear justification for your own research, perhaps via:

• Addressing a gap in the literature
• Building on existing knowledge to draw new conclusions
• Exploring a new theoretical or methodological approach
• Introducing a new solution to an unresolved problem
• Definitively advocating for one side of a theoretical debate

Read more about literature reviews

Theoretical framework

Your literature review can often form the basis for your theoretical framework, but these are not the same thing. A theoretical framework defines and analyzes the concepts and theories that your research hinges on.

Read more about theoretical frameworks

Your methodology chapter shows your reader how you conducted your research. It should be written clearly and methodically, easily allowing your reader to critically assess the credibility of your argument. Furthermore, your methods section should convince your reader that your method was the best way to answer your research question.

A methodology section should generally include:

• Your overall approach ( quantitative vs. qualitative )
• Your research methods (e.g., a longitudinal study )
• Your data collection methods (e.g., interviews or a controlled experiment
• Any tools or materials you used (e.g., computer software)
• The data analysis methods you chose (e.g., statistical analysis , discourse analysis )
• A strong, but not defensive justification of your methods

Read more about methodology sections

Your results section should highlight what your methodology discovered. These two sections work in tandem, but shouldn’t repeat each other. While your results section can include hypotheses or themes, don’t include any speculation or new arguments here.

Your results section should:

• State each (relevant) result with any (relevant) descriptive statistics (e.g., mean , standard deviation ) and inferential statistics (e.g., test statistics , p values )
• Explain how each result relates to the research question
• Determine whether the hypothesis was supported

Additional data (like raw numbers or interview transcripts ) can be included as an appendix . You can include tables and figures, but only if they help the reader better understand your results.

Read more about results sections

Your discussion section is where you can interpret your results in detail. Did they meet your expectations? How well do they fit within the framework that you built? You can refer back to any relevant source material to situate your results within your field, but leave most of that analysis in your literature review.

For any unexpected results, offer explanations or alternative interpretations of your data.

Read more about discussion sections

Your thesis conclusion should concisely answer your main research question. It should leave your reader with an ultra-clear understanding of your central argument, and emphasize what your research specifically has contributed to your field.

Why does your research matter? What recommendations for future research do you have? Lastly, wrap up your work with any concluding remarks.

Read more about conclusions

In order to avoid plagiarism , don’t forget to include a full reference list at the end of your thesis, citing the sources that you used. Choose one citation style and follow it consistently throughout your thesis, taking note of the formatting requirements of each style.

Which style you choose is often set by your department or your field, but common styles include MLA , Chicago , and APA.

Create APA citations Create MLA citations

In order to stay clear and concise, your thesis should include the most essential information needed to answer your research question. However, chances are you have many contributing documents, like interview transcripts or survey questions . These can be added as appendices , to save space in the main body.

Read more about appendices

Once you’re done writing, the next part of your editing process begins. Leave plenty of time for proofreading and editing prior to submission. Nothing looks worse than grammar mistakes or sloppy spelling errors!

Consider using a professional thesis editing service or grammar checker to make sure your final project is perfect.

Once you’ve submitted your final product, it’s common practice to have a thesis defense, an oral component of your finished work. This is scheduled by your advisor or committee, and usually entails a presentation and Q&A session.

After your defense , your committee will meet to determine if you deserve any departmental honors or accolades. However, keep in mind that defenses are usually just a formality. If there are any serious issues with your work, these should be resolved with your advisor way before a defense.

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!

Research bias

• Survivorship bias
• Self-serving bias
• Availability heuristic
• Halo effect
• Hindsight bias
• Deep learning
• Generative AI
• Machine learning
• Reinforcement learning
• Supervised vs. unsupervised learning

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
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The conclusion of your thesis or dissertation shouldn’t take up more than 5–7% of your overall word count.

If you only used a few abbreviations in your thesis or dissertation , you don’t necessarily need to include a list of abbreviations .

If your abbreviations are numerous, or if you think they won’t be known to your audience, it’s never a bad idea to add one. They can also improve readability, minimizing confusion about abbreviations unfamiliar to your reader.

When you mention different chapters within your text, it’s considered best to use Roman numerals for most citation styles. However, the most important thing here is to remain consistent whenever using numbers in your dissertation .

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.

Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:

• Your anticipated title
• Your abstract
• Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review , research methods , avenues for future research, etc.)

A thesis is typically written by students finishing up a bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Some educational institutions, particularly in the liberal arts, have mandatory theses, but they are often not mandatory to graduate from bachelor’s degrees. It is more common for a thesis to be a graduation requirement from a Master’s degree.

Even if not mandatory, you may want to consider writing a thesis if you:

• Plan to attend graduate school soon
• Have a particular topic you’d like to study more in-depth
• Are considering a career in research
• Would like a capstone experience to tie up your academic experience

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