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Dissertation

What Is a Dissertation? | Guide, Examples, & Template

A dissertation is a long-form piece of academic writing based on original research conducted by you. It is usually submitted as the final step in order to finish a PhD program.

Your dissertation is probably the longest piece of writing you’ve ever completed. It requires solid research, writing, and analysis skills, and it can be intimidating to know where to begin.

Your department likely has guidelines related to how your dissertation should be structured. When in doubt, consult with your supervisor.

You can also download our full dissertation template in the format of your choice below. The template includes a ready-made table of contents with notes on what to include in each chapter, easily adaptable to your department’s requirements.

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

In the US, a dissertation generally refers to the collection of research you conducted to obtain a PhD.
In other countries (such as the UK), a dissertation often refers to the research you conduct to obtain your bachelor’s or master’s degree.

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Dissertation committee and prospectus process, how to write and structure a dissertation, acknowledgements or preface, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review, methodology, reference list, proofreading and editing, defending your dissertation, free checklist and lecture slides.

When you’ve finished your coursework, as well as any comprehensive exams or other requirements, you advance to “ABD” (All But Dissertation) status. This means you’ve completed everything except your dissertation.

Prior to starting to write, you must form your committee and write your prospectus or proposal . Your committee comprises your adviser and a few other faculty members. They can be from your own department, or, if your work is more interdisciplinary, from other departments. Your committee will guide you through the dissertation process, and ultimately decide whether you pass your dissertation defense and receive your PhD.

Your prospectus is a formal document presented to your committee, usually orally in a defense, outlining your research aims and objectives and showing why your topic is relevant . After passing your prospectus defense, you’re ready to start your research and writing.

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The structure of your dissertation depends on a variety of factors, such as your discipline, topic, and approach. Dissertations in the humanities are often structured more like a long essay , building an overall argument to support a central thesis , with chapters organized around different themes or case studies.

However, hard science and social science dissertations typically include a review of existing works, a methodology section, an analysis of your original research, and a presentation of your results , presented in different chapters.

Dissertation examples

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

Example dissertation #1: Heat, Wildfire and Energy Demand: An Examination of Residential Buildings and Community Equity (a dissertation by C. A. Antonopoulos about the impact of extreme heat and wildfire on residential buildings and occupant exposure risks).
Example dissertation #2: Exploring Income Volatility and Financial Health Among Middle-Income Households (a dissertation by M. Addo about income volatility and declining economic security among middle-income households).
Example dissertation #3: The Use of Mindfulness Meditation to Increase the Efficacy of Mirror Visual Feedback for Reducing Phantom Limb Pain in Amputees (a dissertation by N. S. Mills about the effect of mindfulness-based interventions on the relationship between mirror visual feedback and the pain level in amputees with phantom limb pain).

The very first page of your document contains your dissertation title, your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date. Sometimes it also includes your student number, your supervisor’s name, and the university’s logo.

Theoretical framework

Your literature review can often form the basis for your theoretical framework. Here, you define and analyze the key theories, concepts, and models that frame your research.

Checklist: Dissertation

My title page includes all information required by my university.

I have included acknowledgements thanking those who helped me.

My abstract provides a concise summary of the dissertation, giving the reader a clear idea of my key results or arguments.

I have created a table of contents to help the reader navigate my dissertation. It includes all chapter titles, but excludes the title page, acknowledgements, and abstract.

My introduction leads into my topic in an engaging way and shows the relevance of my research.

My introduction clearly defines the focus of my research, stating my research questions and research objectives .

My introduction includes an overview of the dissertation’s structure (reading guide).

I have conducted a literature review in which I (1) critically engage with sources, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of existing research, (2) discuss patterns, themes, and debates in the literature, and (3) address a gap or show how my research contributes to existing research.

I have clearly outlined the theoretical framework of my research, explaining the theories and models that support my approach.

I have thoroughly described my methodology , explaining how I collected data and analyzed data.

I have concisely and objectively reported all relevant results .

I have (1) evaluated and interpreted the meaning of the results and (2) acknowledged any important limitations of the results in my discussion .

I have clearly stated the answer to my main research question in the conclusion .

I have clearly explained the implications of my conclusion, emphasizing what new insight my research has contributed.

I have provided relevant recommendations for further research or practice.

If relevant, I have included appendices with supplemental information.

I have included an in-text citation every time I use words, ideas, or information from a source.

I have listed every source in a reference list at the end of my dissertation.

I have consistently followed the rules of my chosen citation style .

I have followed all formatting guidelines provided by my university.

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Reading, Notetaking, and Time Management

What is a thesis?

What is a dissertation, getting started, staying on track, thesis abstract, lit(erature) review.

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:

https://guides.library.harvard.edu/sixreadinghabits

https://youtu.be/BcV64lowMIA

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 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.

An abstract is a short (approximately 200-word) summary or overview of your research project. It provides enough information for a reader to know what they will find within the larger document, such as your purpose, methodology, and results or conclusion. It may also include a list of keywords. An abstract is an original document, not an excerpt, and its contents and organization may vary by discipline.

A literature review establishes a set of themes and contexts drawn from foundational research and materials that relate to your project. It is an acknowledgment that your scholarship doesn’t exist in a vacuum. With the review, you identify patterns and trends in the literature to situate your contribution within the existing scholarly conversation.

What is a literature review? A literature review (or lit review, for short) is a critical analysis of published scholarly research (the "literature") related to a specific topic. Literature here means body of work, which traditionally was done in written form and may include journal articles, books, book chapters, dissertations and thesis, or conference proceedings. In the case of design, however, literature has an expanded breadth since the body of work is oftentimes not represented by words. A design review may include plans, sections, photographs, and any type of media that portrays the work.

A literature review may stand on its own or may be inside a larger work, usually in the introductory sections. It is thorough but not exhaustive--there will always be more information than you can reasonably locate and include. Be mindful of your scope and time constraints and select your reviewed materials with care. A literature review

summarizes the themes and findings of works in an area
compares and contrasts relevant aspects of literature on a topic
critically assesses the strengths and omissions of the source material
elaborates on the implications of their findings for one's own research topic

What does a literature review look like? Each discipline has its own style for writing a literature review; urban planning and design lit reviews may look different than those from architecture, and design lit reviews will look significantly different than reviews from the biological sciences or engineering. Look at published journal articles within your field and note how they present the information.

Introduction: most scholarly articles and books will have a literature review within the introductory sections. Its precise location may vary, but it is most often in the first few paragraphs or pages.

Dedicated literature reviews: these are stand-alone resources unto themselves. You can search for "literature review" and a topic, and you may find that one already exists. These literature reviews are useful as models within your field, for finding additional sources to explore, and for beginning to map the general relationships within the scholarly conversation around your topic. Be mindful not to plagiarize the source material.

Database search tip : Add the phrase "literature review" to your search to find published literature reviews.

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.

Theses at the Frances Loeb Library is a research guide to finding p ast GSD theses.

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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What is a Dissertation? Everything You Need to Know

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Your dissertation, the final piece of the puzzle that stands between you and the completion of your doctoral degree . Okay, so that’s not the actual definition of the word “dissertation,” but when you’re writing one, that can feel true at times! Keep reading to learn the academic definition and take a more in depth look at what a dissertation is and how to navigate writing one. So, let’s go!

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Dissertation vs. thesis

While dissertation and thesis are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different pieces of writing. A thesis is traditionally completed at the end of a master’s program . It is based on pre-existing research and showcases your ability to understand the information you have been learning about in your program.

A dissertation is much longer than a thesis and is completed at the end of a PhD or doctorate program . It is the last thing you need to complete in order to earn your doctorate in your chosen field. It will be about a topic of your choosing that is within your field of study. Instead of using all pre-existing information though, you will conduct a portion of your own research and propose new ideas.

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What do you write about when completing a dissertation?

What you write about will depend on what field of study you are in. A dissertation is designed to be your own. Meaning that what you write about should be a new idea, a new topic, or question that is still unanswered in your field. Something that you will need to collect new data on, potentially interview people for and explore what information is already available.

Generally, an idea will need to be approved or at least discussed with whoever is overseeing your dissertation before you begin writing. It’s important to put time and effort into choosing a topic that you will be able to find either existing research for and add to, or a topic that you will be able to establish your own methods of data collection for. Again, the goal of your dissertation is to add to your field.

How long does a dissertation need to be?

Your dissertation length will vary, but you can generally count on it to be around 2-3 times the length of your thesis. A standard thesis is roughly 80 to 100 pages. So, on the short end you’re looking at a 200 pages dissertation, while the longer end can reach as high as 400 pages.

How long does it take to write?

The page count for a dissertation is enough to scare even the best writers away, but take a breath and rest easy knowing that this is not something you complete in just one semester or even two. On the short end you will have a year to write your dissertation, while the longer end can offer as much as two years to complete your dissertation. During this time, you will work with an advisor who can watch over you and help you along the way.

The parts of a dissertation

A dissertation is not just one long paper you must write. Thankfully, it is broken down into manageable pieces that you complete over time.

Choosing a topic

The first thing you will do is come up with your topic. Again, your topic will need to be approved by whoever is overseeing your dissertation. If they think that it may not be a strong topic, they will let you know. Even if a topic is approved though, you’ll need to do research around that topic first to make sure that it has not already been covered, or if it has that you take into consideration what has been done and add to the topic in a new way.

Research can mean looking at what already exists, as well as conducting your own research to add to a proposed idea of yours. Your research can take many different forms depending on what field you are in. Research can be costly at times, so be sure to check out what funding opportunities are available for doctoral research. There are even post PhD research grants you should be familiar with if you intend to continue researching.

Chapter break down

A dissertation generally consists of five chapters. We’ve written them out below with a brief description of each and what they include.

Introduction – Just as you would expect, this is where you will introduce your topic and what you plan to discuss

Literature review – This section will address the research you have found that has already been done, or found has not been done, that pertains to your topic

Methodology – How you go about collecting information for your dissertation, whether it be conducting your own research or delving deep into what has already been done, will be discussed in the methodology section

Results – Your results will analyze the information you gathered in regard to your topic

Discussion – Finally, your discussion section will assess the meaning of your results and it is also where you will add your own ideas, rooted in research, about what those results mean in a broader context in regard to your field

There will be more parts of your dissertation that are not included in the chapters, but the bulk of your dissertation will be made up by these five chapters. Things like title pages, references, appendices, and table of contents will also be included.

Defending your dissertation

Believe it or not, it’s not enough just to write your dissertation–you also have to defend your dissertation. This is another reason why taking a thorough amount of time to choose your topic is so important. You’ll likely need to propose your initial dissertation idea, but that will be much simpler and shorter. Your final defense will be much lengthier and in depth.

During your defense, you will present your dissertation to a committee. It’s likely that you’ll be at least somewhat familiar with those on the committee; they are not just randomly picked. They will ask you questions about your research, and you will need to respond to each question. A defense generally takes around two hours. The point of a defense is not to have people try to undermine your work, but for you to exemplify your expertise in your field.

Failing your dissertation

Nobody wants to think about failing, but unfortunately, you can fail your dissertation. However, let’s talk about a few things before we just leave it at that. First, if you are afraid of failing your dissertation, this is something that you should speak to your advisor about. They can help you determine if there should be legitimate concerns or if you are getting in your own head.

Second, even if you do fail your dissertation, you are usually allowed to resubmit one time. This of course is not ideal, but it does give you a little room to breathe. Your goal is to do great from the start, but remember this is not an easy task. You’ll likely have plenty of bumps along the way!

Again, if you have concerns about failing, address them sooner rather than later and seek help. There are bound to be plenty of people and services around you, as well as additional services that you can pay for which will help review your materials and guide you along.

Key Takeaways

Dissertations are completed as the last step of your PhD or doctorate degree
Your dissertation will be related to a topic or question in your field of study that you choose
Dissertations take anywhere from one to two years to complete and can be upwards of three hundred pages long
Your dissertation is designed to showcase your expertise in your field and your addition of new ideas to the field about a particular question or area

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What is the Difference Between a Dissertation and a Thesis?

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What is the difference between a thesis and a dissertation

And to make it even more confusing, some institutions or departments will even use the terms differently!

But what are we all really talking about when we refer to a dissertation or a thesis? And does the term you use actually impact on what you actually end up writing?

This article covers the main differences between a dissertation and thesis, and how the terms may differ depending on the course, university and location.

What is a dissertation?

A dissertation is a piece of academic writing centred around original research. In their dissertations, students review existing research but also build on this with unique hypotheses and approaches.

A dissertation can be used to disprove a previous theory or take existing theories and research in a new direction. It is a large research project that is usually completed at the end of the academic year.

Usually, a dissertation starts with a dissertation proposal , which is approved by a study supervisor. The student then completes the research and writes up the methodology , findings, evaluations and conclusions from the research.

Dissertations can be undertaken by both undergraduate and postgraduate students. At undergraduate level the word count is around 5,000 to 8,000 and at postgraduate level it is usually 10,000 to 15,000.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is an academic paper covering an in-depth review of existing research in a particular discipline. It will involve an academic argument, although it doesn’t usually require original research from the student. The existing research is used to support and evaluate the proposed argument.

A thesis is not usually required at undergraduate level and is more common at postgraduate level.

This large piece of written-up research is usually completed at the end of a masters degree. Some masters courses require a thesis to graduate.

Differences between a dissertation vs thesis

The main purpose of a writing a dissertation is to add new findings to the existing literature in that field with original research. Whereas theses tend to evaluate existing findings, as their purpose is to demonstrate knowledge and skills within the course’s subject matter.

In terms of how long it takes to complete a thesis or dissertation project, a thesis is typically shorter than a dissertation since there are fewer original research aspects involved. This means that it will probably take less time. However, this can differ depending on the university and the course.

Dissertations sometimes require an oral presentation, known as a viva , where findings are showcased to academics who ask questions about the research. Theses usually do not require this.

The root of the words

The word ‘dissertation’ originates from the Latin word ‘dissertare’, meaning to continue to discuss and the Latin word ‘disserere’ which means to examine and discuss .

The word ‘thesis’ originally comes from the Greek word ‘tithenai’, which means to place or position. This later evolved into the Latin ‘thesis’, which had two meanings: an abstract question and to put something forward .

Similarities between a dissertation vs thesis

Although there are some key differences between a dissertation and a thesis, there are also similarities.

Both are generally long pieces of academic writing, much longer than a typical essay.
Both explore a topic in depth, whether you are conducting totally unique research or structuring an argument based on existing research.
Both are considered a final project and usually required to graduate from a degree, masters or PhD. Students can graduate without a thesis or dissertation if they choose to complete a postgraduate diploma or postgraduate certificate instead.
Excellent academic writing skills are highly important for both types of research project.

Is a dissertation harder than a thesis?

Though, the difficulty of a thesis or dissertation depends on your personal skill set. For instance, students that learn better by developing their own research ideas may find a dissertation easier than a thesis.

Difficulty can also depend on the level of the course. For instance, a thesis completed at doctorate level is likely to require more advanced knowledge than a thesis at undergraduate level.

The difficulty of either type of research project can also vary depending on the subject matter and the resources available to you.

Both dissertations and theses can be challenging, but don’t be put off by the thought of having to produce a larger body of work. Your supervisor will be there to support you.

Definitions depend on where you are

The terms ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ are sometimes used interchangeably, and the meanings can differ depending on the country and university.

There are plenty of differences between the variant forms of English, such as British English and American English. Around the world, different English-speaking countries use the words ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ differently.

Generally, nations with British-based academic systems of university education use dissertation to refer to the body of work at the end of an undergraduate or masters level degree . British-based institutions generally use thesis to refer to the body of work produced at the end of a PhD .

In countries and institutions that are based on the American system of education, the words tend to be used in reverse. However, institutions and even different departments in the same university can use the words differently.

If you're in doubt, then stick with the way the university and department you're currently attending use the terms.

Definitions can depend on the subject

In the UK, the terms ‘dissertation’ and ‘thesis’ are generally applied equally across institutions and subjects.

However, in the US the meanings can differ between different subject areas. The term ‘thesis’ can be used to describe a piece of original research in US academia, whereas original research is usually referred to as a dissertation in the UK.

If you’re studying in the US , you may complete a thesis at masters level in another subject area that involves wide-ranging reading and understanding rather than original research and still call it a thesis.

With so much interchangeability between the two terms, it’s understandable that there is often confusion in the debate between a dissertation vs thesis, as there is no clear answer.

Always read specific course details to understand exactly what’s involved in the research project that you are required to produce.

Examples from US and UK universities

Georgetown University in the US refers to a dissertation and a thesis as both adding to your 'field of knowledge' . The University of Edinburgh recommends that you refer to your individual course handbook for guides to dissertations, so each department will have their own guidelines to using the word dissertation and thesis. At University College London they refer to a thesis as the piece of work at the end of an EngD, MPhil, MD(Res) or PhD, which are all research degrees.

In conclusion

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter which word you use as both refer to a serious and lengthy piece of work where you can show what you have researched and understood as part of your postgraduate studies.

As long as you are referring to the piece of work that you are compiling in the same way as those in your department then you will avoid confusion.

It is important to check whether the research piece involves original research or expects you to build upon existing research.

Writing a dissertation or a thesis requires a substantial amount of planning and work and you don't want to let yourself down at the last hurdle with poor presentation of your work, so always keep an eye on your course or department guidelines.

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/images/cornell/logo35pt_cornell_white.svg" alt="dissertation time definition"> Cornell University --> Graduate School

Guide to writing your thesis/dissertation, definition of dissertation and thesis.

The dissertation or thesis is a scholarly treatise that substantiates a specific point of view as a result of original research that is conducted by students during their graduate study. At Cornell, the thesis is a requirement for the receipt of the M.A. and M.S. degrees and some professional master’s degrees. The dissertation is a requirement of the Ph.D. degree.

Formatting Requirement and Standards

The Graduate School sets the minimum format for your thesis or dissertation, while you, your special committee, and your advisor/chair decide upon the content and length. Grammar, punctuation, spelling, and other mechanical issues are your sole responsibility. Generally, the thesis and dissertation should conform to the standards of leading academic journals in your field. The Graduate School does not monitor the thesis or dissertation for mechanics, content, or style.

“Papers Option” Dissertation or Thesis

A “papers option” is available only to students in certain fields, which are listed on the Fields Permitting the Use of Papers Option page , or by approved petition. If you choose the papers option, your dissertation or thesis is organized as a series of relatively independent chapters or papers that you have submitted or will be submitting to journals in the field. You must be the only author or the first author of the papers to be used in the dissertation. The papers-option dissertation or thesis must meet all format and submission requirements, and a singular referencing convention must be used throughout.

ProQuest Electronic Submissions

The dissertation and thesis become permanent records of your original research, and in the case of doctoral research, the Graduate School requires publication of the dissertation and abstract in its original form. All Cornell master’s theses and doctoral dissertations require an electronic submission through ProQuest, which fills orders for paper or digital copies of the thesis and dissertation and makes a digital version available online via their subscription database, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses . For master’s theses, only the abstract is available. ProQuest provides worldwide distribution of your work from the master copy. You retain control over your dissertation and are free to grant publishing rights as you see fit. The formatting requirements contained in this guide meet all ProQuest specifications.

Copies of Dissertation and Thesis

Copies of Ph.D. dissertations and master’s theses are also uploaded in PDF format to the Cornell Library Repository, eCommons . A print copy of each master’s thesis and doctoral dissertation is submitted to Cornell University Library by ProQuest.

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How to Create a Dissertation Timeline (With Examples + Tempate)

When it’s time to start thinking about writing your dissertation, it is vital to put together a dissertation timeline. This will help you map out the months you will be spending on your dissertation, and ensure that you’re staying on track. A specific and detailed dissertation timeline will serve as an outline to guide you, step by step, through what can be a long and challenging process.

While we often refer to a dissertation in a way that makes it sound like a monolith, in reality, a dissertation consists of many moving parts. A dissertation timeline includes a series of milestones that leads up to the dissertation defense , revisions, and final submission of your dissertation. Constructing an outline of every step in the dissertation process , including rough estimates of how long each will take, will give you a realistic picture of where you are in the process at any given time.

Before embarking on your dissertation, it is a good idea to meet with your dissertation advisor and sketch out a dissertation timeline that is realistic for the size and scope of your project and includes deadlines. This will provide you with much-needed structure and a sense of what will happen next. To get an idea of what a completed dissertation looks like and the components your program requires, ask to see samples from recent graduates in your department.

These are a few frequently asked questions about crafting a dissertation timeline:

What does a dissertation timeline look like?
What goes in a dissertation timeline?
How structured should a dissertation timeline be?
What do you do with a dissertation timeline?

blonde woman writing dissertation prospectus in a cafe

What Does a Dissertation Timeline Look Like?

One way to think about a dissertation timeline is as a kind of outline. While the outlining process is unique to each writer, there are commonalities shared by all of them. Likewise, when writing a dissertation timeline, you’ll want to include all of the basic elements of your dissertation as well as the amount of time you think you’ll need to execute them.

The best dissertation timeline format is the one that works for you. Though I’ve reformed somewhat over the years, for a long time I wasn’t a fan of intensely detailed outlines. Many people don’t like outlines. And that’s okay! However, writing a dissertation is not the time to be flying by the seat of your pants. To get started, a simple, linear timeline that projects the amount of time you think you’ll need to write your dissertation will suffice.

Example Dissertation Timeline

Below, you’ll find an example of a dissertation timeline, which you can view as an image in your browser or download as a spreadsheet. Feel free to use the spreadsheet as a template as you build your own dissertation timeline.

example of a dissertation timeline spreadsheet

Or download the spreadsheet below:

Inclusion in a Dissertation Timeline

When constructing your dissertation timeline, include every element of the dissertation from the abstract to the conclusion. Keep in mind that you may not be writing your chapters in chronological order. For instance, after completing their first round of research and writing their research question, most graduate students will tackle their literature review next, even though it comes after the abstract and introduction in the final document.

Depending on the field being studied, most dissertations will also include sections for methodology, results, and discussion. Many programs also require a detailed conclusion that alludes to future research possibilities. Every dissertation also has an extensive list of references (pro tip: write this as you’re writing your dissertation), as well as appendices for charts, graphs, and other ephemera. And don’t forget your acknowledgments!

Dissertation Timeline Structure

The structure of your dissertation timeline will take shape once you’re engaged in the research process. While a road map may seem like an apt metaphor for a dissertation, once you get started you may notice a lot of starts and stops and circling back. After you’ve begun researching, you may realize that you need to allot more time for digging through the databases, or you may discover that you need to reformulate your research question entirely.

custom made calendar in a notebook with different color notes

I’ve seen many of my own graduate students use calendars to great effect, giving themselves hard and fast deadlines to meet. Many students also build out their dissertation timelines as they progress, attaching working drafts of their abstract, introduction, and literature review to their timeline within a giant spreadsheet that links to multiple documents and sources. All of these methods are valid. Devise one that works for you.

Using a Dissertation Timeline

So once you have a thoughtful, soundly-constructed dissertation timeline, what do you do with it? First, and most importantly, try your best to adhere to it. Check in with your dissertation timeline regularly, and use it to keep yourself on track. Also, make adjustments to it as needed. If you find yourself breezing through your preliminary research but needing a bit more time for your literature review, consult your timeline and adjust accordingly.

While meeting your deadlines is important, also construct your dissertation timeline with an understanding that many graduate students face delays once they start working on their dissertation. These can include hold-ups at the department or university level in the form of late IRB approval or limited lab space or grant funding that gets cut. Anything can happen, but having a dissertation timeline will help you get back on track as soon as the storm passes.

In my own experience, I also found my dissertation timeline to be a great document to share and discuss with my dissertation chair and committee. Once I finished my comprehensive exams, I met with members of my dissertation committee and got feedback on my rough dissertation timeline to make sure my goals for submitting my dissertation and graduating were realistic. This also ensured that we were all on the same page.

When writing a dissertation, timing is everything. Creating a dissertation timeline gives you definitive time limits for research and writing, and it also influences several other major decisions that you’ll need to make. These include preparation to go on the job market, which often coincides with writing your dissertation. There is no doubt that this will be a hectic time in your graduate school career, but having a well-organized dissertation timeline is a good way to keep everything in perspective.

Courtney Watson, Ph.D.

Courtney Watson, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of English at Radford University Carilion, in Roanoke, Virginia. Her areas of expertise include undergraduate and graduate curriculum development for writing courses in the health sciences and American literature with a focus on literary travel, tourism, and heritage economies. Her writing and academic scholarship has been widely published in places that include Studies in American Culture , Dialogue , and The Virginia Quarterly Review . Her research on the integration of humanities into STEM education will be published by Routledge in an upcoming collection. Dr. Watson has also been nominated by the State Council for Higher Education of Virginia’s Outstanding Faculty Rising Star Award, and she is a past winner of the National Society of Arts & Letters Regional Short Story Prize, as well as institutional awards for scholarly research and excellence in teaching. Throughout her career in higher education, Dr. Watson has served in faculty governance and administration as a frequent committee chair and program chair. As a higher education consultant, she has served as a subject matter expert, an evaluator, and a contributor to white papers exploring program development, enrollment research, and educational mergers and acquisitions.

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Dissertation

How to Write a Dissertation | A Guide to Structure & Content

A dissertation or thesis is a long piece of academic writing based on original research, submitted as part of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

The structure of a dissertation depends on your field, but it is usually divided into at least four or five chapters (including an introduction and conclusion chapter).

The most common dissertation structure in the sciences and social sciences includes:

An introduction to your topic
A literature review that surveys relevant sources
An explanation of your methodology
An overview of the results of your research
A discussion of the results and their implications
A conclusion that shows what your research has contributed

Dissertations in the humanities are often structured more like a long essay , building an argument by analysing primary and secondary sources . Instead of the standard structure outlined here, you might organise your chapters around different themes or case studies.

Other important elements of the dissertation include the title page , abstract , and reference list . If in doubt about how your dissertation should be structured, always check your department’s guidelines and consult with your supervisor.

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Acknowledgements, table of contents, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review / theoretical framework, methodology, reference list.

The very first page of your document contains your dissertation’s title, your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date. Sometimes it also includes your student number, your supervisor’s name, and the university’s logo. Many programs have strict requirements for formatting the dissertation title page .

The title page is often used as cover when printing and binding your dissertation .

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The acknowledgements section is usually optional, and gives space for you to thank everyone who helped you in writing your dissertation. This might include your supervisors, participants in your research, and friends or family who supported you.

The abstract is a short summary of your dissertation, usually about 150-300 words long. You should write it at the very end, when you’ve completed the rest of the dissertation. In the abstract, make sure to:

State the main topic and aims of your research
Describe the methods you used
Summarise the main results
State your conclusions

Although the abstract is very short, it’s the first part (and sometimes the only part) of your dissertation that people will read, so it’s important that you get it right. If you’re struggling to write a strong abstract, read our guide on how to write an abstract .

In the table of contents, list all of your chapters and subheadings and their page numbers. The dissertation contents page gives the reader an overview of your structure and helps easily navigate the document.

All parts of your dissertation should be included in the table of contents, including the appendices. You can generate a table of contents automatically in Word.

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If you have used a lot of tables and figures in your dissertation, you should itemise them in a numbered list . You can automatically generate this list using the Insert Caption feature in Word.

If you have used a lot of abbreviations in your dissertation, you can include them in an alphabetised list of abbreviations so that the reader can easily look up their meanings.

If you have used a lot of highly specialised terms that will not be familiar to your reader, it might be a good idea to include a glossary . List the terms alphabetically and explain each term with a brief description or definition.

In the introduction, you set up your dissertation’s topic, purpose, and relevance, and tell the reader what to expect in the rest of the dissertation. The introduction should:

Establish your research topic , giving necessary background information to contextualise your work
Narrow down the focus and define the scope of the research
Discuss the state of existing research on the topic, showing your work’s relevance to a broader problem or debate
Clearly state your objectives and research questions , and indicate how you will answer them
Give an overview of your dissertation’s structure

Everything in the introduction should be clear, engaging, and relevant to your research. By the end, the reader should understand the what , why and how of your research. Not sure how? Read our guide on how to write a dissertation introduction .

Before you start on your research, you should have conducted a literature review to gain a thorough understanding of the academic work that already exists on your topic. This means:

Collecting sources (e.g. books and journal articles) and selecting the most relevant ones
Critically evaluating and analysing each source
Drawing connections between them (e.g. themes, patterns, conflicts, gaps) to make an overall point

In the dissertation literature review chapter or section, you shouldn’t just summarise existing studies, but develop a coherent structure and argument that leads to a clear basis or justification for your own research. For example, it might aim to show how your research:

Addresses a gap in the literature
Takes a new theoretical or methodological approach to the topic
Proposes a solution to an unresolved problem
Advances a theoretical debate
Builds on and strengthens existing knowledge with new data

The literature review often becomes the basis for a theoretical framework , in which you define and analyse the key theories, concepts and models that frame your research. In this section you can answer descriptive research questions about the relationship between concepts or variables.

The methodology chapter or section describes how you conducted your research, allowing your reader to assess its validity. You should generally include:

The overall approach and type of research (e.g. qualitative, quantitative, experimental, ethnographic)
Your methods of collecting data (e.g. interviews, surveys, archives)
Details of where, when, and with whom the research took place
Your methods of analysing data (e.g. statistical analysis, discourse analysis)
Tools and materials you used (e.g. computer programs, lab equipment)
A discussion of any obstacles you faced in conducting the research and how you overcame them
An evaluation or justification of your methods

Your aim in the methodology is to accurately report what you did, as well as convincing the reader that this was the best approach to answering your research questions or objectives.

Next, you report the results of your research . You can structure this section around sub-questions, hypotheses, or topics. Only report results that are relevant to your objectives and research questions. In some disciplines, the results section is strictly separated from the discussion, while in others the two are combined.

For example, for qualitative methods like in-depth interviews, the presentation of the data will often be woven together with discussion and analysis, while in quantitative and experimental research, the results should be presented separately before you discuss their meaning. If you’re unsure, consult with your supervisor and look at sample dissertations to find out the best structure for your research.

In the results section it can often be helpful to include tables, graphs and charts. Think carefully about how best to present your data, and don’t include tables or figures that just repeat what you have written – they should provide extra information or usefully visualise the results in a way that adds value to your text.

Full versions of your data (such as interview transcripts) can be included as an appendix .

The discussion is where you explore the meaning and implications of your results in relation to your research questions. Here you should interpret the results in detail, discussing whether they met your expectations and how well they fit with the framework that you built in earlier chapters. If any of the results were unexpected, offer explanations for why this might be. It’s a good idea to consider alternative interpretations of your data and discuss any limitations that might have influenced the results.

The discussion should reference other scholarly work to show how your results fit with existing knowledge. You can also make recommendations for future research or practical action.

The dissertation conclusion should concisely answer the main research question, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your central argument. Wrap up your dissertation with a final reflection on what you did and how you did it. The conclusion often also includes recommendations for research or practice.

In this section, it’s important to show how your findings contribute to knowledge in the field and why your research matters. What have you added to what was already known?

You must include full details of all sources that you have cited in a reference list (sometimes also called a works cited list or bibliography). It’s important to follow a consistent reference style . Each style has strict and specific requirements for how to format your sources in the reference list.

The most common styles used in UK universities are Harvard referencing and Vancouver referencing . Your department will often specify which referencing style you should use – for example, psychology students tend to use APA style , humanities students often use MHRA , and law students always use OSCOLA . M ake sure to check the requirements, and ask your supervisor if you’re unsure.

To save time creating the reference list and make sure your citations are correctly and consistently formatted, you can use our free APA Citation Generator .

Your dissertation itself should contain only essential information that directly contributes to answering your research question. Documents you have used that do not fit into the main body of your dissertation (such as interview transcripts, survey questions or tables with full figures) can be added as appendices .

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6 Tips for Dissertation Time Management

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Introduction

Create a timeline for your dissertation

Structure regular times in your normal week for writing your dissertation, do your research, prioritize your tasks, keep your supervisor in the loop, just start writing.

If you’re a final year undergraduate student or a postgraduate student, it’s come to that time of the year where you’re planning, or about to start writing, your dissertation.

For those who don’t know, a dissertation is a research project completed at the end of your undergraduate or postgraduate course on a topic of your choice.

Writing your dissertation can potentially be a stressful and time pressured experience – but only if you don’t manage your time effectively!

When you first start thinking about your dissertation, you may feel like you have all the time in the world, so it’s easy to get complacent about planning and writing, and then, before you know it, the deadline is just around the corner.

If you struggle to stick to deadlines, try following our six tips to get you back on track.

Whether it’s on a calendar, a piece of paper or just on your phone, having a timeline is an excellent way to keep track of your progress.

To make your timeline, split your dissertation into several sections, and decide an approximate time that you want each section to be finished by. It’s important to be realistic about these timings – if not, you either won’t follow them, or you’ll just burn out.

Setting realistic goals can help you feel motivated and less stressed, as it divides the dissertation up into achievable bite size chunks, rather than letting it completely overwhelm you.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually have to write your dissertation every single day, just as long as you do it regularly. Set up a structured time to work on your dissertation – in the same way you might put time aside for the gym. While it’s important to spend time on your dissertation, it’s worth remembering that it’s about the quality of work you produce, not the number of hours you spend working on it.

Some people find it useful to treat the uni day like a nine to five job, and only work within those hours, so that there’s structure to the working day. Other people prefer a more irregular working pattern, for example if they work better at night or in the morning – so decide what’s best for you and stick to it!

Start with making a list of sources you want to use in your dissertation. Use suggestions from your supervisor and go to your university library to see what books it has on the topic. Also use online resources: Google Scholar is a good place to search for these.

The next step is to start reading your sources, making sure to take notes and record titles and page numbers. This will make it a lot easier in the future when you go back and reference these sources.

Prioritizing is key when it comes to dissertation writing! Decide what the most important tasks are and make them your top priority (look at your timeline to see which parts need to be completed first).

Write a list of smaller, less time-consuming tasks, so that when you need a break from whatever you’re working on, you can go back to them. This way, at least when you procrastinate, you’re still being productive.

It might also be good to have a notebook handy to jot down any interesting ideas that come to you while you’re writing, so that you can come back to them later on.

When writing a dissertation you’ll be assigned a supervisor who will guide you through your project. Supervisors are generally keen to help you with any problems you might have, so make sure you ask any questions you might have about your dissertation.

It’s also good to keep your supervisor up to date with what you’re doing. Reporting back to them on the progress you’ve made will motivate you to keep going, and they will be able to offer helpful feedback.

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When you start writing your dissertation is completely down to what suits you best. Some people prefer to finish all of their research before they start writing, whereas others prefer to start writing and continue their research when needs be.

Be aware that when you start writing it might become apparent that there’s further research you need to do, so leave enough time for this in your schedule. How to manage time?

You may start writing and realize straight away that this is far from your best work. Even if this is the case, keep going! Even if it’s not very good now, it’s still progress. You can go back and edit it later.

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As Content Editor for TopUniversities.com and TopMBA.com, Chloe creates and publishes a wide range of articles for universities and business schools across the world. Chloe has a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Reading and grew up in Leicestershire, UK.

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Tips for Students > Dissertation Explained: A Grad Student’s Guide

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

Dissertation Explained: A Grad Student’s Guide

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: March 10, 2020

Dissertation-Explained-A-Grad-Student's-Guide

Higher education is filled with milestones. When completing your PhD , you will be required to complete a dissertation. Even if you’ve heard this word thrown around before, you still may be questioning “What is a dissertation?” It’s a common question, especially for those considering to join or are already in a graduate program. As such, here’s everything you need to know about dissertations.

What is a Dissertation?

A dissertation is a written document that details research. A dissertation also signifies the completion of your PhD program. It is required to earn a PhD degree, which stands for Doctor of Philosophy.

A PhD is created from knowledge acquired from:

1. Coursework:

A PhD program consists of academic courses that are usually small in size and challenging in content. Most PhD courses consist of a high amount and level of reading and writing per week. These courses will help prepare you for your dissertation as they will teach research methodology.

2. Research:

For your dissertation, it is likely that you will have the choice between performing your own research on a subject , or expanding on existing research. Likely, you will complete a mixture of the two. For those in the hard sciences, you will perform research in a lab. For those in humanities and social sciences, research may mean gathering data from surveys or existing research.

3. Analysis:

Once you have collected the data you need to prove your point, you will have to analyze and interpret the information. PhD programs will prepare you for how to conduct analysis, as well as for how to position your research into the existing body of work on the subject matter.

4. Support:

The process of writing and completing a dissertation is bigger than the work itself. It can lead to research positions within the university or outside companies. It may mean that you will teach and share your findings with current undergraduates, or even be published in academic journals. How far you plan to take your dissertation is your choice to make and will require the relevant effort to accomplish your goals.

Moving from Student to Scholar

In essence, a dissertation is what moves a doctoral student into becoming a scholar. Their research may be published, shared, and used as educational material moving forwards.

Thesis vs. Dissertation

Basic differences.

Grad students may conflate the differences between a thesis and a dissertation.

Simply put, a thesis is what you write to complete a master’s degree. It summarizes existing research and signifies that you understand the subject matter deeply.

On the other hand, a dissertation is the culmination of a doctoral program. It will likely require your own research and it can contribute an entirely new idea into your field.

Structural Differences

When it comes to the structure, a thesis and dissertation are also different. A thesis is like the research papers you complete during undergraduate studies. A thesis displays your ability to think critically and analyze information. It’s less based on research that you’ve completed yourself and more about interpreting and analyzing existing material. They are generally around 100 pages in length.

A dissertation is generally two to three times longer compared to a thesis. This is because the bulk of the information is garnered from research you’ve performed yourself. Also, if you are providing something new in your field, it means that existing information is lacking. That’s why you’ll have to provide a lot of data and research to back up your claims.

Your Guide: Structuring a Dissertation

Dissertation length.

The length of a dissertation varies between study level and country. At an undergraduate level, this is more likely referred to as a research paper, which is 10,000 to 12,000 words on average. At a master’s level, the word count may be 15,000 to 25,000, and it will likely be in the form of a thesis. For those completing their PhD, then the dissertation could be 50,000 words or more.

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Format of the dissertation.

Here are the items you must include in a dissertation. While the format may slightly vary, here’s a look at one way to format your dissertation:

1. Title page:

This is the first page which includes: title, your name, department, degree program, institution, and submission date. Your program may specify exactly how and what they want you to include on the title page.

2. Acknowledgements:

This is optional, but it is where you can express your gratitude to those who have helped you complete your dissertation (professors, research partners, etc.).

3. Abstract:

The abstract is about 150-300 words and summarizes what your research is about. You state the main topic, the methods used, the main results, and your conclusion.

4. Table of Contents

Here, you list the chapter titles and pages to serve as a wayfinding tool for your readers.

5. List of Figures and Tables:

This is like the table of contents, but for graphs and figures.

6. List of Abbreviations:

If you’ve constantly abbreviated words in your content, define them in a list at the beginning.

7. Glossary:

In highly specialized work, it’s likely that you’ve used words that most people may not understand, so a glossary is where you define these terms.

8. Introduction:

Your introduction sets up the topic, purpose, and relevance. It’s where readers will understand what they expect to gain from your dissertation.

9. Literature Review / Theoretical Framework:

Based on the research you performed to create your own dissertation, you’ll want to summarize and address the gaps in what you researched.

10. Methodology

This is where you define how you conducted your research. It offers credibility for you as a source of information. You should give all the details as to how you’ve conducted your research, including: where and when research took place, how it was conducted, any obstacles you faced, and how you justified your findings.

11. Results:

This is where you share the results that have helped contribute to your findings.

12. Discussion:

In the discussion section, you explain what these findings mean to your research question. Were they in line with your expectations or did something jump out as surprising? You may also want to recommend ways to move forward in researching and addressing the subject matter.

13. Conclusion:

A conclusion ties it all together and summarizes the answer to the research question and leaves your reader clearly understanding your main argument.

14. Reference List:

This is the equivalent to a works cited or bibliography page, which documents all the sources you used to create your dissertation.

15. Appendices:

If you have any information that was ancillary to creating the dissertation, but doesn’t directly fit into its chapters, then you can add it in the appendix.

Drafting and Rewriting

As with any paper, especially one of this size and importance, the writing requires a process. It may begin with outlines and drafts, and even a few rewrites. It’s important to proofread your dissertation for both grammatical mistakes, but also to ensure it can be clearly understood.

It’s always useful to read your writing out loud to catch mistakes. Also, if you have people who you trust to read it over — like a peer, family member, mentor, or professor — it’s very helpful to get a second eye on your work.

How is it Different from an Essay?

There are a few main differences between a dissertation and an essay. For starters, an essay is relatively short in comparison to a dissertation, which includes your own body of research and work. Not only is an essay shorter, but you are also likely given the topic matter of an essay. When it comes to a dissertation, you have the freedom to construct your own argument, conduct your own research, and then prove your findings.

Types of Dissertations

You can choose what type of dissertation you complete. Often, this depends on the subject and doctoral degree, but the two main types are:

This relies on conducting your own research.

Non-empirical:

This relies on studying existing research to support your argument.

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More things you should know.

A dissertation is certainly no easy feat. Here’s a few more things to remember before you get started writing your own:

1. Independent by Nature:

The process of completing a dissertation is self-directed, and therefore can feel overwhelming. However, if you approach it like the new experience that it is with an open-mind and willingness to learn, you will make it through!

2. Seek Support:

There are countless people around to offer support. From professors to peers, you can always ask for help throughout the process.

3. Writing Skills:

The process of writing a dissertation will further hone your writing skills which will follow you throughout your life. These skills are highly transferable on the job, from having the ability to communicate to also developing analytical and critical thinking skills.

4. Time Management:

You can work backwards from the culmination of your program to break down this gargantuan task into smaller pieces. That way, you can manage your time to chip away at the task throughout the length of the program.

5. Topic Flexibility:

It’s okay to change subject matters and rethink the point of your dissertation. Just try as much as possible to do this early in the process so you don’t waste too much time and energy.

The Wrap Up

A dissertation marks the completion of your doctoral program and moves you from being a student to being a scholar. While the process is long and requires a lot of effort and energy, you have the power to lend an entirely new research and findings into your field of expertise.

As always, when in the thick of things, remember why you started. Completing both your dissertation and PhD is a commendable accomplishment.

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At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More

What Exactly Is A Dissertation (Or Thesis)?

If you’ve landed on this article, chances are you’ve got a dissertation or thesis project coming up (hopefully it’s not due next week!), and you’re now asking yourself the classic question, “what the #%#%^ is a dissertation?”…

In this post, I’ll break down the basics of exactly what a dissertation is, in plain language. No ivory tower academia.

So, let’s get to the pressing question – what is a dissertation?

A dissertation (or thesis) = a research project

Simply put, a dissertation (or thesis – depending on which country you’re studying in) is a research project . In other words, your task is to ask a research question (or set of questions) and then set about finding the answer(s). Simple enough, right?

Well, the catch is that you’ve got to undertake this research project in an academic fashion , and there’s a wealth of academic language that makes it all (look) rather confusing (thanks, academia). However, at its core, a dissertation is about undertaking research (investigating something). This is really important to understand, because the key skill that your university is trying to develop in you (and will be testing you on) is your ability to undertake research in a well-structured structured, critical and academically rigorous way.

This research-centric focus is significantly different from assignments or essays, where the main concern is whether you can understand and apply the prescribed module theory. I’ll explain some other key differences between dissertations or theses and assignments a bit later in this article, but for now, let’s dig a little deeper into what a dissertation is.

A dissertation (or thesis) is a process.

Okay, so now that you understand that a dissertation is a research project (which is testing your ability to undertake quality research), let’s go a little deeper into what that means in practical terms.

The best way to understand a dissertation is to view it as a process – more specifically a research process (it is a research project, after all). This process involves four essential steps, which I’ll discuss below.

Step 1 – You identify a worthy research question

The very first step of the research process is to find a meaningful research question, or a set of questions. In other words, you need to find a suitable topic for investigation. Since a dissertation is all about research, identifying the key question(s) is the critical first step. Here’s an example of a well-defined research question:

“Which factors cultivate or erode customer trust in UK-based life insurance brokers?”

This clearly defined question sets the direction of the research . From the question alone, you can understand exactly what the outcome of the research might look like – i.e. a set of findings about which factors help brokers develop customer trust, and which factors negatively impact trust.

But how on earth do I find a suitable research question, you ask? Don’t worry about this right now – when you’re ready, you can read our article about finding a dissertation topic . However, right now, the important thing to understand is that the first step in the dissertation process is identifying the key research question(s). Without a clear question, you cannot move forward.

Step 2 – You review the existing research

Once the research question is clearly established, the next step is to review the existing research/literature (both academic and professional/industry) to understand what has already been said with regard to the question. In academic speak, this is called a literature review .

This step is critically important as, in all likelihood, someone else has asked a similar question to yours, and therefore you can build on the work of others . Good academic research is not about reinventing the wheel or starting from scratch – it’s about familiarising yourself with the current state of knowledge, and then using that as your basis for further research.

Simply put, the first step to answering your research question is to look at what other researchers have to say about it. Sometimes this will lead you to change your research question or direction slightly (for example, if the existing research already provides a comprehensive answer). Don’t stress – this is completely acceptable and a normal part of the research process.

Step 3 – You carry out your own research

Once you’ve got a decent understanding of the existing state of knowledge, you will carry out your own research by collecting and analysing the relevant data. This could take to form of primary research (collecting your own fresh data), secondary research (synthesising existing data) or both, depending on the nature of your degree, research question(s) and even your university’s specific requirements.

Exactly what data you collect and how you go about analysing it depends largely on the research question(s) you are asking, but very often you will take either a qualitative approach (e.g. interviews or focus groups) or a quantitative approach (e.g. online surveys). In other words, your research approach can be words-based, numbers-based, or both . Don’t let the terminology scare you and don’t worry about these technical details for now – we’ll explain research methodology in later posts .

Step 4 – You develop answers to your research question(s)

Combining your understanding of the existing research (Step 2) with the findings from your own original research (Step 3), you then (attempt to) answer your original research question (s). The process of asking, investigating and then answering has gone full circle.

A dissertation's structure reflect the research process

Of course, your research won’t always provide rock-solid answers to your original questions, and indeed you might find that your findings spur new questions altogether. Don’t worry – this is completely acceptable and is a natural part of the research process.

So, to recap, a dissertation is best understood as a research process, where you are:

Ask a meaningful research question(s)
Carry out the research (both existing research and your own)
Analyse the results to develop an answer to your original research question(s).

Depending on your specific degree and the way your university designs its coursework, you might be asking yourself “but isn’t this just a longer version of a normal assignment?”. Well, it’s quite possible that your previous assignments required a similar research process, but there are some key differences you need to be aware of, which I’ll explain next.

Same same, but different…

While there are, naturally, similarities between dissertations/theses and assignments, its important to understand the differences so that you approach your dissertation with the right mindset and focus your energy on the right things. Here, I’ll discuss four ways in which writing a dissertation differs substantially from assignments and essays, and why this matters.

Difference #1 – You must decide (and live with) the direction.

Unlike assignments or essays, where the general topic is determined for you, for your dissertation, you will (typically) be the one who decides on your research questions and overall direction. This means that you will need to:

Find a suitable research question (or set of questions)
Justify why its worth investigating (in the form of a research proposal )
Find all the relevant existing research and familiarise yourself with the theory

This is very different from assignments, where the theory is given to you on a platter, and the direction is largely pre-defined. Therefore, before you start the dissertation process, you need to understand the basics of academic research, how to find a suitable research topic and how to source the relevant literature.

Difference #2 – It’s a long project, and you’re on your own.

A dissertation is a long journey, at least compared to assignments. Typically, you will spend 3 – 6 months writing around 15,000 – 25,000 words (for Masters-level, much more for PhD) on just one subject. Therefore, successfully completing your dissertation requires a substantial amount of stamina .

To make it even more challenging, your classmates will not be researching the same thing as you are, so you have limited support, other than your supervisor (who may be very busy). This can make it quite a lonely journey . Therefore, you need a lot of self-discipline and self-direction in order to see it through to the end. You should also try to build a support network of people who can help you through the process (perhaps alumni, faculty or a private coach ).

Difference #3 – They’re testing research skills.

We touched on this earlier. Unlike assignments or essays, where the markers are assessing your ability to understand and apply the theories, models and frameworks that they provide you with, your dissertation will be is assessing your ability to undertake high-quality research in an academically rigorous manner.

Of course, your ability to understand the relevant theory (i.e. within your literature review) is still very important, but this is only one piece of the research skills puzzle. You need to demonstrate the full spectrum of research skills.

It’s important to note that your research does not need to be ground-breaking, revolutionary or world-changing – that is not what the markers are assessing. They are assessing whether you can apply well-established research principles and skills to a worthwhile topic of enquiry. Don’t feel like you need to solve the world’s major problems. It’s simply not going to happen (you’re a first-time researcher, after all) – and doesn’t need to happen in order to earn good marks.

Difference #4 – Your focus needs to be narrow and deep.

In your assignments, you were likely encouraged to take a broad, interconnected, high-level view of the theory and connect as many different ideas and concepts as possible. In your dissertation, however, you typically need to narrow your focus and go deep into one particular topic. Think about the research question we looked at earlier:

The focus is intentionally very narrow – specifically the focus is on:

The UK only – no other countries are being considered.
Life insurance brokers only – not financial services, not vehicle insurance, not medical insurance, etc.
Customer trust only – not reputation, not customer loyalty, not employee trust, supplier trust, etc.

By keeping the focus narrow, you enable yourself to deeply probe whichever topic you choose – and this depth is essential for earning good marks. Importantly, ringfencing your focus doesn’t mean ignoring the connections to other topics – you should still acknowledge all the linkages, but don’t get distracted – stay focused on the research question(s).

So, as you can see, a dissertation is more than just an extended assignment or essay. It’s a unique research project that you (and only you) must lead from start to finish. The good news is that, if done right, completing your dissertation will equip you with strong research skills, which you will most certainly use in the future, regardless of whether you follow an academic or professional path.

Wrapping up

Hopefully in this post, I’ve answered your key question, “what is a dissertation?”, at least at a big picture-level. To recap on the key points:

A dissertation is simply a structured research project .
It’s useful to view a dissertation as a process involving asking a question, undertaking research and then answering that question.
First and foremost, your marker(s) will be assessing your research skills , so its essential that you focus on producing a rigorous, academically sound piece of work (as opposed to changing the world or making a scientific breakthrough).
While there are similarities, a dissertation is different from assignments and essays in multiple ways. It’s important to understand these differences if you want to produce a quality dissertation.

In this post, I’ve gently touched on some of the intricacies of the dissertation, including research questions, data types and research methodologies. Be sure to check out the Grad Coach Blog for more detailed discussion of these areas.

36 Comments

Hello Derek

Yes, I struggle with literature review and am highly frustrated (with myself).

Thank you for the guide that you have sent, especially the apps. I am working through the guide and busy with the implementation of it.

Hope to hear from you again!

Regards Micheal

Great to hear that, Michael. All the best with your research!

Very useful and clear information.

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That’s great, Pheladi. Good luck!

Thank you so much for your videos and writing research proposal and dissertation. These videos are useful. I was struggling, but now I am starting to write. I hope to watch your more videos to learn more about the dissertation.

Before this post, I didn’t know where to start my research, today I have some light and do certain % of my research. I may need for direction on literature review. Big thanks to you.

Very very good Derek

Thanks immensely Derek

You’re welcome 🙂 Good luck with your dissertation/thesis.

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Remain bless sir🙏

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On cybersecurity Analytics research to banking transactions

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EdDPrograms.org

What is an Ed.D. Dissertation? Complete Guide & Support Resources

Wondering how to tackle the biggest doctoral challenge of all? Use our guide to the Ed.D. dissertation to get started! Learn about the purpose of a Doctor of Education dissertation and typical topics for education students. Read through step-by-step descriptions of the dissertation process and the 5-chapter format. Get answers to Ed.D. dissertation FAQs . Or skip to the chase and find real-world examples of Doctor of Education dissertations and websites & resources for Ed.D. dissertation research.

What is an Ed.D. Dissertation?

Definition of an ed.d. dissertation.

An Ed.D. dissertation is a 5-chapter scholarly document that brings together years of original research to address a problem of practice in education. To complete a dissertation, you will need to go through a number of scholarly steps , including a final defense to justify your findings.

Purpose of an Ed.D. Dissertation

In a Doctor of Education dissertation, you will be challenged to apply high-level research & creative problem-solving to real-world educational challenges. You may be asked to:

Take a critical look at current educational & administrative practices
Address urgent issues in the modern education system
Propose original & practical solutions for improvements
Expand the knowledge base for educational practitioners

Topics of Ed.D. Dissertations

An Ed.D. dissertation is “customizable.” You’re allowed to chose a topic that relates to your choice of specialty (e.g. elementary education), field of interest (e.g. curriculum development), and environment (e.g. urban schools).

Think about current problems of practice that need to be addressed in your field. You’ll notice that Ed.D. dissertation topics often address one of the following:

Academic performance
Teaching methods
Access to resources
Social challenges
Legislative impacts
System effectiveness

Wondering how others have done it? Browse through Examples of Ed.D. Dissertations and read the titles & abstracts. You’ll see how current educators are addressing their own problems of practice.

Ed.D. Dissertation Process

1. propose a dissertation topic.

Near the beginning of a Doctor of Education program, you’ll be expected to identify a dissertation topic that will require substantial research. This topic should revolve around a unique issue in education.

Universities will often ask you to provide an idea for your topic when you’re applying to the doctoral program. You don’t necessarily need to stick to this idea, but you should be prepared to explain why it interests you. If you need inspiration, see our section on Examples of Ed.D. Dissertations .

You’ll be expected to solidify your dissertation topic in the first few semesters. Talking to faculty and fellow Ed.D. students can help in this process. Better yet, your educational peers will often be able to provide unique perspectives on the topic (e.g. cultural differences in teaching methods).

2. Meet Your Dissertation Chair & Committee

You won’t be going through the Ed.D. dissertation process alone! Universities will help you to select a number of experienced mentors. These include:

Dissertation Chair/Faculty Advisor: The Chair of the Dissertation Committee acts as your primary advisor. You’ll often see them referred to as the Supervising Professor, Faculty Advisor, or the like. You’ll rely on this “Obi Wan” for their knowledge of the field, research advice & guidance, editorial input on drafts, and more. They can also assist with shaping & refining your dissertation topic.
Dissertation Committee: The Dissertation Committee is made up of ~3 faculty members, instructors and/or adjuncts with advanced expertise in your field of study. The Committee will offer advice, provide feedback on your research progress, and review your work & progress reports. When you defend your proposal and give your final defense , you’ll be addressing the Dissertation Committee.

3. Study for Ed.D. Courses

Doctor of Education coursework is designed to help you: a) learn how to conduct original research; and b) give you a broader perspective on your field of interest. If you take a look at the curriculum in any Ed.D. program, you’ll see that students have to complete credits in:

Practical Research Methods (e.g. Quantitative Design & Analysis for Educational Leaders)
Real-World Educational Issues (e.g. Educational Policy, Law & Practice)

When you’re evaluating possible Ed.D. programs, pay attention to the coursework in real-world educational issues. You’ll want to pick an education doctorate with courses that complement your dissertation topic.

4. Complete a Literature Review

A literature review is an evaluation of existing materials & research work that relate to your dissertation topic. It’s a written synthesis that:

Grounds your project within the field
Explains how your work relates to previous research & theoretical frameworks
Helps to identify gaps in the existing research

Have a look at Literature Review Guides if you’d like to know more about the process. Our section on Resources for Ed.D. Dissertation Research also has useful links to journals & databases.

5. Craft a Dissertation Proposal

During the first two years of your Doctor of Education, you’ll use the knowledge you’ve learned from your coursework & discussions to write the opening chapters of your dissertation, including an:

Introduction that defines your chosen topic
Literature Review of existing research in the field
Proposed Research Methodology for finding the answer to your problem

When you’re putting together these elements, think about the practicals. Is the topic too big to address in one dissertation? How much time will your research take and how will you conduct it? Will your dissertation be relevant to your current job? If in doubt, ask your faculty advisor.

6. Defend Your Dissertation Proposal

About midway through the Ed.D. program, you will need to present your proposal to your Dissertation Committee. They will review your work and offer feedback. For example, the Committee will want to see that:

Your research topic is significant.
Your research methodology & timeline make sense.
Relevant works are included in the literature review.

After the Committee approves your proposal, you can get stuck into conducting original research and writing up your findings. These two important tasks will take up the final years of your doctorate.

7. Conduct Original Research into Your Topic

As a Doctor of Education student, you will be expected to conduct your own research. Ed.D. students often use a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods (quantitative/qualitative) approach in this process.

Quantitative Research: Collection & analysis of numerical data to identify characteristics, discover correlations, and/or test hypotheses.
Qualitative Research: Collection & analysis of non-numerical data to understand & explain phenomena (e.g. questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, video artifacts, etc.).

Your Ed.D. coursework will ground you in research methods & tools, so you’ll be prepared to design your own project and seek IRB approval for any work involving human subjects.

Note: Occasionally, universities can get creative. For example, the Ed.D. program at San Jose State University asks students to produce a documentary film instead of conducting traditional research.

8. Write the Rest of Your Dissertation

Once you have written up the first few chapters of your dissertation (Intro, Literature Review & Proposed Methodology) and completed your research work, you’ll be able to complete the final chapters of your dissertation.

Chapter 4 will detail your research findings.
Chapter 5 is a conclusion that summarizes solutions to your problem of practice/topic.

This is where you and your faculty advisor will often have a lot of interaction! For example, you may need to rework the first few chapters of your dissertation after you’ve drafted the final chapters. Faculty advisors are extremely busy people, so be sure to budget in ample time for revisions and final edits.

9. Defend Your Dissertation

The final defense/candidacy exam is a formal presentation of your work to the Dissertation Committee. In many cases, the defense is an oral presentation with visual aides. You’ll be able to explain your research findings, go through your conclusions, and highlight new ideas & solutions.

At any time, the Committee can challenge you with questions, so you should be prepared to defend your conclusions. But this process is not as frightening as it sounds!

If you’ve been in close contact with the Committee throughout the dissertation, they will be aware of your work.
Your faculty advisor will help you decide when you’re ready for the final defense.
You can also attend the defenses of other Ed.D. students to learn what questions may be asked.

Be aware that the Committee has the option to ask for changes before they approve your dissertation. After you have incorporated any notes from the Committee and addressed their concerns, you will finalize the draft, submit your dissertation for a formal review, and graduate.

Ed.D. Dissertation Format: 5 Chapters

Chapter 1: introduction.

Your Doctor of Education dissertation will begin with an introduction. In it, you’ll be expected to:

Provide an overview of your educational landscape
Explain important definitions & key concepts
Define a real-world topic/problem of practice
Outline the need for new studies on this topic

Chapter 2: Literature Review

The literature review is a summary of existing research in the field. However, it is not an annotated bibliography. Instead, it’s a critical analysis of current research (e.g. trends, themes, debates & current practices). While you’re evaluating the literature, you’re also looking for the gaps where you can conduct original research.

Sources for a literature review can include books, articles, reports, websites, dissertations, and more. Our section on Resources for Ed.D. Dissertation Research has plenty of places to start.

Chapter 3: Research Methodology

In the research methodology, you’ll be expected to explain:

The purpose of your research
What tools & methods you plan to use to research your topic/problem of practice
The design of the study
Your timeline for gathering quantitative & qualitative data
How you plan to analyze that data
Any limitations you foresee

Chapter 4: Results & Analysis

Chapter 4 is the place where you can share the results of your original research and present key findings from the data. In your analysis, you may also be highlighting new patterns, relationships, and themes that other scholars have failed to discover. Have a look at real-life Examples of Ed.D. Dissertations to see how this section is structured.

Chapter 5: Discussions & Conclusions

The final chapter of your Ed.D. dissertation brings all of your work together in a detailed summary. You’ll be expected to:

Reiterate the objectives of your dissertation
Explain the significance of your research findings
Outline the implications of your ideas on existing practices
Propose solutions for a problem of practice
Make suggestions & recommendations for future improvements

Ed.D. Dissertation FAQs

What’s the difference between a dissertation and a thesis.

Dissertation: A dissertation is a 5-chapter written work that must be completed in order to earn a doctoral degree (e.g. Ph.D., Ed.D., etc.). It’s often focused on original research.
Thesis: A thesis is a written work that must be completed in order to earn a master’s degree. It’s typically shorter than a dissertation and based on existing research.

How Long is a Ed.D. Dissertation?

It depends. Most Ed.D. dissertations end up being between 80-200 pages. The length will depend on a number of factors, including the depth of your literature review, the way you collect & present your research data, and any appendices you might need to include.

How Long Does it Take to Finish an Ed.D. Dissertation?

It depends. If you’re in an accelerated program , you may be able to finish your dissertation in 2-3 years. If you’re in a part-time program and need to conduct a lot of complex research work, your timeline will be much longer.

What’s a Strong Ed.D. Dissertation Topic?

Experts always say that Doctor of Education students should be passionate about their dissertation topic and eager to explore uncharted territory. When you’re crafting your Ed.D. dissertation topic , find one that will be:

Significant

See the section on Examples of Ed.D. Dissertations for inspiration.

Do I Have to Complete a Traditional Dissertation for an Ed.D.?

No. If you’re struggling with the idea of a traditional dissertation, check out this guide to Online Ed.D. Programs with No Dissertation . Some Schools of Education give Ed.D. students the opportunity to complete a Capstone Project or Dissertation in Practice (DiP) instead of a 5-chapter written work.

These alternatives aren’t easy! You’ll still be challenged at the same level as you would be for a dissertation. However, Capstone Projects & DiPs often involve more group work and an emphasis on applied theory & research.

What’s the Difference Between a Ph.D. Dissertation and Ed.D. Dissertation?

Have a look at our Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. Guide to get a sense of the differences between the two degrees. In a nutshell:

Ed.D. dissertations tend to focus on addressing current & real-world topics/problems of practice in the workplace.
Ph.D. dissertations usually put more emphasis on creating new theories & concepts and even completely rethinking educational practices.

How Can I Learn More About Ed.D. Dissertations?

Start with the section on Examples of Ed.D. Dissertations . You can browse through titles, abstracts, and even complete dissertations from a large number of universities.

If you have a few Doctor of Education programs on your shortlist, we also recommend that you skim through the program’s Dissertation Handbook . It can usually be found on the School of Education’s website. You’ll be able to see how the School likes to structure the dissertation process from start to finish.

Ed.D. Dissertation Support

University & campus resources, dissertation chair & committee.

The first port of call for any questions about the Ed.D. dissertation is your Dissertation Chair. If you get stuck with a terrible faculty advisor, talk to members of the Dissertation Committee. They are there to support your journey.

University Library

An Ed.D. dissertation is a massive research project. So before you choose a Doctor of Education program, ask the School of Education about its libraries & library resources (e.g. free online access to subscription-based journals).

Writing Center

Many universities have a Writing Center. If you’re struggling with any elements of your dissertation (e.g. editing), you can ask the staff about:

Individual tutoring
Editorial assistance
Outside resources

Mental Health Support

It’s well-known that doctoral students often face a lot of stress & isolation during their studies. Ask your faculty advisor about mental health services at the university. Staff in the School of Education and the Graduate School will also have information about on-campus counselors, free or discounted therapy sessions, and more.

Independent Dissertation Services

Dissertation editing services: potentially helpful.

There are scores of independent providers who offer dissertation editing services. But they can be expensive. And many of these editors have zero expertise in educational fields.

If you need help with editing & proofreading, proceed with caution:

Start by asking your Dissertation Chair about what’s permitted for third party involvement (e.g. you may need to note any editor’s contribution in your dissertation acknowledgments) and whether they have any suggestions.
The Graduate School is another useful resource. For example, Cornell’s Graduate School maintains a list of Editing, Typing, and Proofreading Services for graduate students.

Dissertation Coaches: Not Worth It

Dissertation coaches are defined as people who offer academic & mental support, guidance, and editorial input.

That means the person who should be your coach is your Dissertation Chair/Faculty Advisor. Remember that faculty members on the Dissertation Committee can also provide assistance.
If you’re looking for extra support, you might consider consulting a mentor in your line of work and collaborating with fellow Ed.D. students.

But hiring an independent Ed.D. dissertation coach is going to be an absolute waste of money.

Dissertation Writing Services: Just Don’t!

Universities take the dissertation process very seriously . An Ed.D. dissertation is supposed to be the culmination of years of original thought and research. You’re going to be responsible for the final product. You’re going to be defending your written work in front of a phalanx of experienced faculty members. You’re going to be putting this credential on your résumé for everyone to see.

If you cheat the process by having someone else write up your work, you will get caught.

Ed.D. Dissertation Resources

Examples of ed.d. dissertations, dissertation databases.

Open Access Theses and Dissertations
ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
EBSCO Open Dissertations

Ed.D. Dissertations

USF Scholarship Repository: Ed.D. Dissertations
George Fox University: Doctor of Education
UW Tacoma: Ed.D. Dissertations in Practice
Liberty University: School of Education Doctoral Dissertations
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor: Dissertation Collection

Ed.D. Dissertation Abstracts

Michigan State University: Ed.D. Dissertation Abstracts

Ed.D. Dissertation Guides & Tools

General ed.d. guides.

SNHU: Educational Leadership Ed.D./Ph.D. Guide

Dissertation Style Manuals

Chicago Manual of Style

Style manuals are designed to ensure that every Ed.D. student follows the same set of writing guidelines for their dissertation (e.g. grammatical rules, footnote & quotation formats, abbreviation conventions, etc.). Check with the School of Education to learn which style manual they use.

Examples of Ed.D. Dissertation Templates

Purdue University: Dissertation Template
Walden University: Ed.D. Dissertation Template

Each School of Education has a standard dissertation template. We’ve highlighted a couple of examples so you can see how they’re formatted, but you will need to acquire the template from your own university.

Literature Review Guides

UNC Chapel Hill: Writing Guide for Literature Reviews
University of Alabama: How to Conduct a Literature Review

Resources for Ed.D. Dissertation Research

Journal articles.

EBSCO Education Research Databases
Education Resources Information Center (ERIC)
Emerald Education eJournal Collection
Gale OneFile: Educator’s Reference Complete
Google Scholar
NCES Bibliography Search Tool
ProQuest Education Database
SAGE Journals: Education

Useful Websites

Harvard Gutman Library: Websites for Educators
EduRef: Lesson Plans

Educational Data & Statistics

Digest of Education Statistics
Education Policy Data Center (EPDC)
ICPSR Data Archive
National Assessment of Educational Progress
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
UNESCO Institute for Statistics

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dissertation

Definition of dissertation

Examples of dissertation in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dissertation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1651, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near dissertation

dissertative

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“Dissertation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dissertation. Accessed 28 Sep. 2024.

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Dissertation vs. Thesis—What’s the Difference?

If you’re confused about the meaning of dissertation versus thesis , you’re not alone. These two types of academic writing have a lot in common, but their meanings are reversed in American and British English. Depending on where you are in the world, the differences between a dissertation and a thesis might change!

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What is a dissertation vs. a thesis?

In American English, a dissertation is a research paper that’s required to earn a doctorate degree, while a thesis is a research paper required to earn a master’s degree. Dissertations and theses (the plural of thesis ) are often mixed up because they’re both lengthy research papers written for higher education, especially as part of a master’s or doctorate program. A thesis or dissertation is often a requirement for obtaining an academic degree, and both are usually seen as a gatekeeper for becoming eligible to graduate.

Informally the words dissertation and thesis are often used interchangeably, which only adds to the confusion. However, in the formal academic world, their meanings are different, although some universities occasionally have their own unique definitions. Let’s take a look at what dissertation and thesis actually mean.

What is a dissertation?

In American English, a dissertation is a highly involved research paper written as a requirement to earn a doctorate degree. When we say “highly involved,” we mean it; dissertations run 300 pages or more, essentially becoming a book-length research paper.

The central attribute of a dissertation is original research: To earn a doctorate, a person must submit new discoveries and data to their chosen field. This is symbolic of becoming part of a body of academic knowledge, and a systemic way to encourage the advancement of science.

In scientific fields of study, dissertations are empirical , drawing on data collected by the writer. In less-scientific fields, like literature or philosophy, dissertations are nonempirical : Instead of new data, “original research” is replaced by innovative new ideas, interpretations, analyses, or perspectives.

Dissertation may also involve what’s known as a dissertation defense , an oral presentation in front of a panel of experts, in addition to the paper. In a dissertation defense, the experts ask questions about the findings to test their validity, and the student must “defend” their research by explaining their methods and reasoning. The panel then decides whether or not the student graduates and earns their degree.

What is a thesis?

In American English, a thesis paper is a lengthy research paper written as a requirement to earn a master’s degree (or sometimes a bachelor’s degree, depending on the university). Also referred to as a “senior thesis” for undergraduate courses, these papers are written at the end of a program as a culmination of their studies, similar to dissertations.

Unlike a dissertation, a thesis doesn’t necessarily involve original research or ideas, although many master’s theses do. Generally, a thesis is less about adding to a body of knowledge, and more about testing a student’s skills in research, comprehension, or analysis. Regardless, a thesis paper is still a considerable amount of work and requires more effort than a standard academic paper.

Dissertation vs. thesis in American and British English

We’ve talked before about how British English and American English are different , and the definitions of dissertation versus thesis are just another example.

In short, the meanings are reversed: In British English, the term dissertation is used for bachelor’s and master’s programs, whereas thesis is used for doctorates. Keep in mind that academic institutions are very different in the US and the UK, not to mention in each individual English-speaking country, so what’s involved in a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate program is also different.


	for doctorates	for bachelor’s and master’s
	for bachelor’s and master’s	for doctorates

Do you need to write a thesis or dissertation?

It’s important to remember that the words dissertation and thesis are frequently used interchangeably, so the technical definitions are just for formal situations—like when submitting one or the other. If you’re confused, you can also ask your adviser. Each school or institution may have their own definitions of the terms.

Dissertation vs. thesis FAQ

What is a dissertation versus a thesis .

Dissertations and theses (the plural of thesis ) are often confused because they’re both lengthy research papers written for higher education. In American English, a dissertation is written to earn a doctorate whereas a thesis is written to earn a master’s (or sometimes a bachelor’s). In many informal situations, however, the terms dissertation and thesis are used interchangeably.

How do American and British English define dissertation versus thesis ?

In British English, the meanings of dissertation and thesis are reversed: A thesis is written to earn a doctorate, and a dissertation is written to earn a master’s or bachelor’s. Keep in mind that academic institutions are very different in the US and the UK, not to mention in each individual English-speaking country, so what’s involved in a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate program is also different.

When to use thesis or dissertation ?

It’s important to remember that the words dissertation and thesis are frequently used interchangeably, so the technical definitions are just for formal situations—like when submitting one or the other. If you’re confused, you can also ask your adviser; each school or institution may have their own definitions of the terms.

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Meaning of dissertation in English

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peer review

dissertation | American Dictionary

Examples of dissertation, translations of dissertation.

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Balancing Research and Writing: Time Management for Dissertations

Embarking on the journey of writing a dissertation is a significant academic undertaking. It requires not only substantial research but also the art of effective time management to strike a balance between research and writing. Many students face the challenge of allocating their time efficiently to ensure both aspects of the dissertation process are adequately addressed. In this article, we will explore valuable strategies to help you manage your time effectively and maintain equilibrium between research and writing, ultimately leading to a successful dissertation.

Create a Detailed Plan

The journey of writing a dissertation is akin to embarking on a long and challenging expedition. And like any explorer, your success depends on a detailed map and a well-thought-out plan. At the heart of effective time management for dissertations lies the creation of a comprehensive and meticulously organized plan.

Why a Detailed Plan Matters

Imagine setting off on an adventure without a clear destination or route in mind. It would be a recipe for confusion, frustration, and lost time. Similarly, approaching your dissertation without a detailed plan can lead to similar setbacks. Here's why a detailed plan is indispensable:

1. Clarity of Purpose: A detailed plan outlines every step of your dissertation journey. It clarifies your objectives, research questions, and the path you'll follow to reach your destination. This clarity of purpose ensures that you stay on track throughout the process.

2. Efficient Resource Allocation: Your dissertation journey involves the allocation of various resources, including time, research materials, and academic support. With a detailed plan, you can allocate these resources more efficiently, reducing waste and enhancing productivity.

3. Milestone Tracking: A plan breaks down your dissertation into manageable milestones. These milestones act as checkpoints, allowing you to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. They provide a sense of accomplishment as you complete each one, motivating you to move forward.

4. Time Management: One of the most critical aspects of dissertation writing is time management. A detailed plan enables you to allocate specific timeframes for each phase of your research and writing. It helps you make the most of your available time and minimizes procrastination.

5. Overcoming Challenges: The dissertation journey is riddled with challenges and obstacles. However, a well-structured plan anticipates potential roadblocks and includes strategies for overcoming them. This proactive approach empowers you to tackle challenges head-on.

Creating Your Detailed Plan

Here's a step-by-step guide to crafting a detailed plan for your dissertation:

1. Define Your Objectives: Start by clearly defining your research objectives and the primary question you aim to answer. This sets the overarching purpose of your dissertation.

2. Outline the Dissertation Structure: Sketch an outline of your dissertation's structure. Identify the major sections, chapters, and key components, such as the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.

3. Allocate Time: Allocate specific timeframes for each phase of your dissertation. Consider the time needed for research, data collection, analysis, writing, revisions, and proofreading. Be realistic in your time estimates.

4. Set Milestones: Within each phase, set achievable milestones. These can include completing a literature review, conducting interviews, analyzing data, or drafting chapters. Milestones provide tangible goals to work toward.

5. Create a Weekly Schedule: Develop a weekly schedule that incorporates your milestones and allocated timeframes. This schedule becomes your day-to-day guide, outlining what tasks to focus on during each study session.

6. Include Buffer Time: Recognize that unexpected delays or challenges can arise. To account for these, include buffer time in your plan. This cushion provides flexibility without derailing your overall progress.

7. Regularly Review and Adjust: Periodically review your plan and assess your progress. If you notice deviations or delays, adjust your schedule accordingly. Flexibility is key to effective planning.

8. Seek Feedback: Share your plan with your academic advisor or mentors. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions for refining your plan based on their experience and expertise.

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Prioritize tasks.

Effective time management in dissertation writing hinges on your ability to prioritize tasks. Prioritization involves identifying the most crucial activities and allocating your time and energy to them first. This strategic approach ensures that you tackle high-impact tasks efficiently and maintain focus on what truly matters in your research and writing journey.

Why Prioritization Is Essential

Prioritizing tasks may seem straightforward, but it's a skill that can significantly impact your dissertation's progress and quality. Here's why prioritization is crucial:

Optimal Resource Allocation: In the world of academia, resources such as time, research materials, and mental energy are limited. Prioritization ensures that these resources are allocated where they can make the most significant difference. It helps you avoid wasting time on less critical tasks.

Efficiency: Prioritization streamlines your workflow. By identifying and tackling the most important tasks first, you maximize your productivity. This efficiency minimizes the risk of time-consuming bottlenecks and delays in your dissertation process.

Maintaining Focus: Dissertation writing can be overwhelming, with numerous tasks vying for your attention. Prioritization keeps you on track by directing your focus to essential activities. It minimizes distractions and helps you stay committed to your research objectives.

Reducing Stress: A well-prioritized plan reduces stress and anxiety associated with the dissertation journey. When you know you're addressing critical tasks systematically, you gain confidence in your ability to complete the project successfully.

How to Prioritize Tasks Effectively

Prioritizing tasks involves more than simply ranking them based on importance. It requires a systematic approach that considers deadlines, dependencies, and the overall impact on your dissertation. Here's how to prioritize effectively:

Identify Critical Milestones: Start by identifying the key milestones in your dissertation project. These are the major accomplishments that mark significant progress, such as completing the literature review, data analysis, or drafting chapters.

Assess Dependencies: Determine which tasks are dependent on others. Some tasks must be completed before you can move on to the next stage. Ensure that these prerequisites are given priority to maintain a logical flow in your work.

Consider Deadlines: Take note of any deadlines, whether they are imposed by your institution, funding sources, or self-imposed. Tasks with impending deadlines should naturally move up the priority list.

Evaluate Impact: Assess the impact of each task on the overall quality of your dissertation. Tasks that significantly contribute to the research's validity, coherence, or originality should be high on your priority list.

Urgency vs. Importance: Distinguish between tasks that are urgent and those that are genuinely important. Urgent tasks demand immediate attention but may not always align with the overall importance of your project. Prioritize important tasks, even if they are not urgent.

Flexibility: Be open to adjusting your priorities as circumstances change. Unexpected challenges or opportunities may arise during your dissertation journey. Your ability to adapt your priorities will prove invaluable.

Regular Review: Periodically review and update your task priorities. As you progress through your dissertation, your understanding of what is essential may evolve. Regular reviews ensure that your plan remains aligned with your goals.

By prioritizing tasks systematically, you can optimize your time and effort throughout your dissertation writing process. This approach empowers you to focus on critical elements, maintain efficiency, and keep stress levels manageable. With a well-prioritized plan, you'll be better equipped to navigate the complex terrain of dissertation research and writing successfully.

Establish a Routine

In the world of academia, where the demands of research and writing can be overwhelming, the establishment of a well-defined routine is a powerful tool for effective time management. A routine not only brings structure to your day but also cultivates discipline, consistency, and productivity in your dissertation writing journey.

The Power of Routine

Routines are not just about daily habits; they are about creating a conducive environment for productivity. Here's why establishing a routine is essential:

Consistency: Routines instill consistency in your work. When you allocate specific times each day or week for research, writing, and other dissertation-related tasks, you create a predictable pattern that becomes a habit. Consistency reduces the likelihood of procrastination and keeps you on track.

Maximized Productivity: Routine helps you make the most of your productive hours. By setting aside dedicated time slots for focused work, you capitalize on your peak mental energy and creativity. This focused effort leads to higher productivity and more meaningful results.

Effective Time Allocation: A routine allows for efficient allocation of time. You can segment your day into periods for different tasks, such as research, data analysis, writing, and relaxation. This prevents one aspect of your dissertation from consuming all your time and energy.

Stress Reduction: Knowing what to expect each day reduces stress. With a routine in place, you can approach your work with a sense of calm and organization, rather than feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks.

Creating Your Dissertation Routine

Establishing a routine tailored to your needs and preferences is a gradual process. Here are steps to help you get started:

1. Self-Assessment: Begin by understanding your personal work habits and preferences. Identify your most productive times of the day and your optimal working environment. This self-awareness will guide your routine.

2. Prioritize Tasks: Based on your self-assessment, determine which tasks are best suited for specific times of the day. For example, if you are most alert in the morning, reserve that time for demanding cognitive tasks like data analysis or critical writing.

3. Set Clear Goals: Define clear goals for each work session within your routine. Having specific objectives keeps you focused and ensures that you make steady progress.

4. Allocate Breaks: Don't forget to allocate short breaks within your routine. Brief pauses between work sessions help recharge your mental faculties and prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, hydrate, or practice relaxation techniques.

5. Consistency is Key: Stick to your routine as closely as possible. Consistency is the cornerstone of a successful routine. Even if you encounter disruptions, aim to return to your routine as soon as possible.

6. Adapt and Evolve: Be flexible in adjusting your routine as needed. Life is unpredictable, and unforeseen circumstances may require alterations. Adapt your routine to accommodate changes while maintaining your core structure.

7. Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your accomplishments within your routine. Documenting your achievements provides a sense of accomplishment and motivates you to continue following your routine.

8. Seek Accountability: Share your routine with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who can help hold you accountable. Regular check-ins or progress discussions can boost your commitment to your routine.

9. Self-Care: Remember to include self-care activities in your routine. A healthy routine should also incorporate time for relaxation, exercise, and personal well-being.

Creating and adhering to a routine is a personal journey. What works for one individual may not work for another. Experiment with different schedules and approaches until you find a routine that maximizes your productivity and supports your overall well-being during your dissertation writing process. Once established, your routine will serve as a reliable framework for efficient time management, helping you navigate the challenges of academic research and writing with confidence.

Use Time Management Tools

Effective time management is essential for the successful completion of your dissertation. To help you stay organized, focused, and on track, consider utilizing various time management tools and techniques. These tools can streamline your workflow, enhance productivity, and reduce the stress associated with managing a complex project like a dissertation.

Why Use Time Management Tools

Time management tools are designed to address specific challenges you may encounter during your dissertation journey. Here's why incorporating these tools into your routine can be highly beneficial:

Structure and Organization: Time management tools provide a structured approach to your work. They help you create a clear plan, prioritize tasks, and allocate time efficiently. This structured approach reduces confusion and enhances organization.

Efficiency: These tools are designed to streamline your workflow. They can automate repetitive tasks, track your progress, and send reminders for important deadlines. This automation minimizes the risk of oversight and boosts overall efficiency.

Focus: By breaking down your dissertation into smaller, manageable tasks, time management tools help you maintain focus. You can concentrate on one task at a time, reducing distractions and enhancing concentration.

Accountability: Many time management tools allow you to set goals and track your progress. This sense of accountability motivates you to stay committed to your dissertation timeline and milestones.

Common Time Management Tools

Several time management tools and techniques are readily available to assist you in your dissertation journey. Here are some commonly used ones:

Task Management Apps: Task management apps like Todoist, Trello, or Asana allow you to create to-do lists, set deadlines, and organize your tasks into categories. They are effective for daily and weekly planning.

Calendar Apps: Calendar apps such as Google Calendar or Apple Calendar help you schedule and track appointments, deadlines, and events. They can also send reminders to keep you on track.

Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project or Monday.com are suitable for managing larger projects like dissertations. They enable you to create detailed project plans, allocate resources, and monitor progress.

Pomodoro Technique: This time management technique involves breaking your work into intervals (usually 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. Apps like Pomodone or Tomato Timer can assist you in implementing the Pomodoro Technique.

Reference Management Software: If your dissertation involves extensive research, reference management software like Zotero or EndNote can help you organize and cite your sources efficiently.

Note-Taking Apps: Apps like Evernote or OneNote are excellent for keeping track of research notes, ideas, and references. They offer organization features and synchronization across devices.

Goal-Setting Apps: Goal-setting apps such as Habitica or Strides help you set and track progress toward specific academic and personal goals, including those related to your dissertation.

Time Tracking Tools: Time tracking tools like Toggl or Clockify allow you to monitor how you spend your time. This can help you identify areas where you can increase productivity.

Mind Mapping Software: Mind mapping tools like MindMeister or XMind help you visualize complex ideas and concepts, making it easier to outline your dissertation structure.

Choosing the Right Tools

Set Realistic Goals

When embarking on the journey of writing a dissertation, setting realistic goals is a crucial aspect of effective time management. Dissertation writing is a complex and time-consuming process, and having well-defined goals can help you stay on track, manage your time efficiently, and maintain motivation throughout the project.

The Importance of Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals is essential for several reasons:

Clarity and Focus: Clearly defined goals provide a sense of direction and purpose. They help you understand what you want to achieve in your dissertation and keep your focus on the most critical tasks.

Motivation: Achieving smaller, manageable goals along the way can boost your motivation. Each accomplishment serves as a reminder that you are making progress, which can be particularly encouraging during long and challenging phases of your dissertation.

Efficient Resource Allocation: Realistic goals allow you to allocate your time, energy, and resources effectively. You can plan your work around achievable milestones, making it easier to meet deadlines and complete your dissertation on time.

Reducing Overwhelm: Dissertation writing can be overwhelming, especially when looking at the project as a whole. Breaking it down into smaller, realistic goals makes it more manageable and less daunting.

Tips for Setting Realistic Goals

Here are some tips to help you set and achieve realistic goals during your dissertation journey:

Define Specific Objectives: Your goals should be specific and well-defined. Instead of setting a broad goal like "finish dissertation," break it down into smaller tasks such as "complete literature review by [date]" or "write the methodology section by [date]."

Use the SMART Criteria: SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Ensure that your goals meet these criteria. They should be clear, quantifiable, within reach, aligned with your dissertation's objectives, and have a deadline.

Prioritize Goals: Not all goals are of equal importance. Prioritize your goals based on their significance and the impact they have on your dissertation's progress. Focus on high-priority goals first.

Break Down Complex Tasks: If you have large and complex tasks within your dissertation, break them down into smaller, more manageable sub-goals. This approach makes the overall goal less intimidating.

Set Milestones: Create milestones throughout your dissertation timeline. These are major checkpoints that indicate significant progress. Milestones can help you gauge whether you are on track to meet your ultimate goal.

Be Flexible: While it's essential to set clear goals, be open to adjusting them as needed. Unexpected challenges or changes in your research may require adapting your goals to new circumstances.

Celebrate Achievements: When you accomplish a goal, celebrate it. Recognizing your achievements, no matter how small, reinforces your motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment.

Seek Feedback: Share your goals with mentors, advisors, or peers. They can offer valuable insights and help ensure that your goals are realistic and aligned with your dissertation's objectives.

Setting and achieving realistic goals is a dynamic process that evolves throughout your dissertation journey. It requires ongoing assessment, adaptation, and commitment. By breaking your dissertation into manageable milestones and consistently working toward these goals, you'll enhance your time management skills, maintain motivation, and increase the likelihood of successfully completing your dissertation within your desired timeframe.

Balancing research and writing is a skill that can greatly enhance your dissertation experience. By creating a well-structured plan, prioritizing tasks, establishing routines, and seeking support, you can efficiently manage your time and produce a high-quality dissertation. Remember that the dissertation process is not just about completing a document; it's also an opportunity for personal and academic growth. Effective time management will help you make the most of this transformative journey.

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dissertation

Other forms: dissertations

A dissertation is a long piece of writing that uses research to bring to light an original idea. Don't go to grad school unless you're prepared to write, say, a 300-page dissertation on some topic.

In everyday speech, we sometimes accuse people of delivering dissertations when they overload us with dull information. If you're annoyed with a long memo from your office manager about keeping the kitchen clean, you could mutter to a coworker, “How’d you like that dissertation Felix posted about rinsing out our mugs?”

noun a treatise advancing a new point of view resulting from research; usually a requirement for an advanced academic degree synonyms: thesis see more see less type of: tractate , treatise a formal exposition

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Find lists of SAT words organized by every letter of the alphabet here: A , B , C , D , E , F , G , H , I , J, K & L , M , N , O , P , Q , R , S , T , U , V , and W, X, Y & Z .

Set in Afghanistan during a time of political and social upheaval, this novel traces the decades-long friendship of two boys from different social classes.

A group of extraordinarily talented African-American women help NASA achieve some of its greatest successes, even as they face discrimination and oppression.

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Introduction to Research

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How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis
Craft a convincing dissertation or thesis research proposal. Write a clear, compelling introduction chapter. Undertake a thorough review of the existing research and write up a literature review. Undertake your own research. Present and interpret your findings. Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications.
What Is a Dissertation?
A dissertation is a long-form piece of academic writing based on original research conducted by you. It is usually submitted as the final step in order to finish a PhD program. Your dissertation is probably the longest piece of writing you've ever completed. It requires solid research, writing, and analysis skills, and it can be intimidating ...
Research Guides: Write and Cite: Theses and Dissertations
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.
What is a Dissertation? Everything You Need to Know
A dissertation is designed to be your own. Meaning that what you write about should be a new idea, a new topic, or question that is still unanswered in your field. Something that you will need to collect new data on, potentially interview people for and explore what information is already available. Generally, an idea will need to be approved ...
What Is a Dissertation?
Revised on 5 May 2022. A dissertation is a large research project undertaken at the end of a degree. It involves in-depth consideration of a problem or question chosen by the student. It is usually the largest (and final) piece of written work produced during a degree. The length and structure of a dissertation vary widely depending on the ...
Dissertation Vs. Thesis
The main difference between a dissertation and thesis is the scope of the research. A dissertation develops unique and original concepts in a particular field of research, whereas a thesis is usually a culmination of existing research. The main purpose of a writing a dissertation is to add new findings to the existing literature in that field ...
Guide to Writing Your Thesis/Dissertation : Graduate School
Definition of Dissertation and Thesis. The dissertation or thesis is a scholarly treatise that substantiates a specific point of view as a result of original research that is conducted by students during their graduate study. At Cornell, the thesis is a requirement for the receipt of the M.A. and M.S. degrees and some professional master's ...
How to Create a Dissertation Timeline (With Examples + Tempate)
The best dissertation timeline format is the one that works for you. Though I've reformed somewhat over the years, for a long time I wasn't a fan of intensely detailed outlines. Many people don't like outlines. And that's okay! However, writing a dissertation is not the time to be flying by the seat of your pants.
How To Write A Dissertation
The easiest way to build a dissertation is inside-out. Begin by writing the chapters that describe your research (3, 4, and 5 in the above outline). Collect terms as they arise and keep a definition for each. Define each technical term, even if you use it in a conventional manner.
How to Write a Dissertation
The structure of a dissertation depends on your field, but it is usually divided into at least four or five chapters (including an introduction and conclusion chapter). The most common dissertation structure in the sciences and social sciences includes: An introduction to your topic. A literature review that surveys relevant sources.
From Start to Finish: How to Plan Your Dissertation Project
Definition. A dissertation project plan is a structured framework that outlines the various stages, tasks, and timelines involved in completing a dissertation. ... Without a structured timeline, it's challenging to allocate sufficient time to each stage of the dissertation process, from literature review to data collection and writing. This ...
6 Tips for Dissertation Time Management
Create a timeline for your dissertation. Whether it's on a calendar, a piece of paper or just on your phone, having a timeline is an excellent way to keep track of your progress. To make your timeline, split your dissertation into several sections, and decide an approximate time that you want each section to be finished by.
Dissertation Explained: A Grad Student's Guide
That way, you can manage your time to chip away at the task throughout the length of the program. 5. Topic Flexibility: It's okay to change subject matters and rethink the point of your dissertation. Just try as much as possible to do this early in the process so you don't waste too much time and energy.
What (Exactly) Is A Dissertation Or Thesis?
A dissertation (or thesis) is a process. Okay, so now that you understand that a dissertation is a research project (which is testing your ability to undertake quality research), let's go a little deeper into what that means in practical terms. The best way to understand a dissertation is to view it as a process - more specifically a ...
Writing a Dissertation: A Complete Guide
A dissertation is a critical part of completing a PhD. Here, we'll learn all the elements and steps you need to write a dissertation. ... Dissertations are one of the most difficult research papers to write, involving much of a student's time, focus, and energy. ... Students Stanzas in Poetry: Definition and Examples; Writing Tips Synonyms ...
What is a Dissertation? Full Guide & Resources for 2024
Definition of an Ed.D. Dissertation. An Ed.D. dissertation is a 5-chapter scholarly document that brings together years of original research to address a problem of practice in education. To complete a dissertation, you will need to go through a number of scholarly steps, including a final defense to justify your findings.
Dissertation Definition & Meaning
How to use dissertation in a sentence. an extended usually written treatment of a subject; specifically : one submitted for a doctorate… See the full definition
PDF A Complete Dissertation
dissertation—that is,precursor of what is to come, with each element being more fully developed and explained fu. ther along in the book.For each key element, explain reason for inclusion, quality markers, and fr. OVERVIEWFRONT MATTERFollowing is a road map that briefly outlines the contents of. an enti.
7 Tips for How To Write a Dissertation
1. Choose a Topic You Love. Writing a dissertation can be extremely rewarding, especially if you are passionate about the topic you have chosen to investigate. It is important to feel strongly about your dissertation because you will be putting in a lot of work to earn your doctoral degree.
Dissertation vs. Thesis—What's the Difference?
In American English, a dissertation is a research paper that's required to earn a doctorate degree, while a thesis is a research paper required to earn a master's degree. Dissertations and theses (the plural of thesis) are often mixed up because they're both lengthy research papers written for higher education, especially as part of a ...
DISSERTATION
DISSERTATION definition: 1. a long piece of writing on a particular subject, especially one that is done in order to receive…. Learn more.
Balancing Research and Writing: Time Management for Dissertations
4. Time Management: One of the most critical aspects of dissertation writing is time management. A detailed plan enables you to allocate specific timeframes for each phase of your research and writing. It helps you make the most of your available time and minimizes procrastination. 5.
Dissertation
A dissertation is a long piece of writing that uses research to bring to light an original idea. Don't go to grad school unless you're prepared to write, say, a 300-page dissertation on some topic. ... Set in Afghanistan during a time of political and social upheaval, this novel traces the decades-long friendship of two boys from different ...

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What is a thesis?

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

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What is a Dissertation? Everything You Need to Know

Dissertation vs. thesis

What do you write about when completing a dissertation?

How long does a dissertation need to be?

How long does it take to write?

The parts of a dissertation

Choosing a topic

Chapter break down

Defending your dissertation

Failing your dissertation

Key Takeaways

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Frequently asked questions about dissertations

What is the Difference Between a Dissertation and a Thesis?

What is a dissertation?

What is a thesis?

Differences between a dissertation vs thesis

The root of the words

Similarities between a dissertation vs thesis

Is a dissertation harder than a thesis?

Definitions depend on where you are

Definitions can depend on the subject

Examples from US and UK universities

In conclusion

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Formatting Requirement and Standards

“Papers Option” Dissertation or Thesis

ProQuest Electronic Submissions

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How to Create a Dissertation Timeline (With Examples + Tempate)

What Does a Dissertation Timeline Look Like?

Example Dissertation Timeline

Inclusion in a Dissertation Timeline

Dissertation Timeline Structure

Using a Dissertation Timeline

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What is a Dissertation?

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