preface of a thesis

Thesis and Dissertation Guide

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• Introduction

Copyright Page

Dedication, acknowledgements, preface (optional), table of contents.

• List of Tables, Figures, and Illustrations

List of Abbreviations

List of symbols.

• Non-Traditional Formats
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• Formatting Previously Published Work
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• Registering Copyright
• Using Copyrighted Materials
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• Submission Steps
• Submission Checklist
• Sample Pages

I. Order and Components

Please see the sample thesis or dissertation pages throughout and at the end of this document for illustrations. The following order is required for components of your thesis or dissertation:

• Dedication, Acknowledgements, and Preface (each optional)
• Table of Contents, with page numbers
• List of Tables, List of Figures, or List of Illustrations, with titles and page numbers (if applicable)
• List of Abbreviations (if applicable)
• List of Symbols (if applicable)
• Introduction, if any
• Main body, with consistent subheadings as appropriate
• Appendices (if applicable)
• Endnotes (if applicable)
• References (see section on References for options)

Many of the components following the title and copyright pages have required headings and formatting guidelines, which are described in the following sections.

Please consult the Sample Pages to compare your document to the requirements. A Checklist is provided to assist you in ensuring your thesis or dissertation meets all formatting guidelines.

The title page of a thesis or dissertation must include the following information:

• The title of the thesis or dissertation in all capital letters and centered 2″ below the top of the page.
• Your name, centered 1″ below the title. Do not include titles, degrees, or identifiers. The name you use here does not need to exactly match the name on your university records, but we recommend considering how you will want your name to appear in professional publications in the future.

Notes on this statement:

• When indicating your degree in the second bracketed space, use the full degree name (i.e., Doctor of Philosophy, not Ph.D. or PHD; Master of Public Health, not M.P.H. or MPH; Master of Social Work, not M.S.W. or MSW).
• List your department, school, or curriculum rather than your subject area or specialty discipline in the third bracketed space. You may include your subject area or specialty discipline in parentheses (i.e., Department of Romance Languages (French); School of Pharmacy (Molecular Pharmaceutics); School of Education (School Psychology); or similar official area).
• If you wish to include both your department and school names, list the school at the end of the statement (i.e., Department of Pharmacology in the School of Medicine).
• A dissertation submitted to the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Department of Public Policy.
• A thesis submitted to the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in the School of Dentistry (Endodontics).
• A thesis submitted to the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in the Department of Nutrition in the Gillings School of Global Public Health.
• A dissertation submitted to the faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the School of Education (Cultural Studies and Literacies).
• The words “Chapel Hill” must be centered 1″ below the statement.
• One single-spaced line below that, center the year in which your committee approves the completed thesis or dissertation. This need not be the year you graduate.
• Approximately 2/3 of the way across the page on the right-hand side of the page, 1″ below the year, include the phrase “Approved by:” (with colon) followed by each faculty member's name on subsequent double-spaced lines. Do not include titles such as Professor, Doctor, Dr., PhD, or any identifiers such as “chair” or “advisor” before or after any names. Line up the first letter of each name on the left under the “A” in the “Approved by:” line. If a name is too long to fit on one line, move this entire section of text slightly to the left so that formatting can be maintained.
• No signatures, signature lines, or page numbers should be included on the title page.

Include a copyright page with the following information single-spaced and centered 2″ above the bottom of the page:

© Year Author's Full Name (as it appears on the title page) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

This page immediately follows the title page. It should be numbered with the lower case Roman numeral ii centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

Inclusion of this page offers you, as the author, additional protection against copyright infringement as it eliminates any question of authorship and copyright ownership. You do not need to file for copyright in order to include this statement in your thesis or dissertation. However, filing for copyright can offer other protections.

See Section IV for more information on copyrighting your thesis or dissertation.

Include an abstract page following these guidelines:

• Include the heading “ABSTRACT” in all capital letters, and center it 2″ below the top of the page.
• One double-spaced line below “ABSTRACT”, center your name, followed by a colon and the title of the thesis or dissertation. Use as many lines as necessary. Be sure that your name and the title exactly match the name and title used on the Title page.
• One single-spaced line below the title, center the phrase “(Under the direction of [advisor's name])”. Include the phrase in parentheses. Include the first and last name(s) of your advisor or formal co-advisors. Do not include the name of other committee members. Use the advisor's name only; do not include any professional titles such as PhD, Professor, or Dr. or any identifiers such as “chair” or “advisor”.
• Skip one double-spaced line and begin the abstract. The text of your abstract must be double-spaced and aligned with the document's left margin with the exception of indenting new paragraphs. Do not center or right-justify the abstract.
• Abstracts cannot exceed 150 words for a thesis or 350 words for a dissertation.
• Number the abstract page with the lower case Roman numeral iii (and iv, if more than one page) centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

Please write and proofread your abstract carefully. When possible, avoid including symbols or foreign words in your abstract, as they cannot be indexed or searched. Avoid mathematical formulas, diagrams, and other illustrative materials in the abstract. Offer a brief description of your thesis or dissertation and a concise summary of its conclusions. Be sure to describe the subject and focus of your work with clear details and avoid including lengthy explanations or opinions.

Your title and abstract will be used by search engines to help potential audiences locate your work, so clarity will help to draw the attention of your targeted readers.

You have an option to include a dedication, acknowledgements, or preface. If you choose to include any or all of these elements, give each its own page(s).

A dedication is a message from the author prefixed to a work in tribute to a person, group, or cause. Most dedications are short statements of tribute beginning with “To…” such as “To my family”.

Acknowledgements are the author's statement of gratitude to and recognition of the people and institutions that helped the author's research and writing.

A preface is a statement of the author's reasons for undertaking the work and other personal comments that are not directly germane to the materials presented in other sections of the thesis or dissertation. These reasons tend to be of a personal nature.

Any of the pages must be prepared following these guidelines:

• Do not place a heading on the dedication page.
• The text of short dedications must be centered and begin 2″ from the top of the page.
• Headings are required for the “ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS” and “PREFACE” pages. Headings must be in all capital letters and centered 2″ below the top of the page.
• The text of the acknowledgements and preface pages must begin one double-spaced line below the heading, be double-spaced, and be aligned with the document's left margin with the exception of indenting new paragraphs.
• Subsequent pages of text return to the 1″ top margin.
• The page(s) must be numbered with consecutive lower case Roman numerals (starting with the page number after the abstract) centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

Include a table of contents following these guidelines:

• Include the heading “TABLE OF CONTENTS” in all capital letters, and center it 2″ below the top of the page.
• Include one double-spaced line between the heading and the first entry.
• The table of contents should not contain listings for the pages that precede it, but it must list all parts of the thesis or dissertation that follow it.
• If relevant, be sure to list all appendices and a references section in your table of contents. Include page numbers for these items but do not assign separate chapter numbers.
• Entries must align with the document's left margin or be indented to the right of the left page margin using consistent tabs.
• Major subheadings within chapters must be included in the table of contents. The subheading(s) should be indented to the right of the left page margin using consistent tabs.
• If an entry takes up more than one line, break up the entry about three-fourths of the way across the page and place the rest of the text on a second line, single-spacing the two lines.
• Include one double-spaced line between each entry.
• Page numbers listed in the table of contents must be located just inside the right page margin with leaders (lines of periods) filling out the space between the end of the entry and the page number. The last digit of each number must line up on the right margin.
• Information included in the table of contents must match the headings, major subheadings, and numbering used in the body of the thesis or dissertation.
• The Table of Contents page(s) must be numbered with consecutive lower case Roman numerals centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

Lists of Tables, Figures, and Illustrations

If applicable, include a list of tables, list of figures, and/or list of illustrations following these guidelines:

• Include the heading(s) in all capital letters, centered 1″ below the top of the page.
• Each entry must include a number, title, and page number.
• Assign each table, figure, or illustration in your thesis or dissertation an Arabic numeral. You may number consecutively throughout the entire work (e.g., Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.), or you may assign a two-part Arabic numeral with the first number designating the chapter in which it appears, separated by a period, followed by a second number to indicate its consecutive placement in the chapter (e.g., Table 3.2 is the second table in Chapter Three).
• Numerals and titles must align with the document's left margin or be indented to the right of the left page margin using consistent tabs.
• Page numbers must be located just inside the right page margin with leaders (lines of periods) filling out the space between the end of the entry and the page number. The last digit of each number must line up on the right margin.
• Numbers, titles, and page numbers must each match the corresponding numbers, titles, and page numbers appearing in the thesis or dissertation.
• All Lists of Tables, Figures, and Illustrations page(s) must be numbered with consecutive lower case Roman numerals centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

If you use abbreviations extensively in your thesis or dissertation, you must include a list of abbreviations and their corresponding definitions following these guidelines:

• Include the heading “LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS” in all capital letters, and center it 1″ below the top of the page.
• Arrange your abbreviations alphabetically.
• Abbreviations must align with the document's left margin or be indented to the right of the left page margin using consistent tabs.
• If an entry takes up more than one line, single-space between the two lines.
• The List of Abbreviations page(s) must be numbered with consecutive lower case Roman numerals centered with a 1/2″ margin from the bottom edge.

If you use symbols in your thesis or dissertation, you may combine them with your abbreviations, titling the section “LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS”, or you may set up a separate list of symbols and their definitions by following the formatting instructions above for abbreviations. The heading you choose must be in all capital letters and centered 1″ below the top of the page.

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• Academic essay overview
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Dissertation Preface – Components & Guide

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A dissertation preface allows the author to share personal reflections with the reader. It’s like an introduction to your dissertation. So, unlike other academic writing , it tends to be more conversational and informal. In this article, we’ll go over what a dissertation preface is, what to include in it, and why it’s important. So, whether you’re just starting your dissertation or you’re almost done, understanding how to write a good preface can make your work even stronger.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 In a nutshell: Dissertation preface
• 2 Definition: Dissertation preface
• 3 How to write a dissertation preface
• 4  What is included in a dissertation preface?
• 5 Example of a dissertation preface

In a nutshell: Dissertation preface

• Planning what to include in the dissertation preface is important before you start writing.
• Identifying your audience ahead of time can help them better connect to the content you will be producing.
• An effective introduction will do more than summarize the work that follows; it will also draw the reader in.

Definition: Dissertation preface

A dissertation preface is used to introduce the reader to the major body of your work. Its major purpose is to familiarize the reader with the dissertation’s subject and to provide a synopsis of the content, rationale for writing, and overall organization. Typically, a dissertation’s preface will introduce you to the author, the research methodology , and the overall objectives of the work.

The preface goals are to set the stage for the reader, establish the relevance of the issue at hand, and offer a synopsis of the relevant prior research. Moreover, this section allows the author to publicly thank and recognize anybody who had a role in facilitating the study. Generally, a dissertation preface establishes the work’s tone and introduces the reader to the work’s structure.

On the other hand, the format and arrangement of a dissertation preface may change based on the academic institution’s specifications or rules.

I. Introduction

• Background information and research justification
• Research goals or questions
• Methodology
• Study’s importance

II. Acknowledgments

• In the acknowledgments section, you write an appreciation for all who helped or supported the dissertation project.

III. Personal statement

• Here is where consideration of one’s background and interests in the study area.

IV. Organization of the dissertation

• This part includes summaries of the chapters and their contents.

How to write a dissertation preface

Composing a preface could present challenges because it calls for carefully balancing your words to inform and captivate readers. So, if you are struggling with writing a dissertation preface, consider these helpful tips.

• Introduce your topic : Start by briefly presenting the subject of your dissertation and outlining the overall scope of the subject area, justifying why you chose it. This approach will enable readers to comprehend the context and significance of your study.
• Acknowledge the contributions of others: First, thank your supervisor and others who have helped you throughout your research journey. This section is also an excellent opportunity to explain any ethical or logistical issues you encountered during your research and how you resolved them.
• Provide a brief overview of the structure: This will help readers understand the organization of your research and how the various chapters of your dissertation fit together.
• Write in a clear and concise style: Your preface should be easy to read and understand, so avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to your readers. Remember that your preface reflects your dissertation, so take the time to write it well.
• Describe how you conducted your study: Including the methods you used to gather and analyze data, in the introduction. The reader will appreciate this clarification of your work’s background.
• End on a note of gratitude: To wrap off your introduction, express gratitude to everybody who has aided you. Similarly, you may discuss the significance of being given the chance to write a dissertation.

Following these steps will help you write a thorough preface for your dissertation preface that sets the scene and gives credit where credit is due.

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 What is included in a dissertation preface?

In a dissertation preface, writers usually explain why they did the study, the things they researched, and why they wanted to do the project. The writer can thank people or places that helped with the research. Some things you might want to write at the beginning of your dissertation are:

• The author chose the topic for its relevance to the subject or personal interest.
• The author’s question or ideas for investigation.
• This is how we did our research.
• Thanking individuals or organizations who helped or supported.
• Any restrictions on gathering or studying data during research.
• A short description of how the dissertation is organized.

Basically, the beginning of a dissertation preface should tell readers what the writer is studying and what they hope to accomplish in the rest of the dissertation.

Example of a dissertation preface

Example 1: Dissertation preface by a single writer

The motivation for undertaking this research project initially stemmed from my longstanding desire to create a written work centered around our nation’s cultural legacy. As we move forward into the future, we must also appreciate and honor our previous experiences. My firm conviction is that the events of the past shape the present, and this document intends to demonstrate this notion.

The collaboration of our institution (named) was essential to achieve this extensive project. Their level of dedication and effort is highly praiseworthy. I am grateful to my dear family for their unwavering support during challenging moments.

Example 2: Dissertation preface by two or more writers

It’s never too late to learn about the culture we belong to. The interesting parts of my community’s way of life motivated me and my colleagues to finish this research paper. The thesis wants to tell people that even though science is important, what brings us together are things we have in common because of our culture. I wrote the beginning part, and my friend (name) wrote the rest, focusing on issues we face today.

We would like to thank our parents for always believing in us and our fellow students, who motivated us. We are fortunate to be connected to this organization. We are genuinely thankful to everyone.

What is in a dissertation preface included?

The preface ought to contain details concerning background information about the project. Financial support (if available) is a significant aspect covered in the report.

What is the typical length of a dissertation preface in a thesis?

A brief preface is sufficient, as it does not summarize the main argument. For your thesis to be evaluated by the examiners during the final examination, your supervisor must scrutinize the preface first.

What are the important factors in creating an effective dissertation preface?

An engaging preface is essential. The information provided should be captivating for the reader, but not critical for comprehending the content. Notable research methodologies are frequently incorporated in the preface.

Is it acceptable to write a dissertation preface using the first-person perspective?

The author typically writes a preface at the book’s beginning and often communicates in the first person. This outlines the reasons behind the author’s decision to write the book, their journey towards creating it, and the obstacles they encountered.

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What Is a Dissertation Preface? Meaning, Writing Tips and Examples

Updated 23 Jul 2024

Being a vital entryway to scholarly pursuits, a dissertation preface provides readers with insights into the researcher's journey, motivations, and the significance of their work. This section is often overlooked, although it establishes the study’s tone and offers valuable glimpses into the researcher’s thought process. In this article, we’ll explore the preface’s meaning and purpose, components, effective strategies, and examples to help students write my dissertation and complete an engaging writing piece and enhance the value of their dissertation. 

What is a dissertation preface? 

Before we delve into details about how to write a preface, let’s clarify the meaning of this term. A preface is an introductory section, which allows sharing the author’s experiences while completing a thesis or dissertation with the audience. This chapter should be written in the first person and is typically completed when a dissertation is finished, serving as a final reflection and a bridge between the researcher and readers. A dissertation preface has the following purposes: 

• Establishing context: Outlining the research's relevance, situating it within the broader academic or professional context, and helping readers grasp its purpose and scope.
• Expressing motivations: Articulating personal motivations, such as experiences, interests, or concerns, that inspired the research.
• Acknowledging contributors: Recognizing the support and contributions of mentors, advisors, colleagues, or family members who played a significant role.
• Revealing the thought process: Providing insights into the researcher's intellectual framework, theoretical perspectives, or methodologies related to the study and explaining their choices.
• Creating a connection with readers: Sharing personal reflections and experiences to establish rapport, engaging readers emotionally and intellectually, and making the research relatable and accessible.

Can a dissertation have a preface? 

Yes, a dissertation can have a preface. It’s an optional section at the beginning that allows the author to introduce the study, acknowledge contributors, and provide context. 

What information should be included in a preface?

As with writing a dissertation introduction, completing a preface requires understanding this chapter’s structure. It typically includes the following elements:

• Personal background: Provide a concise overview of your background to give readers context about your academic journey.
• Motivations: Write some sentences about your experiences or circumstances that inspired you to complete this academic work.
• Target audience: Mention the intended readership or target group for whom your thesis or dissertation was written.
• Your name, place, and date: Indicate your name, the place where you wrote the preface, and the date of writing at the end of the preface.

Note:   Frequently, it is customary to include either a preface or an acknowledgements section in written works, but not both.

Does the preface mean the same as the acknowledgements? 

No, the preface chapter and acknowledgements in a dissertation are distinct. The preface appears at the beginning, allowing the author to introduce the study, explain its purpose and scope, and offer context. The acknowledgements is a separate part or may be included in a preface at the end. This section expresses gratitude to individuals or institutions who contributed to the research project. While serving different purposes, both parts of the thesis provide context and acknowledge contributions to the dissertation.

How to write a preface for a dissertation?

• Avoid writing the preface beforehand.

It’s recommended to write the preface after finishing your work. Treat it as your final effort on the dissertation. This way, your preface will be well-grounded and compelling.

• Structure your preface effectively.

A well-crafted preface begins with a captivating introduction. Provide a concise overview of the topics you intend to discuss in your research paper and explain your approach. Keep the introduction brief, consisting of a few sentences, while ensuring it informs readers about the content they can expect. Include a thesis statement highlighting the central argument or purpose behind your thesis.

• Encourage reader engagement.

A compelling preface goes beyond summarizing a research topic; it actively involves the readers. It should arouse their curiosity and motivate them to delve further into your work. To achieve this, consider incorporating suitable anecdotes or intriguing data that pique readers’ interest. Since the preface is the first thing the audience will encounter, making it exciting and engaging is crucial. Use this opportunity to introduce yourself, explain the context of your thesis, and the reasons behind doing this research.

• Avoid including everything in the preface.

The preface should primarily convey essential information about your dissertation's topic. Other chapters, like the introduction or conclusion, can include additional details. The preface is a concise introductory paragraph, offering background information and laying the foundation for the subsequent body paragraph. The preface’s length depends on the number of details you want to include. If space is limited, keep your remarks brief and concise.

Dissertation preface example

Welcome to my master's thesis, "Painting Parisian Identity: Place and Subjectivity in Fin-de-siècle Art," the culmination of my academic journey in Art History at American University in Washington, DC. This thesis represents my dedication and fulfillment of the graduation requirements, with the research and writing process spanning from October to May 2023.

As I progressed in my studies, I realized that I tended to remain within my comfort zone. To challenge myself and expand my skills and expertise, I deliberately chose this topic. Through this endeavor, I embarked on an exploration of unfamiliar aspects, delving into the intricate world of Parisian art, unraveling the intricate relationship between place and subjectivity, and deciphering the nuanced artistic expressions of the fin-de-siècle period.

I owe deep gratitude to my supervisor, Dr. Christopher Johnson, whose invaluable guidance and unwavering support have been instrumental throughout this research journey. Their expertise and mentorship provided me with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of my study effectively.

I am also indebted to the research lab at the Department of Art for their provision of invaluable scripts. Their contributions facilitated the alignment, analysis, and transformation of my data, significantly enhancing the depth and quality of my research.

Lastly, I want to express my deepest appreciation to my family and friends, whose unwavering support sustained me during this transformative process. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of them. And to you, dear reader, I sincerely hope that within the following pages, you will find both enjoyment and inspiration.

John Walling

Washington, May 25, 2023

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Written by Steven Robinson

Steven Robinson is an academic writing expert with a degree in English literature. His expertise, patient approach, and support empower students to express ideas clearly. On EduBirdie's blog, he provides valuable writing guides on essays, research papers, and other intriguing topics. Enjoys chess in free time.

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How to Write a Preface

Last Updated: July 3, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 112,394 times.

A preface may be used to introduce a work of nonfiction, such as a book, dissertation, or thesis. Your preface will provide information about your background to establish your credibility, as well as why you wrote the book. At first, writing your preface might seem difficult, but it helps to think of it as an introduction to your work. Drafting a preface is a simple process, but you’ll want to revise it before publishing.

Drafting Your Preface

• Provide your credentials if they’re important to the topic. For example, when writing a book about bipolar disorder, it would be helpful to explain your professional and educational background as a psychiatrist. To keep this section informal, you might decide to do this in the form of an anecdote.
• For instance, “As I earned my degrees in psychology, I began to recognize the importance of pharmaceuticals for managing mental illness, so I pursued a medical degree. In my ten years of practice, I’ve treated over a hundred patients with bipolar disorder, most of whom are able to manage their condition with medication and counseling.”
• For a memoir you might write, "Becoming a foster parent changed my life and the lives of the children who came to live with me. I thought I would be helping them, but through caring for them I gained a lot, as well."

• You could write, “After watching so many of my patients make a complete turnaround, I realized that my treatment strategies could be used to help others. I decided to write this book to help other mental health professionals treat their patients using my methods.”
• For a nonfiction historical text, you could write, "Ancient Egypt has interested me since I first watched The Mummy as a small child. After years of research, I finally have knowledge of my own to contribute."
• If you're writing a memoir you might write, "After sharing my experiences with others through outreach efforts, I realized I could help others with my life story."

• For instance, “My treatment methods focus on an integrated, holistic approach that differs from many treatment protocols,” or "Through my research, I've gained a new perspective on the pyramids of Giza that I will share through this book."
• If you're writing a memoir, you could say, "As an avid reader, I recognized that there weren't many stories out there like mine."

• For example, “I wrote this book for mental health professionals, but individuals who’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder may also find it helpful,” or "This book is for all of the history buffs like myself."
• If you're writing a memoir, you might say, "This book is for everyone who's struggling to find their place in the world."

• For example, “This book will explain my treatment methods and best practices. I also provide example exercises, as well as ten detailed case studies.”
• As another example, "While I was in Egypt, I collected stories as well as facts. I will share all of them with you, as well as the photos I took along the way."
• Your memoir preface might read, "In my book, I discuss both my experiences and how they changed me. You'll find stories and mementos that I hope will touch your heart."

• For example, “Before writing this book, I published eight peer-reviewed papers about my work with patients," or "Among my photos is a mummy who had never been photographed."
• Your memoir might include, "During my years as a foster parent, I took in 152 children. Of those I cared for, I'm still in contact with 54. Each of them hold a piece of my heart."
• As an example, you could read over the preface to Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray . Although his novel is a work of fiction, Wilde includes a preface to provide the reader with a series of contradictory statements that inspired his work.

• You might write, “I want to give a special thanks for Sarah Lopez, who served as my research assistant throughout this project,” or "I'd like to give a special thanks to my host family in Egypt who has been my rock throughout three research visits."
• For a memoir, you might write, "Thank you to my family for supporting me throughout the years, and thank you to each child who has let me be their foster mother."
• You should only include your acknowledgements if you have a few people to honor. If you have several, it’s best to create a separate acknowledgements section.

Revising Your Preface

• Varied sentence structure
• Good readability
• Run-on sentences
• Sentence fragments
• Grammar and spelling errors
• Problems with word choice

• If you’re working with a committee, ask one of the members to read over your preface.

• You may want to revise your preface several times.

• You may also want to get someone else to proofread your preface, as they’ll be able to better spot typos and mistakes. It’s often harder to detect your own errors.

Writing an Effective Preface

• If you write your preface before you write the text, you'll likely need to rework it once your book or paper is finished.

• If you’re working with a publisher, ask them for the correct formatting.
• For a journal article or research paper, check the submission guidelines or contact the editor.
• If you’re writing an academic thesis or dissertation, check with your school or committee to get the specific format they prefer. You may also be able to access a template. [13] X Research source

• For example, “I intended my research to help you, the reader, approach the field of robotics from a new angle.”

• For example, you might want to include background on your topic that inspired you to conduct this research project. This is okay as long as you also include the information in the proper section of your text.

• For example, you might be writing a book that’s based on decades of research or that sprang out of an interesting incident. If this is the case, you might decide to write a longer preface to share this with the reader. This is a judgment call you’ll have to make for yourself.

Sample Annotated Prefaces

Community Q&A

• Don't stress about your preface! It's the part of your text where you get to express yourself in a casual manner. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Readers often skip the preface, so your work should stand alone without it. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://shsulibraryguides.org/thesisguide/preface
• ↑ https://pubs.acs.org/userimages/ContentEditor/1218291395327/PrefaceGuidelines.pdf
• ↑ https://penandthepad.com/make-preface-8258662.html
• ↑ https://www.awelu.lu.se/writing/rewriting-stage/how-to-revise/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/preface-vs-introduction

About This Article

While drafting your preface may seem difficult at first, it helps to think of it as an introduction to your work and yourself. For example, write about your educational or professional background, or discuss what inspired your writing project or research. You can keep this section slightly informal, using anecdotes or personal experiences to guide your reader into your work. Include why your text is important or why your reader should read your text. This is also an opportunity to explain who your target audience is, so let your reader know if this work is right for them. For instance, you might say “This book is for all of the history buffs like myself,” or “This book is for everyone who’s struggling to find their place in this world.” For tips on how to proofread your preface, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Preface for a Thesis?

The preface for a thesis paper is the way an academic scholar introduces himself to the readers. A Preface is a small introduction written by the author of the thesis paper to share the basic idea and their writing experience with readers. The preface is written in the initial part of the dissertation. In your preface, start by conveying a small thanks to all those who have helped you complete your thesis.

In this blog post, you will learn how to write a Preface for your Thesis paper.

How to write a Preface for a dissertation

After defining what is a Preface, you should know about the parts of a thesis. Before writing, you must know what are the areas you should cover in a Preface. More or less, you should cover all these areas:

1.   Your personal information.

For example, if you are writing on healthy foods then your identity as a nutritionist will increase readers’ trust. You can make it effective in the form of anecdotes.

2.   Your motivation for the work.

There is some motivation behind all research work.  You also must have some. You should include in the preface for the thesis paper your inspiration behind the research. But don’t add much about it. Also, it’s not necessary every time to add that.

3.   Address the target group of the dissertation.

Your preface must connect with the target group. That is, you should introduce your target group in the preface section. Also, you can add shortly if anything you have noticed about the group is special.

4.   Credit to other researchers.

5.   thanking the contributors..

The preface for the thesis paper should never hesitate in acknowledging all those who have assisted in completing the paper. Regardless of whether it’s an individual or an institution, you must introduce them in some lines.

However, never add too much of everything in your preface age. For any research paper, you should not write a preface that crosses more than five hundred words.

Are both acknowledgment and preface added for a dissertation?

Sometimes, within a preface, acknowledgments are added. However, remember that acknowledgment and the preface meaning are not the same things. The main intention of an acknowledgment is to thank those who have assisted you in finishing the research. And as mentioned earlier, the preface also covers the same thing.

You can read about how you can write a acknowledgement here.

Tips to write a preface for dissertation.

1.   never write the preface beforehand..

Practically it’s quite hard to write about what is a preface requirement from your paper without completing the text. But on the contrary, if you choose to write the preface after completing your paper, you will find it much more convenient. There will be minimal chances for rework and you can take it as your last work with the thesis.

2.   Format the preface well.

If you think that formatting does not impact your research paper much, then you are wrong. Also, make a query about the correct formatting from your institution, because there are varied formatting requirements of a preface.

3.   Communicate with your readers.

4.   never keep all the core information in the preface section..

Though many readers indeed read your preface page, at the same time, one can’t deny that many also skip it. So, it will be a fifty-fifty chance for your preface page. That’s why never add too much important information on that page as readers can overlook them. Or else, if it’s too necessary to add such information, repeat them in the latter part of your text.

5.   Keep it concise.

A researcher is not expected to write anything flowery in that part. So, keep your preface for thesis short and crisp. But if you have a long interesting experience related to the paper and which can also interest readers then don’t hesitate to share. In that case, keep it for one and a half pages only and not more than that.

How does the forward and introduction vary from a preface?

Though for beginners all these three can appear the same if you notice the write-ups then they are completely different.

●    What is a Foreword:

The f oreword section of the book is not written by the scholar himself or herself but by someone else. Someone else who writes the foreword tries to convince the readers why they should read the thesis. And what is new in the research work.

●    What is a Preface:

As shared earlier, a preface for thesis is written by the researcher himself. And the section shares the experience of the writer in completing the work. This section also works like an acknowledgment.

●    What is an Introduction:

An introduction for any thesis paper is completely different from the above two. It introduces the readers to the main content or the subject of the paperwork.

Thus, for the writers of the paper, the preface for a thesis is a chance to converse with the readers about the aim of the book. It also thanked all those who have contributed to the work. However, researchers should not waste too much space on it and keep it concise.

Preface examples.

Preface example for a single writer.

Also, this lengthy work was impossible with the teamwork of our institution ( name of the institution). Their amount of hard work is truly commendable. Thanks to my family also for supporting me during the hard times.

Preface example for two or more writers

It’s never too late to know the culture we all are a part of. The intriguing aspects of my community culture made me and my co-writers complete this thesis. The thesis aims to convince readers that even in the age of science, it’s ultimately the cultural bonds that unite us. While I’ve covered the initial part of the discretion, my friend and co-writer ( name) have constructively written the later part by addressing common problems of the twenty-first century.

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A Thesis or Dissertation Preface – Definition & Examples

Published by Alvin Nicolas at January 2nd, 2023 , Revised On February 1, 2024

A dissertation or a thesis preface is your chance to reflect on your experience during the writing. A preface is similar to reflective essay writing and mainly written in the first person. It is an informal style of connecting with your audience before getting to the actual contents of the thesis or dissertation.

Writing the preface in a thesis or a dissertation is usually the final step of the process.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Dissertation or Thesis Preface

• Reflect on your experiences with the study participants your thesis or dissertation was based around.
• Include any personal affiliations, relationships or circumstances that encouraged you to research in the chosen study area.
• Provide your brief personal background.
• Write your name, date of writing and place of writing at the end of the preface.
• Write either the preface or the acknowledgements. It is a rare practice to write both for the same paper in a dissertation or a thesis. Check your dissertation handbook to avoid making any errors.
• Many students choose to thank the institutions and people who were involved in the research and writing process. However, it is best to acknowledge the professional and personal contacts in a thesis or a dissertation in the acknowledgements section.

Dissertation Preface Example

Here is an example of how to write a thesis or a dissertation preface. A preface is the only place in the dissertation where you can use the first person, so consider adopting a personalised yet formal style.

You are reading the Master’s dissertation on “The Impact of the Covid-19 Crisis on the Chinese Economic Development – A Case Study of the Chinese Imports Industry”. I completed this thesis to fulfil the requirements of the Masters in Business Administration Programme at Birmingham University. I worked on this project for six months, starting in August 2021 and ending in February 2022.

In the past, I was reluctant to work in research areas that forced me to step outside my comfort zone. However, while working on a Master’s thesis, I wanted to research a unique and different topic that challenged me. Collecting data about the Chinese import industry is a complex area to crack because China limits the availability of sensitive data that might be important to the government. However, I am delighted to have faced this challenge head-on, which improved my ability to research complex issues more efficiently. Indeed, this dissertation has helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Words cannot express my gratitude for my supervisor and Dr James Alexander, whose role was instrumental throughout the research and writing process. Dr James remained patient with me even when I was panicking. He provided excellent guidance and regular feedback, enabling me to enhance my knowledge and polish my research skills . I would also like to thank Ms Xao from the BGC Trade Group of Beijing for her contribution in arranging the means for the data collection.

Finally, I wish to acknowledge my friends, family members, parents, and my per for their emotional support. I couldn’t have made it this far without their help. I hope you enjoy reading this thesis.

Robert Bruce

Loughborough Town, August 3, 2021

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Frequently Asked Questions

When to write a thesis or dissertation preface.

The preface of a thesis or dissertation is usually written at the end as a final step of the process. Generally, the preface is written after the main body of the thesis or dissertation is completed but before the appendices and references. It is usually included in the table of contents and is often the first section of the thesis or dissertation that readers will encounter.

What is a preface in a dissertation?

A preface in a dissertation is an introductory section that appears before the main body of the dissertation. It is typically a brief statement that provides context and background information for the research presented in the dissertation.

A preface is a place where the author can acknowledge the contributions and support of others who helped in the research process, as well as explain the purpose and scope of the project. It may also include a statement of the author’s motivation for undertaking the research or a discussion of any challenges or limitations encountered during the research process. 

What to avoid in a dissertation or thesis preface?

You should avoid the following in the dissertation or thesis preface. 

• Either write the preface or the acknowledgements. 
• You should also acknowledge the professional and personal contacts. 

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Nurses are primarily seen as someone who care for and ensure the best treatment and support for the patients. So it is no surprise that many nursing students struggle to write a flawless nursing dissertation and fail to achieve their desired grade.

The acknowledgements page in a thesis or dissertation is positioned between the title page and the abstract. Its length should be one A4 page at maximum.

An organised list of the chapters, sections, and subsections that help the reader navigate through your dissertation or thesis is called the table of content.  For the reader to jump to any part or section of their interest, the structure and the sections should clearly be labelled with the correct page numbers. 

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How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction

Published on September 7, 2022 by Tegan George and Shona McCombes. Revised on November 21, 2023.

The introduction is the first section of your thesis or dissertation , appearing right after the table of contents . Your introduction draws your reader in, setting the stage for your research with a clear focus, purpose, and direction on a relevant topic .

Your introduction should include:

• Your topic, in context: what does your reader need to know to understand your thesis dissertation?
• Your focus and scope: what specific aspect of the topic will you address?
• The relevance of your research: how does your work fit into existing studies on your topic?
• Your questions and objectives: what does your research aim to find out, and how?
• An overview of your structure: what does each section contribute to the overall aim?

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Table of contents

How to start your introduction, topic and context, focus and scope, relevance and importance, questions and objectives, overview of the structure, thesis introduction example, introduction checklist, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about introductions.

Although your introduction kicks off your dissertation, it doesn’t have to be the first thing you write — in fact, it’s often one of the very last parts to be completed (just before your abstract ).

It’s a good idea to write a rough draft of your introduction as you begin your research, to help guide you. If you wrote a research proposal , consider using this as a template, as it contains many of the same elements. However, be sure to revise your introduction throughout the writing process, making sure it matches the content of your ensuing sections.

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Begin by introducing your dissertation topic and giving any necessary background information. It’s important to contextualize your research and generate interest. Aim to show why your topic is timely or important. You may want to mention a relevant news item, academic debate, or practical problem.

After a brief introduction to your general area of interest, narrow your focus and define the scope of your research.

You can narrow this down in many ways, such as by:

• Geographical area
• Time period
• Demographics or communities
• Themes or aspects of the topic

It’s essential to share your motivation for doing this research, as well as how it relates to existing work on your topic. Further, you should also mention what new insights you expect it will contribute.

Start by giving a brief overview of the current state of research. You should definitely cite the most relevant literature, but remember that you will conduct a more in-depth survey of relevant sources in the literature review section, so there’s no need to go too in-depth in the introduction.

Depending on your field, the importance of your research might focus on its practical application (e.g., in policy or management) or on advancing scholarly understanding of the topic (e.g., by developing theories or adding new empirical data). In many cases, it will do both.

Ultimately, your introduction should explain how your thesis or dissertation:

• Helps solve a practical or theoretical problem
• Addresses a gap in the literature
• Builds on existing research
• Proposes a new understanding of your topic

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Perhaps the most important part of your introduction is your questions and objectives, as it sets up the expectations for the rest of your thesis or dissertation. How you formulate your research questions and research objectives will depend on your discipline, topic, and focus, but you should always clearly state the central aim of your research.

If your research aims to test hypotheses , you can formulate them here. Your introduction is also a good place for a conceptual framework that suggests relationships between variables .

• Conduct surveys to collect data on students’ levels of knowledge, understanding, and positive/negative perceptions of government policy.
• Determine whether attitudes to climate policy are associated with variables such as age, gender, region, and social class.
• Conduct interviews to gain qualitative insights into students’ perspectives and actions in relation to climate policy.

To help guide your reader, end your introduction with an outline  of the structure of the thesis or dissertation to follow. Share a brief summary of each chapter, clearly showing how each contributes to your central aims. However, be careful to keep this overview concise: 1-2 sentences should be enough.

I. Introduction

Human language consists of a set of vowels and consonants which are combined to form words. During the speech production process, thoughts are converted into spoken utterances to convey a message. The appropriate words and their meanings are selected in the mental lexicon (Dell & Burger, 1997). This pre-verbal message is then grammatically coded, during which a syntactic representation of the utterance is built.

Speech, language, and voice disorders affect the vocal cords, nerves, muscles, and brain structures, which result in a distorted language reception or speech production (Sataloff & Hawkshaw, 2014). The symptoms vary from adding superfluous words and taking pauses to hoarseness of the voice, depending on the type of disorder (Dodd, 2005). However, distortions of the speech may also occur as a result of a disease that seems unrelated to speech, such as multiple sclerosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

This study aims to determine which acoustic parameters are suitable for the automatic detection of exacerbations in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by investigating which aspects of speech differ between COPD patients and healthy speakers and which aspects differ between COPD patients in exacerbation and stable COPD patients.

Checklist: Introduction

I have introduced my research topic in an engaging way.

I have provided necessary context to help the reader understand my topic.

I have clearly specified the focus of my research.

I have shown the relevance and importance of the dissertation topic .

I have clearly stated the problem or question that my research addresses.

I have outlined the specific objectives of the research .

I have provided an overview of the dissertation’s structure .

You've written a strong introduction for your thesis or dissertation. Use the other checklists to continue improving your dissertation.

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

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The introduction of a research paper includes several key elements:

• A hook to catch the reader’s interest
• Relevant background on the topic
• Details of your research problem

and your problem statement

• A thesis statement or research question
• Sometimes an overview of the paper

Don’t feel that you have to write the introduction first. The introduction is often one of the last parts of the research paper you’ll write, along with the conclusion.

This is because it can be easier to introduce your paper once you’ve already written the body ; you may not have the clearest idea of your arguments until you’ve written them, and things can change during the writing process .

Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.

They summarize the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.

Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .

Scope of research is determined at the beginning of your research process , prior to the data collection stage. Sometimes called “scope of study,” your scope delineates what will and will not be covered in your project. It helps you focus your work and your time, ensuring that you’ll be able to achieve your goals and outcomes.

Defining a scope can be very useful in any research project, from a research proposal to a thesis or dissertation . A scope is needed for all types of research: quantitative , qualitative , and mixed methods .

To define your scope of research, consider the following:

• Budget constraints or any specifics of grant funding
• Your proposed timeline and duration
• Specifics about your population of study, your proposed sample size , and the research methodology you’ll pursue
• Any inclusion and exclusion criteria
• Any anticipated control , extraneous , or confounding variables that could bias your research if not accounted for properly.

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George, T. & McCombes, S. (2023, November 21). How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction. Scribbr. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/introduction-structure/

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How to Write a Preface and a Foreword

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Tips for writing an attention grabbing preface or foreword

Last Updated: November 7, 2016

Are you thinking about writing a preface for your book or have you been asked to write a foreword? A preface is a brief introduction written by the author, as opposed to a foreword, which is an introduction written by another person that usually comes before the preface.

If you're writing a foreword, congratulations! Generally, it's because you've accomplished something, you are already published , and your name is well known. Your purpose is to introduce an author/work to the world, which can be accomplished in a variety of ways.

You could, for example, write about a chapter in the book, the book as a whole (assuming you've read it!), or the author's work in general. If you know the author personally, talk about this relationship; if you don't, you could discuss how the author's work has affected your life or the importance of the work you're introducing.

If you are writing a foreword for a new edition of a book, it's common to talk about what's different in the current edition. If you're lucky enough to be writing a foreword for a re-released classic, you could discuss the historical impact of the book. Overall, there are no hard-and-fast rules about forewords, so there's room to be creative and have fun!

If you're writing a preface, it's for your own book. A preface, which is included in the front matter of a book, is your chance to speak directly to your readers about why you wrote the book, what it's about, and why it's important. Many books don't require one, especially works of fiction, but if you're wondering how to write a preface, here's an overview.

As it is an introduction to a book, a preface should include information about the book. Consider including a few or all of the following ideas:

• Discuss how the book came about. Why did you write it? Why did you choose the particular subject? What was your motivation? You could also discuss what your inspiration was (especially if it is a work of fiction).
• Give a brief description of the book, the main characters , or the book's themes. Give just enough to get the reader interested in reading more; don't give anything away.
• State the purpose of the book, especially if the work is non-fiction. For example, if your book is intended to educate the reader about famous African scientists in the 20 th century, you may want to state this in the preface. You could also describe what the reader can hope to learn by reading the book.
• Describe the journey of writing the book—what you learned, how you felt, and any insights into real life situations gained through the writing. You may also want to include how you've changed as an author or as a person during the process.
• Talk about any problems that came up during the writing and how you dealt with these trials and tribulations.
• If it is a non-fiction book, discuss your research process. Talk about your sources. Why are they unique? Why is this particular biography of Nixon, for example, special compared to others?
• Include acknowledgements. Thank the people who were instrumental in the writing of your book. Depending on the level of formality of the writing, these could range from colleagues to editors to family members.
• Talk about how long it took you to write the book, if it's relevant. For example, if you've been researching Nixon and writing the book for 10 years, you may want to mention this fact to give the reader an idea of the thought and effort you put into the project.
• Include any suggestions about how to read the book if there is a special structure.
• Don't forget to send it for an English grammar check .

Remember to keep it short! You don't want the preface to drag on and on. A good rule is to try to keep it to one page, two at maximum, and be sure it is free of spelling and grammatical errors. If you want someone to have a look at your preface, our book editors would be more than willing to help.

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What should I write in the preface of my master's thesis [closed]

Please note that my guide abandoned me and I am studying and preparing my masters thesis myself. There is no help from any faculty in my department as they can not bother, as they are not guide. Being enrolled in a 3rd world institute, this is not surprising.

I read 5 research papers (4 are on odd zeta values and 1 on Goldbach Conjecture) in number theory and I will explain the steps involved and prove statements which authors didn't prove. So, my thesis is expository and I have not proved any original results. I have written a rough draft of explanations of the papers.

But I don't know what should I write in the preface or beginning of my thesis, explaining what I have done as I have no idea of these sort of technical language. Also, I searched on internet about expository thesis but most theses were on proving some results or generalizing some conjecture. I could not find a work related to mine. So, I am asking here. I have also to be very cautious so that I am not accused of plagrism.

First 4 papers are about 4 different methods used in studying irrationality of odd zeta values and the 5th paper is a bit different.

Can someone please tell what to write in the preface.

• mathematics

• What are the problems you are studying.
• Why are they important.
• What are your own contributions. (Maybe: "We present detailed proofs of the results...". Or maybe: "We summarize the results about A...".)
• Is there anything new in your contributions? Mention that, too. Maybe you are writing in a different language, combining results that have not been explicitly combined before, providing a more detailed proof of some statement than you could find, etc.
• What has been done before? A brief literature review is appropriate.

You should combine those parts in a way that feels natural. They are not section headings.

To avoid plagiarism, do not copy text from elsewhere. Write in your words. This is especially true of free text, such as the introduction and literature review.

Furthermore, cite your sources. For example: "This proof follows the proof by [4], but we include additional details."

It might not be useful to rewrite theorems and definitions in your own words. If they are common knowledge (can be found in several textbooks), you can use the common ones. If the definition is less established, or if there are several variants and you have chosen to use a particular one, then a citation is appropriate, and explicitly mentioning any verbatim copying.

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• Who was the "Dutch author", "Bumstone Bumstone"?
• Can you use 'sollen' the same way as 'should' in sentences about possibility that something happens?
• Why did the Fallschirmjäger have such terrible parachutes?
• What are some refutations to the etymological fallacy?
• How can moral disagreements be resolved when the conflicting parties are guided by fundamentally different value systems?
• Is it possible to have a planet that's gaslike in some areas and rocky in others?
• Can I endow the following 3-manifold with a hyperbolic metric?
• Took a pic of old school friend in the 80s who is now quite famous and written a huge selling memoir. Pic has ben used in book without permission
• 1960s Stylesheet/Format for working Physics problems
• Why are complex coordinates outlawed in physics?
• My supervisor wants me to switch to another software/programming language that I am not proficient in. What to do?
• What is this device in my ceiling making out of battery chirps?
• Which hash algorithms support binary input of arbitrary bit length?
• Where does the energy in ion propulsion come from?
• "TSA regulations state that travellers are allowed one personal item and one carry on"?
• Parody of Fables About Authenticity
• Writing an i with a line over it instead of an i with a dot and a line over it
• How does the summoned monster know who is my enemy?
• How to count mismatches between two rows, column by column R?
• How to remove obligation to run as administrator in Windows?
• Why is there no article after 'by'?
• What is the highest apogee of a satellite in Earth orbit?