between thesis and synopsis

Thesis vs Synopsis: How Are These Words Connected?

Thesis is the proper word when referring to a statement or theory that is put forward for consideration. Synopsis, on the other hand, is a brief summary or general survey of something. In simple terms, a thesis is a proposition to be proved or maintained, while a synopsis is a condensed version of a larger work.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the differences between thesis and synopsis, and explore their unique roles in the writing process.

Definitions

Define Thesis:

A thesis is a formal, academic document that presents a student’s research and findings on a particular topic. It is typically written as a requirement for obtaining a degree and is often the culmination of years of study and research. A thesis is a structured argument that presents a clear position on a specific issue or topic, supported by evidence and analysis. It is intended to demonstrate the student’s ability to conduct independent research, think critically, and communicate complex ideas effectively.

Define Synopsis:

A synopsis is a brief summary or overview of a larger work, such as a thesis, research paper, or book. It provides a condensed version of the main points, arguments, and conclusions of the original work, allowing readers to quickly grasp the key content without having to read the entire document. A synopsis is typically used as a tool for presenting the main ideas of a work in a concise and accessible format, making it easier for readers to understand the main arguments and findings.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Understanding the correct usage of the words “thesis” and “synopsis” is essential for clear and effective communication. In this section, we will explore how to use these terms in a sentence.

How To Use Thesis In A Sentence

When crafting a sentence with the word “thesis,” it is important to remember that a thesis is a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved. Here are some examples of how to use “thesis” in a sentence:

She spent months researching and writing her thesis on the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.
The professor challenged the student to defend her thesis during the oral defense.
His thesis on the origins of the universe was groundbreaking in the field of astrophysics.

How To Use Synopsis In A Sentence

On the other hand, a synopsis is a brief summary or general survey of something. When incorporating “synopsis” into a sentence, it is crucial to provide a concise overview of a larger work or idea. Here are some examples of how to use “synopsis” in a sentence:

Before reading the novel, she always reads the synopsis on the back cover to get an idea of the plot.
The executive asked for a synopsis of the project’s progress in order to provide updates to the board.
The film director presented a synopsis of the movie to the producers before they greenlit the project.

More Examples Of Thesis & Synopsis Used In Sentences

Brief Section Introduction: In this section, we will explore more examples of how the terms “thesis” and “synopsis” are used in sentences to provide a clearer understanding of their distinct meanings.

Examples Of Using Thesis In A Sentence

His thesis on climate change was well-researched and presented a compelling argument.
The professor asked the students to submit their thesis proposals by the end of the week.
She defended her thesis in front of a panel of experts and received high praise for her work.
The main thesis of the book revolves around the concept of identity and self-discovery.
It is important to have a clear thesis statement at the beginning of your research paper.

Examples Of Using Synopsis In A Sentence

Before watching the movie, I read the synopsis to get an overview of the plot.
The synopsis of the novel gave away too many spoilers, so I decided to read the book instead.
She wrote a concise synopsis of the project to present to the board of directors.
The synopsis of the play captured the essence of the story in just a few paragraphs.
Can you provide me with a brief synopsis of the meeting for those who couldn’t attend?

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to academic writing, understanding the difference between a thesis and a synopsis is crucial. Unfortunately, many individuals often use these terms interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Below are some common mistakes to avoid when it comes to distinguishing between a thesis and a synopsis:

1. Confusing Purpose

One of the most common mistakes people make is confusing the purpose of a thesis and a synopsis. A thesis is a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved, typically in a long essay or dissertation. On the other hand, a synopsis is a brief summary or general survey of something. Therefore, using these terms interchangeably can lead to misunderstanding the intended purpose of the document.

2. Length And Detail

Another mistake people often make is assuming that a thesis and a synopsis are the same in terms of length and detail. A thesis is a detailed and comprehensive document that presents an argument or research findings in depth. In contrast, a synopsis is a concise overview that highlights the main points of a larger work. Failing to recognize the difference in length and detail between a thesis and a synopsis can result in incomplete or overly detailed summaries.

3. Formatting And Structure

Formatting and structure are key elements that differentiate a thesis from a synopsis. A thesis typically follows a specific format and structure, including chapters, sections, and citations. In contrast, a synopsis is a condensed version of a larger work and may not adhere to the same formatting guidelines. Using the wrong formatting or structure when referring to a thesis or a synopsis can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of the content.

4. Audience And Purpose

Understanding the intended audience and purpose of a thesis or a synopsis is essential for effective communication. A thesis is often written for an academic audience and aims to present original research or analysis on a specific topic. On the other hand, a synopsis is usually intended for a broader audience and serves as a summary of the main points of a larger work. Failing to consider the audience and purpose when using thesis and synopsis interchangeably can result in miscommunication and lack of clarity.

Context Matters

When it comes to the choice between a thesis and a synopsis, context plays a crucial role in determining which one is more suitable for a particular situation. The decision between the two can vary depending on the specific context in which they are used.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are a few examples of different contexts and how the choice between a thesis and a synopsis might change:

Context	Thesis	Synopsis
Academic Research	A thesis is typically used in academic research to present a comprehensive argument or analysis of a topic. It is more detailed and in-depth compared to a synopsis.	A synopsis, on the other hand, provides a brief overview of the main points of a research project. It is used to give a concise summary of the study.
Grant Proposals	In grant proposals, a thesis is used to clearly state the research objectives and hypotheses. It helps to outline the scope and significance of the proposed study.	A synopsis in a grant proposal serves as a concise description of the project, highlighting the key aspects and potential outcomes. It provides a snapshot of the research.
Book Publishing	For book publishing, a thesis is essential to present the central argument or theme of the book. It helps to guide the reader through the content and main ideas.	A synopsis in book publishing serves as a brief summary of the plot, characters, and major events in the book. It gives readers a glimpse of what to expect.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using thesis and synopsis are generally clear-cut, there are a few key exceptions to keep in mind. In these cases, it’s important to understand the nuances of each term to ensure accurate communication.

Exception 1: Creative Writing

In the realm of creative writing, the distinction between thesis and synopsis can become blurred. In this context, a thesis may refer to a central idea or theme in a piece of fiction, rather than a formal academic statement. For example, in a novel, the thesis could be the underlying message or moral of the story.

Exception 2: Film Industry

When it comes to the film industry, the term synopsis is often used in a slightly different way. In this context, a synopsis is a brief summary of a screenplay or movie plot, rather than a formal academic summary. For instance, a film synopsis might be used to pitch a movie idea to producers or investors.

Exception 3: Scientific Research

In scientific research, the terms thesis and synopsis can take on unique meanings. A thesis in this context may refer to a hypothesis or proposed explanation for a scientific phenomenon. On the other hand, a synopsis could be a concise summary of a research study’s methodology and findings.

Understanding the key differences between a thesis and a synopsis is crucial for academic and research purposes. A thesis is a comprehensive document that presents a student’s research findings and analysis, while a synopsis is a brief summary of the main points of a research paper or project. It is essential to know when to use each document and how to effectively communicate your research goals and findings. By grasping the distinctions between a thesis and a synopsis, researchers and students can enhance the clarity and impact of their work.

R.J. is the new owner of GrammarBeast.com. Having worked in bookstores, libraries, and more, his passion for grammar and writing are pivotal. As a ghostwriter for books that have sold tens of thousands of copies, he wants to help others find the right words and understand the differences.

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Difference Between Thesis and Synopsis

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Thesis, Synopsis, and Research Proposal: Understanding the Differences

Academic writing can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to comprehending the various documents required at different stages of research and educational programs. Terms such as thesis, synopsis, and research proposal are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. The purpose of this blog is to clarify the differences between these terms and their respective purposes and components. So let’s understand key difference between thesis and synopsis.

Table of Contents

What is a Thesis?

A thesis is a comprehensive document presenting original research on a specific topic. It is typically required to obtain higher academic degrees, such as a master ‘s or Ph.D degree. The primary purpose of a thesis is to contribute new knowledge to the field of study. It demonstrates students’ research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to conduct independent research. A thesis usually includes the following sections:

Introduction: Sets the stage for the research, outlining the problem statement, research questions, and objectives.
Literature Review: Reviews existing research and identifies gaps that the current study aims to fill.
Methodology: Describes the research design, methods, and procedures used to collect and analyse data.
Results: Presents the findings of the research.
Discussion: Interprets the results, explaining their significance and how they fit into the broader field of study.
Conclusion: Summarizes the research, its implications, and suggestions for future research.

The length of a thesis can vary significantly depending on the discipline and the institution’s requirements, typically ranging from 50 to 500 pages.

What is a Synopsis?

A synopsis summarises a larger work, such as a thesis, book, or research project. Its primary purpose is to provide an overview that helps readers quickly understand the main points of the work. Synopses are often used in academic settings to give reviewers a research snapshot. A well-structured synopsis typically includes:

Title: Concise and informative.
Introduction: Briefly outline the research purpose and objectives.
Methodology: Summarizes the research methods and procedures.
Summary of Findings: Highlights key results and insights.
Conclusion: Provides a brief conclusion and significance of the research.

A synopsis is usually much shorter than a thesis, ranging from one to ten pages.

Difference Between Thesis and Synopsis

Scope and Detail:

Thesis: Extensive and detailed, presenting in-depth research and findings.
Synopsis: Concise and to the point, providing a high-level overview.

Purpose and Usage:

Thesis: Aim to contribute new knowledge and demonstrate research skills.
Synopsis: Aims to provide a quick overview and generate interest.
Thesis: Completed after conducting research.
Synopsis: Can be part of a thesis or written for proposals and overviews.

What is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a document proposing a research project, often submitted for academic approval or funding. It outlines the research plan and convinces stakeholders of its feasibility and importance. A typical research proposal includes:

Title: Clear and descriptive.
Introduction: Sets the context and outlines the research problem and objectives.
Literature Review : Reviews existing research and identifies the research gap.
Research Questions: Clearly stated questions that the research aims to answer.
Methodology: Detailed plan of research design, methods, and procedures.
Expected Results: Anticipated outcomes and their significance.
Budget and Timeline: Estimated costs and a schedule for completing the research.

Role: The primary role of a research proposal is to convince the review committee or funding bodies of the research’s value and feasibility.

Differences Between a Synopsis and a Research Proposal

Content Focus:

Synopsis: Summarises the entire research work, focusing on the main points.
Research Proposal: Details the planned research, including the approach, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Synopsis: Provides a snapshot of the research for quick understanding.
Research Proposal: Seeks approval or funding by detailing the research plan.
Synopsis: Short and concise, often part of a larger work.
Research Proposal: Comprehensive and detailed, often a standalone document.

How to Write a Synopsis for a Thesis

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose a Concise and Informative Title: Ensure it reflects the essence of the research.
Write a Clear Introduction: Outline the research purpose and objectives.
Describe the Methodology: Summarize the research design, methods, and procedures.
Summarize the Findings: Highlight the key results and insights.
Provide a Brief Conclusion: Summarize the significance of the research.
Be Clear and Concise: Focus on the main points without going into too much detail.
Use a Logical Structure: Enhance readability by organising content logically.
Avoid Jargon: Make it accessible to a broad audience.

Understanding the differences between a thesis, synopsis, and research proposal is crucial for academic success. Each document serves a unique purpose and requires a distinct approach. A thesis is a detailed and comprehensive presentation of original research, while a synopsis provides a concise overview. A research proposal outlines the planned study and seeks approval or funding. Students and researchers can effectively communicate their work and achieve their academic goals by understanding their differences and following structured guidelines.

Are synopsis and thesis the same?

No, a synopsis and a thesis are not the same. They serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:


A thesis is a comprehensive academic document that presents original research on a specific topic. It includes detailed sections such as an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Theses are required for obtaining higher academic degrees like a Master’s or Ph.D. They are typically extensive and aim to contribute new knowledge to a field of study	A synopsis is a concise summary of a larger work, such as a thesis, book, or research project. It provides a brief overview of the main points, helping readers quickly understand the content and purpose of the work. Synopses are usually much shorter than theses and are often used to give potential reviewers or funding bodies a snapshot of the research.

What is the difference between a synopsis and research?

The terms “synopsis” and “research” refer to different aspects of academic work:

As mentioned, a synopsis is a summary or overview of a larger work. It highlights the main points, objectives, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. A synopsis provides a quick understanding of the content and scope of the research without going into extensive detail.

Research is the process of systematically investigating a specific topic or question to discover new information, reach new conclusions, or develop new theories. It involves various steps, including defining a problem, reviewing existing literature, designing a methodology, collecting and analysing data, and interpreting the results. The output of research can be detailed in various forms, such as research papers, theses, or dissertations.

What is the difference between a synopsis and a research proposal?

A synopsis and a research proposal are distinct documents with different purposes and structures:

A synopsis is a summary of an existing or completed research work. It provides an overview of the main aspects of the research, including the purpose, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. Synopses are often used to give a quick snapshot of the study to reviewers, publishers, or funding bodies.

A research proposal is a detailed plan for a research project that is yet to be conducted. It outlines the research questions, objectives, literature review, methodology, expected results, budget, and timeline. The primary purpose of a research proposal is to convince , such as academic committees or funding agencies, of the feasibility and importance of the proposed research. It provides a roadmap for how the research will be conducted and what it aims to achieve

How to Write a Great Synopsis for Thesis

A synopsis is a structured outline of a research thesis and the steps followed to answer the research question. The goal of writing a synopsis is to clearly and thoroughly explain the need to investigate a certain problem using particular practical methods to conduct the study. One of the main components of this written work is an extensive literature review containing strong evidence that the proposed research is feasible.

Establishing the Background

A supervisor may ask you to write a synopsis for one or more reasons:

to help you improve your critical thinking and writing skills
to help you understand how to design a comprehensive synopsis
to encourage you to write a comprehensive literature review to make sure that the research problem has not been answered yet
to make you conduct a logical analysis of the steps that should be followed to meet the objectives of the research

A synopsis should be coherent in terms of research design. Thus, you should ensure that the research problem, aims, and research methods are logically linked and well-considered. Note that all synopses should contain answers for several crucial questions:

Why should research on the proposed problem be undertaken?
What is expected to be achieved?
What has been done by other researchers on the proposed topic?
How will the objectives of the study be achieved?

The Writing Process

Before proceeding, consider answering the following questions:

Why am I going to study this topic?
Why do I consider it to be important?
Have I conducted an extensive literature review on the topic?
What problem will the research help to solve?
How do I incorporate previous studies on the topic?

The structure of a synopsis should correspond to the structure of qualifying research work, and the word count should be 2,500–3,000 words (Balu 38). The basic elements of a synopsis include a title page, contents page, an introduction, background, literature review, objectives, methods, experiments and results, conclusions, and references.

Introduction

As this comprises the first part of the main text, the introduction should convince readers that the study addresses a relevant topic and that the expected outcomes will provide important insights. Also, this section should include a brief description of the methods that will be used to answer the research question. Usually, the introduction is written in 1–3 paragraphs and answers the following questions:

What is the topic of the research?
What is the research problem that needs to be meaningfully understood or investigated?
Why is the problem important?
How will the problem be studied?

In this section, you should set the scene and better introduce the research topic by proving its scientific legitimacy and relevance. It is important to establish a clear focus and avoid broad generalizations and vague statements. If necessary, you may explain key concepts or terms. Consider covering the following points in this section:

Discuss how the research will contribute to the existing scientific knowledge.
Provide a detailed description of the research problem and purpose of the research.
Provide a rationale for the study.
Explain how the research question will be answered.
Be sure to discuss the methods chosen and anticipated implications of the research.

Literature Review

A review of existing literature is an important part of a synopsis, as it:

gives a more detailed look at scientific information related to the topic
familiarizes readers with research conducted by others on a similar subject
gives insight into the difficulties faced by other researchers
helps identify variables for the research based on similar studies
helps double-check the feasibility of the research problem.

When writing the literature review, do not simply present a list of methods researchers have used and conclusions they have drawn. It is important to compare and contrast different opinions and be unafraid to criticize some of them. Pay attention to controversial issues and divergent approaches used to address similar problems. You may discuss which arguments are more persuasive and which methods and techniques seem to be more valid and reliable. In this section, you are expected not to summarize but analyze the previous research while remembering to link it to your own purpose.

Identify the objectives of the research based on the literature review. Provide an overall objective related to the scientific contribution of the study to the subject area. Also include a specific objective that can be measured at the end of the research.

When writing this section, consider that the aim of the research is to produce new knowledge regarding the topic chosen. Therefore, the research methodology forms the core of your project, and your goal is to convince readers that the research design and methods chosen will rationally answer the research questions and provide effective tools to interpret the results correctly. It may be appropriate to incorporate some examples from your literature review into the description of the overall research design.

When describing the research methodology, ensure that you specify the approaches and techniques that will be used to answer the research question. In addition, be specific about applying the chosen methods and what you expect to achieve. Keep in mind that the methods section allows readers to evaluate the validity and feasibility of the study. Therefore, be sure to explain your decision to adopt specific methods and procedures. It is also important to discuss the anticipated barriers and limitations of the study and how they will be addressed. Specify what kind of contribution to the existing knowledge on the topic is expected, and discuss any ethical considerations that are relevant to the research.

Experiments and Results

Logically present and analyze the results of the study using tables or figures.

In this section, you should again state the significance of the research and summarize the study. Be sure to mention the study objectives and methods used to answer the research questions. Also, discuss how the results of the study contribute to the current knowledge on the problem.

A synopsis should contain a list of all references used. Make sure the references are formatted according to the chosen citation style and each source presented in this section is mentioned within the body of the synopsis.

The purpose of writing a synopsis is to show a supervisor a clear picture of a proposed project and allow him or her to find any gaps that have not been considered previously. A concisely written synopsis will help you gain approval to proceed with the actual research. While no rigid rules for writing this type of paper have been established, a synopsis should be constructed in a manner to help a supervisor understand the proposed research at first glance.

Balu, R. “Writing a Good Ph.D Research Synopsis.” International Journal of Research in Science and Technology, vol. 5, no. 4, 2015, pp. 38–48.

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Getting started
Criteria for a problem formulation
Find who and what you are looking for
Too broad, too narrow, or o.k.?
Test your knowledge
Lesson 5: Meeting your supervisor
Getting started: summary
Literature search
Searching for articles
Searching for Data
Databases provided by your library
Other useful search tools
Free text, truncating and exact phrase
Combining search terms – Boolean operators
Keep track of your search strategies
Problems finding your search terms?
Different sources, different evaluations
Extract by relevance
Lesson 4: Obtaining literature
Literature search: summary
Research methods
Combining qualitative and quantitative methods
Collecting data
Analysing data
Strengths and limitations
Explanatory, analytical and experimental studies
The Nature of Secondary Data
How to Conduct a Systematic Review
Directional Policy Research
Strategic Policy Research
Operational Policy Research
Conducting Research Evaluation
Research Methods: Summary
Project management
Project budgeting
Data management plan
Quality Control
Project control
Project management: Summary
Writing process
Title page, abstract, foreword, abbreviations, table of contents
Introduction, methods, results
Discussion, conclusions, recomendations, references, appendices, layout
Use citations correctly
Use references correctly
Bibliographic software
Writing process – summary
Getting started /

Lesson 4: Synopsis

In order to clarify your thoughts about the purpose of your thesis and how you plan to reach your research goals, you should prepare a synopsis. A synopsis is a short, systematic outline of your proposed thesis, made in preparation for your first meeting with your supervisor. It serves to ensure that your supervisor gets a clear picture of your proposed project and allows him or her to spot whether there are gaps or things that you have not taken into account.

Your synopsis will work as a kind of protocol for the further steps you need to take to ensure that your thesis reaches the required academic level – and that you finish on time.

Although there are no rigid rules for how a synopsis should look, it must contain:

Rationale – should address the gaps/problems/issues observed as part of the background section and thus present the argument/justification for completing the study – as described in the lesson of the same name.
Problem formulation – the problem you aim to address in your thesis,as described in the lesson of the same name.
Overall and specific objectives – the actions to be taken in order to address the problem, as described in the lesson of the same name.
Method outline: What type of study is best suited to support the actions stated in the specific objectives? What kind of data (qualitative, quantitative) will your study require? What is your geographical study area and who is your target group(s)? Are there ethical considerations you have to make? Etc.
Time plan: In the beginning, a rough timeline showing a plan on how your work will be divided over time. When is your deadline for e.g. literature search, potential fieldwork (e.g. interviews and/or questionnaire administration), data analysis, writing and layout? Once your problem formulation and objectives are approved by your supervisor, all details should be added to your time plan.
References : Create a short list of the major references on which your rationale is based. Make sure that your in-text citations and reference list are completed correctly, both in support of your subsequent work, but also to demonstrate that you have a serious, scientific and methodical approach to your work. See how to use references correctly in the lesson of the same name in the module: Writing process.

At the beginning of your thesis period, your synopsis will be limited in scope and detail, but as you work your way deeper into your topic and you get a clearer picture of your objectives, methods and references, the more complete and detailed your synopsis will become.

A rule of thumb is that the length of your synopsis can vary from two to five pages, but the precise length and exact requirements of your synopsis can vary from institute to institute and from supervisor to supervisor.

Most study programmes will require that you present a final synopsis before starting data collection. However, the first version of your synopsis for discussion with your supervisor should not be an informal draft. Carefully performed work creates respect and motivation and saves a lot of you and your supervisor’s time.

A good approach from the very beginning is to establish a practice of how to write headings, references, names of species, etc. And be consistent. This will help you save time and importantly, lead to a better overall assessment of your final work.

Do you now know how to write a synopsis. Test yourself in the following.

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Difference Between Writing An Abstract And A Synopsis

Difference Between Writing An Abstract

By AnkitJain Category : PhD Synopsis

This is not something for us to tell, everyone already knows that a doctoral degree and a successful PhD research serve as the highest academic qualifications in a subject area. This means it has to be as perfect as it can be.

This is why it is important to understand the basics of developing a PhD thesis which brings us to one of the most important factors of a thesis; that is, writing the abstract and thesis synopsis.

A lot of PhD aspirants often struggle with the difference in writing an abstract and a synopsis. Here, we have enlisted a few points which will help you in understanding the difference between writing an abstract and synopsis for PhD Thesis .

What Is An Abstract?

Sticking to the point, an abstract is simply a short (ranging from 200-300 words) overview of the PhD thesis which is developed for the readers, audience, future researchers, and sometimes even for your future job applications, where the reader does not have much time to go through your entire thesis to understand what the research is about.

The abstract must only contain the highlights of the PhD thesis, like:

the research introduction
the research purpose
the problem statement
the research methodology and framework
the research findings
the result and conclusion

Now, you see, to include all these points in a 200-300 words short paragraph or roughly one page worth of content, the abstract only has 2-3 lines dedicated to each section. It helps the readers and audience to evaluate whether the PhD thesis focuses on the things they are looking into or not.

What Is A Thesis Synopsis?

A PhD thesis synopsis is also a summarized version of the complete thesis research but it is much longer and detailed than the abstract of the thesis. In fact, in some cases, the thesis synopsis might also include the abstract of the thesis, if the university guidelines mention it.

A synopsis writing strictly include the following areas:

the research title and topic introduction
the research requirements
the literature review
the research gap and problem statement
the research methodology
the research significance, scope and objectives
the expected budget and deadline of the research

A PhD thesis synopsis is also known as proposal because it proposes the idea of the researcher to the research committee. It is important to understand that synopsis, thus, needs to be well-curated in order to get the acceptance for conducting the whole research.

Difference Between Thesis Abstract And Synopsis

To keep it easily interpretable and straightforward, we have divided the differences in points on the basis of which you can deduct the basic differences between the two.

An abstract is written after the PhD thesis has been developed as it includes the result section as well and it needs to be added with the thesis while submitting it to the research committee or sending it to get published.

Whereas, a thesis synopsis needs to be written before the thesis development and must receive the acceptance by the concerned authorities in order to get the approval for the research conduct.

Significance:

The abstract is mostly significant in boosting the career and is more prominent for the later stages that come after the doctoral degree. As in getting a job or publishing the research where the editors and viewers go through the abstract first because of the time shortage.

As for the synopsis, it is more important for academia and shows the ideas and perceptions of the young scholars.

The abstract is usually written in one of two paragraphs and appears first in the PhD thesis; whereas, the synopsis contains different headlines just like the different chapters in PhD thesis writing to clearly discuss all those areas and is not connected with the PhD thesis but is submitted separately.

Inclusions:

Other than the brief introduction and highlights of the PhD thesis, the abstract also talks about the result. The main focus remains on giving the complete overview of the research. However, the synopsis writing does not include the results and conclusions. It mainly focuses on the importance of the research and the course of development providing a framework to the research that needs to be conducted.

A smart person once said “if you want a thing done well, then do it yourself”, but we say when you can get the better work, then don’t settle for anything less that can affect your PhD research and academic career in one blow.

A lot of scholars make mistakes when they end up writing the summary of synopsis in the abstract considering it right. Having errors in complex areas can still be avoided considering the overall research, but having errors in the basics may portray you as ignorant in regards to your study.

For consultancy and any PhD thesis guidance services, get in touch with our teams of experts or leave your query and we will call you back.

The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
makes a claim that others might dispute.
is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

Do I answer the question? Yes!
Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Research Papers

How to Write a Research Synopsis: Template, Examples, & More

Last Updated: May 9, 2024 Fact Checked

Research Synopsis Template

Organizing & Formatting
Writing Your Synopsis
Reviewing & Editing

This article was reviewed by Gerald Posner and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. 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 273,850 times.

A research synopsis describes the plan for your research project and is typically submitted to professors or department heads so they can approve your project. Most synopses are between 3,000 and 4,000 words and provide your research objectives and methods. While the specific types of information you need to include in your synopsis may vary depending on your department guidelines, most synopses include the same basic sections. In this article, we’ll walk you step-by-step through everything you need to know to write a synopsis for research.

Things You Should Know

Begin your research synopsis by introducing the question your research will answer and its importance to your field.
List 2 or 3 specific objectives you hope to achieve and how they will advance your field.
Discuss your methodology to demonstrate why the study design you chose is appropriate for your research question.

Organizing Your Research Synopsis

Step 1 Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor.

Find out what citation format you’re supposed to use, as well as whether you’re expected to use parenthetical references or footnotes in the body of your synopsis.
If you have questions about anything in your guidelines, ask your instructor or advisor to ensure you follow them correctly.

Step 2 Set up the headings for your sections.

Title: the title of your study
Abstract: a summary of your research synopsis
Introduction: identifies and describes your research question
Literature Review: a review of existing relevant research
Objectives: goals you hope to accomplish through your study
Hypotheses: results you expect to find through your research
Methodology and methods: explains the methods you’ll use to complete your study
References: a list of any references used in citations

Tip: Your synopsis might have additional sections, depending on your discipline and the type of research you're conducting. Talk to your instructor or advisor about which sections are required for your department.

Keep in mind that you might not end up using all the sources you initially found. After you've finished your synopsis, go back and delete the ones you didn't use.

Writing Your Research Synopsis

Step 1 Format your title page following your instructor’s guidelines.

Your title should be a brief and specific reflection of the main objectives of your study. In general, it should be under 50 words and should avoid unneeded phrases like “an investigation into.”
On the other hand, avoid a title that’s too short, as well. For example, a title like “A Study of Urban Heating” is too short and doesn’t provide any insight into the specifics of your research.

Step 2 Identify your research problem with the introduction.

The introduction allows you to explain to your reader exactly why the question you’re trying to answer is vital and how your knowledge and experience make you the best researcher to tackle it.
Support most of the statements in your introduction with other studies in the area that support the importance of your question. For example, you might cite a previous study that mentions your problem as an area where further research needs to be done.
The length of your introduction will vary depending on the overall length of your synopsis as well as the ultimate length of your eventual paper after you’ve finished your research. Generally, it will cover the first page or two of your synopsis.

Step 3 In your literature review, describe the work done by other researchers.

For example, try finding relevant literature through educational journals or bulletins from organizations like WHO and CDC.
Typically, a thorough literature review discusses 8 to 10 previous studies related to your research problem.
As with the introduction, the length of your literature review will vary depending on the overall length of your synopsis. Generally, it will be about the same length as your introduction.
Try to use the most current research available and avoid sources over 5 years old.

Step 4 Set forth the goals or objectives for your research project.

For example, an objective for research on urban heating could be “to compare urban heat modification caused by vegetation of mixed species considering the 5 most common urban trees in an area.”
Generally, the overall objective doesn’t relate to solving a specific problem or answering a specific question. Rather, it describes how your particular project will advance your field.
For specific objectives, think in terms of action verbs like “quantify” or “compare.” Here, you’re hoping to gain a better understanding of associations between particular variables.

Step 5 List your hypotheses for your research project.

Specify the sources you used and the reasons you have arrived at your hypotheses. Typically, these will come from prior studies that have shown similar relationships.
For example, suppose a prior study showed that children who were home-schooled were less likely to be in fraternities or sororities in college. You might use that study to back up a hypothesis that home-schooled children are more independent and less likely to need strong friendship support networks.

Step 6 Discuss the methodology and methods you’ll use in your research.

Expect your methodology to be at least as long as either your introduction or your literature review, if not longer. Include enough detail that your reader can fully understand how you’re going to carry out your study.
This section of your synopsis may include information about how you plan to collect and analyze your data, the overall design of your study, and your sampling methods, if necessary. Include information about the study setting, like the facilities and equipment that are available to you to carry out your study.
For example, your research work may take place in a hospital, and you may use cluster sampling to gather data.

Use between 100 and 200 words to give your readers a basic understanding of your research project.
Include a clear statement of the problem, the main goals or objectives of your study, the theories or conceptual framework your research relies upon, and the methods you’ll use to reach your goals or objectives.

Tip: Jot down a few notes as you draft your other sections that you can compile for your abstract to keep your writing more efficient.

Reviewing and Editing Your Research Synopsis

Step 1 Take a break before you start editing.

If you don’t have that kind of time because you’re up against a deadline, at least take a few hours away from your synopsis before you go back to edit it. Do something entirely unrelated to your research, like taking a walk or going to a movie.

Eliminate sentences that don’t add any new information. Even the longest synopsis is a brief document—make sure every word needs to be there and counts for something.
Get rid of jargon and terms of art in your field that could be better explained in plain language. Even though your likely readers are people who are well-versed in your field, providing plain language descriptions shows you know what you’re talking about. Using jargon can seem like you’re trying to sound like you know more than you actually do.

Tip: Free apps, such as Grammarly and Hemingway App, can help you identify grammatical errors as well as areas where your writing could be clearer. However, you shouldn't rely solely on apps since they can miss things.

Step 3 Check the format of your references.

Reference list formatting is very particular. Read your references out loud, with the punctuation and spacing, to pick up on errors you wouldn’t have noticed if you’d just read over them.
Compare your format to the one in the stylebook you’re using and make sure all of your entries are correct.

Step 4 Proofread your synopsis carefully.

Read your synopsis backward by starting on the last word and reading each word separately from the last to the first. This helps isolate spelling errors. Reading backward sentence by sentence helps you isolate grammatical errors without being distracted by the content.
Print your synopsis and circle every punctuation mark with a red pen. Then, go through them and focus on whether they’re correct.
Read your synopsis out loud, including the punctuation, as though you were dictating the synopsis.

Step 5 Share your paper with classmates and friends for review.

Have at least one person who isn’t familiar with your area of study look over your synopsis. If they can understand your project, you know your writing is clear. If any parts confuse them, then that’s an area where you can improve the clarity of your writing.

Step 6 Do a second round of editing and proofreading.

Expert Q&A

If you make significant changes to your synopsis after your first or second round of editing, you may need to proofread it again to make sure you didn’t introduce any new errors. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ https://admin.umt.edu.pk/Media/Site/iib1/FileManager/FORMAT%20OF%20SYNOPSIS%2012-10-2018.pdf
↑ https://www.scientificstyleandformat.org/Tools/SSF-Citation-Quick-Guide.html
↑ https://numspak.edu.pk/upload/media/Guidelines%20for%20Synopsis%20Writing1531455748.pdf
↑ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279917593_Research_synopsis_guidelines
↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

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Difference between Thesis and Synopsis

What is the difference between thesis and synopsis.

Thesis as a noun is a statement supported by arguments. while Synopsis as a noun is a brief summary of the major points of a written work, either as prose or as a table; an abridgment or condensation of a work.

Part of speech: noun

Definition: A statement supported by arguments. A written essay submitted for a university degree.

Definition: A brief summary of the major points of a written work, either as prose or as a table; an abridgment or condensation of a work. A prayer book for use by the laity of the church.

We hope you now know whether to use Thesis or Synopsis in your sentence.

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People often get confused between similar sounding words or synonyms. Most of the time these words have slightly different meanings, and some time entirely different meanings. We help people discover the difference between these words.

Thesis and Purpose Statements

Use the guidelines below to learn the differences between thesis and purpose statements.

In the first stages of writing, thesis or purpose statements are usually rough or ill-formed and are useful primarily as planning tools.

A thesis statement or purpose statement will emerge as you think and write about a topic. The statement can be restricted or clarified and eventually worked into an introduction.

As you revise your paper, try to phrase your thesis or purpose statement in a precise way so that it matches the content and organization of your paper.

Thesis statements

A thesis statement is a sentence that makes an assertion about a topic and predicts how the topic will be developed. It does not simply announce a topic: it says something about the topic.

Good: X has made a significant impact on the teenage population due to its . . . Bad: In this paper, I will discuss X.

A thesis statement makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of the paper. It summarizes the conclusions that the writer has reached about the topic.

A thesis statement is generally located near the end of the introduction. Sometimes in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or an entire paragraph.

A thesis statement is focused and specific enough to be proven within the boundaries of the paper. Key words (nouns and verbs) should be specific, accurate, and indicative of the range of research, thrust of the argument or analysis, and the organization of supporting information.

Purpose statements

A purpose statement announces the purpose, scope, and direction of the paper. It tells the reader what to expect in a paper and what the specific focus will be.

Common beginnings include:

“This paper examines . . .,” “The aim of this paper is to . . .,” and “The purpose of this essay is to . . .”

A purpose statement makes a promise to the reader about the development of the argument but does not preview the particular conclusions that the writer has drawn.

A purpose statement usually appears toward the end of the introduction. The purpose statement may be expressed in several sentences or even an entire paragraph.

A purpose statement is specific enough to satisfy the requirements of the assignment. Purpose statements are common in research papers in some academic disciplines, while in other disciplines they are considered too blunt or direct. If you are unsure about using a purpose statement, ask your instructor.

This paper will examine the ecological destruction of the Sahel preceding the drought and the causes of this disintegration of the land. The focus will be on the economic, political, and social relationships which brought about the environmental problems in the Sahel.

Sample purpose and thesis statements

The following example combines a purpose statement and a thesis statement (bold).

The goal of this paper is to examine the effects of Chile’s agrarian reform on the lives of rural peasants. The nature of the topic dictates the use of both a chronological and a comparative analysis of peasant lives at various points during the reform period. . . The Chilean reform example provides evidence that land distribution is an essential component of both the improvement of peasant conditions and the development of a democratic society. More extensive and enduring reforms would likely have allowed Chile the opportunity to further expand these horizons.

For more tips about writing thesis statements, take a look at our new handout on Developing a Thesis Statement.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Developing a Thesis Statement

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

Have a language expert improve your writing

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

What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples

Published on 15 September 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on 25 July 2024.

A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a PhD program in the UK.

Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Indeed, alongside a dissertation , it is the longest piece of writing students typically complete. It relies on your ability to conduct research from start to finish: designing your research , collecting data , developing a robust analysis, drawing strong conclusions , and writing concisely .

Thesis template

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

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Be assured that you'll submit flawless writing. Upload your document to correct all your mistakes.

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

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

A thesis statement is a very common component of an essay, particularly in the humanities. It usually comprises 1 or 2 sentences in the introduction of your essay , and should clearly and concisely summarise the central points of your academic essay .
A thesis is a long-form piece of academic writing, often taking more than a full semester to complete. It is generally a degree requirement to complete a PhD program.
In many countries, particularly the UK, a dissertation is generally written at the bachelor’s or master’s level.
In the US, a dissertation is generally written as a final step toward obtaining a PhD.

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

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

Your discipline
Your theoretical approach

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

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

Thesis examples

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

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

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

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

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

Theoretical framework

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

Cite this Scribbr article

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

George, T. (2024, July 25). What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 9 September 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/thesis-ultimate-guide/

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Dissertation vs Thesis: The Differences that Matter

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

Dissertation vs Thesis: The Differences that Matter

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: April 26, 2020

Dissertation-vs-Thesis-The-Differences-that-Matter

As a graduate student, you will have many different types of challenging coursework and assignments. However, the biggest project that you’ll work on when earning your master’s or doctoral degree will be your thesis or dissertation . The differences between a dissertation vs thesis are plenty. That’s because each of these pieces of writing happen at different times in one’s educational journey.

Let’s break down what a dissertation and thesis are so that you have a strong handle on what’s expected. For both a thesis and a dissertation, there is an obvious fluency and understanding of the subject one studies.

Let’s take a look at their similarities and differences.

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

What is a dissertation.

When you enter a doctoral program to earn a PhD, you will learn a lot about how to conduct your own research. At the culmination of your degree program, you’ll produce a dissertation.

A dissertation is a lengthy piece of written work that includes original research or expanded research on a new or existing topic. As the doctoral student, you get to choose what you want to explore and write about within your field of study.

What is a Thesis?

A thesis is also a scholarly piece of writing, but it is for those who are graduating from a master’s program. A thesis allows students to showcase their knowledge and expertise within the subject matter they have been studying.

Main Differences Between a Thesis vs. Dissertation

The biggest difference between a thesis and a dissertation is that a thesis is based on existing research.

On the other hand, a dissertation will more than likely require the doctoral student to conduct their own research and then perform analysis. The other big difference is that a thesis is for master’s students and the dissertation is for PhD students.

Structural Differences Between a Thesis and a Dissertation

Structurally, the two pieces of written analysis have many differences.

A thesis is at least 100 pages in length
A dissertation is 2-3x that in length
A thesis expands upon and analyzes existing research
A dissertation’s content is mostly attributed to the student as the author

Research Content and Oral Presentation

Once completed, some programs require students to orally present their thesis and dissertation to a panel of faculty members.

Typically, a dissertation oral presentation can take several hours. On the other hand, a thesis only takes about an hour to present and answer questions.

Let’s look at how the two scholarly works are similar and different:

Similarities:

Each is considered a final project and required to graduate
Both require immense understanding of the material
Written skills are key to complete both
Neither can be plagiarized
Both are used to defend an argument
Both require analytical skills
You will have to draft, rewrite, and edit both pieces of writing
For both, it is useful to have another person look over before submission
Both papers are given deadlines

Differences:

A dissertation is longer than a thesis
A dissertation requires new research
A dissertation requires a hypothesis that is then proven
A thesis chooses a stance on an existing idea and defends it with analysis
A dissertation has a longer oral presentation component

The Differences in Context: Location Matters

The united states.

In the US, everything that was previously listed is how schools differentiate between a thesis and a dissertation. A thesis is performed by master’s students, and a dissertation is written by PhD candidates.

In Europe, the distinction between a thesis and dissertation becomes a little more cloudy. That’s because PhD programs may require a doctoral thesis to graduate. Then, as a part of a broader post-graduate research project, students may complete a dissertation.

Photo by Russ Ward on Unsplash

The purpose behind written research.

Each piece of writing is an opportunity for a student to demonstrate his or her ability to think critically, express their opinions in writing, and present their findings in front of their department.

Graduate degrees take a lot of time, energy, and hard work to complete. When it comes to writing such lengthy and informative pieces, there is a lot of time management that is involved. The purpose of both a thesis and a dissertation are written proof that you understand and have mastered the subject matter of your degree.

Degree Types

A doctoral degree, or PhD, is the highest degree that one can earn. In most cases, students follow the following path to achieve this level of education: Earn a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s, and then a PhD. While not every job title requires this deep educational knowledge, the salaries that come along with each level of higher education increase accordingly.

Earning Your Degree

Whether you are currently a prospective student considering earning your higher education degree or a student enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program, you know the benefits of education.

However, for some, earning a traditional degree on-campus doesn’t make sense. This could be because of the financial challenges, familial obligations, accessibility, or any other number of reasons.

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Difference between a Research Proposal and a Synopsis

September 5, 2022
Research Paper Writing , Thesis Writing , YouTube Journal
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In the beginning, we can say that a summary is a brief, compact overview of the main points in a longer document. The purpose is to give readers an idea of what’s in the full-length document without reading it all & how to write synopsis. A synopsis for thesis can be a shorter version of your document that’s designed to give readers an overview of your ideas and conclusions. A research proposal is a formal document that outlines the scope and direction of an academic study or research project. It includes a plan for how you will collect data and analyze it, as well as how you will present your results with un understanding the difference between research proposal and synopsis

An Overview of both Documents:

Synopsis vs Research Proposal

A synopsis is a short form of your full research proposal and is just the introduction to the report. It convinces readers that you understand their problem and can provide a solution.

A research proposal is a detailed plan of how you will conduct your study. The research proposal includes a study design, which includes the specific questions that need to be answered, sampling strategy, data collection methods, analysis plan and reporting format.

How to write a Synopsis?

A synopsis for thesis is a brief, concise description of your paper. With learning how to write synopsis, communicate the main ideas and arguments in your paper and to tell someone else what you’re going to say. A good synopsis is a way for you to organize your ideas before you write the whole thing, and it helps others determine if they want to read further.

A synopsis for thesis is a summary of your article. It should be written in the following format:

Title of your book or article (in bold)
Author’s name and contact details (in italics)
The main idea of your article or book (in bold)
Introduction (optional)
Body (in bold)
Conclusion (optional)

How to write a Research Proposal?

Research Proposal – It is a document in which you state your thesis and goals, along with the method and rationale for your research. A thesis statement is the single most important part of a research proposal. It should be clear, concise, and specific.

The main purpose of this proposal is to get funding for your research. The proposal should also demonstrate how well-equipped you are to do the research.

This proposal aims to develop a new way of understanding the world through a systematic and comprehensive analysis of how society learns about the world.

This paper will focus on how people make sense of the w around them by using tools such as languages, maps, technology and science, thereby contributing to our ability to understand our surroundings.

Difference between a Research Proposal and a Synopsis for thesis:

The basic difference between a research proposal and a synopsis is that the former is more in-depth, whereas the latter is more condensed. However, this does not mean that researchers should not write synopses for their publications. To do so is to miss out on useful information that can be added later.

The advantage of writing a synopsis is that it provides a reader with an overview of your research project without having to read through large amounts of text. It also helps to explain your research topic and why it is relevant. A synopsis will help you decide whether or not your topic is worth pursuing further by ensuring that there are enough sources available for you to continue your research.

What is the purpose of our research proposal?

The purpose of the research proposal is to convince your advisor or committee that there is enough merit in your proposal to justify their funding of the project and their time reviewing it. A good proposal will include:

An overview of the problem or question you are addressing
A detailed description of how you plan to address this question or solve this problem
A clear statement of what evidence supports your claim and how you will use this evidence to support your claim
A discussion about how well-known and accepted methods can be used as part of this work (this is called quantitative analysis).

Why do people confuse the two?

In the first place, a research proposal is not a synopsis. A summary should be brief and to the point, while a research proposal would have all of your data and evidence lined up on one page.

A synopsis for thesis is written in the first-person voice and focuses on the story’s main points without delving too far into details. A synopsis can help readers get an idea of what you’re writing about or help them find information on a particular topic. It’s often used in book sales to determine if they have enough information on their hands to sell your book or not.

An academic or professional author writes a research proposal as part of their job. It is meant to provide evidence that supports their argument through data and statistical analysis.

Tips for writing a Research Proposal flawlessly:

Writing a research proposal is not as easy as it seems. You must choose the right topic and then write the proposal in a way that will convince your reader of your ability to carry out the research.
The first step in writing a research proposal is to select an area of study or research in which you are interested. If you have any previous experience with this topic, consider using it as part of your proposal. If not, find someone with previous experience in the field and ask them for their advice.
Once you have decided on a topic, begin by writing down what you know about this area of interest. This can include anything from books or articles to news stories or television shows that have aired about the topic. Ensure all relevant information about this topic, including key terms or definitions.
Once you have written down everything you know about your topic, it’s time to develop an outline for your dissertation proposal. An outline is an organised list of topics that will make up each chapter of your dissertation proposal and should include subtopics within each topic area (for example, introduction, background information; objectives; methods; data collection).

The more important your paper, the more likely you’ll need to write a research proposal and a synopsis. A research proposal is usually the first step in the writing process, an overview of the topic you plan to tackle later. A synopsis, on the other hand, is a concise summary of the content of your paper. We hope this blog has given you a proper explanation for understanding the differences.

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Dissertation

How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion

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

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

In it, you should:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An empirical thesis or dissertation conclusion may begin like this:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some strategies to achieve this include:

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

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

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

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

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

V. Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

Checklist: Conclusion

I have clearly and concisely answered the main research question .

I have summarized my overall argument or key takeaways.

I have mentioned any important limitations of the research.

I have given relevant recommendations .

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

I have not introduced any new data or arguments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

For a stronger dissertation conclusion , avoid including:

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

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

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

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

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

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Differences between summary, abstract, overview, and synopsis

Are there subtle differences in meaning between the nouns summary , abstract , overview , and synopsis ?

Which would be the most appropriate term for a one-page "executive summary" of a research report?

From Wiktionary:

summary : An abstract or a condensed presentation of the substance of a body of material.
abstract : An abridgement or summary.
overview : A brief summary, as of a book or a presentation.
synopsis : A brief summary of the major points of a written work, either as prose or as a table; an abridgment or condensation of a work.
differences

Personally I would use 'synopsis' but any of them would work. – WS2 Commented Feb 11, 2014 at 22:30
Don't forget "précis"! Oh, and "thumbnail sketch," too. Précis certainly has some snob appeal, no? (I mean "Mais oui?") Don – rhetorician Commented Feb 12, 2014 at 0:38
1 I like Professor David Barnhill's argument for precis: "A precis is a brief summary of a larger work. The term "abstract" has the same meaning and is much more common, but I prefer the term precis because of its relation to the word "precise," and because of the way the word is pronounced: "pray-see." A precis is a precise condensation of the basic thesis and major points of a paper; it tells the reader the gist of what has been said." uwosh.edu/facstaff/barnhill/490-docs/assignments/precis – Mark D Worthen PsyD Commented Feb 23, 2018 at 0:24
The difference is context. Context. – Lambie Commented Dec 31, 2019 at 18:56

5 Answers 5

Summary is the most catch-all term of this group, and the one that shows up the most in general everyday English.

Abstract is most commonly used in the scientific context. It is typically a formal requirement for publication, as the initial section of a scientific paper. Often times if you find scientific papers online, it is just the abstract that is available.

Overview is similar in literal meaning to "summary". It has a slight informality to it.

Synopsis again could be exchanged directly for "summary" in most contexts. It has a slightly more formal feel, and shows up in the literature and the arts a bit more frequently than other contexts (e.g., "I just want to read a synopsis of the novel, not the whole thing" sounds a bit better than "summary"). A synopsis is often more detailed than a regular "summary".

Executive Summary shows up most often in a business context, or sometimes also in a political context (e.g., think-tank white papers).

Any of these would probably work in a research report, but it would also depend on the audience. Scientists would probably be most comfortable with "Abstract"; MBAs with "Executive Summary"; for a more general public audience where you want to seem accessible, "Overview". If you're not sure, I can't imagine going wrong with "Summary".

Note that I'm American, so this answer applies most directly to American English.

2 This one-page PDF from a community college writing center complements joseph_morris's excellent summary (above). jccc.edu/student-resources/tutors-accessibility/writing-center/… – Mark D Worthen PsyD Commented Mar 7, 2018 at 2:53
Also, there is somewhat called abrégé , which is placed right after the heading of each chapter. Abrégé is very (not longer then 1/2 of a page, i.e. it is shorter then typical abstract) and describes the chapter instead of document . (Feel free to correct me). – john c. j. Commented Apr 7, 2018 at 22:26
@johnc.j. As you can see from the Wiktionary article you link, abrégé is only a word in French. If it was an English word as well, it would have a separate listing under "English". – joseph_morris Commented Apr 10, 2018 at 22:39
It should also be noted that an abstract or an executive summary of a publication is typically set out separately from the rest of it, and is often labelled as such; the other terms can be used for something that is embedded in a larger body of text, without being clearly demarcated (e.g. the first chapter of a book may include a summary or an overview of the book's argument). – jsw29 Commented Dec 30, 2019 at 17:20

synopsis suggests an outline or series of key points, sometimes implying restraint in keeping factual, objective, professional, or formal ("a synopsis of North American flora" or "a synopsis of the novel")

summary implies moving from the specific to the more general or the gist or take-away of something, and it is more likely to include the subjective ("summarized the movie as a bad coming-of-age drama")

overview implies a comprehensive, coherent whole or bird's-eye view ("gave an overview of the project")

abstract and precis both denote that the subject is a text

abstract is commonly used in technical and scientific contexts ("wrote an abstract for a scholarly journal article")

Welcome to English SE! Could you edit to include citations for these definitions? This site generally prefers well-sourced answers, and unsourced ones may be removed. – Rand al'Thor Commented Aug 7, 2017 at 8:06
1 +1 for reminding me of the phrase that I sought: bird's-eye view . Thanks. – Graham Perrin Commented Oct 14, 2017 at 6:56

A little more detail:

The most appropriate term for a one page summary of a research report would normally be "Abstract", as it gives the abstract or high-level information without the details. The body may be labeled as "Detail". (They are essentially opposites, or complements. Abstract:Detail)

If the information is expected to summarize the points upon which a decision is to be made then "Executive Summary", meaning summary of the actionable parts, would be used.

See definitions of "Abstract" and "Executive" for the reasons this is so.

Although summary and synopsis are very close in meaning due to common usage, a summary is supposed to contain conclusions (sum, total) "In summary, therefore, I say to you .." while a synopsis is an overview.

I am an American English speaker.

Also, there is somewhat called abrégé , which is placed right after the heading of each chapter. Abrégé is very (not longer then 1/2 of a page, i.e. it is shorter then typical abstract) and describes the chapter instead of document . (Feel free to correct me). – john c. j. Commented Apr 7, 2018 at 22:25

None of the earlier answers to this question have cited any authority for the particular distinctions that they make. In case some readers may be interested in reference-work assessments of the relevant differences, I offer discussions from several such works. I should note at the outset that none of them include coverage of overview , although I have no idea why they don't.

James Fernald, Funk & Wagnalls Standard Handbook of Synonyms, Antonyms & Prepositions , revised edition (1947), includes coverage of abstract , summary , and synopsis (along with abbreviation , analysis , compend , compendium , digest , epitome , outline , and précis ) under the category name abridgment . Here is Fernald's coverage of the three terms of special interest:

An outline or synopsis is a kind of sketch closely following the plan [of a book]. An abstract or digest is an independent statement of what the book contains. ... A summary is the most condensed statement of results or conclusions.

This treatment of abstract , summary , and synopsis is identical to the treatment that appears in Fernald's English Synonyms and Antonyms , thirty-first edition (1914). In my view, while the descriptions of abstract and synopsis may still be accurate, the description of summary treats that word far more restrictively than most people do who use it today.

S. I. Hayakawa, Choose the Right Word: A Modern Guide to Synonyms (1968) groups abstract and synopsis (as well as abridgment , digest , outline , and précis ) under the category name summary . Here are the relevant portions of Hayakawa's coverage:

These words refer to a short description of the main points of a longer work or presentation. Summary is the most general of these words, referring to any attempt to condense into as few words as possible an extended train of thought: a day-to-day summary of the proceedings in the murder trial; concluding each chapter with a summary of its main arguments. The word implies a pithy paraphrase, with no attempt to catch the style of the original. Also, the word almost exclusively refers to something that follows after and is based on the extended presentation, or even concludes it—as suggested by the common phrase in speechmaking: in summary . Abstract and précis both refer to summaries written most often by someone other than the original author; hence they are seldom part of the original presentation, though they follow it and are based on it. Like summary , they stress brevity and the schematic representation of essential points with no attempt to preserve flavor. Abstract most specifically refers to a scholarly or legal citation that gives the gist of what may be a complex argument or study: a quarterly containing abstracts of doctoral dissertations in progress; an abstract of the proposed legislation. ... Outline and synopsis relate to précis in that they both retain the point-by-point ordering of the original; they are both most often a skeletal setting down of these points, but may be drawn up either by the author or someone else before, as well as after, the writing of the original. Within these possibilities, outline covers a wider range than synopsis . ... Synopsis usually refers to a plot summary of a piece of fiction. Ordinary prose sentences are most often used, rather than the numbered and lettered list suggested by outline . It may tell in capsule form events treated in a completed work or those planned for a projected work: submitting the first chapter of his novel and a synopsis of the unwritten remainder; writing synopses of novels submitted as candidates for film treatment. The word may also refer to a paragraph that retells previous action and introduces an installment of a serialized work of fiction.

Hayakawa's assessment of how people use summary is seems generally valid for today's usage, although in my experience an "executive summary" physically precedes a full report or article rather than following it.

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Synonyms (1968/1984) omits coverage of both overview and summary , but addresses abstract and synopsis as part of a larger group of words that also includes epitome , brief , and conspectus , under the category name abridgment :

abridgment , abstract , epitome , brief , synopsis , conspectus mean a condensation of a larger work or treatment, usually one already in circulation. ... Abstract implies condensation of a lengthy treatise or of a proposed lengthy treatment and stresses concentration of substance { abstracts of state papers} {an abstract of a lecture} ... Both abstract and epitome are used also in extended senses in reference to persons or things, the former stressing one or other (of the persons or things referred to) as a summary, the latter as a type representing a whole {a man who is the abstract of all faults that all men follow— Shak .} ... Synopsis and conspectus imply the giving of the salient points of a treatise or subject so that it may be quickly comprehended. Synopsis , however, often suggests an outline or coherent series of headings and conspectus a coherent account that gives a bird's-eye view {provide in advance a synopsis of the lectures}

As for overview , its meaning in modern English seems to be very close to that of summary , to judge from its brief entry in Merriam-Webster's Eleventh Collegiate Dictionary (2003):

overview n (1588) : a general survey : SUMMARY

Summary - Its sums up, like a conclusion, and is used at the end of the document. Many people, instead of reading the entire document that is large, refers to the summary.

Abstract - Mostly seen in journals that tells what it is all about, very briefly. Abstract is commonly seen in government orders too. Abstract comes at the start of the document.

Overview - It is a general view; not that analytical, and is often the beginning of an analysis.

Synopsis - Is a brief version of the manuscript which is sent to a publisher, on the basis of which the write-up/ manuscript is chosen.

Though all these refer to concise/abridged version of a manuscript, the purposes are different.

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Thesis vs Synopsis: How Are These Words Connected?
Synopsis, on the other hand, is a brief summary or general survey of something. In simple terms, a thesis is a proposition to be proved or maintained, while a synopsis is a condensed version of a larger work. In this article, we will delve deeper into the differences between thesis and synopsis, and explore their unique roles in the writing ...
Thesis vs. Synopsis
A thesis is a comprehensive document that presents the author's research and findings in their field of study, aimed at contributing new knowledge or insights, whereas a synopsis is a concise summary that outlines the key points of a larger work, such as a thesis, book, or research project. The purpose of a thesis is to demonstrate the author's ...
Difference Between Thesis And Synopsis
Summary of Findings: Highlights key results and insights. Conclusion: Provides a brief conclusion and significance of the research. A synopsis is usually much shorter than a thesis, ranging from one to ten pages . Difference Between Thesis and Synopsis. Scope and Detail: Thesis: Extensive and detailed, presenting in-depth research and findings.
What Is a Thesis?
What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples
Q: What is the format for the synopsis of a thesis?
Answer: The synopsis for a thesis is basically the plan for a research project, typically done when pursuing a doctorate. It outlines the focus areas and key components of the research in order to obtain approval for the research. Here is a listing of the sections that typically are a part of the synopsis. Do check with your guide/supervisor ...
How to Write a Great Synopsis for Thesis
The structure of a synopsis should correspond to the structure of qualifying research work, and the word count should be 2,500-3,000 words (Balu 38). The basic elements of a synopsis include a title page, contents page, an introduction, background, literature review, objectives, methods, experiments and results, conclusions, and references.
How to Write a Thesis Statement
How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples
Lesson 4: Synopsis
Lesson 4: Synopsis. In order to clarify your thoughts about the purpose of your thesis and how you plan to reach your research goals, you should prepare a synopsis. A synopsis is a short, systematic outline of your proposed thesis, made in preparation for your first meeting with your supervisor. It serves to ensure that your supervisor gets a ...
What Makes a PhD Thesis Abstract vs. Synopsis Different?
A PhD thesis synopsis is also known as proposal because it proposes the idea of the researcher to the research committee. It is important to understand that synopsis, thus, needs to be well-curated in order to get the acceptance for conducting the whole research. Difference Between Thesis Abstract And Synopsis
PDF Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences
Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences
Thesis Statements
Thesis Statements - UNC Writing Center
Dissertation vs. Thesis—What's the Difference?
Dissertation vs. Thesis—What's the Difference?
How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction
How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction
How to Write a Synopsis for Research: A Step-By-Step Guide
How to Write a Synopsis for Research: A Step-By-Step Guide
Difference between Thesis and Synopsis
What is the difference between Thesis and Synopsis? Thesis as a noun is a statement supported by arguments. while Synopsis as a noun is a brief summary of the major points of a written work, either as prose or as a table; an abridgment or condensation of a work. Thesis.
Thesis and Purpose Statements
Thesis and Purpose Statements - The Writing Center
What Is a Thesis?
What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples - Scribbr
Dissertation vs Thesis: The Differences that Matter
Dissertation vs Thesis: The Differences that Matter
Lecture-90 Difference between synopsis and thesis
From this video, you will learn about writing a good thesis and difference between thesis and research proposal/synopsis. In this video difference between th...
Difference between a Research Proposal and a Synopsis
The basic difference between a research proposal and a synopsis is that the former is more in-depth, whereas the latter is more condensed. However, this does not mean that researchers should not write synopses for their publications. To do so is to miss out on useful information that can be added later. The advantage of writing a synopsis is ...
The Distinction Between a Research Proposal and a Synopsis
Similarly, when it comes to composing a synopsis for a thesis, it entails creating a concise rendition of the document, aimed at providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the author ...
How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion
How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion
Differences between summary, abstract, overview, and synopsis
Differences between summary, abstract, overview, and ...
Integration and competition between space and time in the hippocampus
To study how the representation of space and time interact in the episodic memory system, Chen et al. showed that hippocampal CA1 neurons simultaneously represented space and elapsed time, and the neuronal firing reflected a trade-off or competition between space and time by shifting their fields in space or time.
The stark contrasts between Harris and Trump are on full display in
"In these environments, there has to be an argument, a thesis, a message they want to communicate about Trump, and then they will use the evidence to prove that. This is where her prosecutorial ...

Thesis vs Synopsis: How Are These Words Connected?

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How to Write a Great Synopsis for Thesis

Establishing the Background

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Introduction

Literature Review

Experiments and Results

Lesson 4: Synopsis

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