How To Write Your First Thesis

Many courses and degrees require that students write a short thesis. This book guides students through their first experience of producing a thesis and undertaking original research. Written by experienced researchers and advisors, the book sets out signposts and tasks to help students to understand what is needed to succeed, including scoping a topic, managing references, interpreting data, and successful completion.

For students, the task of writing a thesis is a transition from structured coursework to becoming a researcher. The book provides advice on:

• What to expect from research and how to work with a supervisor
• Getting organized and approaching the work in a productive way
• Developing an overall thesis structure and avoidance of mistakes such as inadvertent plagiarism
• Producing each major component: a strong introduction, background chapters that are situated in the discipline, and an explanation of methods and results that are crucial to successful original research
• How to wrap up a complex project with an extended checklist of the many details needed to be checked before a final submission

Producing and managing a thesis for the first time can be a daunting task, and this reader-friendly guidebook provides a framework for students to do their best.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Transition To Your First Thesis
Chapter 2 Getting Organized
Chapter 3 The Structure Of A Thesis
Chapter 4 A Strong Beginning: The Introduction
Chapter 5 Situating The Study: The Background
Chapter 6 Explaining The Investigation: Methods And Innovations
Chapter 7 Presenting The Outcome: The Results
Chapter 8 Wrapping It Up: Discussion And Conclusion
Chapter 9 Before You Submit