Writing a thesis or dissertation can be overwhelming, as it is likely the most extensive academic work you have ever undertaken. With numerous components to consider, it’s easy to overlook crucial elements, such as the submission format or the table of contents.
This comprehensive thesis and dissertation guide is a valuable tool to guide you through the various stages of your thesis or dissertation writing journey, from the initial planning phase to the final submission.
Checklist: Dissertation
✓ I have chosen a topic that is both interesting to me and feasible to research, ensuring that it aligns with my graduate program requirements.
✓ I have developed a clear research question or hypothesis, which is central to my research objectives.
✓ I have created an outline to structure my thesis or dissertation, including detailedchapter titles and text formatting that are consistent throughout.
✓ I have conducted a thorough literature review to identify key sources and existing research, following the guidelines set forth in the dissertation checklist.
✓ I have developed a methodology appropriate for my research question and field of study, ensuring it complies with the requirements set forth by my graduate school’s style manual.
✓ I have obtained necessary approvals (e.g., IRB, ethics committee) before beginning research, which is a student’s responsibility to ensure.
✓ I have collected and analyzed data, ensuring proper documentation and organization. Data presentation includes clear citation practices, avoiding any issues related to plagiarism.
✓ I have written a compelling introduction that provides background and states my research question, keeping in mind the requirements set forth in this guide.
✓ I have presented my literature review, demonstrating my understanding of the field, with careful attention to citation and punctuation.
✓ I have described my methodology in detail, allowing for replication by other researchers and ensuring it meets the graduate school’s standards.
✓ I have presented my results clearly and objectively, using appropriate visuals (e.g., graphs, tables) and embedded them as PDF files where necessary.
✓ I have discussed my findings, interpreting them in the context of my research question and existing literature, following the guidelines of Turabian or other specified style manuals.
✓ I have drawn conclusions based on my research and discussed implications and recommendations, keeping them aligned with departmental expectations.
✓ I have written an abstract that concisely summarizes my research, ensuring it adheres to the requirements set forth in this guide.
✓ I have formatted my document according to my institution’s guidelines (e.g., margins, font, spacing) using Microsoft Word or another approved pc software.
✓ I have created a properly formatted title page, table of contents, and reference list, making sure to follow the dissertation checklist.
✓ I have proofread and edited my work for clarity, coherence, and grammar, with special attention to text formatting and typesetting.
✓ I have submitted my final, approved thesis or dissertation to my institution, uploading it to the electronic theses and dissertations repository.
✓ I have prepared for my oral defense by anticipating questions and preparing clear explanations with the support of my advisor.
✓ I have made final revisions based on feedback from my oral defense, ensuring that all requirements set forth are met.
✓ I have submitted my final, approved thesis or dissertation to my institution
✓I have included a copyright page, securing written permission for any copyrighted material used.
✓I have completed all required forms, including the submission form, approval form, and the survey of earned doctorates.
✓ I have ensured that my thesis or dissertation complies with all graduation deadlines and requirements set forth by the graduate school’s dissertation preparation guidelines.
This checklist will help you maintain a clear and organized approach to your thesis or dissertation. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure all steps are completed and to consult their graduate program if there are any uncertainties. Be sure to use this guide as you progress through each stage of your work, and don’t hesitate to consult your advisor or departmental resources when needed. Skip to the main content if you need further guidance from the main navigation.