The Graduate College at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Developing a workplan.

  • What will be the primary focus of my work today?
  • Where do I plan on working?
  • When will I start working?
  • How long do I plan on working?
  • What strategies will I utilize to manage workplace distractions?
  • Who will I be collaborating with in order to meet these goals?
  • Why have I established these goals instead of other options?

Master’s Projects Handbook

The scope of work should include the following sections: (1) introduction, (2) statement of objectives, (3) materials and methods, (4) expected results/format of report, and (5) literature citations. Your submitted scope of work should include the following:

1. The Cover Sheet . The cover sheet must include the tentative title, date, author(s), and MP advisor(s). The cover sheet must also include the author(s) and advisor(s) signature(s) to demonstrate faculty approval (Visit #1 on the Final Report page for more information on Cover Sheets or download the template ). 2. Introduction . Describe the problem you will be working on and why it is important. Include a concise literature review to relate your problem to previous work and set the stage for the approach you will take. If applicable, describe the client involved and their interest in the project. [2-4 pages] 3. Objectives . State the research questions your MP will answer or the hypotheses you will test. Be specific and succinct. You should be able to list your questions or hypotheses as a series of no more than 3 or 4 concrete bullet points. While you may fine-tune these questions after you begin your work, the initial description of your methods and expected results should follow directly from these objectives. [<1 page] 4. Methods and Sources of Support . Describe the methods/approach you plan to use including, as appropriate, your research approach, data or means of data collection, and plans for data analysis. Be specific and identify significant subtasks related to each part of your project. State any research support needed in terms of supplies, space, equipment and money. If needed, identify source(s) of financial support (e.g., case study funds, research project of professor, school support, grant, etc.). Note whether you will require Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval for data collection involving human subjects, or whether you will operate under a nondisclosure agreement . [2-3 pages] 5. Expected Results and Format of Report . Identify the expected results of the project and/or the deliverables to be produced (e.g., management plan, geospatial tool, scientific publication, policy recommendations, computer model, etc.). State the format of the final product and its intended audience. If appropriate, identify likely journals for publication of your research. [1-2 pages] 6. Literary Citations . Include full, standard citations for any references referred to in the text of your proposal. The Nicholas School does not require MPs to adhere to one specific citation style as long as citations are formatted consistently throughout the final document. Choose the appropriate manual of style for your project (for guidance, see Duke Libraries citation resources ). 7. Faculty . List all faculty who have agreed to serve as advisors or cooperators in your project, along with their affiliations (e.g., school or department). Indicate the primary adviser(s) responsible for evaluating the project.

Part II: Project Timeline

Part two should contain the timeline with anticipated deliverables, and may be attached as a separate document, if using Excel or other project management formats. Timeline of Tasks, Deliverables, and Events . Outline the various steps of project completion from start to finish. Include all significant milestones and recurring meetings with your teammates (if applicable) and MP advisor. For example, this could include completion of your literature review and other background research, as well as intermediate steps related to your data collection and planned analysis. It is highly recommended that you use a Gantt chart or an equivalent Excel spreadsheet (e.g. with individual tasks and milestones as rows and dates in columns), with ongoing tasks specified at a biweekly resolution. Your timeline should also include standing client meetings, if relevant.

Part III: Team Charter

The team charter should outline roles and responsibilities of the team and advisor. All students, including those completing an individual MPs, must include a team charter in the final Work Plan. If you are participating in an individual project, you and your MP advisor are considered a “team”.

Your team charter should include the following: 1. Team Roles and Responsibilities . Assign each team member a role and associated responsibilities to be fulfilled during completion of the MP. 2. Regular Meeting Schedule. Outline how often, in what way, and with whom your MP team will meet. This includes regular team meetings, as well as standing meetings with your advisor and, if relevant, client. Frequency and content of the meetings is up to the collective discretion of the team. 3. Team Expectations . Describe any additional agreements your MP team comes up with. (e.g., how to handle potential conflicts, preferred means of communication, data sharing and storage, etc.) 4. Team Purpose and Mission . Describe the top priorities and goals of each individual team member during the course of the project. 5. Team Cohesion and Conflict Resolution. Include a brief description that addresses these questions: How will your team resolve conflict? How can you most effectively handle scenarios in which team members are not pulling their weight or not living up to the expectations outlined in this charter? How will you have difficult conversations? What steps will you take to understand and know each other better? How do you want to promote ongoing integration and camaraderie within the team?

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How to Write a Master's Thesis: A Guide to Planning Your Thesis, Pursuing It, and Avoiding Pitfalls

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Part 1: Initial Considerations

Who needs to write a master’s thesis.

Thesis writing is one of the more daunting challenges of higher education. That being said, not all master's students have to write a thesis. For example, fields that place a stronger emphasis on applied knowledge, such as nursing, business, and education, tend to have projects and exams to test students on the skills and abilities associated with those fields. Conversely, in disciplines that require in-depth research or highly polished creative abilities, students are usually expected to prove their understanding and independence with a thesis.

What's Your Goal?

Do you want to write a thesis? The process is a long one, often spanning years. It's best to know exactly what you want before you begin. Many people are motivated by career goals. For example, hiring managers may see a master's degree as proof that the candidate is an expert within their field and can lead, motivate, and demonstrate initiative for themselves and others. Others dream of earning their doctorate, and they see a master's degree as a stepping stone toward their Ph.D .

master thesis work plan

No matter what your desired goal is, you should have one before you start your thesis. With your goal in mind, your work will have a purpose, which will allow you to measure your progress more easily.

Major Types of Theses

Once you've carefully researched or even enrolled in a master's program—a feat that involves its own planning and resources —you should know if you are expected to produce a quantitative (which occurs in many math and science programs), qualitative (which occurs in many humanities programs), or creative (which occurs in many creative writing, music, or fine arts programs) thesis.

Time and Energy Considerations

Advanced degrees are notoriously time and energy consuming. If you have a job, thesis writing will become your second job. If you have a family, they will need to know that your thesis will take a great deal of your attention, energy, and focus.

master thesis work plan

Your studies should not consume you, but they also should not take a back seat to everything else. You will be expected to attend classes, conduct research, source relevant literature, and schedule meetings with various people as you pursue your master's, so it's important to let those you care about know what's going on.

As a general note, most master's programs expect students to finish within a two-year period but are willing to grant extra time if requested, especially if that time is needed to deal with unexpected life events (more on those later).

Part 2: Form an Initial Thesis Question, and Find a Supervisor

When to begin forming your initial thesis question.

Some fields, such as history, may require you to have already formed your thesis question and to have used it to create a statement of intent (outlining the nature of your research) prior to applying to a master’s program. Others may require this information only after you've been accepted. Most of the time, you will be expected to come up with your topic yourself. However, in some disciplines, your supervisor may assign a general research topic to you.

Overall, requirements vary immensely from program to program, so it's best to confirm the exact requirements of your specific program.

What to Say to Your Supervisor

You will have a supervisor during your master's studies. Have you identified who that person will be? If yes, have you introduced yourself via email or phone and obtained information on the processes and procedures that are in place for your master's program? Once you've established contact, request an in-person meeting with him or her, and take a page of questions along with you. Your questions might include:

  • Is there a research subject you can recommend in my field?
  • I would like to pursue [target research subject] for my thesis. Can you help me narrow my focus?
  • Can you give me an example of a properly formatted thesis proposal for my program?

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help (to a Degree)

Procedures and expectations vary from program to program, and your supervisor is there to help remove doubt and provide encouragement so you can follow the right path when you embark on writing your thesis. Since your supervisor has almost certainly worked with other graduate students (and was one at some point), take advantage of their experience, and ask questions to put your mind at ease about how to write a master’s thesis.

That being said, do not rely too heavily on your supervisor. As a graduate student, you are also expected to be able to work independently. Proving your independent initiative and capacity is part of what will earn you your master's degree.

Part 3: Revise Your Thesis

Read everything you can get your hands on.

Whether you have a question or need to create one, your next step is simple and applies to all kinds of theses: read.

master thesis work plan

Seek Out Knowledge or Research Gaps

Read everything you can that relates to the question or the field you are studying. The only way you will be able to determine where you can go is to see where everyone else has been. After you have read some published material, you will start to spot gaps in current research or notice things that could be developed further with an alternative approach. Things that are known but not understood or understood but not explained clearly or consistently are great potential thesis subjects. Addressing something already known from a new perspective or with a different style could also be a potentially valuable project. Whichever way you choose to do it, keep in mind that your project should make a valuable contribution to your field.

master thesis work plan

Talk with Experts in Your Field (and Don't Be Afraid to Revise Your Thesis)

To help narrow down your thesis topic, talk to your supervisor. Your supervisor will have an idea of what is current in your field and what can be left alone because others are already working on it. Additionally, the school you are attending will have programs and faculty with particular areas of interest within your chosen field.

On a similar note, don't be surprised if your thesis question changes as you study. Other students and researchers are out there, and as they publish, what you are working on can change. You might also discover that your question is too vague, not substantial enough, or even no longer relevant. Do not lose heart! Take what you know and adjust the question to address these concerns as they arise. The freedom to adapt is part of the power you hold as a graduate student.

Part 4: Select a Proposal Committee

What proposal committees are and why they're useful.

When you have a solid question or set of questions, draft a proposal.

master thesis work plan

You'll need an original stance and a clear justification for asking, and answering, your thesis question. To ensure this, a committee will review your thesis proposal. Thankfully, that committee will consist of people assigned by your supervisor or department head or handpicked by you. These people will be experts who understand your field of study and will do everything in their power to ensure that you are pursuing something worthwhile. And yes, it is okay to put your supervisor on your committee. Some programs even require that your supervisor be on your committee.

Just remember that the committee will expect you to schedule meetings with them, present your proposal, respond to any questions they might have for you, and ultimately present your findings and thesis when all the work is done. Choose those who are willing to support you, give constructive feedback, and help address issues with your proposal. And don't forget to give your proposal a good, thorough edit and proofread before you present it.

How to Prepare for Committee Meetings

Be ready for committee meetings with synopses of your material for committee members, answers for expected questions, and a calm attitude. To prepare for those meetings, sit in on proposal and thesis defenses so you can watch how other graduate students handle them and see what your committee might ask of you. You can even hold rehearsals with friends and fellow students acting as your committee to help you build confidence for your presentation.

master thesis work plan

Part 5: Write Your Thesis

What to do once your proposal is approved.

After you have written your thesis proposal and received feedback from your committee, the fun part starts: doing the work. This is where you will take your proposal and carry it out. If you drafted a qualitative or quantitative proposal, your experimentation or will begin here. If you wrote a creative proposal, you will now start working on your material. Your proposal should be strong enough to give you direction when you perform your experiments, conduct interviews, or craft your work. Take note that you will have to check in with your supervisor from time to time to give progress updates.

master thesis work plan

Thesis Writing: It's Important to Pace Yourself and Take Breaks

Do not expect the work to go quickly. You will need to pace yourself and make sure you record your progress meticulously. You can always discard information you don't need, but you cannot go back and grab a crucial fact that you can't quite remember. When in doubt, write it down. When drawing from a source, always create a citation for the information to save your future self time and stress. In the same sense, you may also find journaling to be a helpful process.

Additionally, take breaks and allow yourself to step away from your thesis, even if you're having fun (and especially if you're not). Ideally, your proposal should have milestones in it— points where you can stop and assess what you've already completed and what's left to do. When you reach a milestone, celebrate. Take a day off and relax. Better yet, give yourself a week's vacation! The rest will help you regain your focus and ensure that you function at your best.

How to Become More Comfortable with Presenting Your Work

Once you start reaching your milestones, you should be able to start sharing what you have. Just about everyone in a graduate program has experience giving a presentation at the front of the class, attending a seminar, or watching an interview. If you haven't (or even if you have), look for conferences and clubs that will give you the opportunity to learn about presenting your work and become comfortable with the idea of public speaking. The more you practice talking about what you are studying, the more comfortable you'll be with the information, which will make your committee defenses and other official meetings easier.

Published authors can be called upon to present at conferences, and if your thesis is strong, you may receive an email or a phone call asking if you would share your findings onstage.

Presenting at conferences is also a great way to boost your CV and network within your field. Make presenting part of your education, and it will become something you look forward to instead of fear.

What to Do If Your Relationship with Your Supervisor Sours

A small aside: If it isn't already obvious, you will be communicating extensively with others as you pursue your thesis. That also means that others will need to communicate with you, and if you've been noticing things getting quiet, you will need to be the one to speak up. Your supervisor should speak to you at least once a term and preferably once a week in the more active parts of your research and writing. If you give written work to your supervisor, you should have feedback within three weeks.

If your supervisor does not provide feedback, frequently misses appointments, or is consistently discouraging of your work, contact your graduate program advisor and ask for a new supervisor. The relationship with your supervisor is crucial to your success, especially if she or he is on your committee, and while your supervisor does not have to be friendly, there should at least be professional respect between you.

What to Do If a Crisis Strikes

If something happens in your life that disrupts everything (e.g., emotional strain, the birth of a child, or the death of a family member), ask for help. You are a human being, and personal lives can and do change without warning. Do not wait until you are falling apart before asking for help, either. Learn what resources exist for crises before you have one, so you can head off trauma before it hits. That being said, if you get blindsided, don't refuse help. Seek it out, and take the time you need to recover. Your degree is supposed to help you become a stronger and smarter person, not break you.

Part 6: Polish and Defend Your Master's Thesis

How to write a master’s thesis: the final stages.

After your work is done and everything is written down, you will have to give your thesis a good, thorough polishing. This is where you will have to organize the information, draft it into a paper format with an abstract, and abbreviate things to help meet your word-count limit. This is also where your final editing and proofreading passes will occur, after which you will face your final hurdle: presenting your thesis defense to your committee. If they approve your thesis, then congratulations! You are now a master of your chosen field.

Conclusion and Parting Thoughts

Remember that you do not (and should not) have to learn how to write a master’s thesis on your own. Thesis writing is collaborative, as is practically any kind of research.

master thesis work plan

While you will be expected to develop your thesis using your own initiative, pursue it with your own ambition, and complete it with your own abilities, you will also be expected to use all available resources to do so. The purpose of a master's thesis is to help you develop your own independent abilities, ensuring that you can drive your own career forward without constantly looking to others to provide direction. Leaders get master's degrees. That's why many business professionals in leadership roles have graduate degree initials after their last names. If you already have the skills necessary to motivate yourself, lead others, and drive change, you may only need your master's as an acknowledgement of your abilities. If you do not, but you apply yourself carefully and thoroughly to the pursuit of your thesis, you should come away from your studies with those skills in place.

A final thought regarding collaboration: all theses have a section for acknowledgements. Be sure to say thank you to those who helped you become a master. One day, someone might be doing the same for you.

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Thesis, major paper, and major project proposals

  • Definitions
  • Introductory section
  • Literature review
  • Methodology

Schedule/work plan

  • Other potential elements
  • Proposal references
  • Ask for help

master thesis work plan

If you're unsure if your research proposal requires a schedule or work plan, please consult your project handbook and/or speak with your instructor, advisor, or supervisor.

The information about schedules or work plans in proposals was gathered from RRU thesis and major project handbooks, current in 2020, from programs in the Faculty of Social and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Management, and the College of Interdisciplinary Studies. If the details here differ from the information provided in the handbook for your project, please follow the handbook's directions.

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master thesis work plan

  • In RRU's Anxiety About Academic Writing guide, this resource is open to everyone.

How Do I Plan the Various Stages of My Research Project?

  • In SAGE Research Methods: Planning and Practicalities, look for How Do I Plan the Various Stages of My Research Project? drop down option. Access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

Learning Skills: Time Management

  • In RRU's Learning Skills guide, this resource is open to everyone.

What Do I Need to Know About Time and Timetabling?

  • In SAGE Research Methods: Planning and Practicalities, look for the What Do I Need to Know About Time and Timetabling? drop down option. Access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

Image credit: Image by Mohamed Assan from Pixabay

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  • Last Updated: Jan 8, 2024 12:29 PM
  • URL: https://libguides.royalroads.ca/proposals

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  • Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Published on June 7, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on November 21, 2023.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical early steps in your writing process . It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding the specifics of your dissertation topic and showcasing its relevance to your field.

Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:

  • Your anticipated title
  • Your abstract
  • Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review, research methods, avenues for future research, etc.)

In the final product, you can also provide a chapter outline for your readers. This is a short paragraph at the end of your introduction to inform readers about the organizational structure of your thesis or dissertation. This chapter outline is also known as a reading guide or summary outline.

Table of contents

How to outline your thesis or dissertation, dissertation and thesis outline templates, chapter outline example, sample sentences for your chapter outline, sample verbs for variation in your chapter outline, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis and dissertation outlines.

While there are some inter-institutional differences, many outlines proceed in a fairly similar fashion.

  • Working Title
  • “Elevator pitch” of your work (often written last).
  • Introduce your area of study, sharing details about your research question, problem statement , and hypotheses . Situate your research within an existing paradigm or conceptual or theoretical framework .
  • Subdivide as you see fit into main topics and sub-topics.
  • Describe your research methods (e.g., your scope , population , and data collection ).
  • Present your research findings and share about your data analysis methods.
  • Answer the research question in a concise way.
  • Interpret your findings, discuss potential limitations of your own research and speculate about future implications or related opportunities.

For a more detailed overview of chapters and other elements, be sure to check out our article on the structure of a dissertation or download our template .

To help you get started, we’ve created a full thesis or dissertation template in Word or Google Docs format. It’s easy adapt it to your own requirements.

 Download Word template    Download Google Docs template

Chapter outline example American English

It can be easy to fall into a pattern of overusing the same words or sentence constructions, which can make your work monotonous and repetitive for your readers. Consider utilizing some of the alternative constructions presented below.

Example 1: Passive construction

The passive voice is a common choice for outlines and overviews because the context makes it clear who is carrying out the action (e.g., you are conducting the research ). However, overuse of the passive voice can make your text vague and imprecise.

Example 2: IS-AV construction

You can also present your information using the “IS-AV” (inanimate subject with an active verb ) construction.

A chapter is an inanimate object, so it is not capable of taking an action itself (e.g., presenting or discussing). However, the meaning of the sentence is still easily understandable, so the IS-AV construction can be a good way to add variety to your text.

Example 3: The “I” construction

Another option is to use the “I” construction, which is often recommended by style manuals (e.g., APA Style and Chicago style ). However, depending on your field of study, this construction is not always considered professional or academic. Ask your supervisor if you’re not sure.

Example 4: Mix-and-match

To truly make the most of these options, consider mixing and matching the passive voice , IS-AV construction , and “I” construction .This can help the flow of your argument and improve the readability of your text.

As you draft the chapter outline, you may also find yourself frequently repeating the same words, such as “discuss,” “present,” “prove,” or “show.” Consider branching out to add richness and nuance to your writing. Here are some examples of synonyms you can use.

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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When you mention different chapters within your text, it’s considered best to use Roman numerals for most citation styles. However, the most important thing here is to remain consistent whenever using numbers in your dissertation .

The title page of your thesis or dissertation goes first, before all other content or lists that you may choose to include.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.

  • Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review , research methods , avenues for future research, etc.)

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 Citation Generator.

George, T. (2023, November 21). Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved April 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/dissertation-thesis-outline/

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Italian Studies MA Thesis Work Plan

Writing a Master’s Thesis is a long-term project that requires independence, intense commitment, careful planning and constant communication between the student, the Thesis Advisor and the DGS.

Students should become familiar with the research conducted by the faculty members of the department and start thinking of a possible thesis topic even before the beginning of their courses. By the end of the first semester, students are assigned an advisor and begin reading primary and secondary sources in their fields. By May 15th, they must submit a 500-word proposal in which they explain the choice of the thesis topic, provide a preliminary outline of the work, and list a substantial bibliography.

By September 30th of their second year students must have a title and write 1500-word proposal. The proposal must be written in both English and Italian. They must turn the proposal in to the graduate school using the Thesis proposal form .

Students are expected to consult and meet regularly with their advisors, who will foster effective thesis writing techniques, recommend appropriate resources, and establish deadlines for the submission of different sections of the thesis. Students who miss these deadlines or submit substandard work do not make satisfactory progress towards the completion of their degree.

The final manuscript must be submitted electronically to the Director of Graduate Studies and the Thesis Advisor by April 10th. All pages should be numbered, except for the front page and the table of contents.

The front page should contain the thesis title, the phrase “A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Master of Arts in Italian, Georgetown University,” the expected semester and year of graduation, the candidate’s name and the advisor’s name.

The second page should contain the table of contents. For footnotes, endnotes and citation standards, students should follow a standard scholarly format like the MLA Handbook or the Chicago Manual of Style.

Please refer to the guidelines on the Graduate School webpage.                       

Students are also required to give a presentation before a small group of faculty members and peers. During the presentation (“defense”), which should last from fifteen to twenty minutes, students must discuss their methodology, the distinctive features of their work, and the results they have achieved. They may choose whether to use programs such as Power Point or Prezi. The Faculty will ask additional questions and evaluate both the presentation and the thesis in order to decide whether pass it and to award the “distinction.”  In case additional changes are necessary, students must submit the revised version to their advisors to get the final approval.

The research standards and expectations for a Master’s Thesis are very high. A student who receives a distinction is supposed to have performed at the highest possible level. The Master’s Thesis is expected to provide evidence of original research and strong analytical skills. Students should carefully investigate what the existing scholarship has produced on their topics, and offer innovative and sophisticated arguments in a well-defined theoretical framework.

After successfully defending their theses, students are responsible for turning in the following forms to the Graduate School:

  • EDT form  
  • MA Thesis reviewer’s report
  • MA Thesis cover sheet

“Examination Report Form (the DGS will obtain this from the Graduate School”

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What’s Included: The Dissertation Template

If you’re preparing to write your dissertation, thesis or research project, our free dissertation template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research projects such as dissertations and theses. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your dissertation or thesis will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The dissertation template covers the following core sections:

  • The title page/cover page
  • Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
  • Table of contents
  • List of figures /list of tables
  • Chapter 1: Introduction  (also available: in-depth introduction template )
  • Chapter 2: Literature review  (also available: in-depth LR template )
  • Chapter 3: Methodology (also available: in-depth methodology template )
  • Chapter 4: Research findings /results (also available: results template )
  • Chapter 5: Discussion /analysis of findings (also available: discussion template )
  • Chapter 6: Conclusion (also available: in-depth conclusion template )
  • Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required in each section.

The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Dissertation Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The dissertation template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of dissertations/theses can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research projects such as dissertations or theses, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Will this work for a research paper?

A research paper follows a similar format, but there are a few differences. You can find our research paper template here .

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my dissertation/thesis be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. As a general ballpark, Masters-level projects are usually 15,000 – 20,000 words in length, while Doctoral-level projects are often in excess of 60,000 words.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this dissertation template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our dissertation and thesis coaching services .

Free Webinar: Literature Review 101

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How to Write a Master's Thesis

Last Updated: June 1, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 609,104 times.

Students learning how to write a Master's Thesis will first learn that a central thesis question must be presented and subsequently answered. A Master's Thesis will be the most prominent piece of your graduate work up to this point, and a pertinent thesis question that forms the spine of this work elevates it from the prosaic to the significant.

Choosing a Topic

Step 1 Think about the objectives of writing a thesis.

  • To get a degree - topic should be difficult enough, but manageable too.
  • To enjoy the work - topic that you are truly interested in, something that you will not grow bored of after a short period of time.
  • To get a job afterward - if you know what specifically you want to do after your studies and/or for which company, it might be useful to choose a topic, that will help with this goal.
  • To be useful - thesis might actually be useful to help to make the world a little better place.
  • Try thinking about your favorite subject of study - it may be a particular author, theory, time period, etc. Imagine how you might further the study of that subject.
  • You might consider skimming through papers you wrote for your graduate courses and see if there is any apparent topic that you tend to gravitate towards.
  • Consult with faculty members, favorite professors. They might have some good suggestions to write about. Generally, you'll be required to meet with your thesis advisor at least once before you start working.
  • Consider consulting with industry partners. Your favorite company might have some work to do which might be done as a master's thesis. This might also help you get a job within the company afterward and maybe even some money for the thesis.
  • If you want to help the world to be a better place, you might want to consult with your local non-profits and charities or check the Internet for possible thesis topics to write about.
  • 3 Choose the right topic. From the possible topics generated in the previous step, find the one which best fits the objectives from the first step, especially the objectives most important to you. Make sure that you have a clear, specific, and organized plan on how to write a master's thesis which you will be able to then defend.

Step 4 Choose your thesis question.

  • Make sure that your question and the answers provided will provide original content to the body of research in existence. A judicious question will also keep research focused, organized, and interesting.
  • Once you've formulated your topic and direction of inquiry, try formulating 5-10 different questions around your intended research. This forces you to think flexibly about your topic and visualize how small changes in wording can change the trajectory of your research.

Step 5 Conduct your research.

  • Usually, your committee chair will be in place before you formally start your thesis. They can help guide you and provide input into your project, so the earlier you can get their commitment, the better.
  • Nothing is more frustrating than your thesis progress being held up by a professor who has too many obligations to make time to meet with you.

Selecting Your Texts

Step 1 Complete a literature review.

  • For example, a novel written by Ernest Hemingway or a scientific journal article in which new results are documented for the first time would both be considered primary sources.

Step 3 Choose your secondary sources.

  • For example, a book written about Ernest Hemingway's novel or a scientific journal article examining the findings of someone else's experiment would both be considered secondary sources.

Step 4 Manage your citations.

  • Use the in-text citation format appropriate to your discipline. [3] X Research source The most common formats are MLA, APA, and Chicago.
  • Create a coordinating works cited or reference entry for each source you cite in the text of your document or in a footnote.
  • Consider using a citation management software such as EndNote, Mendeley, or Zotero. These will enable you to insert and move citations within your word processor program and will automatically populate a works cited or reference page for you.

Planning an Outline

Step 1 Know the requirements for your field/department.

  • Qualitative. This type of thesis involves completing a project that is exploratory, analytical, or creative in some way. Usually, students in the humanities will complete this kind of thesis.
  • Quantitative. This type of thesis involves conducting experiments, measuring data, and recording results. Students in the sciences usually complete this kind of thesis.

Step 2 Nail down your thesis idea.

  • Signature page (with the completed signatures of your advising committee - usually attained at the defense, or after the project is deemed complete )
  • Abstract - this is a short (one paragraph or so) description/summary of the work completed in your thesis
  • Table of Contents (with page numbers)
  • Introduction
  • Body of paper
  • Works Cited or Bibliography
  • Any necessary appendices or endnotes

Moving through the Writing Process

Step 1 Make a schedule.

  • If you do not already have a review of literature written, it’s time to do your research! The review of literature is essentially a summary of all of the existing scholarship about your topic with plenty of direct quotations from the primary and secondary sources that you’re referencing.

Step 8 Contextualize your work.

Finalizing Your Thesis

Step 1 Compare your draft with your university's requirements.

  • Many departments or programs provide a document template for theses and dissertations. If you have one of these, it may be easiest to use such a template from the beginning of your work (rather than copying and pasting your writing into it).

Step 2 Re-read the entire thesis for correctness.

  • Alternatively, ask a trusted colleague or friend to read over your thesis to help you catch any minor grammar/spelling/punctuation errors and typos.

Step 3 Follow all printing guidelines according to your department's policies.

  • Some institutions require you to submit your thesis for a formatting check prior to uploading the document to ProQuest. Be sure to check with your department’s Director of Graduate Studies for specific instructions.
  • Be aware of thesis submission deadlines, which are often well in advance of your graduation date. Late submission of your thesis may force you to push back your graduation date, which may affect your employment or continuing graduate studies.

Masters Thesis Outline

master thesis work plan

Expert Q&A

Christopher Taylor, PhD

  • Remember why you are writing a Master's thesis and who will want to read and use the material. You write a Master's thesis for members of your community, so keep in mind that they will have extensive knowledge and experience before reading your work. Don't bore them with unnecessary material. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
  • Choosing the perfect question before starting research will prevent frustration and save time. Rigorous effort on finding the perfect question is probably the most important task when learning how to write a Master's thesis. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
  • Consult other people who have completed a Master's thesis and obtained a Master's degree. It can be a long, grueling process, and having the support and advice of someone who has already done it can be very valuable. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

master thesis work plan

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Write a Thesis Statement

  • ↑ https://umb.libguides.com/PrimarySources/secondary
  • ↑ https://www.scribbr.com/citing-sources/in-text-citation-styles/
  • ↑ https://www.unk.edu/academics/gradstudies/admissions/grad-files/Grad%20Files/ThesisGdlnsFinal08.pdf
  • ↑ https://u.osu.edu/hackingthethesis/managing-stuff/your-content/outline/
  • ↑ http://www.imm.dtu.dk/~janba/MastersThesisAdvice.pdf

About This Article

Christopher Taylor, PhD

To write a master's thesis, make it a goal to write 500 words every day, which will help you meet your deadline without having to rush at the last minute. It's also helpful if you work in 25-minute increments and take a 5-minute break in between, which will make your work sessions less overwhelming. Also, figure out a writing time that works best for you, whether it's in the morning or at night, and stick with it so you're more productive. For more help writing your master's thesis, like how to make an outline, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Plan better, finish faster - 13 tips for your bachelor's, master's or PhD thesis

"I have been researching and scanning sources for the master's thesis for three weeks now. And I still haven't written a page..." The student thinks as she looks at the book in front of her. She can't even remember why she opened it...

This is a typical beginning to the bachelor's or master's thesis. A lot of work, but little to show. The end is typical too! As the deadline approaches, your thesis is being written in rush, using all available sources, hoping that your work will be enough. When you’re frantically trying to put words on the page to just turn something in, the final outcome will not be a great event of your studies. It will spoil the memories of your career as a student.

Plan your bachelor's or master's thesis from the very beginning. That way it will progress quickly, be more fun, and you will receive a better grade. Here are 13 tips.

1. Plan your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis by following a master plan, like a project, with milestones and sprints.

Your bachelor's or master's thesis is a real project with intermediate goals and tasks. Just stick to a proven plan. We have a master plan with concrete milestones and sprints. Take them on, run the sprints, and your text immediately takes shape. You won't have trying moments of doubt because you'll always know what's next.

2. Plan to work in shifts of 1.5 to 2 hours each.

Have you ever planned to work for an entire day non-stop at the library, focused and motivated? It works in rare cases because our brain needs a break now and then. Step out for a breath of fresh air and a short walk. Your body needs a bit of exercise.

Instead of working straight for eight hours, you should work in shifts of about two hours. You deserve a break after that. Then comes the next shift. This way your work remains manageable and every two hours you can celebrate and feel a sense of achievement. In addition, one or two tasks can be combined. Always work in sprints, and you’ll get ahead.

3. Plan breaks at fixed times.

Breaks are important. When you’re in the middle of something, you can completely forget about them so set the timer on your smartphone or work towards a fixed time, until 10:00 or 11:30. Breaks should be between 5 and 15 minutes long. Try our Power-Sleeping-Power-Working technique: 2 hours of concentrated work followed by a 15-minute break. Afterwards we'll start all over again!

4. Plan sprints of two to five days to complete the chapters for your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis

Every student feels a sense of achievement when they finish a chapter or subchapter. That brings motivation. Therefore, plan fixed deadlines, depending on the sprint. Such goals make the work more manageable, so it won’t seem like such a big mountain anymore. When you're done, check it off the list.

5. Use tools and checklists for your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis.

Use our thesis timetable, so you already have the most important goals and deadlines planned for your work. Further, tools or aids for planning include:

  • Timer on your smartphone that reminds you of breaks
  • Thesis-weekly planner in Excel, in which you can enter your working hours (available in the Thesis-Guide)
  • A consistent and meaningful outline that shows your progress, which again brings a feeling of success…
  • Fixed appointments in the evening, which you look forward to and motivate you
  • Fixed dates on the weekend, which reward and encourage you

6. Vary your days with different activities.

You can choose between many activities when writing your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis:

  • Search for sources or data
  • Obtain sources or data
  • Read articles
  • Evaluate sources
  • Communicate with supervisors
  • Learn turbo writing technique (to write five pages a day)
  • Write a chapter (your best reward!)
  • Tidying up (clean your working area once a week... this provides resilience)
  • No-brainers like making illustrations, creating attachments etc.

7. Follow the guide by Aristolo for the Bachelor's Thesis or Master's Thesis, so you can check off tasks.

If only there was a guide with detailed instructions on how to finish your work faster... Now there is ;) You don't have to start from scratch - we have a manual for you, the Thesis Guide

8. Establish routines when working on your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis.

We humans are creatures of habit. Routines make life easier, including writing the bachelor's or master's thesis. Here are a few examples of routines:

  • "Every day from 8:00 to 12:30, I will write..."
  • I will stop at 6:00 p.m.
  • Working out is part of the lunch break
  • Once a week I can meet with my supervisor or friends

And these are just a few examples…

9. Reward yourself for achieving your goals

Think of something nice to reward yourself with after each stage. There are no limits to your creativity. That shouldn't be hard since you know yourself the best. The chocolate tastes so much richer and the movie is so much funnier when you know that you have written three pages today – I promise!

10. Finish it now, no matter how long the night shift is going to last...

Of course, we are not recommending you to plow through to complete exhaustion. At this point it is important to listen to yourself: What does your body say? Do I still have energy? Am I in control?

But sometimes an intensive night shift can also give you new energy - not just because you will have completed an incredible amount of work in one day. Maybe try it once then decide if it works for you or not. After that you can adjust your planning or technique. Use our turbo writing technique for your thesis.

11. Create urgency right from the start

The pressure at the end comes from the proximity of the due date. But you can also increase the pressure on yourself and plan better. That is called time management. This can be remedied by working on another project that must be finished urgently. Or going on a weekend trip that you have already booked or something else....

Play a trick on yourself, so to speak, that will make you finish your work before the deadline.

12. Leave yourself one “free” day per week for rest and relaxation

You might feel guilty, but you must allow yourself some rest, otherwise your body will go on strike. However, in order to keep your guilty conscience within limits, you should ask yourself the following three questions before your day off:

1) Do I have a good plan? With regard to content? With milestones?

2.) Am I using the right techniques for researching, reading, evaluating, analyzing and writing? (see our method check) and

3.) Are my goals realistic?

If you can answer all three questions with a yes, you are entitled to one day of freedom which you can now enjoy to the fullest! Afterwards you’ll have the energy to continue working.

13. Try it out

You can only adopt a set schedule, goal and phase, no matter how small, as effective and successful once you have tried it. So take a chance and just get started. One week later you can check to see if it went the way you planned.

Good luck writing your text! Silvio and the Aristolo Team

PS: Check out the Thesis-ABC and the Thesis Guide for writing a bachelor or master thesis in 31 days.

Thesis-Banner-English-1

AeroAstro Communication Lab

Creating an Outline for Your Master’s Thesis

1. introduction.

Your master’s thesis serves to explain the research that you have done during your time as a masters student. For many students, the master’s thesis is the longest document that they’ve ever written, and the length of the document can feel intimidating. The purpose of this CommKit is to cover a key element of writing your thesis: the outline.

2. Criteria for Success

The most important criterion for success is that you’ve shown an outline with your chapter breakdown to your advisor. Your advisor is the one that formally signs off on your thesis as completed, so their feedback is the most important. 

Every master’s thesis will have the following elements.

  • Introduction  –  Familiarize the reader with the topic and what gap exists in the field. 
  • Literature Review – Provide a detailed analysis of similar work in the field and how your work is unique. Master’s thesis literature reviews typically have at least 60 citations throughout the entire document 
  • Methods – Explain how you produced your results
  • Results –  Show your results and comment on their significance and implications. 
  • Conclusion – Summarize the methodology you used to generate results,  your key findings, and any future areas of work.

Having an outline for your master’s thesis will help you explain the motivation behind your work, and also connect the different experiments or results that you completed. Furthermore, an outline for your master’s thesis can help break down the larger task of writing the entire thesis into smaller, more manageable chapter-sized subtasks.

4. Analyze Your Audience

The most important audience member for your master’s thesis is your advisor, as they are ultimately the person that signs off on whether or not your thesis is sufficient enough to graduate. The needs of any other audience members are secondary. 

Ideally, a good master’s thesis is accessible to people that work in your field. In some cases, master’s theses are passed on to newer students so that that research can continue. In these cases, the thesis is used as a guide to introduce newer students to the research area. If you intend for your thesis to be used as a guide for new students, you may spend more time explaining the state of the field in your introduction and literature review. Additionally, your thesis will be posted publicly on DSpace , MIT’s digital repository for all theses. 

5. Best Practices

5.1. identify your claims.

A key element to figuring out the unique structure to your master’s thesis is identifying the claims of your work. A claim is an answer to a research question or gap. Your thesis can have both a higher level claim and also lower level claims that motivate the research projects that you worked on. Identifying your claims will help you spot the key objectives which you want to highlight in the thesis. This will keep your writing on topic. 

Some examples are shown below:

Gap/Question : There are no field-portable microplastic sensing technologies to measure their distribution in the environment.

→ Claim : Impedance spectroscopy can be used in a microfluidic device to rapidly distinguish organic matter from polymers.

Gap/Question: How effective are convolutional neural networks for pose estimation during in-space assembly? 

→ Claim : Convolutional neural networks can be used to estimate the pose of satellites, but struggle with oversaturated images and images with multiple satellites.

5.2. Support Your Claims

Once you have identified your claim, the next step is to identify evidence that will support it. The structure of your paper will be very dependent on the claim that you make.  Figure 1 and 2 demonstrate two different structures to support a claim. In one outline, the claim is best supported by a linear structure that describes the building, testing, and validation of a model. In another outline, the claim is best supported by a trifold structure, where three independent methods are discussed. Depending on the extent of the evidence, you could break this trifold structure into 3 separate chapters, or they could all be discussed in a singular chapter. The value of identifying claims and evidence is that it helps you organize your paper coherently at a high level. The number of chapters that are output as a result of your claim identification is up to you and what you think would be sufficient discussion for a chapter within your thesis. 

A block diagram that shows a sample claim-evidence structure. Text to the left says, "Just like a paper" and on the right there is a large purple box that says "I built a model that imporves X." Underneath that box, there are three boxes aligned in a column that say, "I built the model", "I tested the model and it improves X", and then "I applied the model to a new system"

5.3. Connect the Evidence to Your Claims with Reasoning

One common mistake that students make when writing their thesis is treating each chapter as an isolated piece of writing. While it is helpful to break down the actual task of thesis writing into chapter-size pieces, these chapters should have some connection to one another. For your outline, it is ideal to identify what these connections were. Perhaps what made you start on one project was that you realized the weaknesses in your prior work and you wanted to make improvements. For readers who were not doing the research with you, describing the connections between your work in different chapters can help them understand the motivation and value of why you pursued each component. 

5.4. Combine Your Claims, Evidence, and Reasoning to Produce Your Outline

Once you have identified your claims, the evidence you have surrounding each claim, and the reasoning that connects each piece of your work, you can now create your full outline, putting the pieces together like a jigsaw puzzle. An example outline is provided as an annotated example.

There are no requirements for minimum or maximum number of chapters that your master’s thesis can have. Therefore, when translating your outline to a literal chapter breakdown, you should feel free to use as many chapters as needed. If your methods section for a claim is extremely long, it may make more sense to have it be a standalone chapter, as shown in the attached annotated pdf. 

6. Additional Resources

Every IAP, the Comm Lab hosts a workshop on how to write your master’s thesis. This workshop provides tips for writing each of these sections, and steps you through the process of creating an outline. 

Resources and Annotated Examples

Example 1. structure diagram and table of contents, example 2. table of contents.

Your studies

Master thesis/degree project.

Chalmers campus outside

Every programme concludes with a thesis/degree project. This is something that you write at the end of your studies and is for many the way to enter the world of work. During the work with the thesis/degree project, you get the help of an examiner and a supervisor at Chalmers. If you choose to do your thesis/degree project in collaboration with a company, you need a responsible supervisor there as well. You will receive information about what applies to your programme from your Student Guidance Counsellor or Head of programme/Director of Master's programme.

Regulations and learning objectives

Here you can read more about the regulations and learning objectives applicable for your thesis/degree project. Regulations and learning objectives differ depending on what you are studying.

Regulations

Chalmers regulations for theses/degree projects are based on the goals formulated in Chalmers lokala examensordning (in Swedish) and in the regulations for the theses/degree projects.

Master of Science in Engineering, Master of Architecture, Master of Science

Learning objectives.

In the learning objectives you find valuable information that you can benefit from throughout your thesis/degree project. You can for example read about:

  • Examination
  • Conditions for starting the thesis/degree project
  • Implementation
  • Student responsibility

master thesis work plan

Regulations for the use of AI tools in thesis work

Here you will find Chalmers regulations for the use of AI tools in your thesis work.

Find a thesis/degree project

You most often find a thesis/degree project yourself in consultation with your supervisor. You can get support from your Head of programme/Director of master's programme or the department where you write your thesis/degree project.

Chalmers master thesis portal

In Chalmers master thesis portal you will find available projects announced by both external parties and projects at our departments.

Thesis portal

Application forms – thesis/degree project

The application forms apply to students on both bachelor of science in engineering, shipping, civil engineering and master's programmes. To be able to start the process with your thesis/degree project, you must fill in the web form "Thesis application form" and have it signed by the examiner and Head of programme/Director of master's programme. You must do this well before your estimated start date.

For more information and link to forms

Digital work card and signature

A digital work card containing e-publishing agreements. Create your digital work card using Adobe and submit it to the department where you completed your thesis.

Find your digital work card

Instructions - handling of the digital work card, instruction - how to make a digital signature, master's thesis at the department of technology management and economics (tme), information regarding master's thesis at tme, you may also be interested in.

master thesis work plan

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Master's Thesis Plan Form

Master’s Thesis Plan Information

Students completing a written thesis as part of their Master’s degree program must submit this form so that their record can accurately reflect their plan and associated requirements. Students pursuing a thesis plan will also register for Master’s thesis hours as appropriate and complete a thesis defense. Work closely with your department to determine the minimum and maximum thesis credit hour requirement for your degree.

The form should be submitted as early as possible in a student’s career, and at the latest should submit it by the deadline to apply to graduate for the semester in which the student plans to earn the degree.  Deadlines  and  thesis information  can be found on the Graduate School’s website. 

Note that students completing an art practices MFA creative thesis, music thesis project, or dance MFA project do not submit a written thesis and need not complete this form.

Endorsements Needed

The graduate program must endorse the form.

Information Needed 

Students will provide their name, CU e-mail address, student ID, and select their program on the landing page.  On the form, the student should read and sign the form indicating that their master’s degree will include the submission of a written thesis.

Submission & Routing Information

Students will receive notification upon submission, and the Master’s thesis plan form will be sent to the graduate program for endorsement.  After review by the Graduate School, the student and program will receive notification. 

Additional instructions here .

Student Information

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Table of Contents

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A work plan is an overview of a series of objectives and procedures by which a team and/or entity can achieve those goals and provide the reader with a clearer picture of the project’s context. No matter if it is used in professional or academic life, work plans serve the purpose of helping you stay focused when working on a certain project. You disintegrate a process into tiny, manageable tasks by work schedules , and define the tasks you want to achieve.

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Step 1: Think About the Objectives

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COMMENTS

  1. Developing a Workplan

    Developing a Workplan. A workplan typically includes several important elements, including a task list, short-term goals, expected outcomes, and system for evaluating progress toward the goals. A workplan can be highly detailed and specific, or it can be fairly general. Ideally, it provides guidance on what tasks need to be completed, goals for ...

  2. Work Plan

    The completed work plan for your Master's Project should contain three parts: (1) scope of work, (2) project timeline, and (3) team charter. Guidelines for what to include in each section are outlined below. The full proposal should not exceed 15 pages in length, double-spaced, including the cover page.

  3. PDF Dissertation Planner: step-by-step

    Dissertation Planner: step-by-step. This planner is designed to help you through all the stages of your dissertation, from starting to think about your question through to final submission. At each stage there are useful prompts to help you plan your work and manage your time.

  4. How to Write a Master's Thesis: A Guide to Planning Your Thesis

    How to Write a Master's Thesis: The Final Stages After your work is done and everything is written down, you will have to give your thesis a good, thorough polishing. This is where you will have to organize the information, draft it into a paper format with an abstract, and abbreviate things to help meet your word-count limit.

  5. PDF Sample Thesis Work Plan

    This document (usually around 15-20 pages) should include a working thesis statement and evidence for main arguments. Conduct any additional research recommended by director. Use the approved working outline to create the first draft. End of first semester Submit a first draft to a writing group composed of other graduate students.

  6. PDF MASTER DEGREE THESIS: A COMPREHENSIVE WRITING GUIDE

    The steps to writing a thesis. The process of writing a thesis is generally characterized by the following. main steps: Choose a topic of your interest and a possible supervisor. Collect, gather, study, analyze and synthesize the relevant academic. literature regarding the topic, to delineate the state-of-the-art and.

  7. Schedule/work plan

    The information about schedules or work plans in proposals was gathered from RRU thesis and major project handbooks, current in 2020, from programs in the Faculty of Social and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Management, and the College of Interdisciplinary Studies.

  8. How to Write a Thesis Proposal, Thesis Proposal Outline

    For most grad students, preparing a thesis proposal is the first major step when writing a master's thesis. A strong thesis proposal: Acts as a project roadmap before major work begins. Outlines the research you plan to complete. Provides background, context, and qualifications. Limits and narrows the scope of the project.

  9. How to Write a Thesis: A Guide for Master's Students

    Tip #2: Begin Work on the Thesis Statement and Break Up the Thesis into Manageable Sections. After selecting an appropriate topic and developing a central research question for the thesis statement, it is then necessary to apply the research and writing skills you have learned throughout your degree program.

  10. What Is a Thesis?

    A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master's program or a capstone to a bachelor's degree. Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation, it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete.

  11. Dissertation & Thesis Outline

    Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates. Published on June 7, 2022 by Tegan George.Revised on November 21, 2023. A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical early steps in your writing process.It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding the specifics of your dissertation topic and showcasing its relevance to ...

  12. A complete guide to writing a master's thesis

    Step 1 - Understand your research questions. The first step in the reading phase of your master's thesis is knowing what research questions you are trying to answer. Hopefully you have identified these questions with your supervisor before you started to work on your thesis.

  13. PDF A PROPOSAL FOR A MASTER'S THESIS

    A Thesis Proposal is a document that sets forth what is to be studied as a thesis project, why and in what way. It contains a number of important sections. The purpose of the proposal is to communicate the plan for the work to the faculty of the Division of Emerging Media Studies via the First Reader (principal thesis advisor) and a Second Reader.

  14. PDF Project Plan for your Bachelor- or Master-thesis

    This project plan serves the purpose of making sure that you are ready to start working on the thesis. The plan can be developed in several iterations of feedback and discussion. In the end, the plan should be sufficiently detailed that I can be confident that it is feasible as a bachelor's or master's project. 1.

  15. Italian Studies MA Thesis Work Plan

    Italian Studies MA Thesis Work Plan. Writing a Master's Thesis is a long-term project that requires independence, intense commitment, careful planning and constant communication between the student, the Thesis Advisor and the DGS. Students should become familiar with the research conducted by the faculty members of the department and start ...

  16. Free Dissertation & Thesis Template (Word Doc & PDF)

    The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX. Download The Dissertation Template. Download Grad Coach's comprehensive dissertation and thesis template for free. Fully editable - includes detailed instructions and examples.

  17. How to Write a Master's Thesis (with Pictures)

    First, you need to find a topic (or "thesis question"), often with the help and/or approval of your faculty-led thesis committee. Next comes the process of research, which is often the most time-intensive. Then, you must take the time to analyze your research. Lastly, you outline and write the actual thesis. Thanks!

  18. Plan better, finish faster

    Here are 13 tips. 1. Plan your Bachelor's or Master's Thesis by following a master plan, like a project, with milestones and sprints. Your bachelor's or master's thesis is a real project with intermediate goals and tasks. Just stick to a proven plan. We have a master plan with concrete milestones and sprints. Take them on, run the sprints, and ...

  19. Creating an Outline for Your Master's Thesis

    Results - Show your results and comment on their significance and implications. Conclusion - Summarize the methodology you used to generate results, your key findings, and any future areas of work. 3. Purpose. Having an outline for your master's thesis will help you explain the motivation behind your work, and also connect the different ...

  20. Master thesis/Degree project

    Master thesis/Degree project. Every programme concludes with a thesis/degree project. This is something that you write at the end of your studies and is for many the way to enter the world of work. During the work with the thesis/degree project, you get the help of an examiner and a supervisor at Chalmers. If you choose to do your thesis/degree ...

  21. How To Write a Research Plan (With Template and Examples)

    If you want to learn how to write your own plan for your research project, consider the following seven steps: 1. Define the project purpose. The first step to creating a research plan for your project is to define why and what you're researching. Regardless of whether you're working with a team or alone, understanding the project's purpose can ...

  22. Master's Thesis Plan Form

    Students pursuing a thesis plan will also register for Master's thesis hours as appropriate and complete a thesis defense. Work closely with your department to determine the minimum and maximum thesis credit hour requirement for your degree. ... and the Master's thesis plan form will be sent to the graduate program for endorsement.

  23. 12+ Research Work Plan Templates in PDF

    12+ Research Work Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word. A work plan is an overview of a series of objectives and procedures by which a team and/or entity can achieve those goals and provide the reader with a clearer picture of the project's context. No matter if it is used in professional or academic life, work plans serve the purpose of helping you stay focused when working on a certain project.