The dissertation is among the definitive essays for your doctoral, bachelor’s, or master’s degree. However, many students are unaware of what is expected of them in a thesis. As a result, students submit subpar work which results in countless thesis defending.
As indicated in USessaywriters, the initial step of dissertation writing is familiarizing with the rules of thesis writing. This article will cover common dissertation writing mistakes you should avoid securing good grades.
These tips will guide you on editing your dissertation for maximum points and thorough coverage of your argument.
1. Rushed research
Although students handle a variety of tasks throughout their program, writing a dissertation proves a daunting task for many. With so much at stake and little knowledge of what is required of them, students often succumb to panic.
Even worse, some students limit time for research in a bid to finish writing the dissertation on time. This approach leaves gaps within your argument, thus inviting more criticism.
Since dissertation writing targets a more knowledgeable audience, it is vital to do thorough research. Adequate research not only gives your dissertation direction but also helps you identify critical areas to tackle.
Additionally, research helps you gather enough material on which to base your argument. For better results, engage recent publications within your field, thus identifying the latest problems and advancements that can be used to bring your ideas to fruition.
2. Poor organization
It is essential to show professionalism to impress the examiners. Often, students fail in the organization of their preliminary papers, thus making it hard for a reader to trace their line of thought.
For a better defence, consult the template you are provided with and ensure that each section is listed and well numbered in your table of contents. For easy organization, make entries of each subject as you prepare your first draft and check the article during editing for adjustment of page numbers.
3. Poor topic selection
A thesis topic is crucial for a quality dissertation. However, you must select a topic that interests you to have a more comfortable time researching and motivation to cover all aspects of your argument.
When selecting a thesis topic, ensure that it covers a unique issue that has not been addressed in another research. Alternatively, cover a different perspective that would improve on the existing research and provide better problems to the problems presented.
4. Topic Jargon
A good thesis calls for a display of professionalism and mastery of your topic. However, this does not imply that your thesis should only be readable by a professor in your field.
To gain maximum points from your argument, ensure that your dissertation comprises of simple language. Alternatively, include a glossary defining all topic-related terminologies.
5. Long abstract
The abstract is a summary of your thesis statement the problem, some of your critical ideas for resolving the issue, and the implications of your work. As such, an abstract should be easy to read and informative as this is the initial section your readers will encounter.
For this reason, an abstract should not exceed one page. Also, the abstract should comprise of short structured sentences without citations.
Ensure that you write the abstract after completing your paper to present your ideas and the methodology properly. After writing your essay, collate your main arguments and your methods and include them in your abstract.
6. Poor editing
You might have great points, clear illustrations, and the best charisma in your presentation. Without proper editing, however, you may end up defending your thesis several times.
Although the language is a crucial section to consider, ensure that you pay equal attention to fact-checking and coherence. When checking for coherence, you will not only realize flow in your argument but also discover the issues you might have addressed insufficiently.
Also, check to ensure that you achieve harmony in your referencing style. While at this, ensure that in-text citations are expounded on in the works cited section to avoid plagiarism issues arising from poor referencing.
7. Splitting tables and flow charts
Illustrations are excellent for presenting data acquired within your study. However, large amounts of data may prove challenging to show as they span over many pages.
To ensure easy correlation of related data, categorize your illustrations into sections, and present specific data individually. While at this, provide a key for your readers to follow when reading your charts.
8. Straying from your topic
When doing research, you are bound to come across exciting pieces of information that barely relate to your specific problem. Although you may opt to mention them in your work, do not invest too much in these sections as they may dilute your argument.
For this, use your outline to gauge the relevance of new material. To fine-tune your argument, present your paper to the vetting board before your defense. The panel will help you identify the ideas you need to invest in and the errors you should fix.
9. Time misappropriation
With so much in hand, many students fall victim to procrastination. As a result, students have little time for research, writing, and editing, thus resulting in a poorly written thesis and a weak argument.
Ensure that you begin preparing your essay early enough and to have a schedule to guide your work. On the plan, assign ample time to research and give each section adequate time for preparation and editing.
Finally, proofread your work and check for arguments that should be improved.
Final verdict
Dissertation writing is a complicated task. With so many elements to manage, you need an outstanding level of organization to tick all boxes of a quality thesis. These common dissertation mistakes should help you fine-tune your writing regimen, thus improving your overall score.
