dissertation project outline example

Writing a Dissertation Proposal: Outline and Example

Table of contents

• 1 What is a Dissertation Proposal?
• 2.1.1 Rationale:
• 2.1.2 Purpose:
• 2.1.3 Research Question:
• 2.1.4 Hypothesis:
• 2.1.5 Aims and Objectives:
• 2.2 Define Your Methodology
• 2.3 Literature Review
• 2.4 Anticipate Challenges and Limitations
• 2.5 Consider Ethical Considerations
• 2.6 Present Research Timeline
• 2.7 Outline of Future Work
• 2.8 Conclusion
• 3 Advice for Writing a Dissertation Proposal
• 4 Dissertation Proposal Example
• 5 Mastering the Art of Thesis and Dissertation Proposals

Are you gearing up to embark on the exciting journey of crafting a research proposal for your upcoming dissertation or thesis? If so, you’re in the right place! Creating a research proposal is like taking the very first step in building the foundation of your entire academic project. It is your opportunity to pitch your research idea, outline your plan, and convince your academic committee that your dissertation or thesis is worth pursuing.

However, to many students, writing a Ph.D. proposal seems daunting. Do you fall into a similar category? Worry no more. We are here to guide you through how to write a proposal for a dissertation or thesis, making it as clear and straightforward as possible.

In this article, we will break down the essential steps to help you create a compelling research proposal that stands out. Whether you’re a graduate student embarking on your first thesis or a doctoral candidate looking to refine your research pitch, we’ve got you covered.

Here is a glimpse of what we will explore in this article:

• After reading this article, you will understand how to write methodology in a research proposal.
• You will gain a clear understanding of what a research proposal is all about.
• The article provides an in-depth discussion of the key components of the dissertation proposal structure.
• Allocating time, staying organized, setting a realistic scope, and citing sources accurately are crucial for creating a compelling dissertation or thesis proposal.
• The article provides insights into an example of a dissertation proposal.

What is a Dissertation Proposal?

Think of a research proposal for a dissertation as a roadmap for your academic adventure. It is the plan that points you in the right direction for your dissertation or thesis. To write a stellar Master’s research proposal finding the right topic to compose the dissertation proposal outline is crucial. Without the right thesis or dissertation topic, your paper will lack the depth, enthusiasm, and quality needed for success.

When you write your dissertation or thesis proposal, it has certain parts like an introduction, goals, a review of what has already been written, how you will do your research, what it all means, any limits, and a list of your sources. However, it is worth remembering that none of it is set in stone and can change depending on your study, school, or degree.

Strong research proposals demonstrate good research abilities and require the instructor’s feedback. Students who put in the effort and time to make their proposals clear and to the point are on the right track to academic success.

The research proposals should be complete, persuasive, and properly structured. While the research proposal serves as a valuable guide, it is still advisable to seek any further guidance required from your instructor or others in your department. Doing so will ensure that your projects adhere to all the academic rules.

A research proposal is a big deal when aiming for a higher degree. Writing a proposal for a dissertation that is simple but thorough can be challenging. Still, when you stick to the plan and get valuable advice from experts, you can build a strong foundation for your research project. Therefore, your success is assured.

How to Write a Proposal for Dissertation or Thesis?

When it comes to crafting proposals, the way you structure them up is super important. You are not alone if you are curious about writing a dissertation proposal and what it involves. But here is the deal: no universal format fits everyone.

Picking the very first dissertation proposal writing template and structure you come across might not be the best idea. Instead, you should choose a format that fits your paper like a glove. You must ensure you cover all the necessary parts, like your report’s main points, goals, and how you plan to do your research. Also, before you write a dissertation research proposal, get all the details about its structure.

Here are the key components of a thesis or dissertation proposal:

Introduction

Introducing a dissertation or thesis proposal is critical in setting the stage for your research journey. Think of it as the opening act of a play; it needs to grab your audience’s attention and give them a clear sense of what to expect. This article will shed light on the vital components of a compelling introduction.

Explaining why your proposed research is necessary is crucial to kicking things off. What gap in existing research knowledge does your study aim to fill? You must highlight the significance of the research problem you are addressing to show that your work is not just an academic exercise but contributes to the broader field.

Next, the introduction of your thesis or dissertation proposal must include a clear purpose for your research. It should clearly answer the question, “What are you trying to achieve?” Clearly state the main objective of your research paper, which gives context to your study.

Research Question:

The heart of your introduction is the research question. It is the central query that your dissertation or thesis seeks to answer. Make it concise, specific, and engaging, as it will guide your entire research.

Hypothesis:

If applicable, introduce your hypothesis. It is an educated guess about the expected outcome of your research based on existing knowledge. It helps set clear expectations for your study.

Aims and Objectives:

Conclude the introduction by outlining the aims and objectives of your research. Aims are broad, overarching goals, while objectives are specific, measurable steps that help you achieve those aims. Outlining the aims and objectives provides a roadmap for your research.

By addressing these elements in your introduction, you will give your readers a clear understanding of your research paper and demonstrate that you have thought critically about the importance and direction of your dissertation or thesis and the background of your research . It is like saying, “Welcome to my research journey; here’s why it matters, what I am trying to achieve, and how I plan to get there.” It will lay a solid foundation for the rest of your proposal.

Define Your Methodology

The research methodology section in your PhD dissertation proposal is a critical part. It is where you lay out how to gather and analyze your data. This part explains your approach, like the research methods and theories you will use, whether you are into numbers (quantitative), words (qualitative), or a mix of both. Also, it is about how you will get the data, what you will do with it, and the tools you will use.

No matter how clearly we describe them, this might confuse many students. It is where PapersOwl steps in to save the day. If you find defining your methodology in your thesis or dissertation proposal tricky, just say, “ Do my Dissertation ,”  and the professional writers will jump right in to help.

Moreover, it is crucial to give valid reasons for your methodology selections. It will ensure the validity and reliability of the study’s findings.

Literature Review

In your doctoral dissertation proposal, the literature review section should showcase the books and materials you have used for your research. Think of it as giving credit to the sources that helped you understand your topic better or served as references for previous academic studies.

If tackling a literature review for your thesis or dissertation feels overwhelming, there is an alternative: consider taking help from a dissertation writing service . The literature review is your chance to demonstrate how your work fits into the bigger picture. It is about listing your sources and showing why they matter. Here are some pointers to keep in mind while doing a literature review for your thesis or dissertation:

• Do not shy away from discussing the stuff you disagree with. Everyone has got their take on things, and that’s what makes it interesting.
• Make sure to use proper citations to back up your ideas. It will make your proposal look more credible and worth reading.
• Compare and contrast different theories, arguments, and debates, and then throw in your two cents on how to find common ground.
• Connect your research to the existing literature and explain how it will progress the subject area.

Anticipate Challenges and Limitations

When crafting a proposal for your dissertation, you must not forget to talk about the research limitations – it is a big deal. You must understand that many research topics can be pretty complicated, and by pointing out these limits, you’re saying, “Hey, I know the ins and outs of what I am dealing with.”

Give some real-life examples of these limitations that might come into play, like time constraints, tricky data collection, needing a bigger group to study, or people dropping out of your study. It is like telling your readers, “Here is the road I’m walking, and here are some potholes I might stumble upon.” By doing so, you are being upfront about the challenges you could face on your research journey.

Consider Ethical Considerations

When it comes to research proposals, ethics are a big deal. As a researcher, you must ensure your study is above board and follows ethical considerations. It means considering how you collect data, keeping your participants’ info private, and getting their consent to be part of your study. It is like doing your research the right way.

By addressing these considerations, you show your commitment and willingness to conduct ethical research. Staying honest and responsible throughout the process is a sure way to steer yourself toward creating an outstanding thesis or dissertation.

Present Research Timeline

In the prospectus, it is standard and smart to give your supervisor an idea of when you will hand in your work. You can break it down into steps, like when you finish each chapter. But here is the key – be realistic. Make sure you have enough time for research before diving into writing. This way, you will have a strong base of knowledge, and you will not need to speed through the writing the dissertation proposal part.

Outline of Future Work

When it comes to outlining your future work in your thesis or dissertation proposal, it is all about showing your dedication and commitment to the topic. It is where you paint a picture of what you plan to dive into after completing your thesis or dissertation. It is like saying, “I am not done yet, and here is what’s next.”

By outlining your future work, you demonstrate that you are in it for the long haul and are not just stopping at your current study. You show that you are passionate about your field and eager to contribute. It means saying, “It is just the beginning, and I have big plans.”

While a conclusion is not mandatory, it is kind of like the cherry on top. It is a great way to wrap things up by reviewing your main points and revisiting why you picked this topic, how you researched it, and what you expect to find.

When you offer your readers a quick recap, it’s like saying, “Hey, remember what this was all about?” It’s a neat way to connect the dots and ensure your research sticks in their minds. A solid conclusion is like leaving a strong impression, much like the final bow in a great performance.

Advice for Writing a Dissertation Proposal

If you are one of those students wondering how to write a dissertation proposal, do not worry; we have some handy advice to make the process smoother. Following this advice is super important for a bunch of reasons. And remember, there is always the option to check out the best essay writing service if you need some extra help.

When you have a well-written proposal, it is like having a golden ticket. It can help you get the green light from your advisor and committee. Plus, it helps you get your research goals, methods, and what you hope to find all sorted out. It not only saves you time but also makes your work top-notch.

By following this advice, you are showing you know your stuff and proving you are a pro-researcher. That can really open doors for you in your academic and career journey. So, let’s dive into these practical tips to make the whole process a bit quicker and smoother:

• First things first, give yourself enough time for research. Rushing things can lead to all sorts of problems, especially time crunches.
• Remember that the folks reviewing your proposal have stacks to go through. So, make sure your work is organized and crystal clear. It will help you get to the writing part faster.
• A dissertation or thesis proposal is a work in progress, not a final product. Changes are expected, so don’t stress about it.
• Be clear about your research questions and ideas, and make sure they are doable. Your proposals are judged on whether you can pull them off and how ambitious they are. Your ideas should also fit right into your field.
• Show your passion for your research topic. Let your excitement shine through by sharing a personal story or explaining why this topic is important for your future studies and academic goals.
• When it comes to your sources, give credit where it is due. Use your own words or quotes properly to avoid plagiarism. Remember to make a list of all the sources you used. Keep your writing clear, to the point, and well-organized.
• Before you hit that submit button, give your work an excellent read to catch any errors.

Dissertation Proposal Example

Having access to great examples is a big help when working on a dissertation. You will come across many dissertation proposal samples, but not all examples are equal. That’s where the best dissertation proposal help comes in, offering high-quality examples that fit the bill and meet your needs.

Imagine you are working on a prospectus for something as fancy as the computational model of acquiring intellectual expertise. Sounds complicated, right? Here’s the scoop: keep your paper’s title straightforward so people know what it’s all about. And do not forget to mention your university to give it that official touch.

Now, the abstract might be short, but it is a big deal. It is like the sneak peek that helps readers understand what your project is all about. Once your abstract is good to go, it is time to organize your info into different sections. You will usually have an introduction, methodology, conclusion, and more. Give each part some attention to make sure your writing flows smoothly and makes sense.

Here’s a quick example of what the structure of a dissertation proposal might look like:

Remember that this example works well for cognitive science studies, but things might be a bit different for other subjects.

Mastering the Art of Thesis and Dissertation Proposals

Embarking on crafting a proposal for your thesis or dissertation can feel daunting. However, remembering that it is a path well-trodden by countless scholars before you is worth remembering. In this guide, we will take you by the hand and walk you through the essential steps.

From understanding what a research proposal is to nailing down the key components and the pitfalls to avoid. By the end of this journey, you will be armed with the knowledge and confidence to tackle your proposal with finesse. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the thesis and dissertation proposals world. It’s a journey worth taking, and the destination? Your academic success.

How to choose dissertation proposal topics?

Choosing a topic can be daunting, but there are some helpful tips to consider. Look for a topic that aligns with your research interests and career goals, is feasible and manageable, has existing literature to build upon, and contributes to the field. Consult with your advisor for guidance and feedback.

How long should proposals be?

The length of proposals can vary depending on the guidelines provided by your study field or academic institution. Typically, proposals are between 15-25 pages long, but it’s important to check with your advisor or program requirements to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria.

What is the difference between proposals and prospectus?

Both of these are documents used in the process of planning and writing a great dissertation . However, proposals are shorter documents that show the basic research idea and approach. Prospectus is a more detail-oriented and extensive document that features literature reviews, methodology, and preliminary results.

Readers also enjoyed

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, automatically generate references for free.

• Knowledge Base
• Dissertation
• Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Published on 8 June 2022 by Tegan George .

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

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 organisational 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, frequently asked questions about 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.

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

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 utilising 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.

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

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 .

All level 1 and 2 headings should be included in your table of contents . That means the titles of your chapters and the main sections within them.

The contents should also include all appendices and the lists of tables and figures, if applicable, as well as your reference list .

Do not include the acknowledgements or abstract   in the table of contents.

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. (2022, June 08). Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved 29 April 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/outline-thesis-dissertation/

Is this article helpful?

Tegan George

Other students also liked, dissertation table of contents in word | instructions & examples, how to write a dissertation proposal | a step-by-step guide, thesis & dissertation acknowledgements | tips & examples.

• Privacy Policy

Home » Thesis Outline – Example, Template and Writing Guide

Thesis Outline – Example, Template and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Thesis Outline

Thesis outline is a document that outlines the structure and content of a thesis , which is a long-form academic paper that presents an original argument or research on a particular topic. The outline serves as a roadmap for the thesis, providing an overview of the major sections, sub-sections, and the general flow of the argument.

Thesis outline typically follows a standard format and includes the following sections:

• Title page: This page includes the thesis title, author’s name, department, university, and the date of submission.
• Abstract : This section is a brief summary of the thesis, highlighting the main points and conclusions. It usually contains around 150-300 words.
• Table of contents: This page lists all the chapters, sections, and subsections of the thesis, along with their page numbers.
• Introduction: This section introduces the topic of the thesis, presents the research question or hypothesis, and provides an overview of the methodology and the scope of the study.
• Literature review: This chapter provides a critical analysis of the existing literature on the topic, highlighting the gaps, inconsistencies, and controversies.
• Methodology : This section explains the research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques used in the study.
• Results : This chapter presents the findings of the study, using tables, charts, and graphs to illustrate the data.
• Discussion : This section interprets the results and relates them to the research question or hypothesis. It also discusses the implications, limitations, and future directions of the study.
• Conclusion : This section summarizes the main points of the thesis, restates the research question or hypothesis, and provides a final conclusion.
• References : This page lists all the sources cited in the thesis, following a specific citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Appendices : This section includes any additional materials, such as questionnaires, interview transcripts, or raw data, that are relevant to the study but not included in the main text.

Thesis Outline Example

Thesis Outline Example and Template Sample is as follows:

I. Introduction

• Background and Context
• Problem Statement
• Research Questions
• Objectives and Scope
• Significance of the Study
• Chapter Overview

II. Literature Review

• Introduction to Literature Review
• Theoretical Framework
• Previous Research on the Topic
• Critical Analysis of the Literature
• Summary and Conclusion

III. Methodology

• Introduction to Methodology
• Research Design and Approach
• Sampling Strategy
• Data Collection Methods
• Data Analysis Techniques
• Ethical Considerations
• Limitations and Delimitations

IV. Results

• Introduction to Results
• Presentation of Data
• Analysis of Findings
• Discussion of Results

V. Discussion

• Introduction to Discussion
• Interpretation of Results
• Comparison with Previous Research
• Implications and Applications of the Findings
• Limitations and Future Directions

VI. Conclusion

• Summary of Findings
• Conclusions and Recommendations
• Contribution to the Field
• Implications for Future Research

VII. References

VIII. Appendices

• Survey Instrument
• Data Tables and Figures
• Institutional Review Board Approval
• Informed Consent Form

How to Write Thesis Outline

Here are some steps to follow when writing a thesis outline:

• Identify the purpose and scope of your thesis: Before you start writing, you should have a clear understanding of the research questions , objectives, and hypotheses of your thesis, as well as the specific requirements and guidelines of your institution.
• Organize your ideas into sections: Divide your thesis into logical sections, such as introduction, literature review , methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Think about the main points you want to make in each section and how they relate to the overall theme of your thesis.
• Write a brief summary for each section: Write a few sentences summarizing the main ideas and objectives of each section. This will help you stay focused and avoid including irrelevant or redundant information.
• Create a table of contents: List the main sections and subsections of your thesis, along with their page numbers, to create a clear and organized outline.
• Review and revise your outline: Make sure your outline follows a logical and coherent structure, and that each section flows smoothly into the next. Revise your outline as necessary to ensure that it accurately reflects the content and structure of your thesis.
• Seek feedback from your advisor or committee: Share your outline with your thesis advisor or committee members to get their feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Purpose of Thesis Outline

The purpose of a thesis outline is to provide a clear and organized structure for your thesis, which will help you to:

• Stay organized : An outline helps you to break down your thesis into manageable sections, making it easier to plan your research and writing process.
• Ensure logical flow: A well-structured outline ensures that your thesis has a logical and coherent flow, with each section building on the previous one.
• Avoid duplication and irrelevant information: An outline helps you to avoid including duplicate or irrelevant information, ensuring that your thesis is focused and to-the-point.
• Meet institutional requirements: Many institutions have specific guidelines for the structure and format of a thesis, and an outline can help you to ensure that your thesis meets these requirements.
• Get feedback and guidance: An outline can be shared with your thesis advisor or committee members for feedback and guidance, helping you to refine your research and writing approach.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

You may also like

Delimitations in Research – Types, Examples and...

Research Design – Types, Methods and Examples

Dissertation Methodology – Structure, Example...

What is a Hypothesis – Types, Examples and...

Dissertation – Format, Example and Template

Dissertation vs Thesis – Key Differences

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. 

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.

Thesis Helpers

Find the best tips and advice to improve your writing. Or, have a top expert write your paper.

Master’s Thesis Outline: Example And Tips For Writers

A thesis outline is a detailed description of the major parts of your thesis – from introduction, literature overview, thesis problem and methodology to the results, discussion, and conclusion sections.

Thesis Outline Template

• Introduction : Describe the large problem to be solved.

Introduction answers the question: Which problem area this thesis is about to address?

• Literature Overview : Review the existing research in this problem area.

Answers the question: How did the previous researchers deal with this problem?

• Thesis Problem : Define your intended contribution to solving this problem and make the promise of the thesis.

Answers the question: What will be your contribution to the current work on solving this issue?

• Method Section : Describe the protocol you’ve followed to obtain the results.

Answers the question: What methods have you chosen for the research and why are they suitable for this study?

• Results : Present your findings.

Answers the question: What are the outcomes of this research?

• Discussion : Question your findings from the different perspectives, discuss their significance.

Answers the question: How can the research results be interpreted? (it is advisable to use such expressions as “ on one hand/on the other hand, instead, nonetheless, however , etc.”)

• Conclusion : Summarize your findings and answer the research question.

The thesis statement outline or main outline is an important blueprint used to guide the process of organizing and writing your thesis or dissertation. These works are usually required in pursuit of a master’s or Ph.D. degree in many academic fields. What you choose to do depends on your school’s requirements as well as the type of degree you are seeking to earn.

When students ask “what is a thesis?” or “do I have to create an outline?” we respond by explaining that the thesis a study that can range anywhere between 100 to 300 pages that address a specific problem or answers a question in a specific area of study. It is considered an authoritative work that other researchers and academics will build upon and use in their own studies. Something of this depth and scope can get pretty messy without the aid of a well-crafted outline. So, while an outline is not a prerequisite to completing the assignment, it most certainly helps to create one before attempting to write.

In this article, we provide a standard template for you to use as well as detailed instructions on how to write a thesis outline. There are a number of resources available on the web, but this no-nonsense approach is a great start and provides you with all the information you need.

A Thesis and Outline Should Be Mirror Images

Your thesis proposal outline is something you need to do before you start your research in earnest. It needs to be approved by your graduate advisor as it will guide your study for the next several months. However, the paradox about creating a proposal outline is that you likely don’t have a well-developed plan and should actually conduct a little background research before trying to put one together. After you receive this approval, you can get to work, and after you’ve accumulated tons of notes including quotations, paraphrases, questions, responses, data, and more, you will be ready to create the thesis outline.

How to write a thesis? It’s not much different from writing a long research study – but will likely require a lot more of your time and dedication. When writing an outline you can draw from the dissertation proposal outline so that it is basically a mirror image of the work you were granted approval to do. Of course, the revised outline at this stage will have far more detail but it should follow the same chapter or section order as well as meet any of the specific department requirements.

Thesis Outline Template for Free Use

This thesis paper outline lays the foundation for the entire assignment. While you may find very slight differences and may even need to adhere to specific departmental guidelines, the thesis outline example we provide here should help to organize your capstone project in most disciplines.

Unlike the research or term papers, you are experienced with, an academic work of this scope requires a lot more. You shouldn’t be intimidated by this statement, but you should take the time to become familiar with all that is expected that you include and reference. The best place to start is to create a thesis chapters outline touching on all of the major sections. These include a title page, an abstract , an introduction, methods and discussion, conclusions, and a bibliography. Here’s a thesis outline sample you can use for free:

• Chapter 1: Introduction
• General Introduction of the Research Study
• Research Problem or Questions with Sub-Questions
• Reasons or Needs for the Research Study
• Definition and Explanation of Key Terminology
• Context of Research Study within the Greater Discipline (Area of Study)
• Chapter 2: Hypothesis (Theory)
• Brief Overview of Theoretical Foundations Utilized in the Study
• Brief Overview of Literature Reviewed, Discussed and Applied
• Study Model and Process Aligning with Literature Reviewed
• Hypotheses and Justifications Tied to Prior Sections or Statements
• The Scope of Your Study with Theoretical Assumptions and Limitations
• Chapter 3: Methods
• Introduction and General Description Study Method and Study Design
• In-Depth Description of the Study Design (Study Materials to Be Used)
• Explanation of Sample to Be Used in the Study
• Explanation of Measurements, Definitions, Indexes, etc. and Reliability and Validity of Study Method and Study Design
• Description of Analytical Techniques to Be Applied and Justification for Them
• Reliability and Validity of Internal/External Design and Related Subtypes
• Assumptions of Study Method and Study Design with Implied Limitations
• Chapter 4: Findings
• Brief Overview of Material
• Findings (Results) of the Method of Study and Any Unplanned or Unexpected Situations that Occurred
• Brief Descriptive Analysis
• Reliability and Validity of the Analysis
• Explanation of the Hypothesis and Precise and Exact Data (Do Not Give Your Opinion)
• Chapter 5: Discussion
• Full Discussion of Findings (Results) and Implications
• Full Discussion of Research Analysis of Findings
• Full Discussion of Hypothesis and of Findings
• Post Analysis and Implications of Hypothesis and of Findings
• Chapter 6: Conclusion
• Summary of Academic Study
• Reference to Literature Review
• Implications of Academic Study
• Limitations of the Theory or Method of Research
• Recommendations or Suggestions of Future Academic Study
• Chapter 7: Bibliography
• Complete List of all Sources Used Regardless of Citation or Inclusion

How to Make a Thesis Outline

You can use the template above to save time – but we thought a simple process on how to write a thesis outline and getting started with organizing your material before applying the information to the appropriate section would be equally beneficial.

• Start with your hypothesis . Place it right at the top of the page – all of the subsequent sections will need to relate or address this in some way. The page doesn’t have to be too detailed since you are the only one who will be looking at these notes. Just make sure you understand it.
• Work down the template in the order it is presented above . Fill in all top-level sections and add sub-sections as necessary (e.g., I.a, I.b. II.a, II.b., II.c., etc.). We recommend you use a combination alpha-numerical dissertation outline because you will have a lot of information to organize, but this is a matter of personal preference. Use whatever format with which you are most comfortable.
• You might consider using a master outline for the entire work and working outlines for each chapter . The latter will help you focus on just one section at a time, a strategy which can help you stay organized and productive throughout the months-long writing process.
• Review each of your outlines and make adjustments prior to filling it in with all the remaining research content notes you have. It’s easier to do this now before you have to rethink and reorganize large pieces of text. The outline for thesis is a tool to facilitate your writing – but it won’t be of much help if you don’t structure it in a logical manner before getting to work.
• Now, you can flush out all of the details with key terms, phrases, and sentences to guide you through your first draft. Most students should look towards revising the outline(s) after completing the first draft. This may seem a little tedious but it really does help (as we’re certain you will see after completing the draft).

Professional Services to Help with Writing Outline

Creating a thesis outline is difficult, but it’s a challenge you can overcome when you seek out professional assistance . We can provide you with a custom template for your thesis statement and outline. We can also help you to write, revise, edit, and proofread your work anytime throughout the year. We know that the importance of earning a master’s degree and we ensure that our experts are always ready to go the extra mile to give the highest-quality support that you will find anywhere on the internet. Give us a call to discuss your project and unique needs, we’re glad to work within your budget and will always exceed expectations.

Tired of writing thesis on your own? Great news! Enter promo “ thesis20 ” and get a unique outline with 20% discount!

Make PhD experience your own

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Research Proposal Example/Sample

Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template

If you’re getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals , you’ve come to the right place.

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

FAQ: Research Proposal Example

Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

You Might Also Like:

10 Comments

I am at the stage of writing my thesis proposal for a PhD in Management at Altantic International University. I checked on the coaching services, but it indicates that it’s not available in my area. I am in South Sudan. My proposed topic is: “Leadership Behavior in Local Government Governance Ecosystem and Service Delivery Effectiveness in Post Conflict Districts of Northern Uganda”. I will appreciate your guidance and support

GRADCOCH is very grateful motivated and helpful for all students etc. it is very accorporated and provide easy access way strongly agree from GRADCOCH.

Proposal research departemet management

I am at the stage of writing my thesis proposal for a masters in Analysis of w heat commercialisation by small holders householdrs at Hawassa International University. I will appreciate your guidance and support

please provide a attractive proposal about foreign universities .It would be your highness.

comparative constitutional law

Kindly guide me through writing a good proposal on the thesis topic; Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Financial Inclusion in Nigeria. Thank you

Kindly help me write a research proposal on the topic of impacts of artisanal gold panning on the environment

I am in the process of research proposal for my Master of Art with a topic : “factors influence on first-year students’s academic adjustment”. I am absorbing in GRADCOACH and interested in such proposal sample. However, it is great for me to learn and seeking for more new updated proposal framework from GRADCAOCH.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Print Friendly

• How it works

Full Dissertation Samples and Examples

Students often face difficulty in starting their dissertations. One way to cater to this problem is to look at samples of full dissertations available online. We understand this problem. Therefore, our professionals have curated expert full dissertation examples for students to get inspired by and start working on their own dissertations.

Full Dissertation Sample

Discipline: Economics

Quality: 1st / 78%

Discipline: Business

Quality: 1st / 74%

Discipline: Big Data

Quality: 2:1 / 68%

Undergraduate

Discipline: Engineering Management

Quality: 2:1 / 69%

Discipline: Business Management

Discipline: Project Management

Quality: 1st / 73%

Discipline: Physiotherapy

Quality: 1st / 79%

Discipline: Marketing

Quality: 1st / 76%

Discipline: HRM

Discipline: Civil Engineering

Theism and Ultimate Explanation of the Existence of God” against ….

Dissertation

Extraversion and Occupational Choice

Feeding and resource buffers in ccpm and the impact of their use …..

Project Management

Impact of the Global Financial Crisis 2008-2009 on the UK ….

Material selection for innovative design of automotive component.

Engineering

Cognitive Process of Entrepreneurs in the Examination ….

Entrepreneurship

The Impact of Gender on Purchase Decision and Buying Behaviour ….

The leadership styles of successful project managers …., why manchester united football club has been one of the most successful sports …., investigating the impact of employee engagement on organisational performance…., should countries implement a constitutional court for fundamental rights breaches, optimising global supply chain operations: a collection of undergraduate dissertation samples.

Supply Chain

Newspaper coverage of refugees from Mainland China between 1937 and 1941 in Hong Kong

Our full dissetation features, customised dissertations.

These examples of a full dissertation are just for reference. We provide work based on your requirements.

Expert Writers

We have professional dissertation writers in each field to complete your dissertations.

Quality Control

These expert full dissertation examples showcase the quality of work that can be expected from us.

Plagiarism Free

We ensure that our content is 100% plagiarism free and checked with paid tools.

Proofreading

The dissertations are proofread by professionals to remove any errors before delivery.

We set our prices according to the affordability of the majority of students so everyone can avail.

Loved by over 100,000 students

Thousands of students have used ResearchProspect academic support services to improve their grades. Why are you waiting?

"I was having the hardest time starting my dissertation. I went online and checked their full dissertation samples. It helped me a lot! "

Law Student

"Trusting someone with your work is hard. I wanted a reliable resource. I saw their full dissertation samples and immediately placed my order. "

Literature Student

What is a Dissertation?

A dissertation is a complex and comprehensive academic project students must complete towards the end of their degree programme. It requires deep independent research on a topic approved by your tutor. A dissertation contains five chapters – introduction, literature review, methodology, discussion, and conclusion. This is the standard structure for a dissertation unless stated otherwise by your tutor or institution.

Writing a Dissertation Proposal

After selecting a topic, the next step is preparing a proposal. A dissertation proposal is a plan or outline of the research you intend to conduct. It gives a background to the topic, lays out your research aims and objectives, and gives details of the research methodology you intend to use.

If your university accepts your proposal, you can start work on the dissertation paper. If it’s not accepted at first, make amendments to the proposal based on your supervisor’s feedback.

Referencing

Referencing is not some little detail at the end of the paper. Without correct referencing, even a brilliant paper can fail miserably. Citing every source accurately is an absolute must.

Don't Neglect Small Details.

Completing a dissertation proves you can carry out something thoroughly. Therefore, you should attend to each part of the dissertation and omit nothing.

Things like creating a table of contents with the page numbers listed, the reference list, and appendices are all parts of a dissertation. They all contribute to your grade. Look at our dissertation samples and writing guides to get a good understanding.

Choosing Your Dissertation Topic

Choosing a dissertation topic is the first step towards writing a dissertation. However, you should make sure the topic is relevant to your degree programme. It should investigate a specific problem and contribute towards the existing literature.

In order to stay motivated throughout the process, the research topic should be in line with your interests. At ResearchProspect, our expert academics can provide you with unique, manageable topics so you can choose one that suits your needs. Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student, topics from ResearchProspect can go a long way towards helping you achieve your desired grade.

How to Write a Dissertation

Acceptance of your dissertation proposal is the starting signal. Check out our dissertation writing service and look through our thesis samples to grasp the typical writing style.

Structure of a Dissertation

You have a topic and it’s been accepted. Now comes the structure and format. The first chapter will introduce the topic, the second should then explore it deeply and discuss relevant models, frameworks, and concepts.

The third chapter is where you explain your methodology in detail. The fourth and fifth chapters are for discussing the results and concluding the research, respectively.

Our full dissertation samples and writing guides will help you better understand dissertation structure and formatting.

How ResearchProspect Can Help!

Looking for dissertation help? At ResearchProspect, we know how difficult producing a first-class dissertation is. When you have other projects on, it’s particularly demanding.

Head to our order form. You can place your order today. If you’re not ready to commit yet, just message us about your project and what you’re considering. We have experts to write your full dissertation to your requirements.

Explore More Samples

View our professional samples to be certain that we have the portofilio and capabilities to deliver what you need.

USEFUL LINKS

LEARNING RESOURCES

COMPANY DETAILS

• How It Works