An important aspect of the thesis is the abstract. Clearly identify the main aspects or conclusions of the thesis. It should be noted that there are different types of summaries suitable for different types of studies.
- a) Descriptive summary – This type of summary describes the research without judging the results.
- b) Informative Summary – This type of summary provides an explanation of the thesis, conclusions and evidence supporting the conclusions.
Step 2: Find unique and valuable research material
As we have seen, the first step in the research process is to ask a specific well-read question. In other words, you need to find a research topic that asks a specific question or set of questions (this is called research questions). Sounds pretty easy, right? All you have to do is identify a question or two and you have a winning research topic. Well, not enough…
A good thesis or dissertation topic has several important characteristics. Specifically, the research content must be strong:
Related: Learn more about our doctorates (D.Miss., Ed.D., Th.M., Ph.D).
See also the guide to doctoral studies.
11. Exercise, sleep well and eat well. Because our minds and bodies are meant to work together, you’ll likely find that your productivity suffers when you’re not careful about your exercise, sleep, and eating habits. Like it or not, our ability to maintain long periods of sustained concentration, to think carefully about our material, and to find the motivation to complete tasks depends significantly on how well we take care of our bodies. When we neglect to exercise, don’t get enough sleep, or constantly eat an unhealthy diet, it will be harder for us to muster the energy and clarity needed to complete our thesis.
12. Stay focused. Completing a thesis is not so much an intellectual feat as the result of a discipline. If you manage to devote a lot of time to research and writing, make sure you don’t use that time for other activities. This means you have to struggle with multitasking. In fact, studies have shown that multitasking is a cognitive impossibility. Our brain can only focus on one thing at a time. When we think we are multitasking, we “change activities”; instead of multitasking, our brain is constantly switching from one activity to another (listening to a song on the radio, reading a book, resuming the song, etc.). You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish if you spend 60-90 minutes not paying attention to something. Stick to the task.