Theses generally have an introduction, literature review, methods part, results section, discussion section, and conclusion section in both the hard sciences and the social sciences. Each of these is discussed in its own separate part or chapter. You might wish to include an appendix in some circumstances.
Title Page
Your thesis's first page includes all important identifying information, such as:
- Your full title
- Your full name
- Your department
- Your institution and degree program
- Your submission date
Acknowledgements
Typically, the acknowledgements portion is optional. Its major purpose is to provide you a chance to express your gratitude to everyone who supported you throughout the writing of your thesis, including your supervisors, friends, and family. Prefaces are optional, although usually just one of the two is written, not both.
Abstract
A concise description of your thesis is called an abstract. It should contain succinct summaries of your research's aims, methodology, results, and conclusions and is typically no more than 300 words. Even though it may appear brief, it serves as a first impression of your thesis and presents your work to your audience.
Table of Contents
All of your sections, together with their respective page numbers and subheadings, if applicable, are included in the table of contents. This makes it easier for your reader to read your work.
All of your thesis' important sections should be listed in the table of contents. Don't forget to read the appendices, in particular. Microsoft Word makes it simple to create an automated table if you utilise heading styles.
Introduction
The topic, goal, and significance of your thesis are established in the introduction, along with the reader's expectations. This ought to:
- Provide any background information your reader would need to understand your study topic.
- Define the scope of your study and describe any prior research on the subject. Place your work in the context of a larger issue or debate.
- What research questions do you have?
- Briefly describe the rest of your work's process.
Review of the Literature
A literature study aids you in developing a thorough grasp of all previous scholarly work on your subject, covering:
- Choosing pertinent sources
- Selecting reliable sources for your information
- Analysing each of your sources critically
- Establishing links across sources, taking into account any recurring themes, trends, disputes, or gaps
Methodology
Your methodology chapter outlines your research process for the reader. It should be stated logically and with clarity to make it simple for the reader to evaluate the merits of your claim. Additionally, your methods section ought to persuade the reader that your approach was the most effective way to address the research topic.
Conclusion of the thesis
Your key research topic should be succinctly addressed in your thesis conclusion. It should emphasise how exactly your study has advanced your subject and leave the reader with a crystal-clear knowledge of your main point.