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How to write a thesis proposal in 5 simple steps

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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.
• Highlights the frameworks and methodologies to be used.
• Establishes timelines, budgets, and resources.

But, while the concept of a thesis proposal is easy to understand, these documents can be difficult to write due to both their complexity and the need for students to limit their scope of coverage on their chosen topic.

It’s a lot to manage.

Fortunately, with the right templates and strategies, it is entirely doable.

This article will explain how to write a preliminary thesis, and how to overcome some of the hurdles most graduate students encounter along the way.

Key takeaways

• A thesis proposal covers what topics you plan to research and write about as part of your master’s thesis.
• Your proposal should properly define the scope of your research, as well as the questions you intend to explore and the methodology used to answer those questions.
• A thesis can act as a project outline, going so far as to define the project structure, including proposed chapters, research sources, and more.

→DOWNLOAD NOW: FREE THESIS PROPOSAL TEMPLATE

Step 1. Outlining

While your thesis proposal is critical during the earliest stages of your project, producing this document isn’t the first thing you should do.

Before you begin writing a thesis proposal, you’ll need to do some preliminary research and establish the basic premise of your content.

Writing a proposal will help to condense your research and narrow the scope of the project even further.

Your thesis proposal starts with outlining the materials you’ve gathered.

This is important, because the proposal is as much for your benefit as it is for the advisors and administrators overseeing your project.

Here are the items you’ll need before you try to create a thesis proposal:

• Aim, scope, and basic questions. What is the goal of your thesis? What question, hypothesis, theme, or idea do you intend to test or examine?
• Resources . Do you have the information you need in order to successfully complete this project? Is the body of research substantial enough to dive into your desired topic? Do you have access to the data, assets, or equipment you will need for this project to be viable?
• Approach and methodology. How do you intend to answer your question or test your hypothesis? What methods will you use? What steps will you take? How will you accomplish your goals?
• Timelines and costs. How long will it take to complete this project? How much will it cost? Who will cover the expenses?

Step 2. Defining a structure

In order to write your proposal, you need to understand the common structure of the document.

The typical parts of a thesis proposal are as follows.

1. Abstract

This is the outline or the summary of your work and research methodology.

2. Introduction

An introduction is what sets the stage for the rest of your paper. It puts the rest of your research and ideas in the correct context.

3. Existing literature/significant prior research

All of your ideas will be supported with research and other well-known literature.

This gives your work credibility, and helps you avoid accusations of plagiarism.

4. Thesis or project statement

Your thesis statement is a concise explanation of the argument made in your paper.

5. Approach

In this section, you’ll include a brief overview of how you plan to approach the topic and the research method used for your work.

Depending on your approach, you may also need to include information regarding costs, budget , and timelines.

6. Potential outcomes

In this section, you’ll outline what you expect to find through your research project .

7. Limitations

Every study comes with its own unique limitations or constraints which impact the results.

Outline these limitations, and explain how they could impact the findings in your proposal.

8. Contributions to knowledge

This is your opportunity to explain how your work will contribute to your field of study.

9. Proposed dissertation chapters

This section will include an outline of how you plan to write and format your dissertation .

While most thesis proposals follow this basic outline, be sure to check with your advisor and administrative team before you begin your draft.

Many schools offer templates for thesis proposals, and they may expect you to adhere to their predetermined formats.

If no such guidelines exist or you’re free to deviate any prescribed template, take the opportunity to tailor the format in a way that highlights the benefits of your proposal.

It’s also worth noting that every proposal may not require each item listed above.

For example, a proposal for a close review of bestselling literature from the early 2000s with a focus on race and culture may not require much explanation in the way of budgeting and cost.

Thesis Proposal Template

Used 5600 times

Reviewed by Yauhen Zaremba

Step 3. Planning your writing

The best way to put together an organized thesis proposal is to determine how you will write it before you get started.

Many thesis proposals are rejected simply because students fail to plan their writing and instead try to hack everything together in a piecemeal approach.

Don’t let that happen to you.

Gather all the necessary information before you start writing, and stick to formats that highlight the value of your proposal.

The usual flow of writing a thesis proposal is as follows.

Start by coming up with a detailed description of the major points you’ll be making in your thesis.

2. Prepare visuals (if required)

If your thesis includes any visuals, like charts or tables, it can help to prepare these ahead of time.

This will help support the arguments made in your thesis.

3. Establish a methodology

In the methodology chapter, you’ll explain the approach you took while compiling your work.

This should explain the validity of your research and add credibility to your research.

4. Explanation of data

In this section, you’ll include an overview of the data you uncovered.

5. Draw conclusions

You’ll also include a brief explanation of the conclusions you’re drawing from the data, and how you believe the data supports your thesis.

6. Write an introduction

Again, the introduction sets the stage for the rest of the paper.

7. Write an abstract

Your abstract is a concise summary of the paper.

8. List your references

The reference list is a complete list of the resources you used to create your thesis. This is also known as a literature review, and it shows how your work fits within the larger field of study.

Note that the writing of the thesis proposal will not follow the actual structure of the proposal .

It’s often best to write some elements out of order — particularly the introductory matter that is designed to condense the proposal to just a few lines.

Without first writing the outline and extrapolating the data to its fullest, these components can become very difficult to write.

Step 4. Writing the thesis proposal

Once you’ve planned your writing, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get it done!

Thesis proposals are often written in a formal style, which is what sets them apart from many other types of proposals. However, despite any formalities, be sure to keep things simple.

Stay concise and practical while maintaining academic objectivity and leveraging readability.

A word on points of view

A thesis proposal (just like a thesis) is a formal document steeped in history and tradition. Often, with such documents, it’s common to avoid writing from a first person point of view in order to maintain a sense of objectivity and scientific impartiality toward the subject.

These rules have become more relaxed in recent years . Writing in the first person is more accepted in formal situations, particularly where the author’s point of view may have some impact on the outcome of the work.

This is also more common in some abstracts and introductory sections that are aimed at explaining the author’s goal rather than the nature of the project itself.

However, there is still a lot of debate around this topic.

Take the time to clarify formalities with your administrators and advisors before selecting a specific writing style. The rules surrounding this will vary depending on your institution — perhaps even from department to department.

Step 5. Proofreading your proposal

A thesis proposal is no place for typos or poor readability.

If you show your proposal to a fellow student or friend and they have a hard time understanding what you are trying to say, even though they are in your field, you will want to revise.

The best practices for thoroughly proofreading a thesis proposal are as follows.

1. Read the proposal aloud to yourself

Reading aloud will help you spot problems with grammar and sentence structure more easily.

You can also use text-to-speech software to listen for errors, but be sure you read along with the text during playback.

2. Do not proofread immediately after writing

Any writer will tell you that the best thing you can do when you complete a draft is to walk away from it for a while.

Giving yourself distance allows you to review your text with better impartiality.

3. Consult with colleagues first

Have peers and colleagues you trust review your material for errors and inconsistencies.

Try to find individuals who have a strong grasp of the material and solicit their feedback before you submit your proposal for review.

4. Use multiple spellcheckers and grammatical tools

Grammarly , ProWritingAid , and Hemmingway are three popular options.

Using several tools will help you identify any hard-to-spot errors.

Some errors might be overlooked by one tool but spotted in another.

Remember : Before you’ll be able to move forward with your thesis, your proposal will need to be approved.

To give it the best possible chance, make sure it’s error-free and that grammatical inconsistencies aren’t interfering with the reader’s ability to understand your main ideas.

5 helpful tips to write a better thesis

Knowing how to write other long-form documents like business plans can be a major help when writing your thesis.

While thesis proposals aren’t particularly long, they can be complex.

The thesis itself is both long and complex!

Most master’s theses are several hundred pages long.

They are a full extrapolation of the ideas put forward in your thesis outline, broken down to a fundamental level that demonstrates your deep knowledge of your chosen topic.

At the time most students write their thesis, it is easily the longest and most extensive document they’ve ever written.

With that in mind, it’s no wonder that thesis writing is such a daunting task!

Fortunately, the skills and tips you learn from writing one can also be helpful in other academic documents, like a PhD dissertation proposal.

Before you start writing, here are five extra tips that can help to speed you on your way to a solid thesis.

1. Know the requirements

We mentioned this earlier regarding proposals, but the same rule applies for your actual thesis: Before you start writing your thesis, make sure you have all the necessary requirements in hand.

Review all the requirements for your thesis project with your advisors before you get started. Determine if there are any restrictions, minimum lengths, or formatting requirements that may have been overlooked.

There is a tremendous difference between a 200-page thesis formatted in a proportional font like Times New Roman or Calibri compared to a monospaced font like Courier or Courier New.

The same is true for spacing requirements and font sizes. Reaching 200 pages with a double-spaced layout is half the work compared to writing a single spaced document.

Make sure you have a firm grasp on the requirements before you start writing.

2. Constantly check your work

Much of your thesis work will entail editing and rewriting.

As you write, the editorial work will begin to pile up.

You can alleviate some of this pressure by handling some of the editorial work in between working on major sections of your thesis.

However, don’t fret too much over this. No matter how you plan everything out, you won’t have an exact understanding of how to implement some literary techniques (foreshadowing, allusion, etc.) and reference points (anchors, footnotes) until things are written down and you can look at everything collectively.

3. Don’t deviate from your primary goal

By design, your thesis has a theme or a focal point.

Even theses that are designed to explore a given theme or topic do so with a specific purpose in mind.

During your research, you may discover additional questions that should be answered.

Take a considered approach to those questions and discoveries. If this new information directly impacts your research or can be answered in tandem with your main goal, it may make sense to fold those observations and new objectives into your work.

However, you’ll never be able to answer every single question.

While those discoveries may provide you with a base for a separate body of work, what you find may have no bearing on the purpose of your thesis.

It’s usually best not to deviate from the primary goal of your paper.

But, if you choose to open up a new line of questioning, make every attempt to resolve it within the scope of your document.

4. Keep a list of references from the start

If you aren’t keeping track, it is very easy to accidentally omit a citation from your reference list.

The solution to this is simple: Keep a list of references and update it as you work. You can choose to format the list to your specific style guide (MLA, APA, etc.) immediately, or you can just keep a running list of sources and format everything at the end.

The important thing is that you have an always-updated list so that you know what sources are in your document and where those references are located.

Once you complete your final edits. Before you submit your thesis, triple check each and every reference on your list to ensure that your citations are accurate before you submit.

5. Take advantage of useful apps

There’s a lot that goes into writing a thesis proposal, and you need a way to stay organized and keep track of the various due dates.

Using a Gantt chart or a kanban board can help you organize the details of your project and manage the various due dates.

Several online platforms exist to help you track, manage, and organize your time. Apps that provide this functionality are also helpful when working as part of a research team.

Are you ready to write a thesis proposal?

Is it “that time” for you? Is it time to apply yourself to make your first substantial contribution to research in your field?

The first part of the deal is a rock-solid thesis proposal and we think you’ll be off to a good start with the tips from this how-to.

If you need a little additional guidance, feel free to use our free thesis proposal template .

This template lays out the basic outline of how your thesis proposal should look, which will save you valuable time.

Need more proposal tools for work and business?

Sign up for a 14-day trial with PandaDoc and see how our in-house proposal platform can help you build incredible documents for your next big project.

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Originally published May 9, 2014, updated March 1, 2024

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• Graduate School

How to Write a Master's Thesis Proposal

How to write a master’s thesis proposal is one of the most-asked questions by graduate students. A master's thesis proposal involves a copious amount of data collection, particular presentation ethics, and most importantly, it will become the roadmap to your full thesis. Remember, you must convince your committee that your idea is strong and unique, and that you have done enough legwork to begin with the first few drafts of your final thesis. Your proposal should serve as a foundational blueprint on which you will later build your entire project. To have the perfect thesis proposal, you need to have original ideas, solid information, and proper presentation. While it is a good idea to take assistance from thesis writing services , you still need to personally understand the elements that contribute to a master’s thesis proposal worthy of approval. In this blog, we will discuss the process of writing your master’s thesis proposal and give you tips for making your proposal strong. Stay tuned!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 8 min read

How to decide the goals for your master's thesis.

If you are pursuing a master’s or a PhD , you will be undertaking a major research paper or a thesis. Thus, writing a thesis proposal becomes inevitable. Your major objective for pursuing a master’s degree is to improve your knowledge in your field of study. When you start your degree, you delve deeper into different concepts in your discipline and try to search for answers to all kinds of questions. If you come across a question that no one can answer, you can select that question as your research thesis topic.

A master's thesis proposal will have multiple sections depending on your decided layout. These sections will continuously support your argument and try to convince the reader of your core argument. The structure will also help you arrange the various parts of the paper to have a greater impact on the readers. A paper should always begin with you giving a brief summary of the topic and how you have come across it. The introduction is particularly important because it will give the readers a brief idea about the topic of discussion and win their interest in the matter.

After the summary has been given, slowly you need to progress into the body of the thesis proposal which would explain your argument, research methodology, literary texts that have a relation to the topic, and the conclusion of your study. It would be similar to an essay or a literary review consisting of 3 or 4 parts. The bibliography will be placed at the end of the paper so that people can cross-check your sources.

Let's take a look at the sections most master's thesis proposals should cover. Please note that each university has its own guidelines for how to structure and what to include in a master’s thesis proposal. The outline we provide below is general, so please make sure to follow the exact guidelines provided by your school:

Restate your primary argument and give us a glimpse of what you will include in the main master\u2019s thesis. Leave the reader wanting more. Your research proposal should talk about what research chapters you are trying to undertake in your final thesis. You can also mention the proposed time in which you will complete these chapters.  ","label":"Conclusion and proposed chapters","title":"Conclusion and proposed chapters"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

A thesis proposal needs to be convincing enough to get approval. If the information is not enough to satisfy the evaluation committee, it would require revision. Hence, you need to select and follow the right methodology to make your argument convincing. When a research proposal is presented, the reader will determine the validity of your argument by judging the strength of your evidence and conclusions. Therefore, even writige:ng a proposal will require extensive research on your part. You should start writing your thesis proposal by working through the following steps.

Interested in a summary of the points covered below? Check out this infographic:

Exploring your topic in detail

You need to delve deeper into your chosen topic to see if your idea is original. In the process of this exploration, you will find tons of materials that will be supportive of your argument. When choosing your research topic and the problem you want to explore, you should always consider your primary research interest (yes, the one which you had mentioned in your research interest statement during grad school applications) for a better master’s thesis. You have a high probability of performing better in an area that you have always liked as compared to any other research area or topic.

Reviewing the literature

You have to include all the sources from where you have formed your argument and mention them in the thesis proposal. If you neglect to mention important source texts, the reader may consider it to be plagiarism. Furthermore, you want to keep track of all your research because it will be easier to provide references if you know the exact source of each piece of information.

Finding opposing arguments for your study

You should also mention any texts that would counter your argument and try to disprove their claims in the thesis. Make sure to use evidence if you try to disprove the counterarguments you face.

Emphasizing the importance of your research

At the end of the thesis proposal, you need to convince the reader why your proposal is important to your chosen field of study, which would ultimately help you in getting your topic approved. Thus, it is essential to outline the importance of your research thoroughly.

Drafting your proposal

After doing proper research, you should go ahead and draft your proposal. Remember you will not get it right in just one draft, it will take at least 50 attempts to come up with a satisfactory proposal. You should proofread your draft several times and even have a fellow student review it for you before sending it further to your research supervisor.

Getting your proposal evaluated by your supervisor

After you have written sufficient drafts, you need to get your proposal evaluated by your research supervisor. This is necessary to meet the graduate research requirements. It will ensure the clarity and correctness of your proposal. For your supervisor to evaluate your proposal, you should complete the research methodology part along with sufficient proposed work.

Since your supervisor will play a crucial role in your master's research thesis, you must choose a supervisor who can be your ultimate guide in writing your master's thesis. They will be your partner and support system during your study and will help you in eliminating obstacles to achieving your goal.

Choosing the ideal supervisor is a pretty daunting task. Here’s how you can go about the process:

You should approach your professor with an open mind and discuss the potential goals of your research. You should hear what they think and then if you both mutually agree, you can choose them as your supervisor for your master\u2019s thesis. "}]">

Length of a Master’s Thesis Proposal

The length of a master’s thesis proposal differs from university to university and depends on the discipline of research as well. Usually, you have to include all the above-mentioned sections, and the length is around 8 pages and can go up to 12-15 pages for subjects such as the liberal arts. Universities might also define the number of words in the guidelines for your master’s thesis proposal and you have to adhere to that word limit.

How to Format a Research Thesis Proposal Correctly?

Now that you know how to write a thesis proposal, you must make it presentable. Although your school might give your specific instructions, you can keep in mind some of the general advice:

• You can use some basic font like Times New Roman and keep the font size to 10 or 12 points.
• The left margin should be 1.5 inches and all other margins should be 1 inch each.
• You should follow double-spacing for your content.
• The first line of paragraphs should be indented 0.5 inches and the paragraphs should be left or center aligned.

Tips to Write a Strong Master's Thesis Proposal

When you are writing your master’s thesis proposal, you should keep these tips in mind to write an excellent master’s thesis proposal with all the correct elements to get approval from the evaluating committee:

Select your research objectives wisely

You should be clear on what you wish to learn from your research. Your learning objectives should stem from your research interests. If you are unsure, refer to your grad school career goals statement to review what you wanted out of grad school in the first place. Then, choose your objectives around it.

Write a clear title

The title of your research proposal should be concise and written in a language that can be understood easily by others. The title should be able to give the reader an idea of your intended research and should be interesting.

Jot down your thoughts, arguments, and evidence

You should always start with a rough outline of your arguments because you will not miss any point in this way. Brainstorm what you want to include in the proposal and then expand those points to complete your proposal. You can decide the major headings with the help of the guidelines provided to you.

Focus on the feasibility and importance

You should consider whether your research is feasible with the available resources. Additionally, your proposal should clearly convey the significance of your research in your field.

Use simple language

Since the evaluation committee can have researchers from different subject areas, it is best to write your proposal in a simple language that is understandable by all.

Stick to the guidelines

Your university will be providing the guidelines for writing your research proposal. You should adhere to those guidelines strictly since your proposal will be primarily evaluated on the basis of those.

Have an impactful opening section

It is a no-brainer that the opening statement of your proposal should be powerful enough to grasp the attention of the readers and get them interested in your research topic. You should be able to convey your interest and enthusiasm in the introductory section.

Peer review prior to submission

Apart from working with your research supervisor, it is essential that you ask some classmates and friends to review your proposal. The comments and suggestions that they give will be valuable in helping you to make the language of your proposal clearer.

You have worked hard to get into grad school and even harder on searching your research topic. Thus, you must be careful while building your thesis proposal so that you have maximum chances of acceptance.

Writing the perfect research proposal might be challenging, but keeping to the basics might make your task easier. In a nutshell, you need to be thorough in your study question. You should conduct sufficient research to gather all relevant materials required to support your argument. After collecting all data, make sure to present it systematically to give a clearer understanding and convince the evaluators to approve your proposal. Lastly, remember to submit your proposal well within the deadline set by your university. Your performance at grad school is essential, especially if you need a graduate degree to gain admission to med school and your thesis contributes to that performance. Thus, start with a suitable research problem, draft a strong proposal, and then begin with your thesis after your proposal is approved.

In your master’s thesis proposal, you should include your research topic and the problem statement being addressed in your research, along with a proposed solution. The proposal should explain the importance and limitations of your research.

The length of a master’s thesis proposal is outlined by the university in the instructions for preparing your master’s thesis proposal.

The time taken to write a master’s thesis proposal depends upon the study which you are undertaking and your discipline of research. It will take a minimum time of three months. The ideal time can be around six months. 

You should begin your master’s thesis proposal by writing an introduction to your research topic. You should state your topic clearly and provide some background. Keep notes and rough drafts of your proposal so you can always refer to them when you write the first real draft.

The basic sections that your master’s thesis proposal should cover are the problem statement, research methodology, proposed activities, importance, and the limitations of your research.

A master’s thesis proposal which clearly defines the problem in a straightforward and explains the research methodology in simple words is considered a good thesis proposal.

You can use any classic font for your master’s thesis proposal such as Times New Roman. If you are recommended a specific font in the proposal guidelines by your institution, it would be advisable to stick to that.

The ideal font size for your master’s thesis proposal will be 10 or 12 points.

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How to write your research proposal

A key part of your application is your research proposal. Whether you are applying for a self-funded or studentship you should follow the guidance below.

If you are looking specifically for advice on writing your PhD by published work research proposal, read our guide .

You are encouraged to contact us to discuss the availability of supervision in your area of research before you make a formal application, by  visiting our areas of research .

What is your research proposal used for and why is it important?

• It is used to establish whether there is expertise to support your proposed area of research
• It forms part of the assessment of your application
• The research proposal you submit as part of your application is just the starting point, as your ideas evolve your proposed research is likely to change

How long should my research proposal be?

It should be 2,000–3,500 words (4-7 pages) long.

What should be included in my research proposal?

Your proposal should include the following:

• your title should give a clear indication of your proposed research approach or key question

2. BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE

You should include:

• the background and issues of your proposed research
• identify your discipline
• a short literature review
• a summary of key debates and developments in the field

3. RESEARCH QUESTION(S)

You should formulate these clearly, giving an explanation as to what problems and issues are to be explored and why they are worth exploring

4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

You should provide an outline of:

• the theoretical resources to be drawn on
• the research approach (theoretical framework)
• the research methods appropriate for the proposed research
• a discussion of advantages as well as limits of particular approaches and methods

5. PLAN OF WORK & TIME SCHEDULE

You should include an outline of the various stages and corresponding time lines for developing and implementing the research, including writing up your thesis.

For  full-time study  your research should be completed within three years, with writing up completed in the fourth year of registration.

For  part-time study  your research should be completed within six years, with writing up completed by the eighth year.

6. BIBLIOGRAPHY

• a list of references to key articles and texts discussed within your research proposal
• a selection of sources appropriate to the proposed research

Related pages

Fees and funding.

How much will it cost to study a research degree?

Research degrees

Find out if you can apply for a Research Degree at the University of Westminster.

Research degree by distance learning

Find out about Research Degree distance learning options at the University of Westminster.

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How long are thesis statements? [with examples]

What is the proper length of a thesis statement?

Examples of thesis statements, frequently asked questions about the length of thesis statements, related articles.

If you find yourself in the process of writing a thesis statement but you don't know how long it should be, you've come to right place. In the next paragraphs you will learn about the most efficient way to write a thesis statement and how long it should be.

A thesis statement is a concise description of your work’s aim.

The short answer is: one or two sentences. The more i n-depth answer: as your writing evolves, and as you write longer papers, your thesis statement will typically be at least two, and often more, sentences. The thesis of a scholarly article may have three or four long sentences.

The point is to write a well-formed statement that clearly sets out the argument and aim of your research. A one sentence thesis is fine for shorter papers, but make sure it's a full, concrete statement. Longer thesis statements should follow the same rule; be sure that your statement includes essential information and resist too much exposition.

Here are some basic rules for thesis statement lengths based on the number of pages:

• 5 pages : 1 sentence
• 5-8 pages : 1 or 2 sentences
• 8-13 pages : 2 or 3 sentences
• 13-23 pages : 3 or 4 sentences
• Over 23 pages : a few sentences or a paragraph

Joe Haley, a former writing instructor at Johns Hopkins University exemplified in this forum post the different sizes a thesis statement can take. For a paper on Jane Austen's  Pride and Prejudice,  someone could come up with these two theses:

In Jane Austen's  Pride and Prejudice , gossip is an important but morally ambiguous tool for shaping characters' opinions of each other.

As the aforementioned critics have noted, the prevalence of gossip in Jane Austen's  oeuvre  does indeed reflect the growing prominence of an explicitly-delineated private sphere in nineteenth-century British society. However, in contrast with these critics' general conclusions about Austen and class, which tend to identify her authorial voice directly with the bourgeois mores shaping her appropriation of the  bildungsroman,  the ambiguity of this communicative mode in  Pride and Prejudice  suggests that when writing at the height of her authorial powers, at least, Austen is capable of skepticism and even self-critique. For what is the narrator of her most celebrated novel if not its arch-gossip  par excellence ?

Both statements are equally sound, but the second example clearly belongs in a longer paper. In the end, the length of your thesis statement will depend on the scope of your work.

There is no exact word count for a thesis statement, since the length depends on your level of knowledge and expertise. A two sentence thesis statement would be between 20-50 words.

The length of the work will determine how long your thesis statement is. A concise thesis is typically between 20-50 words. A paragraph is also acceptable for a thesis statement; however, anything over one paragraph is probably too long.

Here is a list of Thesis Statement Examples that will help you understand better how long they can be.

As a high school student, you are not expected to have an elaborate thesis statement. A couple of clear sentences indicating the aim of your essay will be more than enough.

Here is a YouTube tutorial that will help you write a thesis statement: How To Write An Essay: Thesis Statements by Ariel Bisset.

How to Write a Proposal for Dissertation or Thesis

Congratulations on getting this far. Writing your dissertation proposal is a crucial stage as you near the end of your education journey. Similar to other written work you have worked on, writing your thesis will require devoting enough time for planning and structuring your content. You need to have a clear outline that defines every step from selecting a topic to coming up with the relevant support. The process will be daunting, but in the end, it will be worthwhile. More so there are various factors you should consider when you wonder how to write a dissertation proposal for undergraduate, Masters, or Ph.D. level.

The purpose of a thesis or dissertation is to produce an original piece of research on a specified topic. Although this is the most difficult piece of writing, it can be the most rewarding. You only need to know the basics as well as the fundamentals of writing a dissertation proposal paper which we will outline in this paper.

What is a Dissertation Proposal?

As the name suggests, a dissertation proposal is a proposal for the final dissertation project aimed at convincing the committee that you will be committed to solving a complex question or issue. This is written for a doctoral degree. It is shorter than the final dissertation since it acts as a Ph.D. thesis outline. Here you will identify the main question and develop a plan on how to gather relevant information and how and when to start writing the paper.

With a dissertation proposal outline, it is easier to follow up with your mentor since all the points are laid down and which makes it easier identifying any defects or gaps in the outline. There are various aspects of a dissertation prospectus that you should consider. These are inclined towards selecting the right topic, title and question. Your thesis proposal should answer the following questions.

• What issue is your dissertation going to handle?
• How does the issue affect your academic, research, and the targeted community?
• Why is it important to solve the issue?
• How will you obtain a solution?

What is a Thesis Proposal?

Unlike dissertation proposals that are written at the doctorate level, a thesis proposal is made when pursuing a master’s degree.  It is more like a research paper that is done at the undergraduate level only that it is more diverse. It tests your critical thinking ability and your capacity to identify a problem and plan effectively to find a solution.

This is a roadmap that helps you move from point A (uninformed idea) to B (thoroughly researched and thought through idea).

How to Write a Dissertation Proposal?

Before gaining your doctoral degree, you need to present your final dissertation paper. However, the success of your final paper is determined by the foundation laid by the Ph.D. proposal.  Below are some insights on how to write the best Ph.D. dissertation proposal.

How Long Should a Dissertation Proposal be?

The recommended dissertation proposal should not be less than 10 pages. The average length is between 15-20 pages

Dissertation Proposal Structure

A dissertation prospectus can be written in many ways. However, they generally contain several components which are

The title page for your proposal is similar to the final dissertation and should include;

• The title of the paper
• Author’s name
• Instructor/ mentor’s name
• Institutional Name
• Date of Submission
• Table of contents

This is a list of headings, subheadings, and their pages. You can use Microsoft Word’s table of contents which automatically updates whenever you amend your document.

Introduction

By reading your introduction, your reader should understand the reason you undertook your research. Your wording should capture the reader’s attention and trigger an interest to want to go through your work. It should highlight the topic of the paper as well as the main idea.

• Chapter 1: Background and Context

This section should highlight the problem at hand and the importance of the research. You should include a brief history of the problem relating it with the current situation. Ensure you also capture important recent developments.

• Chapter 2: Problem Statement and Analysis

This is the section that gives a clear outline of the problem at hand, including but not limited to.

• The people responsible for the problem
• The existing efforts and strategies to solve the issue
• What will happen if the problem is not solved

This chapter should also include the research designs to be used.

• Chapter 3: Objective and Final Outcome

You should clearly outline the expected results. This helps shed light on what you are working towards.

• Chapter 4: Conditions and Risk Analysis

This chapter should be dedicated to highlight and discuss the anticipated constraints with your project. Examples of these constraints include money, materials, location, expertise, time and participant availability. In the case of risk analysis, make sure you access any possible risk that may be associated with the research and come up with measures to avoid them.

• Chapter 5: Approach

This is the section where you should give an outline of the steps you will take to attain the desired outcomes and objectives. This should also include a general planning calendar of when each stage will be accomplished and the amount of time for each.

• Reference List

This should include all the sources of information used in the doctoral dissertation proposal.

Dissertation Proposal Format

The general dissertation proposal format includes;

• Statement of the problem
• Background and history
• Justification of the problem
• Literature review
• Methodology/ Theoretical framework
• Research schedule
• Bibliography

Dissertation Proposal Abstract

This is a crucial part of your paper since your mentor/committee will use the information in this section to judge the nature and the significance of the topic. Thus, make sure the information in this part is sufficient and adequate to pass your idea and convince the reader that the research is worth undertaking. It should be approximately 250 words.

Apart from highlighting the main points, this section should also include additional undergraduate co-authors and a list of faculty mentors.

Dissertation Proposal Outline

The minimum requirements of a dissertation proposal outline should include

• An overview of the paper
• Present research

Dissertation Proposal Outline Examples

A recommended outline should have all the aspect discussed above. Better still, you can use an example of  how to write a research proposal   samples available online but only make use of these sample for inspiration.

How to Write a Thesis Proposal

As earlier stated, a thesis proposal outline is a roadmap that guides you from point A to B. This roadmap will be submitted to your mentor, advisors, or committee and for them to approve.

How long should a Thesis Proposal be?

A thesis proposal should be shorter than the actual thesis and should be approximately 10-20 pages.

Thesis proposal format

The topic proposal outline of a thesis is typically structured around common sections that play a crucial role in planning your project. These include

• Title page This features identity information; the authors’ name, the tutor/mentor’s name, the institution and department, and date. It also has a descriptive title for the thesis.
• Abstract It features a summary of the research proposal in approximately 200 words. It gives an overview of the introduction to the topic, the main elements or issues in the paper, how you will address the issues, and the implications of your work if successfully completed.
• Table of Contents This is a list of all the titles and subtitles of your paper with page numbers for each. It is designed to make navigation easier through the proposal.
• Introduction This sets the context of your work and must capture the readers’ attention. You need to provide a reason the research was necessary and the background of the topic.  It should start with a broad perspective, narrowing the concept to the thesis statement.
• Primary Questions These are the key questions that form the basis of your research and answer the thesis statement.  These questions should be relevant and should shed light on the direction of the research while providing a direction towards the intended solution.
• Literature Review This is a brief but precise overview of the sources you plan to use for research. It explains their significance, and highlights your current knowledge base on the topic as well as your future goals for the research and whether they relate to the problem at hand.
• Methodology Outlines the methods you used to develop academic writing paper and helped you come up with solutions for the main questions. This could feature, but is not limited to, analytical frameworks, theoretical approaches, formulas, equations, philosophies, and experiments.
• Conclusion This is where you discuss the expected results of your research. You should also outline the expected contributions of the research and the methods used to ensure that the proposed results are obtained. This should be followed by a thesis proposal summary which emphasizes the goals of the study.
• Bibliography This is a list of references used while writing a thesis proposal.

Thesis Proposal Outline

• Introduction to Problem
• Relevance of solving the Problem
• Knowledge gap
• Related research
• Current understanding
• Research questions
• Materials and instruments
• Procedures and interventions
• Analysis of statistics
• Projected results
• Alternative plans

Thesis Proposal Outline Examples

There are various thesis proposal outlines that you can access online. But not all of these samples follow the standard structure and requirements. It is always advisable to get examples of papers similar to your case study, but this should only be sources of inspiration and ideas and nothing else. This, plus the information outlined above is all you need to come up with an outstanding paper.

How to Prepare a Thesis or Dissertation Proposal Presentation?

After all the research and writing, the other crucial step is the presentation. You might have a convincing masterpiece paper but your presentation may not convince your audience or panel that the research is worth undertaking. Presentation is important in persuading the audience of your research which helps you gather valuable feedback, feasibility, and suitability.

With all the handwork, the last mistake you want to commit is to bore your audience. Come up with a visual thesis proposal that will impress and move the audience. You might consider using element of video animation to tell a captivating story and persuade your supervisor. Here are 5 tips that will help with your presentation.

• Introduce Yourself and Your Thesis Proposal

Let your audience know what your thesis entails and why you chose the title.

• Have the Right Information

Have your main points highlighted. You need to be subjective. This means to present areas you fully understand and can answer any question raised. Be sure to explain entertainingly.  Enhance creativity  by show personality, and some humor.

• Explain With Video Animations and Visuals

Humans are visual creatures which give you an opportunity to use color psychology to help evoke emotions. Use insightful video animations to help explain your point further. Some colors you should use include blue (suggests certainty and trust), Green (harmony and balance) and Red (passion and drive)

• Balance Content and Flow

Your content should have a consistent blend of text, visuals and video animation to help support each key concept. Every new concept should be in a separate slide with everything that your tutor needs to know. Another major aspect you should consider is the audio. Sound sets the scene and creates an atmosphere. You should make sure there is a perfect blend of all these factors.

• Have a Back-Up Plan Ready

Not having a backup plan is a recipe for disaster. Make sure your laptop battery is fully charged and have an extra battery to be on the safer side. It is also advisable to carry a copy of the presentation.

Tips for Successful Dissertation Proposal Defense

This is a crucial step and the preparation to defend your research proposal can be overwhelming. We have summarized some of the tips that will help you through your thesis. Take time to research and create a presentation keeping in mind the factors we have outlined above about your presentation. While preparing for your defense make sure you thoroughly prepare yourself. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by the work, you can seek Ph.D. proposal writing service to ensure all areas are covered before presenting the work.  Prior to the proposal defense, all committee members must have read your proposal. After obtaining approval from the committee chair, make sure all the members of the committee receive your paper at least two weeks in advance. Here are a few tips to help with your defense

• Determine Expectations

Every institution has its specific guidelines for proposal defense. In most cases, the presentation takes 30-40 minutes. Ensure that your presentation will convince the panel that your topic is important enough to receive funding. It should be reassuring that there are higher chances of completing it successfully. Make sure you can present the work and answer any question without having to refer to your notes. The committee should see that you have an in-depth understanding of the topic.

• Prepare Questions

There will be various questions, and a major part of the process will be providing answers to these queries. Some members of the committee might need clarification of your quantitative dissertation while others will try to find holes in your proposal. Thus, you need to rehearse on what you expect them to ask and make sure you have adequate and convincing answers.

• Know Relevant Literature

You are not expected to present research results. However, you should be familiar with statistics from relevant literature. You should get an idea of similar studies that have been done and how they can affect your results. The committee will be expecting evidence that your dissertation will be of high quality.

Most students start writing a thesis proposal with great enthusiasm, but this intimidating project has thrown some to despair. The planning, research, and writing is one of the longest and most challenging adventures you will accomplish in your education career. However, with commitment, this can turn to be the best educational adventure. The primary purpose of developing a proposal is to convince your committee that your work will have a beneficial contribution to your field. Although the requirements of writing a dissertation proposal vary from one Masters/Ph.D. program to another, the tips discussed above will be essential to solving your worry on how to write a dissertation or thesis proposal.

While developing your paper, pay attention to what your research will achieve, why it is important and what value it will add to your field of study.  Don’t forget to include a bibliography of all the sources used in the paper. Make sure you choose a topic that you are passionate about and your thesis statement should be based on strong arguments and credible sources but should at the same time contribute to the community or the area you are working in.

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What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?

A simple explainer with examples + free template.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020 (Updated April 2023)

Whether you’re nearing the end of your degree and your dissertation is on the horizon, or you’re planning to apply for a PhD program, chances are you’ll need to craft a convincing research proposal . If you’re on this page, you’re probably unsure exactly what the research proposal is all about. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Overview: Research Proposal Basics

• What a research proposal is
• What a research proposal needs to cover
• How to structure your research proposal
• Example /sample proposals
• Proposal writing FAQs
• Key takeaways & additional resources

What is a research proposal?

Simply put, a research proposal is a structured, formal document that explains what you plan to research (your research topic), why it’s worth researching (your justification), and how  you plan to investigate it (your methodology). 

The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince  your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is  suitable  (for the requirements of the degree program) and  manageable  (given the time and resource constraints you will face). 

The most important word here is “ convince ” – in other words, your research proposal needs to  sell  your research idea (to whoever is going to approve it). If it doesn’t convince them (of its suitability and manageability), you’ll need to revise and resubmit . This will cost you valuable time, which will either delay the start of your research or eat into its time allowance (which is bad news). 

What goes into a research proposal?

A good dissertation or thesis proposal needs to cover the “ what “, “ why ” and” how ” of the proposed study. Let’s look at each of these attributes in a little more detail:

Your proposal needs to clearly articulate your research topic . This needs to be specific and unambiguous . Your research topic should make it clear exactly what you plan to research and in what context. Here’s an example of a well-articulated research topic:

An investigation into the factors which impact female Generation Y consumer’s likelihood to promote a specific makeup brand to their peers: a British context

As you can see, this topic is extremely clear. From this one line we can see exactly:

• What’s being investigated – factors that make people promote or advocate for a brand of a specific makeup brand
• Who it involves – female Gen-Y consumers
• In what context – the United Kingdom

So, make sure that your research proposal provides a detailed explanation of your research topic . If possible, also briefly outline your research aims and objectives , and perhaps even your research questions (although in some cases you’ll only develop these at a later stage). Needless to say, don’t start writing your proposal until you have a clear topic in mind , or you’ll end up waffling and your research proposal will suffer as a result of this.

Need a helping hand?

As we touched on earlier, it’s not good enough to simply propose a research topic – you need to justify why your topic is original . In other words, what makes it  unique ? What gap in the current literature does it fill? If it’s simply a rehash of the existing research, it’s probably not going to get approval – it needs to be fresh.

But,  originality  alone is not enough. Once you’ve ticked that box, you also need to justify why your proposed topic is  important . In other words, what value will it add to the world if you achieve your research aims?

As an example, let’s look at the sample research topic we mentioned earlier (factors impacting brand advocacy). In this case, if the research could uncover relevant factors, these findings would be very useful to marketers in the cosmetics industry, and would, therefore, have commercial value . That is a clear justification for the research.

So, when you’re crafting your research proposal, remember that it’s not enough for a topic to simply be unique. It needs to be useful and value-creating – and you need to convey that value in your proposal. If you’re struggling to find a research topic that makes the cut, watch  our video covering how to find a research topic .

It’s all good and well to have a great topic that’s original and valuable, but you’re not going to convince anyone to approve it without discussing the practicalities – in other words:

• How will you actually undertake your research (i.e., your methodology)?
• Is your research methodology appropriate given your research aims?
• Is your approach manageable given your constraints (time, money, etc.)?

While it’s generally not expected that you’ll have a fully fleshed-out methodology at the proposal stage, you’ll likely still need to provide a high-level overview of your research methodology . Here are some important questions you’ll need to address in your research proposal:

• Will you take a qualitative , quantitative or mixed -method approach?
• What sampling strategy will you adopt?
• How will you collect your data (e.g., interviews , surveys, etc)?
• How will you analyse your data (e.g., descriptive and inferential statistics , content analysis, discourse analysis, etc, .)?
• What potential limitations will your methodology carry?

So, be sure to give some thought to the practicalities of your research and have at least a basic methodological plan before you start writing up your proposal. If this all sounds rather intimidating, the video below provides a good introduction to research methodology and the key choices you’ll need to make.

How To Structure A Research Proposal

Now that we’ve covered the key points that need to be addressed in a proposal, you may be wondering, “ But how is a research proposal structured? “.

While the exact structure and format required for a research proposal differs from university to university, there are four “essential ingredients” that commonly make up the structure of a research proposal:

• A rich introduction and background to the proposed research
• An initial literature review covering the existing research
• An overview of the proposed research methodology
• A discussion regarding the practicalities (project plans, timelines, etc.)

In the video below, we unpack each of these four sections, step by step.

Research Proposal Examples/Samples

In the video below, we provide a detailed walkthrough of two successful research proposals (Master’s and PhD-level), as well as our popular free proposal template.

Proposal Writing FAQs

How long should a research proposal be.

This varies tremendously, depending on the university, the field of study (e.g., social sciences vs natural sciences), and the level of the degree (e.g. undergraduate, Masters or PhD) – so it’s always best to check with your university what their specific requirements are before you start planning your proposal.

As a rough guide, a formal research proposal at Masters-level often ranges between 2000-3000 words, while a PhD-level proposal can be far more detailed, ranging from 5000-8000 words. In some cases, a rough outline of the topic is all that’s needed, while in other cases, universities expect a very detailed proposal that essentially forms the first three chapters of the dissertation or thesis.

The takeaway – be sure to check with your institution before you start writing.

How do I choose a topic for my research proposal?

Finding a good research topic is a process that involves multiple steps. We cover the topic ideation process in this video post.

How do I write a literature review for my proposal?

While you typically won’t need a comprehensive literature review at the proposal stage, you still need to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the key literature and are able to synthesise it. We explain the literature review process here.

How do I create a timeline and budget for my proposal?

We explain how to craft a project plan/timeline and budget in Research Proposal Bootcamp .

Which referencing format should I use in my research proposal?

The expectations and requirements regarding formatting and referencing vary from institution to institution. Therefore, you’ll need to check this information with your university.

What common proposal writing mistakes do I need to look out for?

We’ve create a video post about some of the most common mistakes students make when writing a proposal – you can access that here . If you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:

• The research topic is too broad (or just poorly articulated).
• The research aims, objectives and questions don’t align.
• The research topic is not well justified.
• The study has a weak theoretical foundation.
• The research design is not well articulated well enough.
• Poor writing and sloppy presentation.
• Poor project planning and risk management.
• Not following the university’s specific criteria.

Key Takeaways & Additional Resources

As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose:  to convince . Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal.

At the same time, pay close attention to your university’s requirements. While we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations and it’s essential that you follow these to maximise your chances of approval.

By the way, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you fast-track your research proposal. Here are some of our most popular resources to get you started:

• Proposal Writing 101 : A Introductory Webinar
• Research Proposal Bootcamp : The Ultimate Online Course
• Template : A basic template to help you craft your proposal

If you’re looking for 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the proposal development process (and the entire research journey), step by step.

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 .

52 Comments

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I would be interested in getting some coaching.

I real appreciate on your elaboration on how to develop research proposal,the video explains each steps clearly.

Thank you for the video. It really assisted me and my niece. I am a PhD candidate and she is an undergraduate student. It is at times, very difficult to guide a family member but with this video, my job is done.

In view of the above, I welcome more coaching.

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Bundle of thanks to you for the research proposal guide it was really good and useful if it is possible please send me the sample of research proposal

You’re most welcome. We don’t have any research proposals that we can share (the students own the intellectual property), but you might find our research proposal template useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-proposal-template/

Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon

Thanks alot. It was an eye opener that came timely enough before my imminent proposal defense. Thanks, again

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How to Write a Dissertation or Thesis Proposal: Structure, Steps & Examples

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A dissertation proposal offer a brief agenda of a research project that a student intends to conduct in order to obtain a doctoral degree. It requires students to meticulously plan and organize a future study. The purpose of the dissertation proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility and value of the proposed study. It is written to obtain approval from a committee before organizing research.

If you're wondering how to tackle your Ph.D. or Master's thesis proposal, this article lays out the basics of producing a successful one. Continue reading through this article to understand the key steps on how to write your thesis or dissertation proposal, its definition, and its importance. Before penning down your project, we will walk you through its structure and make you aware of what you should know. In addition, we will explain its format as well as provide thesis and dissertation proposals examples, writing tips, and a checklist to help you stay on track. Read on if you are eager to impress committee members with an incredible proposal! Or shop for dissertation proposal help at StudyCrumb to save nerves and time!

What Is a Dissertation Proposal?

A dissertation proposal is a document written to present the main objectives and questions that a researcher will cover in a research project, meaning that this proposal is the foundation of your study. It offers an overview of what you plan to do and how you approach researching a topic and provides a roadmap for composing your thesis.  Writing a dissertation proposal aims to explain how your dissertation will investigate a research problem, describe the methods used, as well as justify the research. Another objective of a dissertation or thesis proposal is to demonstrate that your research problem is significant, relevant, and worth exploring. In addition, its purpose is to show how the thesis will be structured and provide a timeline for completion.

Importance of Thesis/ Dissertation Proposals

A strong thesis or dissertation proposal is critical to the success of your study. Writing and correctly presenting it can give you an edge when applying for a thesis project. Below is a list of why proposals for your dissertation are essential:

• Allows researchers to explore and define a study topic of interest.
• Helps you gain approval from supervisors, thesis committees, and boards.
• Assists in clearly defining your research question and planning how to tackle the research.
• Enables you to identify potential sources of information and plan how to use them effectively.
• Serves as a template to guide you through the writing process.
• Aids you in securing funding for your project.
• Useful when planning for the thesis proposal defense.

How Long Should a Dissertation Proposal Be?

Dissertation proposal length varies depending on the level of study. Proposals for Ph.D. dissertations can range from 15-20 pages, sometimes even up to 30 pages. The number of pages depends on every discipline and topic, as well as other requirements stated in provided instructions. Master's thesis proposal is a bit shorter and generally ranges between 4-8 pages.  The reason for these differences is that a Ph.D. dissertation proposal requires more in-depth research and has a broader scope than a Master's one. The length also depends on the type of thesis you are writing. For example, scientific research thesis typically has methodological approaches, while humanities Ph.D. proposals use qualitative and quantitative methods, depending on the field of investigation.

Dissertation Proposal Structure

The structure of a dissertation or thesis proposal varies depending on the discipline and how you plan to approach researching that subject. Variation may also result from different research methodologies used. However, you should generally include several standard components when writing a dissertation proposal. These are as follows:

• Introduction Provides an overview of the proposed study and how it fits within your field of investigation.
• Aims and objectives Justify what you hope to achieve and how you plan to do it.
• Literature review Discusses how other researchers have approached the topic under investigation and how your thesis will contribute to the discipline under scrutiny.
• Study Design and Research Methodology Describes how you strategize to conduct your research, what methods you will use, and how the data will be collected and analyzed. Also, include any ethical considerations.
• Implications Evaluate how your dissertation will contribute to the broader field and how it can be helpful for future studies.
• Limitations Examine how your research may not be able to answer some questions and how to address those shortcomings. In other words, how to minimize the effect of identified drawbacks.
• Budget Budget is optional and required only if funding is needed. Here, you need to offer an estimate of how much the investigation will cost and your financing plans.
• References Give a complete list of all sources used throughout the paper.

Following these steps on how to write a proposal for a thesis or dissertation aids you in structuring your proposal, which will help you present a clear and concise outline of how you intend to conduct your research. As a result, it allows you to secure approval and gain support for your project.

Thesis/ Dissertation Proposal Template Outline

A template for a dissertation proposal outline can help create your work. Students can efficiently structure their thesis proposal using this template and ensure it meets the required guidelines. Templates are incredibly useful in streamlining your writing process so that you can concentrate on the proposal's content without stressing over format. In addition, templates should include the main components of a dissertation proposal, with each part delineated and explained clearly. Additionally, formatting should be consistent.  The following is an example of a dissertation proposal outline:

• Background/ context of the investigation
• Problem statement
• Purpose of the study
• Research questions
• Significance of the research
• Overview of existing literature
• Gap in literature
• Design of the study
• Data collection and analysis
• Contribution to the field
• Limitations of the research
• Budget (if applicable)

Things to Know Before Writing a Dissertation Proposal

Before writing your dissertation proposal, one must understand the purpose of crafting one. A student must cover these questions in a proposal: what, why, where, who, and how. In other words, it needs to answer questions such as:

• What is the research topic ?
• Why is it important to study this topic?
• Where will the investigation take place?
• Who are the participants involved?
• How will the project be conducted and analyzed?

Answering these inquiries will help you comprehensively write a dissertation or thesis proposal that outlines your paper's purpose, aims, and objectives. Before composing, it is crucial also to consider any ethical concerns or issues that may arise with your work. For example, you should be aware of potential risks as well as ensure that you have the necessary procedures to protect your participants.

How to Write a Dissertation Proposal?

When writing thesis and dissertation proposal, it is crucial to cover the critical elements of how one should approach writing such a document. A thesis proposal is a roadmap for how the researcher plans to conduct their research. A clear structure can only make organizing one's thoughts and ideas easy. Without a clear guideline, your advisor or supervisor might reject your proposal, or you may fail to acquire funding or support. To ensure you compose a satisfying proposal, follow the below step-by-step illustration of how to write a proposal for a dissertation and thesis.

1. Decide on a Title

Deciding on a title for your dissertation proposal is essential in creating a clear, concise, and attractive document. Your dissertation topic should reflect the main focus of your research. Excellent titles should be easy to understand because it is the first thing people see.  An outstanding title also helps grab potential readers' attention and encourages them to read the paper. In addition, students should craft their titles for dissertation and Ph.D. thesis proposals in a way that succinctly portrays the theme of the study.  To decide on a good topic, consult information available online and in academic journals so that title is reflective of the current investigation.  The following is an example of a title for a thesis proposal: 

Impact of Technology on the Education System in America.

2. Write a Dissertation Proposal Introduction

A thesis proposal introduction is an important section of a document that sets the tone for the entire paper, and you should write this part clearly and concisely. Start a dissertation proposal for your research with an introduction that distills the pertinent central question, providing contextualized background information as well as any broader implications. This section is a condensed version of a complete dissertation introduction , which you will need to compose upon topic approval.  Affirming the problem statement in your introduction will give more direction to your study objectives, and people will be able to understand the purpose of why you are conducting this exploration. As you craft your introduction, ensure to outline the structure of your paper. Include which sections cover methodology, literature review, research limitations, as well as any other subsections that are relevant. These are critical parts of a dissertation proposal, and outlining them will help keep readers orientated throughout your document and allow them to comprehend the discussion better. Example of dissertation proposal introduction

This dissertation proposal sets out to investigate how technology has changed the education system in America and its impact on student learning outcomes. The research objectives of this study are to examine the development of technology in the American education environment, analyze its impact on learners' studying outcomes as well as evaluate how teachers have adapted their teaching techniques to incorporate technology. This thesis also explores the challenges technology has posed for teachers in America's school system and how to address them. By exploring these issues, this research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of technology in American education and its subsequent implications. Finally, this thesis will discuss the technological consequences for educational institutions and policymakers.

3. State Your Aims, Objectives, and Purpose 

When writing a thesis proposal, your paper's aims, objectives, and purpose are the cornerstones of a successful document. Your aims, objectives, and purpose should be concise and clear.  When writing your aims , include the primary goal of your undergraduate or doctoral project as well as what you expect to achieve. Objectives should address the what, why, and how of your study while also explaining all outcomes you anticipate accomplishing. Finally, your purpose should be closely related to your aims and objectives and provide a succinct description of objectives you are trying to undertake.  The reason is that aims and objectives are the starting points in crafting a dissertation proposal, as they provide a focus for your investigation. The purpose will help develop the reader's understanding of your work. Examples of dissertation proposals aims and objectives

This thesis proposal aims to study technology implementation in American education and its impact on student learning outcomes. The objectives are to investigate the development and utilization of technology in America's schooling environment, analyze its impact on student studying outcomes, evaluate how teachers have adapted their teaching techniques to incorporate technology as well as explore the challenges it has posed for school instructors. Additionally, the objectives are to examine how these challenges can be addressed, evaluate the implications of technology for educational institutions and policymakers, and provide recommendations for future research on the use and application of technology in American education.

4. Provide a Literature Review

Literature review of a dissertation or Ph.D. thesis proposal is one of the most critical aspects of a project because it serves as the foundation for your research. This part should include an overview and analysis of existing literature related to your topic and conclude how it relates to the current study question.  When composing a literature review for your Ph.D. dissertation proposals, you should search for scholarly articles, books, government reports, websites, and other relevant sources to inform your writing. Additionally, you should use a systematic approach in organizing literature and creating your reviews, such as a thematic, theoretical, or methodological approach. Refer to our guide to find a literature review outline example of each of these approaches.  Finally, it is crucial to critically analyze available literature and how it connects to your research topic. This could involve examining how existing research has shaped your study question, how it has advanced the field of investigation, and how experts might use it in practice or policy making. Consulting with professionals in your area may be a great way to get additional insights on how to write a thesis and dissertation proposal literature review.

5. Discuss Your Methodology

Writing a proposal for your dissertation or thesis involves developing a methodology section, which outlines a set of techniques and strategies you plan to apply when conducting your study. Dissertation methodology should include: 

• Description of your data collection and analysis methods
• Discussion of the research design
• Sampling techniques that are planned to be used
• Explanation of the variables or factors studied
• Outline of how you intend to analyze the data.

Methodology should also provide a rationale for why you have chosen your methods and any ethical considerations that might come with them. Writing a research proposal for a dissertation study will involve discussing how you propose to address any potential limitations of your investigation and how they may affect the validity of its results. Finally, it is essential to outline a timeline for the completion of your project. When describing research methods, it is crucial to be as detailed and specific as possible. You should also demonstrate that you have a well-developed understanding of research methods you strategize to use and the potential implications of their application.  When crafting your dissertations proposals, use understandable language as well as avoid technical wording or jargon. Also, you should include a brief description of how the dissemination of results from your study will be so that policymakers or other stakeholders can use them in a meaningful way. Example: Dissertation proposal methodology

For my dissertation, I plan to undertake a qualitative case study of technology's role in American education. Specifically, I will look at implementing technology-based learning environments in three urban school districts. I will use a combination of surveys and interviews with teachers, administrators, parents, and students to gather data. The surveys will focus on attitudes towards technology in the classroom, resource access, and comfort with using technology for studying. The interviews will dig deeper into these topics and allow me to gain more insight into the implementation of technology-based education. Additionally, I plan to observe classrooms and document how technology facilitates knowledge gain. Data will be analyzed using a combination of thematic and content analysis. All findings will be documented in writing and shared publicly through a final report, website, presentations, and other appropriate outlets. All participants will remain anonymous, and the collection of data will be in a secure manner.

6. Mention Implications and Possible Limitations

Considering any potential limitations and implications of the study is an integral part of writing a dissertation or thesis research proposal. When discussing your research's repercussions and possible shortcomings, it is essential to consider how you will handle unforeseen outcomes, errors, or biases that may arise during your investigation.  Writers should identify and mention how they'll address the limitations as they prepare a dissertation proposal. This section should include a discussion of how to use results of your study to inform policy decisions or other initiatives.  Being honest and realistic in the descriptions of any potential drawbacks that could impact the validity of your results is an advisable way for you to do a thesis or dissertation proposal. Consider any possible ethical considerations that could arise during your research and how to deal with them. Sample of dissertation proposal implications

The implications of this study are twofold. First, it will provide valuable insight into how technology can be utilized most effectively in urban classrooms to improve the quality of education. The results will provide policymakers and other stakeholders with the information necessary to guide decisions regarding technology use in urban schools. Second, this investigation will provide teachers and other educators with a better understanding of the challenges they may face when implementing technology. This will allow educators to better prepare for and respond to these challenges, resulting in more effective implementation of technology-based learning environments. The research will add to the ongoing conversation about the use of technology in education and will contribute to a better understanding of how to use it effectively.

7. List Your References

The last step illustrating how to write a thesis proposal is providing a list of references consulted throughout the writing process. Bibliographies should include scholarly articles, books, and journals, among others, that have informed the research question, literature review, methodology, and other sources mentioned in any part of the proposal.  It is crucial to ensure that sources you list are accurate, up-to-date, and appropriate for your dissertation topic proposal.  In this section, students should format their references according to the specific style guidelines required by your university. Remember to meet the required total number of citations for your dissertation research proposal as guided. Keep in mind that not all sources are credible for thesis research proposal.  You should also provide a copy of any ethics approval forms or permissions granted by your institution to conduct your research.

Dissertation Proposal Format

The dissertation and thesis proposal format will depend on the discipline and field of study. Generally, thesis proposals should follow the exact structure of any scholarly paper on the same subject. Typical dissertation proposal formats include:

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Modern Language Association (MLA)
• Chicago Manual of Style

The format for writing dissertation proposals may vary according to the style used because each has certain conventions that must be adhered to accordingly. It is important to note that formatting should be consistent throughout your document.  Before beginning the writing process, it is imperative to be familiar with all guidelines and requirements of an academic thesis proposal format. View the following guides on the most common styles to make sure you format your proposal properly:

• How to format an APA paper ?
• How to write in MLA format ?
• What is Chicago style format ?

Lastly, back up your work with evidence as well as sources demonstrating potential for success.

Thesis / Dissertation Proposal Examples

When writing your paper, reviewing thesis or dissertation proposal samples is crucial. These samples can provide an understanding of the structure, style, and expected content. They can also provide insight into the research methods and analysis techniques used throughout the thesis or dissertation process.  We encourage you to check sample dissertation proposals found online or in public libraries. Many YouTube videos produced to offer clarity and reference are also available. Additionally, thesis proposals may be available through individual academic institutions.  Below are samples for you to refer to: Thesis proposal example

Dissertation proposal example 1

Dissertation proposal sample 2

Dissertation Proposal Writing Tips

Writing a proposal for a dissertation requires you to stay focused and organized, as well as produce excellent work in a timely and efficient manner. To ensure the successful completion of your dissertation proposal, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:

• Research thoroughly It is vital to take the time to research and reference all relevant material while writing your paper.
• Develop a timeline Developing a timeline and plan for completing each task is crucial because it helps keep you on track and ensure you meet all milestones promptly and effectively.
• Be organized Keeping your project well organized will make it easier to read and understand.
• Proofread Before submitting your paper, it is important to proofread and edit for any mistakes to ensure it is high quality and free from any errors.
• Check for free samples Consulting from any professional sample dissertation proposal by other students and experts is crucial before composing yours.
• References Lastly, ensure the credibility and accuracy of your document by referencing all sources used. Provide a bibliography list on the last page or pages of your paper.

Listed above dissertation and thesis proposal writing tips will help you to deliver an outstanding project that is well-planned, accurate as well as high quality.

Dissertation Proposal Checklist

A checklist is necessary to ensure you write a good proposal for a dissertation. This list should include all main topics that are critical to your paper. Here are some essential points to consider when writing a thesis proposal:

Considering the above items, you can ensure that you include all necessary elements in your research proposal . This will help you write an excellent thesis and get your work funded or accepted by your advisor.

Bottom Line on How to Write a Proposal For a Dissertation or Thesis

This article discussed in depth how to write a dissertation proposal. It has provided you with definition of a dissertation proposal, outlined its importance, length and structure, and how to write it. This blog also discussed the outline of a thesis proposal and listed things you should know before starting to write your own. We provided a step-by-step illustration of how to write and format your work. In addition, we provided thesis and dissertation proposal examples, tips, as well as a checklist of items to consider when crafting your project.  Following the guidelines provided in this article should help you write an excellent work that meets your advisor's expectations. Once your topic is approved, make sure to check how to write a dissertation .

If you still struggle with crafting your proposal, our  dissertation writing services  are your best option. Our academic writers hold PhD degree and deliver top-quality studies within given deadlines.

FAQ About Thesis/ Dissertation Proposals

1. what is a thesis proposal.

A thesis proposal is a document that outlines the topic, defines issues that the paper will address, and explains why the subject is significant. The proposal aims to demonstrate that thesis topic addresses a critical educational problem, outlines a detailed plan for the research, and provides a practical approach for gathering and analyzing data.

2. How long should a thesis proposal be?

Crafting a thesis proposal requires time and dedication, but the length of your project can vary dramatically. While typically 15-20 pages (or up to 30) are needed for most proposals, Master's students may find they only need between 4-8 pages long due to the narrow scope of their research topic. The exact number of pages will mainly depend on which discipline you study as well as the focused nature of your investigation.

3. What is the difference between a dissertation and a proposal?

A dissertation is the main body of work that you produce for your degree, usually based on evidence gathered from research and experiments. On the other hand, a proposal outlines the research you plan to undertake and offers an overview of the topics covered in your thesis.

4. Should I include schedule in a dissertation proposal?

Yes, if you are applying for a grant or funding for the thesis project. In that case, including a schedule in your dissertation proposal outlining the timeline for research, data collection and analysis, and writing is necessary. This will help demonstrate how you plan to complete your project within the required timeframe.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

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• checkbox I formulated an exact statement of purpose.
• checkbox I have presented a clear introduction and background information.
• checkbox I made my research on objectives and questions.
• checkbox I can say that my literature review includes enough information related to my topic.
• checkbox My research methodology includes all the necessary methods I used in my research.
• checkbox I have made all data analysis techniques.
• checkbox I made all calculations for the budget and timeline.
• checkbox My dissertation proposal contains an outline of the expected results.
• checkbox I am sure that I chose the right format for references and bibliography.
• checkbox I have checked the writing style and conventions.
• checkbox My dissertation proposal contains an acknowledgment section.
• checkbox I spent enough time proofreading and editing.

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Are you struggling with making a thesis proposal, not knowing where to start?

You're not the only one. 

Creating a thesis proposal can feel confusing. But think of a thesis proposal as your guide for your academic research. It helps you plan your research and keeps you on the right path. If the thought of a thesis proposal has left you feeling unsure, don't worry. 

This blog is here to help you understand how you can create a thesis proposal that serves your research project right! 

So, let’s begin!

• 1. What is a Thesis Proposal?
• 2. What Does A Thesis Proposal Include?
• 3. How to Write a Thesis Proposal
• 4. Thesis Proposal Format
• 5. Sample Thesis Proposal
• 6. Thesis Proposal Writing Tips

What is a Thesis Proposal?

The thesis proposal is a type of detailed summary and outline of your thesis or research work. It provides a layout regarding how you will transform an unformed idea into a thoroughly researched concept. 

Moreover, it also identifies the problem, questions, and methods you will use in your thesis. All students are required to submit this mind map to the supervisor. This is how they will get a comprehensive idea of the research journey. 

A good proposal will prove that your thesis or dissertation is relevant and important. Similarly, it shows that you have adopted the right approach and tools to solve the problem.

• The following are the primary purposes of writing a thesis proposal.
• It shows that the chosen topic addresses a significant problem.
• It demonstrates an organized plan to collect or obtain data for solving the problem.
• It identifies data collection methods.

Lastly, it states the significance of the thesis indicating how it will contribute to the field.

What Does A Thesis Proposal Include?

A well-structured thesis proposal consists of several critical elements, each playing a distinct role. Here's a concise breakdown of the parts of thesis proposal:

Introduction (1 page) 

This is where your proposal begins. 

It opens with a clear definition of your research's topic area, followed by an explanation of its relevance and significance within the context of your field. 

The introduction also establishes the scope of your research study by defining its boundaries and limitations.

Literature Review (7-8 pages) 

The literature review is a substantial section, comprising four key components. 

Firstly, it offers an overview of the existing body of literature related to your research topic. Secondly, it addresses theoretical frameworks and methodological research designs relevant to your area of study, demonstrating your familiarity with the field. 

Thirdly, it emphasizes the gaps in the literature, showcasing areas that require further investigation and justifying your research.

Research Question (1-2 pages) 

In this section, you formulate a specific research question that your study will seek to answer. 

The research question serves as the focal point of your research. You also explain how your entire research design aligns with and is structured around this central question.

Methodological Design (1-2 pages) 

The methodological design section is critical for outlining how you plan to conduct your research. 

It encompasses several pivotal aspects. You describe your methodological approach ( qualitative , quantitative , or a combination). You detail your participant access strategy and the number of cases to be included. 

You specify case selection criteria, research timeline, data collection methods, data coding, analytics, and other relevant factors.

References 

This is your bibliography, listing all authors cited within your literature review. It validates your sources and provides a solid foundation for your proposed research. 

Each of these components is crucial in creating a robust and structured framework for your thesis proposal.

How to Write a Thesis Proposal

Writing a thesis proposal is a structured process that involves several key steps, each of which plays a vital role in creating a successful proposal. Let's break it down:

Step 1 - Begin with Outlining

Start by outlining the information you've gathered. This step is crucial for both you and your supervisor. It provides a roadmap for your thesis. 

By carefully outlining the parts of your proposal, you can guide yourself while drafting the document.

Step 2 - Know the Proposal Structure

Familiarize yourself with the structure of a proposal. 

The major sections usually include an introduction, methodology, significance, data explanation, conclusions, and references. Understanding this structure is key to a well-organized proposal.

Step 3 - Plan Your Writing Process

It's important to organize your proposal meticulously. This helps you get a clear idea of how to write it. Many proposals get rejected because students don't plan their writing process. Plan the flow of your writing and stick to it. Here's a typical flow:

• Develop a proposal outline.
• Prepare visuals like charts or tables.
• Introduce the topic.
• Describe your chosen methodology.
• Explain why your research is significant.
• Present your data.
• Draw conclusions from your research.
• Cite your references.

Step 4 - Writing the Proposal Draft

Once you've planned the writing process, it's time to begin your final proposal draft. Use a formal writing style, but make sure to use simple words. 

This makes it easier for your audience to read and understand. Also, use first-person references as needed, but consult your professors before writing a thesis statement.

Step 5 - Proofread Your Proposal

A good thesis proposal should be free of typos and other grammatical mistakes.

These errors can distract your readers from your actual problem statement. To ensure a polished proposal:

• Read the proposal aloud to identify grammar and spelling mistakes, along with any issues with sentence structure.
• Avoid proofreading immediately after writing; wait a day or two for a more objective view.
• Seek input from someone with a strong understanding of the material.
• Utilize an online spell checker for added accuracy.

Following these steps will help you craft a well-structured and error-free thesis proposal, increasing the likelihood of your proposal being accepted.

Refer to the following sample to understand the complete writing process.

How to Write a Thesis Proposal - Sample

Thesis Proposal Format

The format of the thesis paper proposal typically follows the below-given pattern.

• Title Page 

The title page includes the research title, student and supervisor’s name, along with the submission date.

• Table of Contents 

It gives a complete layout of the proposal by stating the headings and subheadings with their page numbers. 

• Introduction

The thesis introduction highlights the historical background of your research. It also provides a brief overview of the thesis topic and the motivation behind choosing it.

• Statement of the Problem

It provides a clear statement that briefly defines the purpose of the study. Check out the below sample for a better understanding.

Sample Statement of the Problem in Thesis Proposal

• Theoretical Framework 

Here, the research problem will be set within the framework of a theory. Moreover, it will also identify and define the terms conceptually.

• Literature Review

It includes the review of the available literature on the topic to establish credibility. Keep in mind; this section must be at least 15 pages.

• Research Objectives

This section states the main objectives that you want to achieve in the research. Similarly, it will also mention the hypothesis and the expected outcome.

• Methodology

It states the methodological approaches that will be used to achieve the objectives. It will also provide details about how the experiments will be conducted to test the hypothesis.

• Evaluation of Research Findings

It briefly discusses how the research findings and outcomes will be evaluated.

• Timetable for Completion of the Thesis

This section includes the dates for:

• Completion of research
• The first draft of the thesis 
• Final draft 

Cite all the primary and secondary sources in the reference list along with their codes. Also, choose a citation style after consulting with your professor.

• Other Instructions

The other format instructions include the following aspects.

• Word Count: 5000 words maximum.
• Font Style and Size: Times new roman, Arial - 12pt.
• Line Spacing: 1.5 for text, single-spaced for quotations.
• Margins: It should be set to 1.25 inches for left/right and 1 inch for top/bottom.
• Page Numbers : It must be in Roman numerals and placed at the bottom center of each page.
• Citation: APA, MLA, Chicago.

Here’s a thesis proposal outline that you can use as reference:

Need to know more about formatting your thesis? Explore this comprehensive blog to gain a deep understanding of thesis format !

Sample Thesis Proposal

Following are some examples and samples for you to get a detailed idea.

Thesis Proposal Sample

Thesis Proposal Example

Thesis Proposal Template

Undergraduate Thesis Proposal Example

Master Thesis Proposal Example

Phd. Thesis Proposal

Architectural Thesis Proposal

Thesis Proposal Writing Tips

Here are some tips for writing a perfect thesis proposal.

• Know all the requirements before you start writing a proposal. It includes length, font, spacing, etc.
• Use simple words so that the readers can understand easily.
• Always check your proposal and carefully proofread for mistakes.
• Write answers and solutions to your problem in the conclusion as it provides a base for future research.
• Keep a record of your referencing from the start and triple check it before submitting the proposal.
• Plan, organize, and structure your proposal within a clearly defined deadline.
• Use pictures and graphs to illustrate background material, sample data, and analysis techniques. 

Getting started on your thesis? Read here and choose from an extensive list of thesis topics !

So, you now have the key knowledge to create a strong and meaningful thesis proposal. 

However, if you still find yourself facing challenges or require further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. 

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How To Write A Dissertation Proposal: Learn With Guides And Tips

Don’t know how to write a dissertation proposal? Don’t worry about it! In this blog post, you will learn everything there is to know about the dissertation proposal. We will show you what it is and why it is important to write one correctly. We will discuss the dissertation proposal format in great detail and show you a dissertation proposal outline that works great for most topics. In addition, you will get an example of dissertation proposal for free.

To help you write a great proposal, we have also included a step by step guide on how to write a proposal for dissertation. Finally, we have compiled a list of tips, tricks and advice that should help you do an even better job. Are you ready to start writing a dissertation proposal? Read on!

Table of Contents

What is a dissertation proposal, why is the dissertation proposal important, a simple dissertation proposal outline, how to write dissertation proposal: a step by step guide, tips, tricks and advice, a free dissertation proposal sample.

So, what is a dissertation proposal? Why is it important? Why would you want to write one? A dissertation proposal is a document that outlines the proposed research project that a student intends to undertake as part of their doctoral program. The purpose of the proposal is to convince the student’s academic committee that the proposed research is worthwhile, feasible and original. The proposal typically includes:

An introduction Literature review Research methodology Research aims and objectives Expected outcomes A timeline for completion

The proposal should also address any potential ethical considerations or limitations of the study, and should provide a justification for the significance of the research. Once the proposal is accepted, the student can begin working on their dissertation, which will be a more extensive and detailed version of the proposal.

Before we show you how to write a proposal for a dissertation, we want to make sure you understand just how important this paper is. A proposal is important because it:

Provides a framework for the research project. The proposal outlines the structure of the research project, including the research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes. Demonstrates the student’s readiness for the research. The proposal requires the student to undertake a rigorous review of the literature and develop a research plan. Helps to identify potential issues. The proposal provides an opportunity to identify any potential issues or limitations with the research project before it even begins. Facilitates feedback and discussion. The proposal is typically reviewed and critiqued by the student’s academic committee.

If you’re looking for an example proposal dissertation, you’re in luck. The thesis proposal format is not overly difficult, but you should definitely take a look at our outline to get a feel of how you should structure your paper:

I. Introduction Introduce the topic of the dissertation and provide background information. Write a clear research question or statement of the problem that the study aims to address. Explain the significance of your research and discuss the contribution it will make to the field of study. II. Literature Review Review and critically evaluate relevant literature in the field of study. Identify gaps or inconsistencies in the literature; gaps that the research project will address. Demonstrate how the proposed research fits into and advances the existing body of knowledge. III. Methodology Describe the research design and methodology that will be used to collect and analyze data. Justify the choice of methodology and explain how it aims to answer the research question. Address potential limitations and ethical considerations related to the methodology. IV. Research Aims and Objectives Clearly state the research aims and objectives that the study will address. Explain how these aims and objectives are linked to the research question and contribute to advancing the body of knowledge on the matter. V. Expected Outcomes Talk about the expected outcomes of your research. Explain how these outcomes will contribute to the existing body of knowledge and address the research question. VI. Timeline for Completion Provide a detailed timeline for completing the research project. Clearly present key milestones and deadlines, including the expected completion date for the dissertation. VII. Conclusion Summarize the main ideas in your proposal. Reinforce the significance of the research project. Indicate the potential implications of your findings.

If you want to learn how to write dissertation proposal quickly, the best way to do it is to follow a reliable step by step guide. The good news is that our experts have written one such guide for you. Here is exactly what you need to do to write dissertation proposal papers the right way:

Choose a topic. Start by choosing a topic that interests you and that is relevant to your field of study. The topic should be specific enough to allow you to conduct focused research and broad enough to allow for adequate exploration. Research existing literature. Conduct a review of all of the existing literature on the topic you’ve chosen. This will help you identify any gaps in knowledge that you can address in your research. Define your research questions. Based on the literature review, develop specific research questions that you will address in your dissertation. Your research questions should be clear and concise. Remember that you will need to answer these questions. Develop the research methodology. Choose a research methodology that is appropriate for your research questions. You can use qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods. Be sure to justify your choice of methodology so that the committee doesn’t ask for clarifications. Write the introduction. Start your proposal with an introduction that provides an overview of your research topic, research questions and methodology. You should include the thesis in the introduction. Write the literature review. Next, write a literature review that summarizes existing research on your topic. Identify any gaps in knowledge that you will address in your research. Present your methodology. Describe your research methodology in detail, including your data collection methods and data analysis techniques. Another researcher should be able to replicate your experiments and get the same results after reading your methodology. Define your expected results. Based on your research questions and methodology, define the expected results of your research. Be very specific about what you aim to demonstrate with your paper. Develop a timeline for writing a proposal for dissertation. Create a timeline that outlines the different stages of your research, from data collection to analysis and writing. Also, don’t forget to include the date on which you expect the paper to be completed. Write the conclusion. End your proposal with a conclusion that summarizes your research topic, research questions, methodology, and expected results. Show your readers why your research is important. Edit and proofread your work. Before submitting your proposal, be sure to edit and proofread it carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and presents your research clearly. You want your proposal to be perfect in every way.

It is usually a good idea to have your friends and family take a look at the proposal and give you some feedback. You’d be surprised by how many things can be improved this way. Even better, you could get in touch with our expert editors and proofreaders and have them revise your work. This is a sure way to ensure that your proposal is top notch.

Before we get to the dissertation proposal example, we want to share some effective tips, tricks and advice that will help you do a better job writing your paper:

Start early. Give yourself plenty of time to write your dissertation proposal. It’s a complex document that requires careful planning, research, and writing, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Get feedback. Before submitting your proposal, share it with your supervisor or another academic who can provide feedback. Be clear and concise. Use clear and concise language to communicate your research topic, questions and methodology. Provide context. Provide context for your research by explaining why it’s important and how it fits into existing research in your field. Justify your methodology. Be sure to explain why you have chosen a particular methodology and how it will help you answer your research questions. Be realistic. Make sure your proposed research is feasible given your time, resources and skills. Avoid proposing research that is too broad or ambitious, as this can make it difficult to complete your dissertation on time. Follow guidelines. Follow the guidelines provided by your university or department for formatting, length, and content. This will help you avoid unnecessary revisions and ensure that your proposal meets the requirements. Keep it organized. Use clear headings, subheadings and sections to organize your proposal. This will make it easier for your readers to follow your argument and find the information they need. Use citations. Use citations to acknowledge the work of other researchers and to support your own arguments. This will demonstrate that you have done your research and are aware of existing literature on your topic.

Are you looking for an excellent dissertation proposal template that you can follow? Our experts are here to help you with your school projects. We have written a great dissertation proposal sample that you can use for free. You can use this example to learn how PhD dissertation proposals are written, but you should avoid copying content from the sample because a plagiarism detector can flag your paper. If you need more than the following example of a dissertation proposal, get in touch with our experts:

Background of the Problem Employee performance is a significant concern of any organization because it determines business performance. According to Fachrunnisa, Adhiatma & Mutamimah (2014), employees achieve the desired level of performance when they are effectively engaged or involved in the management of the organization. However, the impact of organizational culture on both the engagement and performance of employees has not been measured distinctively using empirical evidence, as illustrated by Breevaart, Bakker, Demerouti & Derks (2016). Statement of the Problem Organizations provide their employees with requirements related to expected level of participation in work activities and performance. However, business leaders and managers often forget that they must create a supportive organizational culture that will inspire employee engagement and motivate performance. Purpose of the Study The purpose of the proposed investigation is to determine how organizational culture influences employee engagement and their performance at work. The study aims at providing business leaders and managers with evidence-based insights for establishing organizational cultures that inspire employee engagement and motivate performance. Research Objectives To assess the impact of organizational mission, vision and values on employee engagement in the service sector. To determine how organizational culture influences job performance in the service sector. To establish the relationship between the consistency of organizational culture and employee engagement and job performance in the service sector Research Questions To what extent do the mission, vision and values of organizations in the service sector influence employee engagement? How does organizational culture influence job performance in the service sector? How does the consistency of organizational culture shape employee engagement and job performance in the service sector? Significance of the Study The proposed study is significant to business management practice. It will specifically provide business leaders and managers with practical reasons for establishing supportive organizational cultures that are meant to improve the level of employee engagement and improve their performance at work. Methodology Research Design A descriptive research design will be applied in carrying out the proposed investigation. This design will allow for description of the characteristics of work environments under study in terms of working culture, employee engagement and motivation for performance. Descriptive studies are also useful in establishing relationships existing between research variables (Sekaran & Bougie, 2016). Study Population The population of the proposed study is composed of members of organizations within the service sector. This includes the business leaders, managers and employees of these organizations. Sampling Stratified sampling will be applied in selecting a representative sample from the study population to participate in the research process. The selected sampling technique is useful in categorizing members of a study population into homogenous subgroups, from which participants are randomly selected (Bryman & Bell, 2015). A sample of 120 participants, including business leaders, managers and employees of 10 organizations in the service sector will be selected and engaged in the research process. Data Collection Methods Self-administered questionnaires will be used to gather data for the study. Questionnaires are preferred because they are standardized, efficient and cost-effective data collection tools (Sekaran & Bougie, 2016). The questionnaires will have open and closed ended questions pertaining to the background information of participants, the culture of their organizations, employee engagement strategies and employee performance. Data Analysis Descriptive statistics will be applied in the analysis of research data. Through descriptive statistics, research data will be organized and interpreted in line with the relationship between organizational culture, employee engagement and performance.

Get Quick Help Writing A Dissertation Proposal

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Find more interesting content related to thesis writing below:

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• How To Write A Counterclaim For A Successful Result
• Theoretical Framework: Research Writing Guide
• How To Write A Hypothesis – A Guide & Detailed Instructions
• How To Write A Perfect Thesis Proposal
• Writing Thesis Acknowledgement Section Like A Pro
• How To Narrow Down A Research Topic Successfully
• How To Formulate A Research Problem

Below, you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the dissertation proposal:

Can I make changes to my dissertation proposal after it is approved?

It is possible to make changes to the dissertation proposal after it is approved, but any significant changes may require additional review.

How long should a dissertation proposal be?

The length of a dissertation proposal can vary depending on the requirements of the program. Most proposals are typically between 10 and 20 pages.

Who reviews the dissertation proposal?

The dissertation proposal is typically reviewed by the student’s academic committee.

How long does it take to write a dissertation proposal?

On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to write a good dissertation proposal. You need professional help if you are about to miss the deadline.

What if my dissertation proposal is not approved?

If the dissertation proposal is not approved, the student will need to revise and resubmit it for review. You can get editing help from an online dissertation writing service , so you have no reason to stress!

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Thesis Proposal

Thesis proposals.

Graduate students begin the thesis process by writing a thesis proposal that describes the central elements of the thesis work.  Those elements vary depending on the type of thesis (research, artistic, or project) that the student plans to write. Students begin drafting the thesis proposal in the course Thesis Proposal Seminar . 

Below, please find detailed information about the following:

• research thesis proposal
• artistic thesis proposal
• project thesis proposal
• formatting your proposal  
• getting your proposal approved  
• submit your proposal  

Research Thesis Proposal

The proposal for a research thesis consists of five sections:

• Thesis Statement Following an optional introduction, the basic function of this section is to articulate a phenomenon that the student proposes to investigate (whether a social event, process, a literary work, an intellectual idea or something else), and the question(s), issue(s) or problem(s) related to that phenomenon that the student plans to address in the thesis. The core of the statement may take the form of a hypothesis that the student will test, of a proposition or argument that the student intends to support, or of a general problem or question the student  will explore. The section puts that basic problem statement in a larger context by explaining its historical origins (where did it come from?) and its intellectual, social, and/or artistic context (what conversation, debate, or line of inquiry does it participate in?). It also describes the sub-questions or themes that constitute the general problem. Students will cite appropriate scholarly, professional and other sources for the ideas, questions and background information contained in the section.
• Research Methods In this section, the student will identify (a) the kinds of information that needed to answer the question(s) raised in the Thesis Statement, (b) the methods the student will use to gather that information, and (c) the strategies by which the student will organize and analyze the information in such a way as to reach and support a conclusion, to construct a sound argument. If the central problem has several facets, the student may need an array of different methods for collecting and analyzing information. Students should be as precise as possible in each stage of the methods statement: Is information needed about the stylistic techniques in a novel, about changes in the poverty rates in Kenya since independence, about the ways children think about nature? Will the student pull out the metaphors in a text, find government reports on household income, interview kids about their experiences in the woods? Will the student deploy statistical forms of content analysis, correlate poverty rates with political changes, interpret themes in children’s stories? Students should reflect on the broad methodological approaches that they propose to use, and cite sources from which they derive their methods and tools. A student's central goal is to demonstrate that they know how to go about answering the question(s) that have been raised. Please note that if students intend to conduct research on living people, they will need to get the approval of the University Committee on Activities Involving Human Subjects (UCAIHS). Before they apply for that approval, students will need to take a tutorial and pass a test on the various regulations. Refer to the  UCAIHS website  for more information.
• Justification and Limitations This section of the proposal should explain the rationale for the thesis and the importance of the topic. Indicate the reasons why this study is important to conduct and whom it will benefit. Identify the limits beyond which the inquiry will not go. For instance, if a student is writing about a historical subject, the student must explain the relevance of the time period selected. Finally, describe the contribution the work will make to the field.
• Conclusion This section should summarize the nature and intention of the student's work. Conclude the discussion and mention any pertinent information which may not have been included above.
• Annotated Bibliography This section consists of a list of books and articles and artworks with accompanying annotations that explain why these readings and other sources are likely to be crucial as the work advances.

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Artistic Thesis Proposal

The artistic thesis consists of an artistic work and supporting essays, and it is important to conceive of each element as contributing to a coherent whole.  The proposal itself consists of five sections:

• Concept Statement This section includes a brief introduction that forms the framework for the entire thesis and articulates the questions around which the creative project and supporting essays revolve.
• Description of the Artistic Work and Artistic Aims This section describes the major artistic work that will comprise the submitted artistic thesis.  Students may want to refer to particular artistic influences or genres that will inform the work, or describe the aesthetic from which the creative work derives. In this section, students should also: refer to some of the artistic reasons that led to their decision to embark on this particular project; discuss the goals that will guide the development of the work; and provide concrete details about the final form and media of the work  (will it be, for example, a collection of short stories, a novel; an evening of dance an exhibition of paintings, a film, or what?).  If the artwork involves live performance, this section should state whether it will be a public or private event, where the event will be held, and any other details relevant to bringing the project to completion.

This section should provide the reader with relevant historical or critical information to place the central research question in context, and this section should also discuss the key theories, methods, and sources to be used within the research essay.  It should demonstrate that the student knows how to begin answering the question(s) they are posing.  What sorts of things will the student need to find out? What research methods will be used?  What kinds of sources will be reviewed, and how will information from them be used? Who, if anyone, will be interviewed, and what kinds of questions will the subjects be asked?  Students should also reflect, in this section, on the broad analytical approach that will structure their research and identify the school(s) of thought that will inform their investigations. 

• Justification and Limitations This section should explain the importance of the student's work in the context of their particular artistic discipline and discuss how all components of the thesis project taken together as a single project will contribute to the scholarly and artistic fields with which it engages. This section should also discuss limitations, personal and practical, relating to the project and the student’s readiness.  If the project is a film, for example, how much direct experience has the student already had in that field, and how will the student allocate the time to finish the project by the desired defense date? How much is the project likely to cost, and how does the student expect to obtain funding?  What kind of spaces will be needed for rehearsal as well as presentation of the work? 

Project Thesis Proposal

The project thesis includes two major components: (a) an activity (program, intervention, campaign, etc.) designed to address (solve, remediate, improve) a problem, issue or opportunity in the student's domain as a professional or activist; and (b) a written document that describes, rationalizes, analyzes, and assesses the activity. It is not strictly a research study, but rather an exercise in reflective practice. Therefore, the proposal takes a form different from that of the research or artistic thesis proposal. Please note, as well, that a project thesis  must  be not only designed but implemented and evaluated.

• Problem Statement This section of the proposal identifies, describes, and analyzes the problem (issue, need, opportunity) that the student will address in the project. Clearly articulate the nature of the problem: its historical, social and professional context; its dimensions and extent; its impact, and perhaps some previous efforts to address it. Present information that explains the student's understanding of the origins or causes of the problem, to set up the rationale for the choice of a strategy to solve it. At each stage, refer to appropriate scholarly and professional literatures.
• Project Plan Students should spell out their plans for addressing the problem. Students should describe the institutional setting within which the project will take place, as well as the individuals, groups, or organizations with whom they will work. What will the student (and, perhaps, others) do? What resources and strategies will be used? If the student need funds, how will they be raised and disbursed? What schedule will be followed? Be efficient, but concrete and clear in specifying the activities that will make up the project. Identify the professional and theoretical sources of the strategies for the project: What precedents and ideas are the student drawing on? Also, the student should discuss the means by which they will record and report the project activities for the members of the thesis committee. Will the student write a journal, shoot videos, keep material artifacts and documents? Students must be clear about how they intend to document the project. They may also elect to invite the members of their committee to witness the project first-hand.
• Assessment The proposal speaks to three aspects of the assessment process. In all three, students should be concrete and refer to appropriate literatures as sources of their plans. Criteria : First, students should describe and justify the criteria by which they will determine whether the project has succeeded. What are the goals and objectives? What changes does the student want to see in the participants, the organization, the larger world? Methods:  What information will be needed to determine whether the goals and objectives have been met? How will that information be collected and organized? Analysis : How will that information be utilized to describe the project’s success or failure? What sorts of lessons does the student hope to draw from the assessment?
• Justification and Limitations This section of the proposal should explain the rationale for the thesis and the importance of the topic. Indicate the reasons why this study is important to conduct and whom it will benefit. Identify the limits beyond which the inquiry will not go. Finally, describe the contribution the work will make to the field.
• Conclusion This section should summarize the nature and intention of the work. Conclude the discussion and mention any pertinent information which may not have been included above.

Format of the Proposal

All thesis proposals should conform to the following specifications:

• Title Page The title should be reasonably succinct, but descriptive enough to convey the nature of the thesis; the title page should include your full name, the date of submission, and your adviser’s name.
• Length The thesis proposal should be approximately 8 pages, excluding the annotated bibliography. Remember that this is a proposal, not the thesis itself; tell us what you propose to do and how, don’t do it.
• Annotated Bibliography This bibliography should contain brief commentaries on no fewer than 10–15 relevant source works.

The Approval Process for the Thesis Proposal

The Thesis Proposal Seminar (TPS) Students write their thesis proposals while enrolled in the Thesis Proposal Seminar (CORE-GG 2401, a 2-credit core requirement offered every spring). Throughout that semester, students work closely with their Adviser and Instructor to draft an acceptable proposal. When the proposal has received approval from both the Thesis Proposal Seminar instructor (Gallatin reviewer) and the adviser, the student is allowed to move on to their thesis research. The three steps of the approval process are outlined below.

• TPS Instructor/Reviewer Approval The Thesis Proposal Seminar instructor serves as the Gallatin reviewer of the thesis proposal. A student must receive a grade of ‘Pass’ in the Thesis Proposal Seminar for the proposal to be considered ‘reviewer approved.’ If the student’s proposal is not finished at the end of the semester, the student will receive a grade of 'Incomplete' in the course and will have until June 15th to submit the proposal before moving on to thesis research.
• Adviser Approval Students work closely with their advisers over the course of the semester to produce a proposal that the adviser can approve. Once the adviser agrees that the proposal is ready, students submit their final proposal via the online Thesis Proposal submission form . The Thesis Proposal submission form allows students to provide Gallatin with additional information about the courses, internships, independent studies, jobs, and other experiences that have prepared the student for their thesis work.
• MA Program Approval Once the M.A. Program verifies adviser approval of the proposal and the student has passed the TPS, the MA Program updates the student record to show that the Thesis Proposal requirement has been satisfied.

The deadline for submitting an adviser approved thesis proposal online is June 15.

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• Knowledge Base
• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

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Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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Department of English and Comparative Literature

M.A. Thesis Guidelines

The Thesis is optional in the M.A program. In other words, graduate students in the M.A. program are not required to write a thesis. You may therefore take your entire 30 units in course work and pass the comprehensive exam (Plan B). Alternatively, if you have a strong record and submit a strong proposal, you may be permitted to write a six-unit thesis as part of your 30-unit program (Plan A). 

Students planning to write a thesis should take note of the guidelines and plan ahead accordingly. In order to write a thesis, you need to do the following:

First, speak with a faculty member with expertise in the area in which you plan to write your thesis. If he or she agrees to direct your project, then write a thesis proposal with that faculty member's guidance. You will also need two additional faculty members to serve as readers on your thesis committee. When your project director is fully satisfied with your proposal, submit it to the Graduate Advisor along with a cover sheet signed by your thesis committee. Do this as early as possible in the semester prior to the semester you intend to enroll in English 299.

Ideally, you should do your preliminary research over the summer to identify your area/topic of interest so that you can discuss this with potential advisors/readers early in the fall semester in order to form your thesis committee and prepare your proposal for formal submission (usually by November 1). The proposal must be approved by the Graduate Committee. Approval is usually granted only to students who have achieved high grades in their graduate course work and who submit strong proposals.

If your proposal is approved, use the winter break to work on your thesis. In Spring, plan to submit your draft to your thesis director by February 1 and a revised draft to your 2nd and 3rd readers by April 1 to allow sufficient time for feedback and revision.  Follow the latest MLA Handbook as Graduate Studies will expect your thesis to be accurately and consistently formatted.  

Planning ahead and following the guidelines and timeline is critical to ensuring your thesis is of high quality and you are able to finish in time for May graduation.

You can find a sample proposal here. Sample MA Thesis Proposal  [pdf]

The Proposal

The proposal should have a coversheet [pdf] . The proposal itself should

• explain clearly what you want to write about and why your topic is important
• describe any previous work you've done in the field
• note what scholarly work has already been done on the topic and explain how your work will revise or augment this
• present a short, tentative outline indicating your main point and how you plan to demonstrate it
• include a brief, annotated bibliography of primary and secondary sources relevant to your topic, along with a non-annotated bibliography of works you expect to examine as you progress
• must follow the MLA format
• should be about 6 to 10 pages long, plus coversheet

The Graduate Committee understands that you can't know precisely what your argument will be until you have completed it. A proposal is simply a clear explanation of what you expect to achieve. In deciding which thesis proposals will be approved, the committee will look carefully at the quality of the writing in the proposal. This should be in every respect professional: clear, accurate, properly documented, etc.

When your project director is entirely satisfied with your proposal, bring it to the Graduate Advisor. When the advisor has also approved it, give the advisor ten copies of the proposal to be distributed to the Graduate Committee. Do this as early as possible in the semester prior to the semester you intend to enroll in English 299. (The committee will not consider proposals submitted in the last four weeks of the semester.) Remember, your proposal must be approved by the Graduate Committee, and approval will be granted only to students who have achieved high grades in their graduate course work and who submit strong proposals.

Writing the Thesis

After your proposal is approved, enroll for six units of English 299. You may take six units in one semester, or three units in each of two semesters. You will receive a Satisfactory Progress grade until you have completed the thesis; then your director will change the grade to Credit. If you fail to complete the thesis within two years, you must formally request an extension. Otherwise the grade will revert to No Credit and you will need to enroll in 299 again.

Consult frequently with your thesis director and show him or her drafts of your work as you proceed chapter by chapter or section by section. When your director decides the thesis is presentable, show your work to the second and third readers. Be sure to follow posted deadlines for consultation with readers and that you understand readers' comments before you complete a final draft.

Submit the Thesis

See Graduate Studies' General Instructions for Master's Theses and follow its required format scrupulously. Check posted deadlines for submission of theses to the Graduate Studies Office.

When your thesis has been signed by all readers, remind your director to submit the necessary form to change your 299 units to Credit.

Forms & Worksheets

Thesis Proposal Coversheet [pdf]

Completed MA Theses

Available in King Library (some in electronic form available to SJSU students only).

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Determining the Ideal Length: How Many Pages Should a Research Proposal Be?

Determining the ideal length for a research proposal can be tricky. It depends on various factors like degree level, institution guidelines, and the scope of your research. This article will help you understand how long your research proposal should be, based on different academic levels and fields.

Key Takeaways

• Research proposal lengths vary by degree level and institution guidelines.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s proposals are usually shorter than Ph.D. or grant proposals.
• Key components of a proposal include the title, abstract, background, and methodology.
• Balancing detail with conciseness is crucial to avoid redundancy.
• Consulting advisors and reviewing successful proposals can help determine the ideal length.

Factors Influencing the Length of a Research Proposal

When determining the length of your research proposal, several factors come into play. Institutional guidelines are often the most significant influence, as different schools or organizations may have specific requirements. For instance, proposals for bachelor’s or master’s degrees might only need to be a few pages long, while those for Ph.D. programs can range from ten to thirty-five pages , depending on the complexity of the research.

Another important aspect is the degree level requirements . Each academic level has its own expectations regarding detail and depth. For example, a bachelor’s proposal may focus on a straightforward topic, while a Ph.D. proposal requires a more comprehensive exploration of the subject matter.

Lastly, the scope of research plays a crucial role. If your research involves multiple methodologies or extensive literature reviews, you may need to write a longer proposal to adequately cover all necessary elements.

In summary, consider the following points when assessing the length of your proposal:

• Institutional guidelines
• Degree level requirements
• Scope of research

By keeping these factors in mind, you can better determine the appropriate length for your research proposal, ensuring it meets the expectations of your audience and effectively communicates your research intentions.

Typical Length for Different Academic Levels

The length of a research proposal can vary significantly depending on the academic level. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

Essential Components of a Research Proposal

A well-structured research proposal is crucial for clearly communicating your study's objectives and methods. Each section of the proposal serves a specific purpose and must be crafted with care to ensure the overall coherence of your document.

Balancing Conciseness and Completeness

When crafting a research proposal, it's crucial to strike a balance between being concise and thorough. Covering Key Elements means you should include all necessary parts of your research without overloading the reader with too much information. Focus on the core aspects and avoid diverging into irrelevant tangents. Remember, relevance is key .

Avoiding Redundancy is another important aspect. Repeating the same information in different sections can make your proposal unnecessarily long and confusing. Instead, aim to present your ideas clearly and succinctly. This will help keep your proposal focused and to the point.

Effective Summarization Techniques can greatly enhance the readability of your proposal. Use summaries to condense complex information into digestible parts. This not only makes your proposal easier to read but also demonstrates your ability to distill important information. In practice, most theses try to do too much and become too long. Cover your topic, but don't confuse it with too many loosely relevant side lines.

Adapting to Field-Specific Conventions

Humanities and social sciences.

When writing a research proposal in the humanities and social sciences, you should focus on a detailed literature review and theoretical framework. These fields often require a comprehensive background section to situate your research within existing studies. Crafting an effective Ph.D. thesis proposal in these areas involves demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter and its broader implications.

Natural Sciences and Engineering

In contrast, proposals in the natural sciences and engineering emphasize methodology and experimental design. Here, you need to provide a clear and concise description of your research methods, including any equipment or technology you will use. The goal is to show that your approach is feasible and scientifically sound.

Interdisciplinary Research

For interdisciplinary research, your proposal must bridge multiple fields, requiring a balanced approach. You should highlight how your research integrates different disciplines and the unique insights it aims to provide. This type of proposal often needs to address the methodologies and theoretical frameworks of each field involved, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive plan.

Practical Tips for Determining Proposal Length

Consulting with advisors.

When figuring out the length of your research proposal, consulting with advisors is crucial. They can provide insights into what is expected for your specific degree level and field. Advisors often have experience with what works and what doesn't, so their guidance can be invaluable.

Reviewing Successful Proposals

Another effective strategy is to review successful proposals from past students. This can give you a clear idea of the structure and length that are typically accepted. Look for proposals that have been approved and try to identify common elements that made them stand out.

Iterative Drafting and Feedback

Writing a research proposal is an iterative process. Start with a draft and seek feedback from your advisors and peers. This will help you refine your proposal, ensuring it is both comprehensive and concise. Remember, a comprehensive Ph.D. proposal typically ranges from 1500 to 3000 words , excluding any bibliography or appendices.

Figuring out the right length for your proposal can be tricky. You don't want it too short or too long. Need some help? Visit our website for more tips and guidance . We've got you covered!

In summary, the ideal length of a research proposal varies depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the institution. For undergraduate and master's projects, a concise proposal of a few pages is often sufficient. However, Ph.D. proposals and those seeking significant funding may need to be more detailed, spanning several dozen pages. Regardless of length, the key is to ensure that the proposal is clear, comprehensive, and tailored to meet the guidelines provided. By focusing on these elements, researchers can effectively communicate their ideas and lay a strong foundation for their academic endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a research proposal be.

The length of a research proposal can vary. For a bachelor's or master's degree, it might be just a few pages. A Ph.D. proposal could be much longer, possibly several dozen pages. Always aim to cover everything you need in a concise way.

What should be included in my research proposal?

Your proposal should include a title, background and rationale, and methodology. Make sure your title clearly indicates your research approach or key question.

How many words should my research proposal be?

Typically, research proposals are between 2,000 and 3,500 words, which is about 4-7 pages.

Why is a research proposal important?

A research proposal helps determine if there is expertise to support your research area. It also forms part of the assessment of your application and can influence whether you get the necessary support.

Are there specific guidelines for writing a research proposal?

Yes, different institutions and academic levels may have specific guidelines. Always read the instructions carefully and clarify any doubts before you start writing.

Can I look at examples of successful research proposals?

Yes, reviewing successful proposals can give you a good idea of what is expected. It can help you understand the structure and level of detail required.

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Writing a dissertation or thesis proposal, what is a proposal, what is the purpose of a proposal.

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The proposal, sometimes called the prospectus, is composed mainly of the Introduction, Research Questions, Literature Review, Research Significance and Methodology. It may also include a dissertation/thesis outline and a timeline for your proposed research. You will be able to reuse the proposal when you actually write the entire dissertation or thesis.

In the graduate student timeline, the proposal comes after successfully passing qualifying or comprehensive exams and before starting the research for a dissertation or thesis.

Each UNT department has slightly different proposal requirements, so be sure to check with your advisor or the department's graduate advisor before you start!

• Examples of Proposals from UTexas More than 20 completed dissertation proposals are available to read at the UT Intellectual Entrepreneurship website.
• Dissertation Proposal Guidelines This document from the Department of Communication at the University of Washington is a good example of what you might be expected to include in a proposal.

The purpose of a proposal is to convince your dissertation or thesis committee that you are ready to start your research project and to create a plan for your dissertation or thesis work. You will submit your proposal to your committee for review and then you will do your proposal defense, during which you present your plan and the committee asks questions about it. The committee wants to know if your research questions have academic merit and whether you have chosen the right methods to answer the questions.

• How to Prepare a Successful Dissertation Proposal Defense Some general tips for a proposal defense from synonym.com

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Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

• An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
• An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
• An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

• Explain the analysis of the college admission process
• Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

• Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

• Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

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How to Write a Dissertation Proposal with Structure & Steps

Published by Anastasia Lois at August 14th, 2021 , Revised On October 26, 2023

“A dissertation proposal is a stepping stone towards writing the final dissertation paper. It’s a unique document  that informs the reader of the aim & objectives of dissertation research and   its course of action.”

The main purpose of a proposal paper is to showcase to your supervisor or dissertation committee members that your dissertation research will add value to existing knowledge in your area of study.

Although the exact structure of a dissertation proposal may vary depending on your academic level, academic subject, and size of the paper, the contents remain pretty much the same.

However, it will still make sense to consult with your supervisor about the proposal formatting and structuring guidelines before working on your dissertation proposal paper.

You may lose out on scoring some important marks if your proposal paper does not follow your department’s specific rules. Here are some tips for you on how to structure a dissertation proposal paper.

Tips on Completing a Dissertation Proposal in Due Time

Consult your supervisor or department to find out how much time you have to  complete your dissertation proposal . Each graduate program is different, so you must adhere to the specific rules to avoid unwelcome surprises.

Depending on the degree program you are enrolled in, you may have to start working on your chosen topic  right away, or you might need to deal with some  assignments  and  exams  first.

You can learn about the rules and timelines concerning your dissertation project on the university’s online portal. If you are still unsure, it will be best to speak with your department’s admin clerk, the program head, or supervisor.

Look for Proposal Structural Requirements in the Guidelines

Most academic institutions will provide precise rules for structuring your dissertation proposal in terms of the document’s content and how to arrange it.  If you have not figured out these requirements, you must speak with your supervisor to find out what they recommend. Typical contents and structure of a dissertation proposal include the following;

• Statement of the Problem
• Background/Rationale
• Introduction (Justifying your Research)
• Research Questions or  Hypothesis  (Research aim and objectives)
• Literature Review
• Proposed Methodology
• Opportunities and Limitations

Project Schedule

Have an unhelpful dissertation project supervisor? Here is some advice to  help you deal with an uncompromising dissertation advisor.

How Long is a Dissertation Proposal?

The length of your dissertation proposal will depend on your degree program and your research topic. PhD-level dissertation proposals are much longer in terms of word count than Bachelors’s and Master’s level proposals.

• Bachelor’s level dissertation proposals are about 5-6 pages long.
• Masters and Ph.D. level proposals’ length varies from 15-25 pages depending on the academic subject and degree program’s specifications.
• If the word count or page length expectation is not mentioned in the dissertation handbook or the guidelines on the university’s website, you should check with your supervisor or program coordinator for a clear understanding of this particular requirement.

The proposals we write have:

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Dissertation Proposal Formatting

Formatting your dissertation proposal will also depend on your program’s specific guidelines and your research area. Find the exact guidelines for formatting cover sheets and title pages, referencing style, notes, bibliography, margin sizes, page numbers, and fonts. Again if you are unsure about anything, it is recommended to consult with your project advisor.

Find out About the Approval Criteria

The process of  writing your dissertation proposal paper  and getting acceptance from the committee of members of your supervisor is tricky.

Consult your department’s academic assistant, supervisor, or program chair to learn about all the process stages. Here are a couple of points you will need to be aware of:

• You might be required to have your chosen research topic approved by your academic supervisor or department chair.
• Submit your proposal and have it formally signed and approved so you can continue with your research.

You may find the dissertation proposal writing process perplexing and challenging if this is the first time you are preparing such a document. All the essential elements of a dissertation proposal paper need to be present before submitting it for approval.

Any feedback received from the tutor or the supervising committee should be taken very seriously and incorporated into your planning for dissertation research. Do not start working on your final dissertation paper until your supervisor has accepted the proposal.

To help you organise your dissertation proposal paper correctly, we have detailed guidelines for structuring a dissertation proposal. Irrespective of the degree program you are developing your dissertation proposal for, you will find these guidelines equally important.

Our expert academics can produce a flawless dissertation proposal on your chosen topic. They can also suggest free topics in your area of study if you haven’t selected a topic. Order free topics here or get a quote for our proposal writing service here.

Select a Topic

Selecting an  appropriate topic is the key to having your research work recognised in your field of study. Make sure your chosen topic is relevant, interesting, and manageable.

Ideally, you would want to research a topic that previous researchers have not explored so you can contribute to knowledge on the academic subject.

But even if your topic has been well-researched previously, you can make your study stand out by tweaking the  research design  and  research questions  to add a new dimension to your research.

How to Choose a Suitable Research Topic

Here are some guidelines on how to choose a suitable research topic.

List all the topics that you find interesting and relevant to your area of study. PhD and MaMasters’sevel students are already well aware of their academic interests.

Bachelor students can consider unanswered questions that emerged from their past academic assignments and drove them to conduct a detailed investigation to find answers.

Follow this process, and you’ll be able to choose the most appropriate topic for your research. Not only will this make your dissertation unique, but it also increases the chances of your proposal being accepted in the first attempt.

• Think about all your past academic achievements and associations, such as any research notes you might have written for your classes, any unsettled questions from your previous academic assignments that left you wondering, and the material you learned in classes taught by professors.
• For example , you learned about how natural gas is supplied to households in the UK in one of your coursework assignments and now eagerly wish to know exactly how natural gas is processed at an industrial scale.

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Conduct initial research on your chosen topic(s). This will include reading authentic text material on the topic(s) to familiarise yourself with each potential topic. Doing so will help you figure out whether there really is a need to investigate your selected topics further.

Visit your university’s library or online academic databases such as ProQuest, EBSCO, QuickBase to find articles, journals, books, peer-reviewed articles, and thesis/dissertation papers (by other students) written on your possible research topic .

Ignore all academic sources that you find methodologically flawed or obsolete.  Visit our online research topics library to choose a topic relevant to your interests .

Consult your academic supervisor and show them your list of potential topics. Their advice will be crucial for deciding whether the topic you are interested in is appropriate and meets your degree program requirements.

It is recommended to set up an appointment with your supervisor to see them in person to discuss your potential topics, even though you can do the same in email too.

• If the topics you are interested in are too broad or lack focus, your supervisor will be able to guide you towards academic sources that could help narrow down your research.
• Having several topics in your list of potential topics will mean that you will have something to fall back onto if they don’t approve your first choice.

Narrow the Focus of your Research  – Once a topic has been mutually agreed upon between you and your academic supervisor, it is time to narrow down the focus. Hence, your research explores an aspect of the topic that has not been investigated before.

Spend as much time as possible examining different aspects of the topic to establish a research aim that would truly add value to the existing knowledge.

• For example, you were initially interested in studying the different natural gas process techniques in the UK on an industrial scale. But you noticed that the existing literature doesn’t count for one advanced gas processing method that helps the industry save millions of pounds every year. Hence, you decide to make that the focus of your research.
• Your topic could be too broad as you start your research, but as you dig deep into your research, the topic will continue to narrow and evolve. TIP – It is better to work on a topic that is too broad rather than on something there is not enough text material to work with.

Structure of a Dissertation Proposal

The key elements of a great dissertation proposal are explained in detail under this section ‘structure of a dissertation proposal’. Once you’ve finalised your topic, you need to switch to writing your dissertation proposal paper quickly. As previously mentioned, your proposal paper’s exact structure may vary depending on your university/college requirements.

A good dissertation proposal  title  will give the reader an insight into the aim/idea of your study. Describe the purpose and/or contents of your dissertation proposal paper in the fewest possible words.

A concise and focused title will help you gain the attention of the readers. However, you might need to adjust your title several times as you write the paper because your comprehensive research might continue to add new dimensions to your study.

• Your title must be as categorical as possible. For example, instead of “Natural Gas Processing Techniques in the UK”, use a more specific title like “Investigating various industrial natural gas processing technologies employed in the UK” so the reader can understand exactly what your research is about.

Write a brief executive summary or an abstract of your proposal if you have been asked to do so in the structural guidelines. Generally, the  abstract  is included in the final dissertation paper with a length of around 300-400 words.

If you have to write an abstract for your proposal, here are the key points that it must cover;

• The background to your research.
• Research questions that you wish to address.
• Your proposed methods of research, which will either test the hypothesis or address the research problem.
• The significance of your research as to how it will add value to the scientific or academic community.

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Introduction

This is your first chance to make a strong impression on the reader. Not only your  introduction  section should be engaging, contextually, but it is also supposed to provide a background to the topic and explain the  thesis problem .

Here is what the first paragraph of the introduction section should include:

• Explain your research idea and present a clear understanding as to why you’ve chosen this topic.
• Present a summary of the scope of your research study, taking into account the existing literature.
• Briefly describe the issues and specific problems your research aims to address!

In the next paragraphs, summarise  the statement of the problem . Explain what gap in the existing knowledge your research will fill and how your work will prove significant in your area of study.

For example, the focus of your research could be the stage of carbon monoxide removal from natural gas. Still, other similar studies do not sufficiently explore this aspect of natural gas processing technology.

Here is a comprehensive article on “ How to Write Introduction for Dissertation Paper .”

Aim & Objectives

This is the  most critical section of the proposal paper . List the  research questions  or the research objectives your study will address. When writing this particular section, it will make sense to think of the following questions:

• Are there any specific findings that you are expecting?
• What aspects of the topic have you decided not to investigate and why?
• How will your research contribute to the existing knowledge in your field?

Literature Review

The  literature review section  is your chance to state the key established research trends,  hypotheses , and theories on the subject. Demonstrate to the reader that your research is a unique contribution to your field because it explores the topic from a new angle.

In a dissertation proposal, you won’t be expected to provide an extensive list of all previous research studies on the topic. Still, all the key theories reported by other scholars should be briefly referred to.

Take into consideration the following when writing the literature review section:

• The gaps identified in the previous research studies on the topic which your own research aims to fill. State the limitations of previous studies, whether lacking sufficient evidence, invalid, or too broad.
• The key established research trends, theories, and hypotheses as reported by other researchers.
• Any specific arguments and/or methodologies that previous scholars used when investigating your topic.

Our expert dissertation proposal editors can improve the quality of your proposal paper to the First Class standard. Complete this short and simple order form here so we can get feedback from our writers.

Methodology

A focused and well-defined methodology in a proposal paper can help you explain to your readers  how you plan to conduct your research  and why  your chosen research design  can provide reliable answers to your research questions.

The choice of research design and analytical approach will depend on several factors, including but not limited to your area of study and research constraints.

Depending on your topic and the existing literature, you will need to decide whether your dissertation will be purely descriptive or use primary (quantitative/qualitative data) as part of the research design.

Any research limitations and ethical issues that you expect to deal with should be clearly stated. For example, you might not be able to use a large sample size of respondents due to financial constraints. Small sample size can undermine your research significance.

How to Write a First Class Dissertation Proposal or Research Proposal.

“If you’re unable to pull off a first-class proposal, we’re here to help. We at ResearchProspect make sure that our writers prepare a flawless dissertation proposal for you. Our highly qualified team of writers will also help you choose a relevant topic for your subject area. Get in touch with us today, and let us take care of all your dissertation worries! Learn more about our dissertation proposal writing service.

Some Masters and PhD level degree programs require students to include a project timeline or timetable to give readers an idea of how and when they plan to complete different stages of the project.

Project timeline can be a great planning tool, mainly if your research includes experiments, statistical analysis , designing, and primary data collection. However, it may have to be modified slightly as you progress into your research.

By no means is it a fixed program for carrying out your work. When developing the project timeline in your proposal, always consider the time needed for practical aspects of the research, such as travelling, experiments, and fieldwork.

Referencing and In-Text Citations

Underrated, but referencing is one of the most crucial aspects of preparing a proposal. You can think of your proposal as the first impression of your dissertation.

You would want everything to be perfect and in place, wouldn’t you? Thus, always make sure that your dissertation consists of all the necessary elements.

You will have to cite information and data that you include in your dissertation. So make sure that the references that you include are credible and authentic.

You can use well-known academic journals, official websites, past researches, and concepts presented by renowned authors and writers in the respective field.

The same rule applies to in-text citations. Make sure that you cite references accurately  according to the required referencing style  as mentioned in the guidelines.

References should back statistics, facts, and figures at all times. It is highly recommended to back every 100-200 words written with at least one academic reference. The quantity of references does not matter; however, the quality does.

These are the basic elements of a dissertation proposal. Taking care of all these sections will help you when you are confused about structuring a dissertation proposal. In addition to these steps, look for different  dissertation proposal examples  on your research topic. A  sample dissertation proposal  paper can provide a clear understanding of how to go about the “pro”osal stage” of”the dissertation project.

“If you’re unable to pull off a first-class proposal, we’re here to help. We at ResearchProspect make sure that our writers prepare a flawless dissertation proposal for you. Our highly qualified team of writers will also help you choose a relevant topic for your subject area. Get in touch with us today, and let us take care of all your dissertation worries! Learn more about our dissertation proposal writing service .”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dissertation proposal in research.

A dissertation proposal in research outlines the planned study. It includes research objectives, methods, scope, and significance. It’s a blueprint that demonstrates the feasibility and value of the research, helping gain approval before proceeding with the full dissertation.

How do you write a dissertation proposal?

A dissertation proposal outlines your research topic, objectives, methodology, and potential significance. Start with a clear title, state your research question, detail the methods you will use to answer it, and highlight the contribution it will make to the field. Ensure it is well-researched, concise, and compelling to gain approval.

How long is a dissertation proposal?

A dissertation proposal’s length varies by field and institution. Typically, it ranges from 10 to 20 pages, but can be longer for complex topics. It includes an introduction, research question, literature review, methodology, and potential significance. Always consult department guidelines or advisors to ensure appropriate length and content.

What are the types of dissertation proposals?

Dissertation proposal types largely depend on the research’s nature and methodology. Common types include empirical (collecting data from the real world), non-empirical (theory or literature-based), and narrative (case studies). Each type dictates a different approach to data collection, analysis, and presentation, tailored to the subject and field of study.

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