How to write an honours thesis
As an honours student, your thesis forms a critical part of your studies. Here's an in-depth guide to help you write your thesis at ºÚÁÏÍø´óʼÇ.
What is a thesis?
A thesis is a substantial research project that represents the culmination of your studies. It allows you to demonstrate your understanding of a topic by investigating a research topic in detail and contributing to your field. A thesis demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research, critically analyse sources and effectively communicate your findings in a structured, academic format.Ìý
How to structure a thesis
Structuring your thesis effectively helps you present your research clearly and logically, ensuring that each section builds towards a coherent and convincing argument.Ìý
The structure outlined below is a basic thesis structure. However, there are variations depending on your discipline. Ask your supervisor for advice, or explore faculty guidelines.
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Your abstract should summarise the key points of your thesis, including your research question, methods, main findings and conclusions. It gives readers a clear understanding of your research at a glance and helps them decide if your full thesis is relevant to their interests.Ìý
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Your introduction sets the stage for your thesis by providing context and explaining the significance of your research. It's usually longer than an abstract and should include the following:
- Background on your topic
- A brief review of the current knowledge in the research area
- Indicate a gap in the knowledge, state the aim of your research and how it fits into the gap.
It can also include a hypothesis and an outline of your chapters.
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In your literature review, you will critically assess existing research in your area of interest. This might include comparing and identifying patterns, debates and gaps in the existing research.Ìý
This section positions your research within the broader academic context of your topic and demonstrates how your work will contribute to filling an identified knowledge gap.
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Your methods section should provide a detailed account of how you conducted your research. You should clearly identify the steps you took (including procedures, materials and techniques used) and justify your choice of methodology.Ìý
This section will allow your readers to replicate or evaluate the validity of your study.Ìý
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This section outlines what you discovered in relation to your research question or hypothesis. It will usually be presented in figures and written in text. Your most significant results will usually be first, followed by less important results.Ìý
Results contain the facts of your research. Often you will include a brief comment on the significance of key results, with the expectation that more generalised comments about your results will be made in the Discussion section.Ìý
Sometimes the Results and Discussion sections of a thesis will be combined. If you're unsure how to structure these sections for your thesis, check with your supervisor or read past theses in your school.Ìý
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The discussion interprets your findings in relation to your research question and the existing literature.
When writing your discussion, you should:
- Interpret and explain the significance of your results
- Compare your findings to existing research
- Discuss any limitations or unexpected outcomes
- Consider the implications of your findings for future research or practical applications.Ìý
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In your conclusion, emphasise that your research aims have been achieved. You can also note the most significant results and limitations, and make suggestions for further research.Ìý
Your conclusion should be concise and not include new information. It should be based on points you have already raised.Ìý
See also