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While this can vary, some schools have firm guidelines. For example:

Each school has its own preferred specifications. Additionally, each thesis is different and will require different emphasis on particular sections.

To get an idea of how you might structure your table of contents, view the two samples below:

Organise your results based on:

• Your most important to least important findings
• The order of your research questions.Ìý

Typically you will be required to do the following in the methods section of your thesis:

• Identify your hypothesis
• Justify the method/s you have chosen
• Describe research instruments
• Record your procedure
• Statistical treatment

To ensure a logical flow of information in your methods chapter, stick to the following order:

1. Overview of experiment
2. Sample and restrictions
3. Measures
4. Procedure
5. Experimental interventions
6. Data analysis

An abstractÌýis 200-300 words and does the following:

• Introduces the topic
• States the aim and rationale of your study
• Briefly describes your main findings
• Shares the implications of your findings.Ìý

´¡²ÔÌýintroductionÌýis usually longer than an abstract and does the following:

• Introduces the topic with more detail
• Briefly reviews the current state of knowledge in the area
• Indicates gaps, shortcomings and problems in the current research
• States the aim of your research and how it will fill these gaps
• Outlines your subsequent chapters.Ìý

Your supervisor will most likely suggest that you follow the used by one of the main journals in your field.Ìý

Consider this advice: "... state at the top of your reference list which journal's style you are following, so you cannot be criticised by examiners who favour some other style" (W. Sherwin 2007).Ìý

Sequence your information in a logical flow. Outline your topics in the introduction to help your reader follow your argument.Ìý

Always state your sources with in-text and bibliographic citations. Remember to reference data, diagrams and images that aren't yours.Ìý

Check your spelling in your references and ensure all appropriate bibliographical data is included.ÌýTo make it easy for yourself, record your sources as you research instead of leaving it to the end. You must also be consistent with your referencing system.Ìý

Avoid having a table of contents longer than two pages. Organise your contents in a way that helps readers quickly navigate your thesis.Ìý

Don't be afraid of identifying errors in your methods or results. Discuss any problems that you faced clearly and honestly.

Be clear about the assumptions you're making in your work. Ensure that readers can understand what you're explaining.Ìý

Ask a friend or classmate to read your thesis to ensure your work can be easily understood.Ìý

Do a comprehensive check of your work. Have you included all relevant details? Are more explanations needed?

Stick to a 12-point font as the minimum text size. Ensure your figures are large enough to be interpreted clearly.Ìý

Proofread your work carefully to check for consistency in your use of symbols. If you change a symbol's meaning, disclaim this for the reader.Ìý