How to Write a Thesis

Open Up Study Skills

by Murray

Moving beyond the basics of thesis writing, the book introduces practical writing techniques such as freewriting, generative writing and binge writing. Issues such as working out the criteria for your thesis, writerʼs block, writing a literature review and making notes into a draft are also covered. Useful summaries and checklists help students to stay on track or regain their way. Learn how to:


Develop good writing habits
Overcome writer's block
Understand the assessment process
Get the most from your Supervisor
New to this edition:
New visual map of your thesis to track your progress through the writing process
Advice on using social media productively and avoiding potential distractions during your writing
More support on writing in a second language
Using writing retreats and micro-groups to benefit from writing alongside others
New material on how to finesse your thesis by "back-revising" at the final stages
Advice on writing schedules for part-time students
New chapter summaries to aid reflection and give pointers for next steps

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing, Research, Education, Academia, Reference

330 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Said AlMaskery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Usefull practical guide ...

[Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a comprehensive introduction to writing dissertations. It covers every aspect from thnking about it, starting to write, establishing a structure, dealing with mental blocks as well as bringing things together at the last minute. The highlights are the highlighted tips throughout the book. These are really helpful. Probably the biggest takeaway for me was the priority of planning. The checklists the author provides are crucial sources of reference. It's greatest strength is also its greatest weakness; in seeking to cover the general needs of those writing a dissertation it likes the sharpness necessary for specific subjects. For example, in my case there are questions specific to theology that such a book cannot address. Having said that, the excellent material in the book makes this book a great asset to have to hand.

[Angel Serrano · Rating 4 out of 5]

La parte fundamental de escribir una tesis es escribir. La autora explica paso a paso todo lo necesario para tener éxito en esta tarea: por qué, comienzo, la estructura, los primeros pasos, sistemática, cierres, el miedo, empezar, acabar, qué pasa al final, y abundante bibliografía y consejos prácticos.

[An Te · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful, sensibly laid out and with plenty of questions and pointers to consider. Furiously take notes from this. I'll update this as I through the process and consult others and return to this one. All PhD students play up their expectations and I feel this book puts them squarely on reality's shoulders.

[Dilisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for writing tips.
My only negative comment is that it ends with talking abotu the viva and now I am freaked out and worried! It makes sense to talk about the process chronologically but would have loved a happier ending tone. but alas, that is true of academia!

[Margaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very useful book which gives advice and tips to all students writing a thesis.

[Darcy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

A long wordy book, with some repetition. This book could do with a good edit really to cut it down a bit. But having said that there is a lot in there, and if you get stuck or don't know where to start there are some strategies for getting words onto paper and for getting started. A useful read, if a bit long winded.

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, it will give you an idea of what is needed, sheer amount of hard work that will be spent and some interesting ideas for pushing yourself along when you get writers block. Something that I will refer back to if I ever get myself sorted and start a PhD.

[Joana · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75