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Your dissertation is the most important moment of your schooling, it’s when years of work come together to earn you that doctoral degree and make you an expert in your field.
Understandably, writing this lengthy project is a lot of work. This can make the whole process a source of anxiety, stress, and maybe even some tears – don’t worry, you’re not the first.
Your final dissertation will depend greatly on your university, field of work, as well as your chosen project and mentor.
However, there are certain similarities across all doctoral degrees, which means no matter your line of work, we have some advice that will facilitate your Ph.D. journey.
Thesis vs Dissertation
First off, let’s talk about the difference between a thesis and a dissertation.
Prior to heading into your doctorate, your master’s thesis is likely to have been your most lengthy, ambitious, and probably similar project.
Even though a thesis and dissertation are much alike, you should be aware that the latter will be magnitudes different and more difficult.
For starters, it will be lengthier. Typically, a dissertation is over 100 pages, mostly depending on your university’s requirements.
Other than that, acquiring a doctoral degree requires a lot more extensive research, and will take much longer to complete than a thesis. It’s no shame to ask for help somewhere during the process, and ask for custom writing help online.
Your Master’s has definitely prepared you somewhat, however, a dissertation is a whole new beast you have to face, so be prepared.
When to Get Started
When is a good time to get started on your dissertation? Simply put – right now.
If you have decided to pursue a doctorate, you’re likely very committed to seeing it through. Thus, to help yourself in the long run, you should begin preparations immediately, even if you have yet to complete your master’s degree.
It’s never too early to think of possible topics. Do some research and see which ideas can be expanded on or challenged in your field.
Even though you may not use any of them, keep a list of possible projects for whenever it’s time to settle on one.
How to Get Started
There are several ways to set yourself on the right path. The very first thing is choosing the proper topic.
You’re going to spend a lot of time and energy on a dissertation, so make sure to pick something you love and are passionate about.
After that’s settled you can move on to working on the project. Let’s look at a few ways to make that easier.
Make a Plan
Create a basic and flexible schedule for your entire dissertation process. This will help put the whole thing into perspective, as well as organize your time and resources.
Setting deadlines and goals for completing a part of your work can also contribute to maintaining motivation.
Finishing a task helps us feel competent, and since years can go into a dissertation, it’s crucial to keep feeling like you’re making progress.
Create a Suitable Work Environment
With the amount of work ahead of you, picking the right place to do it is instrumental to success.
It’s hard to even imagine the amount of time you’ll be spending at your workstation. This means you’ll want the ideal conditions.
Make sure it’s an organized environment, free of distractions, and helps you personally feel motivated.
Your writing space can impact your productivity, and with something as important as a doctoral degree, you don’t want to compromise your performance.
Apply for Funding
Once you know what you’ll be doing, there’s no reason to delay funding. If you haven’t already, look up all available sources, whether they be from the university itself or external, and start applying.
These things take time, and a doctoral degree is long enough without getting stuck waiting on answers from funding sources for months on end.
Be Careful When Selecting an Advisor
The people who will be accompanying you on this journey are important – so choose wisely.
You want your advisor to not only be able, but also willing to help you along every step of the way. This means offering support and advice, both mental and emotional.
This pick can influence your entire dissertation experience, so put a lot of thought into your final choice.
Request Feedback
Since a dissertation is very lengthy, you shouldn’t wait until you have a full draft to ask for feedback.
Ideally, you will be sending your adviser drafts of individual chapters as soon as they’re done. It’ll help keep your work on track and fix any errors more easily and efficiently.
Write Regularly to Keep Up The Momentum
Your final dissertation is likely to be the longest thing you’ve ever written. This is far easier to digest and process when split into smaller bite-size tasks.
Try to regularly work on your writing, even if it means only getting a couple of hundred words out some days.
Consistency is key to success!
Final Words
When facing your dissertation you’ll face a lot of issues. Some familiar, and some completely new.
Luckily, heading into it with the right mindset, work habits, and pacing can get you through it all with relative ease.
Good Luck!