Preparing for and writing up your doctoral thesis

Abstract

This paper will outline how to prepare for, and write up, a good doctoral thesis. It will review strategies to help candidates through the whole process. It will start by looking at the purpose of a thesis, and the importance of developing good academic and personal support structures for candidates. It will go on to outline the pivotal role of planning and preparation of the structure and content, not only at the start, but by reviewing and amending the plan throughout the process. Some of the common psychological and practical dilemmas and experiences that are likely to unfold during the writing up process will be reviewed and a range of strategies for dealing with these will be provided, including some given by recent doctoral graduates. It will explain the importance of developing a relationship with the supervisory team that supports and facilitates the doctoral candidate’s progress and the importance of complying with departmental/university requirements. The authors also give suggestions about the organisation and structure of a thesis and map out core milestones and a timeline which should make successful completion of a doctorate more likely and less stressful.