A dissertation or thesis is somewhat like a chain – a chain of interlinked stages from identifying the problem to the conclusion.
Of course, you can revisit and improve a previous stage.
Nevertheless, a dissertation or thesis is only as strong as its weakest stage, like a chain that is only as strong as its weakest link.
Let’s review the main stages of a dissertation in their usual order:
First, you identify a research problem.
Second, you review relevant literature on your topic, identify the theoretical and conceptual frameworks and a knowledge gap.
Third, you frame appropriate research question(s) to address the knowledge gap.
Fourth, you identify a research design that can answer the research question(s).
Fifth, you identify your population and sampling methodology.
Sixth, you collect your data.
Seventh, you analyse your data.
Finally, you answer your research question(s) in relation to theory, acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses of your research, and recognise opportunities for future research.
The message here is that any one of these stages can be a weak link among other strong ones. And, sadly, it’s probably the one that you’ll remember your thesis by. (It’s also possible that more than one of your stages is weak, but let’s not go there.)
So, devote your energies to each and every stage, and deliver a thesis to be proud of 😊.
Would you like me to help you with any stage of your dissertation or thesis?
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