How many times have you chosen to read something based on its title? Many times, I’m sure.
So, the title of your thesis or dissertation is important.
It should present your research accurately and encourage others to read it.
Here are answers to a few FAQs on academic titles:
HOW MANY WORDS SHOULD THE TITLE HAVE?
APA 7 recommends no more than 12 words, although some schools allow 10-15 words.
For example:
Modelling Interpersonal Styles of Managers via Trust and Autonomy
WHAT SHOULD THE TITLE CONTAIN?
First, it should include the purpose or topic of your study, as well as its scope. Sometimes, the scope is stated as a subtitle.
For example:
The Role of Interpersonal Factors in Management Success: A Case Study of Company X
Here, the subtitle provides the methodology and scope of the research. But check whether your school allows subtitles.
Second, it should include your keywords so that search engines will find your study.
WHAT SHOULD IT NOT CONTAIN?
It should not contain generic phrases such as “An Investigation of…”, “A Study of…”, “A Comparison of…” etc. These are a waste of precious words.
And it should not have abbreviations.
HOW SHOULD I FORMAT IT?
The main words should start with a capital letter.
There should not be a full stop at the end.
HOW SHOULD I BEGIN FRAMING THE TITLE?
As a first step, I find it easiest to write down my keywords and link them. Then I tweak the result, and I make sure that the purpose/topic of my study comes through. Finally, I check the number of words and whether it reads well.
Would you like me to guide you on your title?
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