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There is a lot of confusion surrounding the idea of a dissertation proposal. Some people labour under the misapprehension that it is an essay or a dissertation in miniature…neither of these are what a dissertation proposal is.
So what exactly is a dissertation proposal?
Firstly, it is exactly what it says on the tin…a proposal; a proposal is literally a suggestion, an idea, a plan…it is not the dissertation nor is it an essay.
Your dissertation proposal may look rather like an essay but there’s a big difference. An essay offers to prove a theory…a proposal only suggests one. All you need to do is express an argument and explain how you will prove it in the future.
Do your research before you begin
Look at a dissertation proposal example which is related to your own idea. This can really assist you when it comes to beginning to think through your proposal in terms of structure.
Don’t be put off by seemingly genius pieces of work…you’re not there yet because you haven’t begun. When you’ve completed your first draft, then you can criticise your work.
Before you write a word
Expect to feel as though you’ve made the wrong choices. This is a very normal feeling at the start of the work; you may be beset by doubts and filled with trepidation at the thought of what you’re about to undertake but as long as you have done your research thoroughly, these initial doubts shouldn’t be heeded.
Read as many samples as you can; this will help you to not only learn the technique but also the style of a good dissertation proposal.
What to include in a dissertation proposal
As we’ve already mentioned, you don’t need to make your proposal into your actual dissertation in miniature. Your proposal is not a condensed dissertation. It’s an idea. Therefore, as Solent University recommends, it is usual to include the following;
Title
Introduction
Aims and objectives
Methodology
Literature review
Scope and constraints
Resources
Outline of sections/chapters
Timetable
References.
Do ask for help
If you feel stuck or confused do ask for help from your advisor and ask sooner rather than later. There is nothing worse than that feeling of not having done your background work well…and without your dissertation proposal, you’re not in a position to begin your dissertation! So prepare properly and don’t forget what your advisor is there for!
Ensure you’re ready to begin
That means making sure that there are no distractions! Of course none of us can predict those unexpected events which life sometimes throws at us…illness and injury can’t always be planned for…but you can certainly make sure that you’re well rested, that you don’t have any big plans socially and that your parents aren’t about to descend for a visit before you begin your work!
Above all, stay confident and believe in your own passion for your subject…your enthusiasm should shine through and your proposal should then be a success. And remember, Get instant dissertation help on DoMyDissertations.com.
