mba dissertation introduction

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How to Write the Thesis Or Dissertation Introduction – Guide

Published by Carmen Troy at August 31st, 2021 , Revised On January 24, 2024

Introducing your Dissertation Topic

What would you tell someone if they asked you to introduce yourself? You’d probably start with your name, what you do for a living…etc., etc., etc. Think of your dissertation. How would you go about it if you had to introduce it to the world for the first time?

Keep this forefront in your mind for the remainder of this guide: you are introducing your research to the world that doesn’t even know it exists. Every word, phrase and line you write in your introduction will stand for the strength of your dissertation’s character.

This is not very different from how, in real life, if someone fails to introduce themselves properly (such as leaving out what they do for a living, where they live, etc.) to a stranger, it leaves a lasting impression on the stranger.

Don’t leave your dissertation a stranger among other strangers. Let’s review the little, basic concepts we already have at the back of our minds, perhaps, to piece them together in one body: an introduction.

What Goes Inside an Introduction

The exact ingredients of a dissertation or thesis introduction chapter vary depending on  your chosen research topic, your university’s guidelines, and your academic subject – but they are generally mixed in one sequence or another to introduce an academic argument.

The critical elements of an excellent dissertation introduction include a definition of the selected research topic , a reference to previous studies on the subject, a statement of the value of the subject for academic and scientific communities, a clear aim/purpose of the study, a list of your objectives, a reference to viewpoints of other researchers and a justification for the research.

Topic Discussion versus Topic Introduction

Discussing and introducing a topic are two highly different aspects of dissertation introduction writing. You might find it easy to discuss a topic, but introducing it is much trickier.

The introduction is the first thing a reader reads; thus, it must be to the point, informative, engaging, and enjoyable. Even if one of these elements is missing, the reader will not be motivated to continue reading the paper and will move on to something different.

So, it’s critical to fully understand how to write the introduction of a dissertation before starting the actual write-up.

When writing a dissertation introduction, one has to explain the title, discuss the topic and present a background so that readers understand what your research is about and what  results you expect to achieve at the end of the research work.

As a standard practice, you might work on your dissertation introduction chapter several times. Once when you’re working on your proposal and the second time when writing your actual dissertation.

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Many academics argue that the Introduction chapter should be the last section of the dissertation paper you should complete, but by no means is it the last part you would think of because this is where your research starts from.

Write the draft introduction as early as possible. You should write it at the same time as the proposal submission, although you must revise and edit it many times before it takes the final shape.

Considering its importance, many students remain unsure of how to write the introduction of a dissertation. Here are some of the essential elements of how to write the introduction of a dissertation that’ll provide much-needed dissertation introduction writing help.

Below are some guidelines for you to learn to  write a flawless first-class dissertation paper.

Steps of Writing a Dissertation Introduction

1. research background – writing a dissertation introduction.

This is the very first section of your introduction. Building a background of your chosen topic will help you understand more about the topic and help readers know why the general research area is problematic, interesting, central, important, etc.

Your research background should include significant concepts related to your dissertation topic. This will give your supervisor and markers an idea that you’ve investigated the research problem thoroughly and know the various aspects of your topic.

The introduction to a dissertation shouldn’t talk only about other research work in the same area, as this will be discussed in the literature review section. Moreover, this section should not include the research design  and  data collection method(s) .

All about  research strategy  should be covered in the  methodology chapter . Research background only helps to build up your research in general.

For instance, if your research is based on job satisfaction measures of a specific country, the content of the introduction chapter will generally be about job satisfaction and its impact.

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2.     Significance of the Research

As a researcher, you must demonstrate how your research will provide value to the scientific and academic communities. If your dissertation is based on a specific company or industry, you need to explain why that industry and company were chosen.

If you’re comparing, explain why you’re doing so and what this research will yield. Regardless of your chosen research topic, explain thoroughly in this section why this research is being conducted and what benefits it will serve.

The idea here is to convince your supervisor and readers that the concept should be researched to find a solution to a problem.

3.     Research Problem

Once you’ve described the main research problem  and the importance of your research, the next step would be to present your  problem statement , i.e., why this research is being conducted and its purpose.

This is one of the essential aspects of writing a dissertation’s introduction. Doing so will help your readers understand what you intend to do in this research and what they should expect from this study.

Presenting the research problem competently is crucial in persuading your readers to read other parts of the dissertation paper . This research problem is the crux of your dissertation, i.e., it gives a direction as to why this research is being carried out, and what issues the study will consider.

For example, if your dissertation is based on measuring the job satisfaction of a specific organisation, your research problem should talk about the problem the company is facing and how your research will help the company to solve that.

If your dissertation is not based on any specific organisation, you can explain the common issues that companies face when they do not consider job satisfaction as a pillar of business growth and elaborate on how your research will help them realise its importance.

Citing too many references in the introduction chapter isn’t recommended because here, you must explain why you chose to study a specific area and what your research will accomplish. Any citations only set the context, and you should leave the bulk of the literature for a later section.

4.     Research Question(s)

The central part of your introduction is the research question , which should be based on your research problem and the dissertation title. Combining these two aspects will help you formulate an exciting yet manageable research question.

Your research question is what your research aims to answer and around which your dissertation will revolve. The research question should be specific and concise.

It should be a one- or two-line question you’ve set out to answer through your dissertation. For the job satisfaction example, a sample research question could be, how does job satisfaction positively impact employee performance?

Look up dissertation introduction examples online or ask your friends to get an idea of how an ideal research question is formed. Or you can review our dissertation introduction example here  and  research question examples here .

Once you’ve formed your research question, pick out vital elements from it, based on which you will then prepare your theoretical framework  and literature review. You will come back to your research question again when  concluding your dissertation .

Sometimes, you might have to formulate a hypothesis in place of a research question. The hypothesis is a simple statement you prove with your  results ,  discussion and analysis .

A sample hypothesis could be job satisfaction is positively linked to employee job performance . The results of your dissertation could be in favour of this dissertation or against it.

Tip: Read up about what alternative, null, one-tailed and two-tailed hypotheses are so you can better formulate the hypothesis for your dissertation. Following are the definitions for each term, as retrieved from Trochim et al.’s Research Methods: The Essential Knowledge Base (2016):

• Alternative hypothesis (H 1 ): “A specific statement of prediction that usually states what you expect will happen in your study.”
• Null hypothesis (H 0 ): “The hypothesis that describes the possible outcomes other than the alternative hypothesis. Usually, the null hypothesis predicts there will be no effect of a program or treatment you are studying.”
• One-tailed hypothesis: “A hypothesis that specifies a direction; for example, when your hypothesis predicts that your program will increase the outcome.”
• Two-tailed hypothesis: “A hypothesis that does not specify a direction. For example, if you hypothesise that your program or intervention will affect an outcome, but you are unwilling to specify whether that effect will be positive or negative, you are using a two-tailed hypothesis.”

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Interesting read: 10 ways to write a practical introduction fast .

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Uk’s best academic support services. how would you know until you try, 5.     research aims and objectives.

Next, the research aims and objectives. Aims and objectives are broad statements of desired results of your dissertation . They reflect the expectations of the topic and research and address the long-term project outcomes.

These statements should use the concepts accurately, must be focused, should be able to convey your research intentions and serve as steps that communicate how your  research question  will be answered.

You should formulate your aims and objectives based on your topic, research question, or hypothesis. These are simple statements and are an extension of your research question.

Through the aims and objectives, you communicate to your readers what aspects of research you’ve considered and how you intend to answer your research question.

Usually, these statements initiate with words like ‘to explore’, ‘to study’, ‘to assess’, ‘to critically assess’, ‘to understand’, ‘to evaluate’ etc.

You could ask your supervisor to provide some thesis introduction examples to help you understand better how aims and objectives are formulated. More examples are here .

Your aims and objectives should be interrelated and connect to your research question and problem. If they do not, they’ll be considered vague and too broad in scope.

Always ensure your research aims and objectives are concise, brief, and relevant.

Once you conclude  your dissertation , you will have to revert back to address whether your research aims and objectives have been met.

You will have to reflect on how your dissertation’s findings , analysis, and discussion related to your aims and objectives and how your research has helped in achieving them.

6.     Research Limitations

This section is sometimes a part of the  dissertation methodology section ; however, it is usually included in the introduction of a dissertation.

Every research has some limitations. Thus, it is normal for you to experience certain limitations when conducting your study.

You could experience  research design limitations, data limitations or even financial limitations. Regardless of which type of limitation you may experience, your dissertation would be impacted. Thus, it would be best if you mentioned them without any hesitation.

When including this section in the introduction, make sure that you clearly state the type of constraint you experienced. This will help your supervisor understand what problems you went through while working on your dissertation.

However, one aspect that you should take care of is that your results, in no way, should be influenced by these restrictions. The results should not be compromised, or your dissertation will not be deemed authentic and reliable.

After you’ve mentioned your research limitations, discuss how you overcame them to produce a perfect dissertation .

Also, mention that your limitations do not adversely impact your results and that you’ve produced research with accurate results the academic community can rely on.

Also read:   How to Write Dissertation Methodology .

7.     Outline of the Dissertation

Even though this isn’t a mandatory sub-section of the introduction chapter, good introductory chapters in dissertations outline what’s to follow in the preceding chapters.

It is also usual to set out an  outline of the rest of the dissertation . Depending on your university and academic subject, you might also be asked to include it in your research proposal .

Because your tutor might want to glance over it to see how you  plan your dissertation and what sections you’d include; based on what sections you include and how you intend to research and cover them, they’d provide feedback for you to improve.

Usually, this section discusses what sections you plan to include and what concepts and aspects each section entails. A standard dissertation consists of five sections : chapters, introduction,  literature review ,  methodology ,  results  and  discussion , and  conclusion .

Some  dissertation assignments do not use the same chapter for results and discussion. Instead, they split it into two different chapters, making six chapters. Check with your supervisor regarding which format you should follow.

When discussing the  outline of your dissertation , remember that you’d have to mention what each section involves. Discuss all the significant aspects of each section to give a brief overview of what your dissertation contains, and this is precisely what our dissertation outline service  provides.

Writing a dissertation introduction might seem complicated, but it is not if you understand what is expected of you. To understand the required elements and make sure that you focus on all of them.

Include all the aspects to ensure your supervisor and other readers can easily understand how you intend to undertake your research.

“If you find yourself stuck at any stage of your dissertation introduction, get introduction writing help from our writers! At ResearchProspect, we offer a dissertation writing service , and our qualified team of writers will also assist you in conducting in-depth research for your dissertation.

Dissertation Introduction Samples & Examples

Check out some basic samples of dissertation introduction chapters to get started.

FAQs about Dissertation Introduction

What is the purpose of an introduction chapter.

It’s used to introduce key constructs, ideas, models and/or theories etc. relating to the topic; things that you will be basing the remainder of your dissertation on.

How do you start an introduction in a dissertation?

There is more than one way of starting a dissertation’s introductory chapter. You can begin by stating a problem in your area of interest, review relevant literature, identify the gap, and introduce your topic. Or, you can go the opposite way, too. It’s all entirely up to your discretion. However, be consistent in the format you choose to write in.

How long can an introduction get?

It can range from 1000 to 2000 words for a master’s dissertation , but for a higher-level dissertation, it mostly ranges from 8,000 to 10,000 words ’ introduction chapter. In the end, though, it depends on the guidelines provided to you by your department.

Steps to Writing a Dissertation Introduction

You may also like.

Dissertation discussion is where you explore the relevance and significance of results. Here are guidelines to help you write the perfect discussion chapter.

A literature review is a survey of theses, articles, books and other academic sources. Here are guidelines on how to write dissertation literature review.

Make sure to develop a conceptual framework before conducting research. Here is all you need to know about what is a conceptual framework is in a dissertation?

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How to Write Dissertation for MBA: Step by Step Guide

• By Ethan Tremblay
• Academic Writing

What is an MBA dissertation, and why is a structured approach vital in writing it? This is the crux of the matter for any MBA student poised to showcase their academic understanding through this capstone project. A dissertation for MBA is a formal document that provides a detailed account of research on a particular topic within the business field. It represents the culmination of your learning process, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research and present complex ideas in a clear and professional manner.

Adopting a structured approach is not just recommended; it’s essential. It ensures that your research is thorough, your arguments are coherent, and your findings are presented logically. This approach not only streamlines the writing process but also enhances the academic rigor of your work, making it more persuasive and credible to your readers.

Understanding the Requirements for Your MBA Dissertation

Embarking on an MBA program involves a significant milestone: the completion of your dissertation for MBA . This capstone project is not just a formality; it’s a rigorous academic endeavor that demonstrates your expertise and ability to contribute to the field of business administration. To ensure success, it’s crucial to fully comprehend the specific requirements and guidelines set forth by your institution.

• Begin by reviewing the institutional guidelines meticulously. These often include the expected structure, length, and formatting style for your dissertation.
• Understand the evaluation criteria . Knowing what the faculty will be looking for in your dissertation will guide your research and writing process.
• Consider the format requirements. Whether it’s APA, MLA, or another style, adherence to these guidelines is essential for a professional presentation of your work.

Each of these elements plays a pivotal role in the planning and execution of your dissertation. By mastering the requirements, you set a solid foundation for your research and ensure that the final product meets the expectations of your MBA program.

Choosing a Topic for Your MBA Dissertation: Ensuring Relevance and Manageability

Choosing a topic for your dissertation for MBA is a pivotal step in your academic journey. It sets the stage for research, determines the direction of your work, and can influence your post-MBA career path. To ensure you select a relevant and manageable topic, consider the following strategies:

• Align with Interests: Reflect on courses and discussions that sparked your curiosity. A topic that fascinates you will sustain motivation over the long haul.
• Industry Relevance: Choose a topic with practical implications for the business sector you aspire to join. This relevance can provide a valuable edge in the job market.
• Scope and Resources: Ensure the topic is narrow enough to explore in depth, yet broad enough to find sufficient resources and data.
• Faculty Guidance: Consult with your professors to leverage their expertise and gain insights on feasible topics.
• Originality: Aim for a topic that contributes new knowledge or perspectives to the field of business administration.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to select a dissertation topic that not only meets academic criteria but also enriches your MBA experience and future career.

Conducting Research for Your MBA Dissertation: Best Practices

Best practices for research in your mba dissertation.

Conducting thorough and effective research is a cornerstone of any successful dissertation for MBA . To ensure that your research is up to par, consider the following best practices:

• Identify Clear Research Objectives: Begin by defining what you aim to discover or establish through your research. This will guide your methodology and help you stay focused.
• Choose the Right Research Methods: Quantitative methods involve statistical analysis, while qualitative methods focus on understanding the nuances of human behavior. Mixed methods combine both. Select the one that aligns with your objectives.
• Collect Data Ethically: Ensure that your data collection methods are ethical and that you have the necessary permissions. Anonymity and confidentiality should be maintained where required.
• Use Credible Sources: Whether you are conducting primary or secondary research, the credibility of your sources is paramount. Rely on peer-reviewed journals, reputable publications, and verified data.
• Maintain a Research Log: Keep a detailed record of your research activities. This log will be invaluable when you write your methodology chapter and need to justify your research choices.

By adhering to these practices, you’ll be able to conduct research that not only supports your dissertation but also contributes to the field of business administration.

Crafting a Detailed Outline for Your MBA Dissertation

Creating a robust outline is a pivotal step in the process of writing a dissertation for MBA . An effective outline serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the complex journey of your research. It ensures that your dissertation has a clear structure and that each section logically follows the previous one. To begin, include an introduction that sets the stage for your research question and objectives. Following this, outline a literature review section where you will discuss key theories and existing research relevant to your topic.

• Methodology: Detail the research methods you will use to gather and analyze data.
• Results: Plan for a section where you will present your findings.
• Discussion: Describe how you will interpret the results, linking them back to your research question.
• Conclusion: Summarize your research and discuss its implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research.

Remember to include a section for references and appendices, if necessary. Each section should be broken down into sub-sections with bullet points that highlight the main points you plan to cover. This level of detail will help you stay organized and focused as you write your dissertation for MBA .

Effective Writing Strategies for Your MBA Dissertation

Embarking on the writing phase of your dissertation for MBA can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can craft a compelling and coherent document. Begin by understanding the structure of a typical MBA dissertation, which includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, findings, discussion, and conclusion. Each section has a unique purpose and requires a specific approach to writing.

For the introduction , set the stage for your research with a clear thesis statement and outline the objectives of your study. The literature review should critically evaluate previous research and establish a framework for your work. In the methodology section, describe your research methods and justify your choices. Present your data in the findings section, followed by the discussion , where you interpret the results in the context of your research question. Finally, the conclusion should summarize your findings and suggest implications or recommendations for practice and future research.

Academic writing demands clarity and precision. Use a formal tone and avoid colloquialisms. Ensure that your argument flows logically from one section to the next, linking back to your research question and objectives. To maintain this coherence, create a detailed outline before you start writing and refer to it often. Additionally, support your arguments with evidence from your research or the literature, and cite your sources appropriately.

Remember, writing is a process that includes drafting, revising, and refining. Don’t expect to write a perfect first draft. Instead, give yourself the time to revise and improve your work. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Editing and Proofreading Your MBA Dissertation: Ensuring Excellence

After the rigorous process of writing your dissertation for MBA , the editing and proofreading stages are crucial for ensuring clarity, coherence, and academic integrity. To approach these final steps effectively, consider the following strategies:

• Take a Break: Distance yourself from your work for a few days to return with fresh eyes.
• Read Aloud: Hearing your text can help catch errors that you might overlook when reading silently.
• Structure and Content: Review each section for logical flow and relevance to your research question.
• Grammar and Spelling: Utilize software tools, but also manually check for mistakes that technology may miss.
• Consistency: Ensure consistent use of terms, definitions, and formatting throughout your document.
• Feedback: Seek input from peers or advisors, as they may notice issues you’ve become blind to.
• Professional Services: Consider hiring a professional editor, especially if English is not your first language.

Remember, a well-edited dissertation for MBA reflects your attention to detail and dedication to scholarly excellence. It’s not just about correcting typos; it’s about refining your argument to make a compelling and professional presentation of your research.

Concluding Your Dissertation for MBA: A Recap of Your Journey

As we reach the culmination of our guide on how to write a dissertation for MBA , it’s crucial to reflect on the journey you’ve undertaken. From grasping the intricate requirements to selecting a compelling topic, conducting thorough research, and meticulously crafting your outline, each step has been a building block towards creating a substantial piece of academic work.

Your dedication to writing the dissertation demonstrates your commitment to your MBA and your future career. Remember, the skills you’ve honed during this process—critical thinking, data analysis, and coherent writing—will serve you well beyond the confines of academia.

As you finalize your dissertation, take pride in your accomplishment. This step-by-step approach has not only provided you with a structured path but also instilled a sense of discipline that will benefit you in various professional scenarios.

May this guide serve as a beacon, illuminating your path to academic and professional success. Good luck!

Ethan Tremblay

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MBA dissertation help: How to choose a topic, plan, and write your dissertation

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MBA dissertations and consultancy projects are the final modules on most MBA programmes . Our participants can opt for either a traditional dissertation (with a theoretical focus) or a hands-on project, which will see you consulting for a real organisation alongside a team of peers.  

Whether you choose a dissertation or consultancy project, you will still be required to submit a written exploration of a research question that is relevant to the world of business as part of the module. This guide offers MBA dissertation help that remains applicable whichever route you take on your Full-time MBA.

Read on to learn about the early stages of the process, choosing a topic, planning out your workload, and how to write an MBA dissertation or individual consulting report. Written by the MBA team here at Warwick Business School (WBS), this article also features some helpful first-hand advice from one of our MBA graduates, Kristen Rossi who studied our Full-time MBA.

An introduction to MBA dissertations and consultancy projects

Completing either an MBA dissertation or consultancy project is a requirement on Full-time MBA courses ; alternatively, participants at WBS can opt for an internship to satisfy the Capstone module .

Although this work will be completed towards the end of your programme, it’s worth getting ahead of the game. Given that your dissertation or project will contribute significantly towards your final result, we recommend learning about the requirements and how the process works even before you apply for an MBA.

As Full-time Warwick MBA graduate, Kristen Rossi, puts it: 

From the second the MBA started, there was talk of “The Project & Dissertation” – the part of the MBA that is worth the most credit, which will probably involve an outside company, and (gasp) that you will do alone!

Unless you take part in an internship in place of the module, your first port of call is to choose between an MBA dissertation or a consultancy project. Seem like a daunting decision to make? We’ve outlined the key points of difference to help you get off on the right track.

What is an MBA dissertation?

An MBA dissertation is an independent, yet supervised, research project. It is designed to demonstrate that you have assimilated your learning throughout the MBA course and that you can explore a business issue thoroughly, considering multiple perspectives on the subject.

The output from an MBA dissertation is a piece of written work that explores a research question relevant to the world of business. You could explore any one of a wide range of different topics as part of the dissertation, but your writing should have an academic focus with a strong grounding in theory and your own independent research.

At WBS, you may also choose to focus on Entrepreneurship as part of your MBA dissertation, which is a requirement if you choose the Entrepreneurship Specialism. This allows you to take a deep dive into a new business idea, tackle an existing issue, or use the opportunity to help launch your own venture.

What is a strategic consultancy project?

A strategic consultancy project provides you with hands-on experience of consulting on behalf of a real organisation and investigating a specific business challenge that it faces. Taking place for 10 to 12 weeks over the summer period, you’ll work alongside a group of your peers at the same organisation.

WBS participants can choose their own groups and, as Kristen comments, are given support in sourcing a project: 

The consultancy project and dissertation is usually supported by a client who has a topic or question that they would like to know more about. WBS provides specific, mandatory careers sessions dedicated to the consultancy project and dissertation.

The Business School has partnered with many global industry leaders as part of the consultancy projects, from Barclays to Sony and Microsoft. 

Once you’ve chosen a group and organisation, each participant selects their own distinct research question. The deliverable is then an individual consulting report addressing this question.

You can find out more about consultancy projects from Antonia in the film below:

The differences between an MBA dissertation and consultancy project

A consultancy project still requires you to produce an extended piece of written work in the form of your individual consulting report, but it differs from an MBA dissertation in a number of ways:

• A strategic consultancy project is hands-on, requiring you to engage with a business issue faced by a real organisation, whereas an MBA dissertation is more theoretical.
• The scope of the issue you explore as part of a project will typically be much narrower and more focused than a dissertation, which can investigate a much broader topic area.
• An MBA dissertation should aim to further the academic community’s understanding of a particular area of business; a consultancy project is geared towards solving a real-world business problem for a specific organisation or group of organisations.

How will a dissertation or project benefit you?

This final phase of your MBA course gives you the opportunity to explore a particular topic in great depth, enhancing your academic or practical understanding of an area of business. 

For many participants the dissertation or project is a formative experience that has a tangible impact on their future career paths, supporting their professional ambitions.

But don’t just take it from us. What does Kristen have to say?

“I can only speak for myself, but with the project and dissertation, I gained three things. Firstly, slightly superficial, I now have a fabulous new brand on my CV, Aston Martin Lagonda. 

“Secondly, through the interviews I conducted for my primary research I had the privilege to learn a lot about the luxury automotive sector, which I would otherwise have not had the opportunity to learn as much about. Writing to and setting up a conversation with the CMO of a major firm is made easier when you have WBS and the justification of a dissertation, and the information they share is priceless. 

“Thirdly, although tedious, I had the opportunity to deep-dive into a particular topic – marketing ROI best practices. This really helped me to understand the challenges and remedies of this topic in depth and will certainly help me as I make my career jump in the coming months.”

Choosing an MBA dissertation topic

Like many participants, you may feel nervous about the thought of choosing a suitable MBA dissertation topic. In reality, however, this is nothing to worry about.

As you progress through the early stages of your MBA programme, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself drawn to a particular area of study or type of business problem. The direction you take is also likely to be influenced by your pre-existing career goals and professional experience. 

On this point, Kristen recommends that you make the project work for you:

When choosing your client project and dissertation, try to focus on an industry and topic that you hope to transition into. If you are looking to move into finance, work on a project that will provide you with the knowledge to help you land the job!

It’s also worth noting that you’ll be given extensive support when it comes to picking a research question or sourcing a project. You’ll attend sessions dedicated to selecting the right topic in the run-up to the start of the dissertation or project module — and there is always additional help available at WBS.

How to write an MBA dissertation

Once you’ve chosen a topic for your MBA dissertation or project, your work on the module can begin in earnest.

As a Warwick Business School participant, you’ll be guided through the process from the outset. But if you’re still at the stage of wondering whether this is something you’d want to pursue in the first place, here’s a brief overview packed with MBA dissertation advice from one of our graduates.

Making contact with your supervisor

Kristen’s top tip for writing an MBA dissertation is not to wait to be assigned a supervisor:

“Once your project applications have been whittled down to interviews (early May for the Full-time MBA), look at the topics and seek out an academic in the school whose knowledge (and personality) you think would match the project and you. The sooner you do this the better.

“I had finalised my supervisor by the beginning of June and this head start was extremely beneficial. It allowed me to better project manage the different chapters of the dissertation and be more in control of the process.”

The planning phase

Delivering a successful MBA dissertation or consulting report is an exercise in sound project management; just one of the many ways in which it sets you up well for later working life. And it’s universally acknowledged that the best approach to take with any large-scale project is to break it down into bite-size chunks.

Kristen suggests seeking support to divide up the dissertation into smaller components, from the draft of your first chapter through to the final submission:

With the help of your supervisor, work backwards and set up a timeline to tackle each section of the dissertation. Include milestones where you will check-in with your supervisor (face-to-face is recommended) as well.

Preparing your literature review

The literature review is the all-important foundation of any dissertation – MBA-level or otherwise. 

Kristen’s experience speaks to the value of starting your research early and keeping a record of all the papers and publications you encounter along the way:

“Once you roughly know the topic of your project and dissertation, start researching. Do not wait until you have a supervisor or until your elective modules are finished. Start immediately! I recommend this for three reasons.

“Firstly, the initial articles you find will most likely not be the gems you hope them to be and it will take a lot of speed-reading and trial and error before you uncover the wisdom that will actually inform your research. 

“Secondly, once you find relevant research, it will take time to read it and most academic literature is not a page-turning detective novel (I can attest to falling asleep mid-read on several occasions). 

“Finally, I am a believer that to truly understand and process new material, you need time. Give yourself the time to read, step away and think, and come back to it. In the end, you will be grateful that you did.

Further to this point, when reading journal publications look at the references the author cites. Seek out these additional authors and their publications.”

Communicating with your client contact on a consulting project

Should you opt for a strategic consulting project, the way you manage the relationship with your client organisation is just as important as the write-up of the final report. Kristen offers this final piece of advice:

“If you are not going to their office, then from the beginning of your relationship set in place weekly 30-minute Skype sessions to keep the client up-to-date with what you are doing. This will allow you to build a relationship with them and will help you to address any hiccups along the way. 

“Sometimes after starting your research, you may find that the client’s initial request is too broad. This is okay, but you will need to bring it up and negotiate a more realistic deliverable. The weekly updates are also beneficial. As you research, you may find yourself going off in the wrong direction. Checking in with your client on a weekly basis will help you stay on track.”

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MBA programmes at Warwick Business School

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Online MBA participant, Aidan Munday, shares how the CareersPlus team supported his MBA journey. 

How to write a fantastic thesis introduction (+15 examples)

The thesis introduction, usually chapter 1, is one of the most important chapters of a thesis. It sets the scene. It previews key arguments and findings. And it helps the reader to understand the structure of the thesis. In short, a lot is riding on this first chapter. With the following tips, you can write a powerful thesis introduction.

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Elements of a fantastic thesis introduction

Open with a (personal) story, begin with a problem, define a clear research gap, describe the scientific relevance of the thesis, describe the societal relevance of the thesis, write down the thesis’ core claim in 1-2 sentences, support your argument with sufficient evidence, consider possible objections, address the empirical research context, give a taste of the thesis’ empirical analysis, hint at the practical implications of the research, provide a reading guide, briefly summarise all chapters to come, design a figure illustrating the thesis structure.

An introductory chapter plays an integral part in every thesis. The first chapter has to include quite a lot of information to contextualise the research. At the same time, a good thesis introduction is not too long, but clear and to the point.

A powerful thesis introduction does the following:

• It captures the reader’s attention.
• It presents a clear research gap and emphasises the thesis’ relevance.
• It provides a compelling argument.
• It previews the research findings.
• It explains the structure of the thesis.

In addition, a powerful thesis introduction is well-written, logically structured, and free of grammar and spelling errors. Reputable thesis editors can elevate the quality of your introduction to the next level. If you are in search of a trustworthy thesis or dissertation editor who upholds high-quality standards and offers efficient turnaround times, I recommend the professional thesis and dissertation editing service provided by Editage . 

This list can feel quite overwhelming. However, with some easy tips and tricks, you can accomplish all these goals in your thesis introduction. (And if you struggle with finding the right wording, have a look at academic key phrases for introductions .)

Ways to capture the reader’s attention

A powerful thesis introduction should spark the reader’s interest on the first pages. A reader should be enticed to continue reading! There are three common ways to capture the reader’s attention.

An established way to capture the reader’s attention in a thesis introduction is by starting with a story. Regardless of how abstract and ‘scientific’ the actual thesis content is, it can be useful to ease the reader into the topic with a short story.

This story can be, for instance, based on one of your study participants. It can also be a very personal account of one of your own experiences, which drew you to study the thesis topic in the first place.

Start by providing data or statistics

Data and statistics are another established way to immediately draw in your reader. Especially surprising or shocking numbers can highlight the importance of a thesis topic in the first few sentences!

So if your thesis topic lends itself to being kick-started with data or statistics, you are in for a quick and easy way to write a memorable thesis introduction.

The third established way to capture the reader’s attention is by starting with the problem that underlies your thesis. It is advisable to keep the problem simple. A few sentences at the start of the chapter should suffice.

Usually, at a later stage in the introductory chapter, it is common to go more in-depth, describing the research problem (and its scientific and societal relevance) in more detail.

You may also like: Minimalist writing for a better thesis

Emphasising the thesis’ relevance

A good thesis is a relevant thesis. No one wants to read about a concept that has already been explored hundreds of times, or that no one cares about.

Of course, a thesis heavily relies on the work of other scholars. However, each thesis is – and should be – unique. If you want to write a fantastic thesis introduction, your job is to point out this uniqueness!

In academic research, a research gap signifies a research area or research question that has not been explored yet, that has been insufficiently explored, or whose insights and findings are outdated.

Every thesis needs a crystal-clear research gap. Spell it out instead of letting your reader figure out why your thesis is relevant.

* This example has been taken from an actual academic paper on toxic behaviour in online games: Liu, J. and Agur, C. (2022). “After All, They Don’t Know Me” Exploring the Psychological Mechanisms of Toxic Behavior in Online Games. Games and Culture 1–24, DOI: 10.1177/15554120221115397

The scientific relevance of a thesis highlights the importance of your work in terms of advancing theoretical insights on a topic. You can think of this part as your contribution to the (international) academic literature.

Scientific relevance comes in different forms. For instance, you can critically assess a prominent theory explaining a specific phenomenon. Maybe something is missing? Or you can develop a novel framework that combines different frameworks used by other scholars. Or you can draw attention to the context-specific nature of a phenomenon that is discussed in the international literature.

The societal relevance of a thesis highlights the importance of your research in more practical terms. You can think of this part as your contribution beyond theoretical insights and academic publications.

Why are your insights useful? Who can benefit from your insights? How can your insights improve existing practices?

Formulating a compelling argument

Arguments are sets of reasons supporting an idea, which – in academia – often integrate theoretical and empirical insights. Think of an argument as an umbrella statement, or core claim. It should be no longer than one or two sentences.

Including an argument in the introduction of your thesis may seem counterintuitive. After all, the reader will be introduced to your core claim before reading all the chapters of your thesis that led you to this claim in the first place.

But rest assured: A clear argument at the start of your thesis introduction is a sign of a good thesis. It works like a movie teaser to generate interest. And it helps the reader to follow your subsequent line of argumentation.

The core claim of your thesis should be accompanied by sufficient evidence. This does not mean that you have to write 10 pages about your results at this point.

However, you do need to show the reader that your claim is credible and legitimate because of the work you have done.

A good argument already anticipates possible objections. Not everyone will agree with your core claim. Therefore, it is smart to think ahead. What criticism can you expect?

Think about reasons or opposing positions that people can come up with to disagree with your claim. Then, try to address them head-on.

Providing a captivating preview of findings

Similar to presenting a compelling argument, a fantastic thesis introduction also previews some of the findings. When reading an introduction, the reader wants to learn a bit more about the research context. Furthermore, a reader should get a taste of the type of analysis that will be conducted. And lastly, a hint at the practical implications of the findings encourages the reader to read until the end.

If you focus on a specific empirical context, make sure to provide some information about it. The empirical context could be, for instance, a country, an island, a school or city. Make sure the reader understands why you chose this context for your research, and why it fits to your research objective.

If you did all your research in a lab, this section is obviously irrelevant. However, in that case you should explain the setup of your experiment, etcetera.

The empirical part of your thesis centers around the collection and analysis of information. What information, and what evidence, did you generate? And what are some of the key findings?

For instance, you can provide a short summary of the different research methods that you used to collect data. Followed by a short overview of how you analysed this data, and some of the key findings. The reader needs to understand why your empirical analysis is worth reading.

You already highlighted the practical relevance of your thesis in the introductory chapter. However, you should also provide a preview of some of the practical implications that you will develop in your thesis based on your findings.

Presenting a crystal clear thesis structure

A fantastic thesis introduction helps the reader to understand the structure and logic of your whole thesis. This is probably the easiest part to write in a thesis introduction. However, this part can be best written at the very end, once everything else is ready.

A reading guide is an essential part in a thesis introduction! Usually, the reading guide can be found toward the end of the introductory chapter.

The reading guide basically tells the reader what to expect in the chapters to come.

In a longer thesis, such as a PhD thesis, it can be smart to provide a summary of each chapter to come. Think of a paragraph for each chapter, almost in the form of an abstract.

For shorter theses, which also have a shorter introduction, this step is not necessary.

Especially for longer theses, it tends to be a good idea to design a simple figure that illustrates the structure of your thesis. It helps the reader to better grasp the logic of your thesis.

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The MBA Thesis Explained

Before you are awarded the degree of Master of Business Administration , you must exhibit your capacity to tackle an investigation of a particular management issue and mull over and write about it in a profound manner. This is the very purpose of the MBA thesis.

What is a Thesis?

A thesis is a long piece of article that you write about a specific subject or research and is particularly done for a university degree or higher college accolade.

When you write your MBA thesis, your writing skills are put to the test. This is also your chance to present the interests, ideas, and skills that you have learned in your MBA program in a satisfying but challenging piece of writing.

As you develop your thesis, you need to investigate and analyze a specific management issue from two perspectives, the practical side and the theoretical side, using business research methods. Through your case study, you get to conduct your own research in a field you like (pending approval of a thesis adviser) that will further sharpen your skills and knowledge of that field.

The Objectives of an MBA Thesis

An MBA thesis has the following objectives:

• To authorize students to apply the knowledge they gained in their MBA studies to a particular management issue.
• To give students the chance to study and write about a specific topic that is of relevance and interest to them in a thorough, detailed, and well-researched manner.
• To expose students to the principle of the entire thesis and the process of business research and academic inquiry.
• To allow students to establish their capacity to think conceptually, communicate, and develop rational and structured thinking.

MBA Thesis: The Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding, cognitive and intellectual skills, behavioral skills.

• Initiate a critical and comprehensive understanding of your thesis topic. Ideally, you should have a level of practical experience and expertise within your topic field.
• Obtain an understanding of the application of business research. When you write your research paper, you should have a clear understanding of the limitations and uses of data analysis techniques that may be used in evaluating outcomes in the business management field.
• Before you start to work and write your own ideas for your research paper, make sure you are able to critically analyze evidence and information from both practitioner and academic sources. You should communicate and develop a cohesive argument to support theoretical models and positions.
• Students must know how to argue and evaluate alternative approaches to models and theories
• Your MBA course is also a good way for you to appreciate your skills and competencies in relation to the organization and planning of your research project. Business schools are also perfect venues for students to master their time management skills.
• As you work on your research requirements, you will understand the importance of working autonomously and how to exercise personal responsibility and initiative in achieving your stated objectives.

Thesis vs Dissertation: Is there a difference?

Are you interested in continuing your education after you complete your bachelor’s degree? If so, have you ever wondered if there is a difference between an MBA thesis and a dissertation; the papers that are usually required in master’s schools? Both generally have similarities. However, there are some differences that set both apart.

Similarities

Before looking for the differences between a thesis and a dissertation, know that both are actually very similar. Some schools, in fact, often used these terms interchangeably.

A thesis and a dissertation are simply papers given to master’s students. Because the structure of these papers is generally extensive, students are given larger windows of time to focus, develop, and write the paper they are assigned. The idea is to complete the papers during the last year of master’s study.

Before you get your graduate degree, you have to obtain a passing grade on your papers. The great news is that although you will not be working with other students, you can still get help from your thesis adviser and peers. With this many people helping you with your final paper, passing your dissertations or theses is very achievable.

But in case you fail the first time, most business schools allow you to resubmit your papers after doing more work to finally meet the requirements.

Type of Graduate Program

One difference between a thesis and a dissertation is that a thesis is required for a master’s program, while dissertations are required for a doctorate program. However, this is not always the case. There are some master’s degree programs that no longer require theses or dissertations. Instead, they are offered in two separate paths: the thesis options and the non-thesis options.

Students who later on plan to obtain a doctorate degree are encouraged to go for the thesis option to prepare them for the dissertations that they will have to write as doctorate students.

The biggest difference between theses and dissertations are the intended purpose. Usually required to get a master’s degree, the thesis is designed to test your skills and understanding of your chosen field of study. 

Most business universities require students to create and write a proposition based on the previous work created by others. The idea is to analyze and present these previous works on your paper and make a case for a particular point of view.

Dissertations are done by students in a doctorate program and focus mainly on original research. Students assigned with dissertations are required to think of a subject in the field they’re interested in but haven’t been researched yet. They have to come up with a concept and hypothesis and make original research papers to prove (or disprove) a hypothesis.

MBA Thesis: The Thesis Topic

When you begin working on your thesis topic, you can choose one in any area/industry as long as it is related to a management or business issue. You can create a new topic or develop ideas you have previously worked on in the program, an elective you studied before in various disciplines, or a module assignment. You need to establish a topic that is relevant to contemporary business and academic thinking.

There are also MBA business degree students who are provided with thesis topics by their sponsoring organization. But if this doesn’t work for you, then the development of an original one is required. You need to think about your areas of interest that you can work on. 

Since choosing a topic is already challenging and hard work itself, it’s best to go for something that will sustain your enthusiasm and motivation throughout the long process of making a thesis.

To have an idea as to what topic you can work on, here are guide questions to get you started:

• Is there a managerial/business issue/problem relating to your organization or job that you’re interested to study?
• Do you have a subject area you’re interested in that, if one day you’ll become an expert, would further improve your career?
• Have you come across a business problem that you believe you can help through your research paper?

MBA Thesis: The Research Proposal

The research proposal is the heart of the thesis. This is the outline of the research work you plan on doing for your research. It is a roadmap on which your professional and academic career depends.

The proposal stage of MBA programs will normally require you to answer these questions:

• What are the boundaries and focus of the MBA thesis topic you choose? What will it include? What won’t?
• What are the objectives and aims of your business plan/research?
• Is your proposed thesis topic feasible? Can you handle the terms of scale and scope?
• What topics will you utilize in doing your research?
• Do you have the resources, competencies, and skills to do the research and study the findings?
• What resources do you need to complete your paper?

Research Aim and Objectives

This is your general statement of your paper’s intent or direction. What are you trying to achieve?

These are the clear and specific writing of your paper’s outcomes and intentions. This must be followed by your justification (the rationale behind doing your research).

Literature Review of an MBA Thesis

In this section, you will summarize the key subject and literature that you have read so far. You will indicate the findings, business principles, and ideas you’ve read have relevance to your subject topic. You should also provide the raw data of at least 25 major academic literature references. All in all, your MBA thesis should cite at least 50 credible and relevant references.

The purpose of your literature review is to critically analyze and review documented theories and evidence relative to your topic and recognize what is and is not known in the field.

MBA Thesis: Conducting the Research

In an MBA program, the nature of your thesis will affect what type of final paper you will be writing. Although there are alternative research designs, they are usually categorized into three types:

Exploratory Research

You use this on your MBA thesis when you have a few existing ideas about the topic you are writing about. This involves observation of a previously under-researched or new topic. The research design of exploratory study uses qualitative methods and is generally not designed to test defined study hypotheses.

Descriptive Research

This is where you define a situation or phenomenon and has a very good structure. Your starting point for this paper starts with your ideas on existing hypotheses that you can then use in identifying variables to be measured. You can use quantitative methods and descriptive statistics in this type of writing.

Explanatory Research

Also called causal study, your presentation here is more on identifying and explaining the relationship between variables that affect a situation. You come up with hypotheses and collect data that supports or negates these hypotheses.

Tips To Help You Prepare and Write a Good MBA Thesis

Whether you have a thesis adviser or you get professional assistance on your analysis for your MBA thesis, making your paper is very challenging. You need the right structure and all the freshest ideas to help you complete your final paper.

To help you complete your MBA degree and its corresponding thesis and capstone projects, you need practical steps to make your business school education truly rewarding in the end. For both local and international students all over the world, here are some helpful tips to make a good MBA thesis.

Choose a topic you’re interested in.

It takes a great deal of work, time, and dedication to finish an MBA thesis successfully. So why would you want to write something you’re least interested in? One of the great benefits of an MBA thesis is that you can choose and work on your own ideas about a specific subject. From there, build a solid structure and work on your writing skills to prove to everybody how bright your ideas are.

Select a topic that has a lot of information available.

Just like the significance of choosing a topic you love, you should also go for a topic that has lots of information available. Of course, your MBA thesis is not just a mere presentation of facts and figures. You need to have readily available facts to draw conclusions.

Be creative and methodical.

An MBA thesis requires a lot of analysis so you can gather enough data to support your argument. As you gather information, be open-minded. Avoid limiting yourself to the usual methods of compiling data. We are now in a digital world where anybody can compile data in so many ways. Simply put, diversify the way you present data in your MBA thesis.

Recheck facts and details, and recheck twice!

When you’re done with your MBA thesis, make sure you recheck your facts, twice! In a business school, your thesis is the most critical part of your entire graduate school journey. Check, then re-check every detail, fact, or figure in your work.

If you can, ask a university mentor to go over your thesis: from the introduction down to the conclusion. Maybe he/she can contribute more to the effectiveness of your writing.

MBA Thesis: When Should You Pursue?

How do you stand out and make real companies feel that you can be a great addition to them? Is having a business administration education enough? What are the implications if you want to pursue a master’s? And if you do, when is a thesis-based MBA right for you?

• If you are planning to get a doctorate in business and you also want to make the most of your master’s program experience, go for a thesis-based MBA.
• If you love to write, you want to further your education, or you plan to teach, a thesis-based MBA should be considered.

How Long is the Thesis for an MBA Program?

An MBA thesis usually ranges from 100 to 300 pages– from the introduction down to the last page, excluding the bibliography. However, the length generally depends on different factors, like the method of study or the subject matter.

There is no ‘correct’ word count or page length to aim for. Your MBA thesis, instead, has to be long enough for you to correctly convey the information you need to convey in a clear manner.

Overall, the MBA thesis is designed to support the professional and academic qualifications of graduate students.

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How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction

Published on 9 September 2022 by Tegan George and Shona McCombes.

The introduction is the first section of your thesis or dissertation , appearing right after the table of contents . Your introduction draws your reader in, setting the stage for your research with a clear focus, purpose, and direction.

Your introduction should include:

• Your topic, in context: what does your reader need to know to understand your thesis dissertation?
• Your focus and scope: what specific aspect of the topic will you address?
• The relevance of your research: how does your work fit into existing studies on your topic?
• Your questions and objectives: what does your research aim to find out, and how?
• An overview of your structure: what does each section contribute to the overall aim?

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Table of contents

How to start your introduction, topic and context, focus and scope, relevance and importance, questions and objectives, overview of the structure, thesis introduction example, introduction checklist, frequently asked questions about introductions.

Although your introduction kicks off your dissertation, it doesn’t have to be the first thing you write – in fact, it’s often one of the very last parts to be completed (just before your abstract ).

It’s a good idea to write a rough draft of your introduction as you begin your research, to help guide you. If you wrote a research proposal , consider using this as a template, as it contains many of the same elements. However, be sure to revise your introduction throughout the writing process, making sure it matches the content of your ensuing sections.

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Begin by introducing your research topic and giving any necessary background information. It’s important to contextualise your research and generate interest. Aim to show why your topic is timely or important. You may want to mention a relevant news item, academic debate, or practical problem.

After a brief introduction to your general area of interest, narrow your focus and define the scope of your research.

You can narrow this down in many ways, such as by:

• Geographical area
• Time period
• Demographics or communities
• Themes or aspects of the topic

It’s essential to share your motivation for doing this research, as well as how it relates to existing work on your topic. Further, you should also mention what new insights you expect it will contribute.

Start by giving a brief overview of the current state of research. You should definitely cite the most relevant literature, but remember that you will conduct a more in-depth survey of relevant sources in the literature review section, so there’s no need to go too in-depth in the introduction.

Depending on your field, the importance of your research might focus on its practical application (e.g., in policy or management) or on advancing scholarly understanding of the topic (e.g., by developing theories or adding new empirical data). In many cases, it will do both.

Ultimately, your introduction should explain how your thesis or dissertation:

• Helps solve a practical or theoretical problem
• Addresses a gap in the literature
• Builds on existing research
• Proposes a new understanding of your topic

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Perhaps the most important part of your introduction is your questions and objectives, as it sets up the expectations for the rest of your thesis or dissertation. How you formulate your research questions and research objectives will depend on your discipline, topic, and focus, but you should always clearly state the central aim of your research.

If your research aims to test hypotheses , you can formulate them here. Your introduction is also a good place for a conceptual framework that suggests relationships between variables .

• Conduct surveys to collect data on students’ levels of knowledge, understanding, and positive/negative perceptions of government policy.
• Determine whether attitudes to climate policy are associated with variables such as age, gender, region, and social class.
• Conduct interviews to gain qualitative insights into students’ perspectives and actions in relation to climate policy.

To help guide your reader, end your introduction with an outline  of the structure of the thesis or dissertation to follow. Share a brief summary of each chapter, clearly showing how each contributes to your central aims. However, be careful to keep this overview concise: 1-2 sentences should be enough.

I. Introduction

Human language consists of a set of vowels and consonants which are combined to form words. During the speech production process, thoughts are converted into spoken utterances to convey a message. The appropriate words and their meanings are selected in the mental lexicon (Dell & Burger, 1997). This pre-verbal message is then grammatically coded, during which a syntactic representation of the utterance is built.

Speech, language, and voice disorders affect the vocal cords, nerves, muscles, and brain structures, which result in a distorted language reception or speech production (Sataloff & Hawkshaw, 2014). The symptoms vary from adding superfluous words and taking pauses to hoarseness of the voice, depending on the type of disorder (Dodd, 2005). However, distortions of the speech may also occur as a result of a disease that seems unrelated to speech, such as multiple sclerosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

This study aims to determine which acoustic parameters are suitable for the automatic detection of exacerbations in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by investigating which aspects of speech differ between COPD patients and healthy speakers and which aspects differ between COPD patients in exacerbation and stable COPD patients.

Checklist: Introduction

I have introduced my research topic in an engaging way.

I have provided necessary context to help the reader understand my topic.

I have clearly specified the focus of my research.

I have shown the relevance and importance of the dissertation topic .

I have clearly stated the problem or question that my research addresses.

I have outlined the specific objectives of the research .

I have provided an overview of the dissertation’s structure .

You've written a strong introduction for your thesis or dissertation. Use the other checklists to continue improving your dissertation.

The introduction of a research paper includes several key elements:

• A hook to catch the reader’s interest
• Relevant background on the topic
• Details of your research problem
• A thesis statement or research question
• Sometimes an outline of the paper

Don’t feel that you have to write the introduction first. The introduction is often one of the last parts of the research paper you’ll write, along with the conclusion.

This is because it can be easier to introduce your paper once you’ve already written the body ; you may not have the clearest idea of your arguments until you’ve written them, and things can change during the writing process .

Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.

They summarise the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.

Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .

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Preparing to write your MBA dissertation?

An MBA qualification is one of the most recognised business management degrees in the world. Successfully completing the qualification comes with its challenges. The degree requires commitment from the student in order to successfully complete assignments, pass examinations and fulfil the mini dissertation requirements to obtain the qualification. The mini dissertation is an integral part of completing your MBA, and it also requires the most amount of effort and time commitment. The most important considerations when embarking on this daunting task is putting a plan in place and structuring your course of action. For any MBA student, it is important to manage time correctly. It is so easy to fall into the trap of procrastination because the tasks at hand may seem overwhelming. Along with coursework and research responsibilities, it is expected to also juggle a full-time job and other responsibilities that demand one’s time and attention, such as spouses, children and extended family. As a result of these demands, finding time to work on a mini dissertation can be difficult. Here are a few helpful tips that will help get your dissertation started and completed on time. There is no better time than the present It is crucial for an MBA student to become sensitive to the topics within modules covered on the MBA. Being conscious of possible dissertation topics right from the onset of your MBA will help to get the process started. Start investigating topics that are of personal interest and that incite passion as possible areas of study that research could be structured around. This is important to meaningfully prepare in advance and engage with this topic, come time to start your dissertation. At Regenesys Business School, each MBA student is assigned a research supervisor early on, to assist with the research topic, and offer guidance and advice on each chapter completed by the student. This helps in the articulation of ideas. Getting other people’s opinions in advance also helps to approach the dissertation from different viewpoints. Define area of interest Writing a thesis or dissertation takes time, so it is necessary to discover an area of interest to start reading about. It is important to start reading around this topic to refine the research topic well in advance before a research topic is defined. This will ensure that the frustration and hours of wasted time that can result from aimlessly searching for information can be avoided. Structuring the dissertation Although the dissertation format may differ from institution to institution, the information provided below gives a basic idea of the sections of a mini dissertation. Abstract - An abstract is a brief summary of the research to be conducted. It is often used to help the reader quickly ascertain the paper's purpose. When used, an abstract always appears at the beginning of the dissertation, acting as the point-of-entry for any given academic piece of writing. Chapter 1 – Introduction This involves setting the context of your mini dissertation and the issues that are going to be addressed in the research. The introduction also covers why the research will be conducted or the rationale behind it. It also provides the problem statement and objectives of the research as well as an outline of the whole study.  Chapter 2 – Literature Review Whatever the research problem may be, the researcher has to conduct an investigation into the literature related to the research problem i.e. the researcher will need to find informative sources, determine their relevance, read them thoroughly and synthesise the information, make informed judgements and finally, report on the information provided in each source. As a researcher, it is important to consult the relevant literature to understand the Academic debates and arguments surrounding the chosen research topic. This will enable deeper insight into the topic and the identification of key issues that need to be explored. The researcher needs to present a summary and a critical appraisal of previous research on the research topic while identifying the gaps. The Literature Review establishes the gaps, issues and contradictions in the existing literature on the research topic. It links the research questions/hypothesis with the gaps in the existing literature and allows analysis and discussion in relation to the aim of the proposed study.  Chapter 3 – Methodology This chapter deals with the how, why and what of the research topic. It indicates how the researcher is going to go about gathering and analysing data for the research. This is done through surveys, interviews or focus group discussions. This chapter contains information about the methodological approach. The chapter should answer a number of questions such as:

• What approach does the research question/hypothesis necessitate and why?
• Which data collection methods are linked to the research?
• Which methods did the researcher decide on and why?
• What other methods could you have chosen?
• How is the data going to be collected?
• How will the data be analysed?
• How will the participants be chosen?
• How will the researcher ensure that the data is reliable and valid?

Chapter 4 – Results and Analysis This involves analysing how the data collected does or does not answer the research questions and proves the researcher’s hypotheses. This could be statistical in nature or theme based depending on the methodological approach followed.  Chapter 5 – Discussion This chapter should discuss the research findings and whether they prove or discard issues raised in your literature review. It also presents how your findings contribute to the research field, profession and documented knowledge around this topic. This chapter may also include recommendations from the researcher that have been proved by the research.  Chapter 6 – Conclusion The concluding chapter must sum up the study. It provides an overview of the study and literature. It indicates how the objectives, hypotheses, main findings and recommendations relate to one another.  References At the end of all pieces of academic writing, you need a list of materials that you have used or referred to. This is done by way of a reference list and should be presented alphabetically and according to the academic referencing rules followed by your institution. The purpose of this is to supply the information needed to allow an interested reader, researcher or examiner to find a source.  Appendices This is where the information that is essential to explain your methodology, analysis and findings should be placed. Examples of information that could be included in an appendix include figures, tables, charts, graphs of results, statistics, questionnaires, lengthy derivations of equations and letters. Each separate appendix should be lettered, for example Appendix A, Appendix B, Appendix B1, Appendix B2, Appendix C. The order they are presented in is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of the dissertation. The dissertation format may differ from institution to institution, but this gives a basic idea of the chapters of a dissertation. Managing time constraints Although the dissertation seems like an endless project, it can be broken into smaller tasks and projects that are more manageable. It is imperative to plan work times and break the task into stages. Dissertation work should be done during productive times. The researcher needs to identify whether they are productive or write well in the morning, afternoon or they more productive in the evening? Once this is determined, it will help to schedule those hours for dissertation work. Every day counts

• Set aside time each week and each day for dissertation tasks
• Do difficult tasks at productive times of the day
• Do easy tasks when less motivated
• It is important to make the dissertation flow, the individual chapters will contain their own arguments and flow but they all contribute to the main flow, (the golden thread.)
• Keep record of all information sources consulted.

Finishing off and checking through This stage can be time consuming, so leave enough time to have a final read through of the dissertation to pick up any lingering mistakes or typos. Good presentation matters – follow the rules for margins, fonts, table formats, and so on in early drafts. It is much easier to write the dissertation with all the formatting correct than to have to reformat several computer files at the last minute. It gives a professional appearance and puts the reader in a good mood. So it is worth making sure to leave enough time to proof-read and get the layout right. Plagiarism This is the act of taking another person's writing, conversation, song, or even idea and passing it off as your own. This includes information from web pages, books, songs, television shows, email messages, interviews, articles, artworks or any other medium. Whenever one paraphrases, summarises, or takes words, phrases, or sentences from another person's work, it is necessary to indicate the source of the information within the paper using an internal citation. Failing to properly quote, cite or acknowledge someone else's words or ideas with an internal citation is plagiarism. Always acknowledge sources of information. If possible, look at dissertations from previous years to see how they have been presented. At Regenesys, several dissertations are available at our library for students to use as references. Investigate the dissertation requirements early to make sure you are making appropriate progress toward the degree. Make sure when using human subjects in surveys or interviews, that their approval is obtained, and approval letters documented. Make sure to follow your Institutions’ regulations as are required for this process. It is highly recommended to consult a recognised, qualified editor to polish the language in the final dissertation draft as this could influence the final dissertation mark. Help is closer than you think In conclusion, consult allocated supervisors at every stage of the dissertation. Consult other students who may have completed their dissertations and get as much advice as possible. Do not neglect health requirements during this period, by making sure to eat right and exercise to remain stimulated. Seek feedback regularly, this will make this task a little bit more easier. References:

• University of Reading Study Advice, http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/studyadvice/Studyresources/Essays/sta-writingdissertation.aspx
• UNC College of arts and sciences writing centre, https://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/dissertations/

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Dissertation examples

Listed below are some of the best examples of research projects and dissertations from undergraduate and taught postgraduate students at the University of Leeds We have not been able to gather examples from all schools. The module requirements for research projects may have changed since these examples were written. Refer to your module guidelines to make sure that you address all of the current assessment criteria. Some of the examples below are only available to access on campus.

• Undergraduate examples
• Taught Masters examples

Dissertation writing: how to succeed

Writing a dissertation as a key to the future.

When proceeding with the studies your academic works are becoming more and more complicated. The final stage of it a dissertation. A word that most postgraduate students are afraid of. Writing a dissertation is a challenge, as normally you should start as soon as possible. Choose the topic, do a research, choose methodology, read literature and study sources to outcome with your own huge work. When we say huge we mean it. Unlike any other paper dissertation usually contains between 10.000 and 20.000 words. Doesn't seem like a task to do overnight!

Can you refuse to write one? Yes, of course, but you won't be getting a degree in this case. Receiving a diploma in a post-graduate studying is more than embarrassing. Future employers will see that immediately. That's why dissertation writing should your final step to a successful career and highly paid job. How to perform this task correctly? There are 2 ways.

First, you can start early. Choose the topic and work hard. Spend sleepless nights and forget about friends and having fun. No joking, plenty of people sacrifice a lot to write a worthy dissertation! If you're not ready to do that, there's a second way.

Dissertation writing services will do everything for you. Skilled and talented writers fond the best topic, do the research and work on the format. As a result, you'll get a file ready to be handed to your professor.

Tips on how to write a dissertation without nervous breakdown

Still not sure whether you need it? Then, let's learn more about it. You can find 1001 advice on how to compose a winning paper, but they won't be working. Why's that? Lack of writing skills, lack of research, procrastination... Sounds familiar?

These are some helpful recommendations if you want to make everything yourself without dissertation writing help:

• Choose the topic or a problems that seems the most interesting for you. Probably, you've started your studies not just for getting a degree.
• Think of your work bringing help to the society. It's an important psychological factor. When you do something for the national or even global benefit, you'll get more more strength to finish.
• Don't think of how to write a dissertation, think more of finding the solution. Let your notes and research be messy, you can structure them later.
• Consult your mentor or a professor. They are here to help, not just grade your work.
• Start early, don't expect to finish a large piece of academic writing in a week.

If you still aren't confident in your skills, use a professional help and enjoy the work to be done by others.

What's important for dissertation?

There are some certain things that are essential for each paper. First, it's a proper format and structure. Your work should be logical. Second, it's a research itself. Work with information, deep analysis are important. Third, it's the originality. Using sourcing and literature, don't copy the thoughts and ideas, make your own conclusions out of them.

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2024 Best 40-Under-40 MBA Professors: Erik Olson, Owen Graduate School of Management, Vanderbilt University

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Erik Olson Owen Graduate School of Management, Vanderbilt University

Erik Olson, 34, is Assistant Professor of Accounting at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management.

He began his career as a tax associate at KPMG, working in international tax and transfer pricing for a large multinational corporation based out of Atlanta, Georgia. In the summer of 2015, he left the private sector to pursue his PhD at Yale University.

His research primarily focuses on the impact of financial accounting and disclosure on firm capital allocation decisions. Specific topics include the “real effects” of accounting with a particular emphasis on the differential impact of retail and institutional investors on firm disclosure, corporate financial policy, and options markets.

He is winner of the “Thanks Teach” award for Teaching Excellence in 2021, as voted on by the full cohort of Vanderbilt MBA students in the classes of 2021 and 2022, and was a finalist for the award in 2022. He has also been a finalist for the prestigious Webb Award at the Owen Graduate School of Management.

At current institution since what year? 2020

Education: Bachelor of Science in Accounting, University of Florida (2012) Master of Science in Accounting, University of Florida (2013) PhD in Management (specialization in Financial Accounting), Yale University (2020)

List of MBA courses you currently teach: Introduction to Financial Accounting (MGT6311)

TELL US ABOUT LIFE AS A BUSINESS SCHOOL PROFESSOR

I knew I wanted to be a business school professor when… Professor Gary McGill from the University of Florida pulled me aside during a course in the last semester of my Master’s of Accounting program. We were tasked with writing a research memo on a proposed bill for the House Ways and Means Committee, and he praised my work as reflective of a potential academic researcher.

After spending five years studying accounting, the thought of dedicating another five to study more accounting seemed terrifying. However, Professor McGill introduced me to the groundbreaking study by Graham, Harvey, and Rajgopal (2005). Realizing the dynamic and expansive nature of accounting research, which extended way past the standard debits and credits I had previously been exposed to, solidified my decision to pursue this career.

What are you currently researching and what is the most significant discovery you’ve made from it? My research primarily explores the “real effects” of accounting, investigating how accounting measurements and reporting influence firms’ substantive decisions on activities and resource allocation in the economy. This approach has advanced the field by shifting the focus from how market participants react to disclosures to how managers adjust their real decisions in response to anticipated responses from market participants. This shift offers a more dynamic model of the interactions between managers and market participants.

A key area of my work examines how investor sophistication influences these real effects. With financial regulators aiming to protect average investors, it is crucial to understand how firms’ actions impact investors of varying sophistication levels and the broader social welfare implications of accounting and disclosure. My findings indicate that the sophistication divide between investors significantly affects firm behaviors, such as repurchase decisions following the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. My research also shows how managers incorporate investor sophistication when balancing different tools to manage earnings and reveals differences in numerical literacy among investor groups, which can influence disclosure decisions and market reactions to information.

If I weren’t a business school professor… I would have become a talent agent for professional athletes.

What do you think makes you stand out as a professor? My students would likely describe what makes me stand out better than I can, but from my perspective, it’s my ability to engage them in a subject often perceived as dry and my genuine interest in their individual learning processes. A highlight for many students is my weekly Friday office hours via Zoom, where I adhere to a strict policy of remaining available to each individual for as long as needed. These sessions can last anywhere from an hour to upwards of six or seven hours. Having started teaching in the middle of the pandemic, I found that conducting office hours online reduces peer pressure, allowing students to ask questions more freely.

This is especially important as they are new to campus and cautious about forming first impressions among their peers. By minimizing the stress associated with peer dynamics, this format ensures students receive the necessary individual support needed to succeed.

One word that describes my first time teaching: Masks (the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic)

Here’s what I wish someone would’ve told me about being a business school professor: “You’re going to teach one of the four core classes at Owen right out of the gate, and all three of your colleagues are multiple award-winning teachers who will run circles around you if you don’t bring your absolute best. Good luck.”

Sharing the responsibility of teaching core classes with Professors Bill Christie, Yasin Alan, and Tim Vogus during my first three years at Owen was incredibly motivating. Their excellence in teaching set a high bar, pushing me to develop and refine my own skills to meet the Owen standard of excellence. They were always generous with their time and support, for which I am immensely grateful. Their mentorship was crucial in helping me reach the level I am at today. I truly couldn’t have achieved this without them!

Professor I most admire and why: Oh, this is a trap question… there are too many right answers!

I’m going to take some liberties here and choose my entire dissertation committee at Yale —it truly does take a village to raise a researcher, and I admire each of them immensely. My dissertation chair, Jake Thomas, is a renowned figure in our field and has supported my research interests since day one. He’s an exceptional mentor who genuinely cares for every student he advises in a way that’s rare to see in our field today. Frank Zhang has constantly pushed me to delve deeply into problems, providing rapid feedback that kept my projects on track and pushing me to think of things in new and exciting ways. Shyam Sunder epitomizes what I consider the ideal academic, encouraging me to explore topics of genuine worth and societal interest, beyond the current trends in top journals. Thomas Steffen, despite being a junior faculty member at the time, was instrumental in getting my dissertation started and always made time for me, helping refine my work without ever making me feel like a burden. Lastly, Zeqiong Huang deepened my appreciation for the nuances of theory. As an empiricist, she ensured that my empirical studies were anchored in robust capital markets theory, which was invaluable during my graduate studies.

I am profoundly grateful to these five mentors, among too many others to list here, for their belief in me and for pushing me to become the best version of myself!

TEACHING MBA STUDENTS

What do you enjoy most about teaching business students? As cliché as it sounds, it really is the fact that these incredible students allow me to share the halls of Owen with them on a day-to-day basis. Vanderbilt really does a great job of attracting the best students in the world. I genuinely believe that. I’ll often have students come up to me after class and ask me about something they saw in the newspaper or heard on a podcast, and how it fits in with what we’re learning. Their engagement extends to my research as well, showing genuine interest and offering insightful feedback.

I’ve also had the privilege of advising a diverse range of independent studies, from seed funding for startup ventures right here in Nashville to creating fundraisers in conflict zones half-a-world away. These projects reflect our students’ deep desire to apply their knowledge practically, aiming to understand and improve the world in tangible ways. As a researcher devoted to similar goals, I find it incredibly inspiring to share the halls of such motivated and outstanding individuals every day. They are the lifeblood of what makes this place truly great.

What is most challenging? The greatest challenge—and simultaneously the most rewarding aspect—of teaching business school students is ensuring I’m fully deserving of standing before them each day.

The students at Owen consistently bring their A-game, and matching their motivation and energy is both demanding and exhilarating. This dynamic is what makes teaching not just a job, but a passion that keeps me energized and looking forward to each academic year.

In one word, describe your favorite type of student: Inquisitive

In one word, describe your least favorite type of student: Apathetic

When it comes to grading, I think students would describe me as… Forgiving! Accounting requires a significant mental shift for most students, and adapting to this can take time. I recall my own challenges when being exposed to the subject for the first time during my undergraduate studies.

At Vanderbilt, our students go through a full semester’s worth of content in just seven weeks, taking their midterms as early as week three. Given this accelerated pace, I implemented a “midterm forgiveness” policy. If a student performs better on their final exam than on their midterm, I allow the final exam grade to replace the midterm score in their overall course grade. My goal is for students to master the material by the end of MGT6311, and if they achieve this, I consider it a win for everyone involved.

LIFE OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM

What are your hobbies? I enjoy staying active year-round. My regular activities include weightlifting, boxing, and playing ice hockey. My interest in martial arts dates back to my early childhood when I competed in kickboxing on the international level, and I have earned black belts in both Tae Kwon Do and Kung Fu.

Music is another of my passions—I play the guitar and have amassed a collection of amps and pedals in my pursuit of the perfect blues guitar tone. Additionally, I enjoy attending stand-up comedy shows, live concerts, and music festivals. Finally, I enjoy playing video games with friends of mine from back home!

How will you spend your summer? This summer, I’m looking forward to a schedule packed with travel. I’ll be returning to Yale for a conference in July, and then I’m off to London to visit my long-time mentor and good friend, Alan Jagolinzer, at Cambridge University for a seminar he’s planning on hosting. Alan is currently engaged in fascinating research addressing the broad societal challenges posed by disinformation. His energy and enthusiasm for the topic is nothing short of astounding.

Additionally, I plan to visit my younger sister, Kiersten, who lives in New York. To round out my travels, I’ll head to Florida to visit my parents and some of my long-time friends.

Favorite place(s) to vacation: St. John’s County in Florida is my top vacation spot at the moment. My best friend moved there after college, and I always look forward to visiting him, his wife, and their newborn baby, Griff. It’s conveniently close to Gainesville, making it perfect for catching college football games during the season.

Additionally, its proximity to Jacksonville Beach is ideal for summer outdoor activities. We’ve also established a tradition of attending the Players Championship at the PGA Tour in Ponte Vedra every March. It’s definitely a hidden gem!

Favorite book(s): Plato’s Republic, Capital in the 21st Century, The Wealth of Nations, The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion and all of the books connected with the Warcraft franchise.

What is currently your favorite movie and/or show and what is it about the film or program that you enjoy so much? Despite the fall from grace with its final season, “Game of Thrones” remains my favorite show of all time. I was instantly hooked after the first episode’s dramatic conclusion and ended up binge-watching the entire first season in one sitting! The intricate political maneuvering and the characters’ strategic plots captivated me throughout the series. Recently, I’ve been drawn to “Shogun” for similar reasons. The blend of epic battle scenes and sophisticated CGI only adds to the appeal for me, and both shows hit the mark on this front.

What is your favorite type of music or artist(s) and why? I am an absolute student and lover of the blues. Blues music is what inspired me to pick up a guitar almost half a lifetime ago, and living in the Music City has pushed me to continue to become a better player! What I love most about the blues is how contemporary artists skillfully create their unique styles while honoring the genre’s pioneers. You hear the iconic wailing tones of B.B. King in Joe Bonamassa’s playing and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram’s singing. You can hear the intensity of Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix and Albert King paired with the precision of Eric Clapton’s playing in musicians like Eric Gales and Gary Clark Jr. Additionally, artists like John Mayer have perfected their equipment and tone, achieving sublime blues sounds that seem heaven-sent to be paired with legendary playing skills.

The beauty of blues lies in its respect for its origins while continuously evolving. Each new iteration adds layers to the genre, with subtle tributes woven into every track, creating a rich and profound musical tapestry unmatched by any other genre.

THOUGHTS AND REFLECTIONS

If I had my way, the business school of the future would have much more of this… Programming training! If accounting is considered the language of business, then Python could very well be the language of the future. Self-teaching programming was a monumental task during my PhD program. Integrating programming, big data, analytics, and artificial intelligence across the business curriculum would significantly enhance our students’ education. Equipping them with these skills is essential as they prepare for a future where coding is increasingly prevalent in the business world. This approach would not only provide practical skills but also a competitive edge in their careers.

In my opinion, companies and organizations today need to do a better job at… Looking past the measurables when deciding how and when to hire students. Obviously, we use these tools as signals of noisy processes, so this isn’t to say that they’re irrelevant. However, I think it’s in all our best interests to look past the basic measurables of GPA, GMAT score or whatever metric you want to use when making long term decisions.

I’m grateful for… My parents, sister, friends, and academic mentors, especially my first mentor, Professor Gary McGill, who steered me toward an unexpected career in academia. Growing up, if you asked my friends and family about my future career, “accounting professor” would not have been their first guess—they might have said lawyer, financial planner, or sports agent. Yet, it was Dr. McGill who set me on this path, and I often reflect on the perfect alignment of circumstances that led him to do so. His influence, along with the unwavering support from my friends and family, was crucial as I left the workforce in my mid-20s to return to school. This journey was far from easy, but knowing they were behind me made the tough times manageable and the successes even sweeter. At the end of the day, their love and support have been instrumental in all that I have achieved and continue to fuel my optimism for the future—echoing the resilience found in the blues, as I look “further on up the road.”

DON’T MISS: THE ENTIRE 2024 ROSTER OF THE WORLD’S BEST 40-UNDER-40 MBA PROFESSORS

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Introduction to the Online MBA

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How To Write The Methodology Chapter

The what, why & how explained simply (with examples).

By: Jenna Crossley (PhD) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | September 2021 (Updated April 2023)

So, you’ve pinned down your research topic and undertaken a review of the literature – now it’s time to write up the methodology section of your dissertation, thesis or research paper . But what exactly is the methodology chapter all about – and how do you go about writing one? In this post, we’ll unpack the topic, step by step .

Overview: The Methodology Chapter

• The purpose  of the methodology chapter
• Why you need to craft this chapter (really) well
• How to write and structure the chapter
• Methodology chapter example
• Essential takeaways

What (exactly) is the methodology chapter?

The methodology chapter is where you outline the philosophical underpinnings of your research and outline the specific methodological choices you’ve made. The point of the methodology chapter is to tell the reader exactly how you designed your study and, just as importantly, why you did it this way.

Importantly, this chapter should comprehensively describe and justify all the methodological choices you made in your study. For example, the approach you took to your research (i.e., qualitative, quantitative or mixed), who  you collected data from (i.e., your sampling strategy), how you collected your data and, of course, how you analysed it. If that sounds a little intimidating, don’t worry – we’ll explain all these methodological choices in this post .

Why is the methodology chapter important?

The methodology chapter plays two important roles in your dissertation or thesis:

Firstly, it demonstrates your understanding of research theory, which is what earns you marks. A flawed research design or methodology would mean flawed results. So, this chapter is vital as it allows you to show the marker that you know what you’re doing and that your results are credible .

Secondly, the methodology chapter is what helps to make your study replicable. In other words, it allows other researchers to undertake your study using the same methodological approach, and compare their findings to yours. This is very important within academic research, as each study builds on previous studies.

The methodology chapter is also important in that it allows you to identify and discuss any methodological issues or problems you encountered (i.e., research limitations ), and to explain how you mitigated the impacts of these. Every research project has its limitations , so it’s important to acknowledge these openly and highlight your study’s value despite its limitations . Doing so demonstrates your understanding of research design, which will earn you marks. We’ll discuss limitations in a bit more detail later in this post, so stay tuned!

Need a helping hand?

How to write up the methodology chapter

First off, it’s worth noting that the exact structure and contents of the methodology chapter will vary depending on the field of research (e.g., humanities, chemistry or engineering) as well as the university . So, be sure to always check the guidelines provided by your institution for clarity and, if possible, review past dissertations from your university. Here we’re going to discuss a generic structure for a methodology chapter typically found in the sciences.

Before you start writing, it’s always a good idea to draw up a rough outline to guide your writing. Don’t just start writing without knowing what you’ll discuss where. If you do, you’ll likely end up with a disjointed, ill-flowing narrative . You’ll then waste a lot of time rewriting in an attempt to try to stitch all the pieces together. Do yourself a favour and start with the end in mind .

Section 1 – Introduction

As with all chapters in your dissertation or thesis, the methodology chapter should have a brief introduction. In this section, you should remind your readers what the focus of your study is, especially the research aims . As we’ve discussed many times on the blog, your methodology needs to align with your research aims, objectives and research questions. Therefore, it’s useful to frontload this component to remind the reader (and yourself!) what you’re trying to achieve.

In this section, you can also briefly mention how you’ll structure the chapter. This will help orient the reader and provide a bit of a roadmap so that they know what to expect. You don’t need a lot of detail here – just a brief outline will do.

Section 2 – The Methodology

The next section of your chapter is where you’ll present the actual methodology. In this section, you need to detail and justify the key methodological choices you’ve made in a logical, intuitive fashion. Importantly, this is the heart of your methodology chapter, so you need to get specific – don’t hold back on the details here. This is not one of those “less is more” situations.

Let’s take a look at the most common components you’ll likely need to cover. 

Methodological Choice #1 – Research Philosophy

Research philosophy refers to the underlying beliefs (i.e., the worldview) regarding how data about a phenomenon should be gathered , analysed and used . The research philosophy will serve as the core of your study and underpin all of the other research design choices, so it’s critically important that you understand which philosophy you’ll adopt and why you made that choice. If you’re not clear on this, take the time to get clarity before you make any further methodological choices.

While several research philosophies exist, two commonly adopted ones are positivism and interpretivism . These two sit roughly on opposite sides of the research philosophy spectrum.

Positivism states that the researcher can observe reality objectively and that there is only one reality, which exists independently of the observer. As a consequence, it is quite commonly the underlying research philosophy in quantitative studies and is oftentimes the assumed philosophy in the physical sciences.

Contrasted with this, interpretivism , which is often the underlying research philosophy in qualitative studies, assumes that the researcher performs a role in observing the world around them and that reality is unique to each observer . In other words, reality is observed subjectively .

These are just two philosophies (there are many more), but they demonstrate significantly different approaches to research and have a significant impact on all the methodological choices. Therefore, it’s vital that you clearly outline and justify your research philosophy at the beginning of your methodology chapter, as it sets the scene for everything that follows.

Methodological Choice #2 – Research Type

The next thing you would typically discuss in your methodology section is the research type. The starting point for this is to indicate whether the research you conducted is inductive or deductive .

Inductive research takes a bottom-up approach , where the researcher begins with specific observations or data and then draws general conclusions or theories from those observations. Therefore these studies tend to be exploratory in terms of approach.

Conversely , d eductive research takes a top-down approach , where the researcher starts with a theory or hypothesis and then tests it using specific observations or data. Therefore these studies tend to be confirmatory in approach.

Related to this, you’ll need to indicate whether your study adopts a qualitative, quantitative or mixed  approach. As we’ve mentioned, there’s a strong link between this choice and your research philosophy, so make sure that your choices are tightly aligned . When you write this section up, remember to clearly justify your choices, as they form the foundation of your study.

Methodological Choice #3 – Research Strategy

Next, you’ll need to discuss your research strategy (also referred to as a research design ). This methodological choice refers to the broader strategy in terms of how you’ll conduct your research, based on the aims of your study.

Several research strategies exist, including experimental , case studies , ethnography , grounded theory, action research , and phenomenology . Let’s take a look at two of these, experimental and ethnographic, to see how they contrast.

Experimental research makes use of the scientific method , where one group is the control group (in which no variables are manipulated ) and another is the experimental group (in which a specific variable is manipulated). This type of research is undertaken under strict conditions in a controlled, artificial environment (e.g., a laboratory). By having firm control over the environment, experimental research typically allows the researcher to establish causation between variables. Therefore, it can be a good choice if you have research aims that involve identifying causal relationships.

Ethnographic research , on the other hand, involves observing and capturing the experiences and perceptions of participants in their natural environment (for example, at home or in the office). In other words, in an uncontrolled environment.  Naturally, this means that this research strategy would be far less suitable if your research aims involve identifying causation, but it would be very valuable if you’re looking to explore and examine a group culture, for example.

As you can see, the right research strategy will depend largely on your research aims and research questions – in other words, what you’re trying to figure out. Therefore, as with every other methodological choice, it’s essential to justify why you chose the research strategy you did.

Methodological Choice #4 – Time Horizon

The next thing you’ll need to detail in your methodology chapter is the time horizon. There are two options here: cross-sectional and longitudinal . In other words, whether the data for your study were all collected at one point in time (cross-sectional) or at multiple points in time (longitudinal).

The choice you make here depends again on your research aims, objectives and research questions. If, for example, you aim to assess how a specific group of people’s perspectives regarding a topic change over time , you’d likely adopt a longitudinal time horizon.

Another important factor to consider is simply whether you have the time necessary to adopt a longitudinal approach (which could involve collecting data over multiple months or even years). Oftentimes, the time pressures of your degree program will force your hand into adopting a cross-sectional time horizon, so keep this in mind.

Methodological Choice #5 – Sampling Strategy

Next, you’ll need to discuss your sampling strategy . There are two main categories of sampling, probability and non-probability sampling.

Probability sampling involves a random (and therefore representative) selection of participants from a population, whereas non-probability sampling entails selecting participants in a non-random  (and therefore non-representative) manner. For example, selecting participants based on ease of access (this is called a convenience sample).

The right sampling approach depends largely on what you’re trying to achieve in your study. Specifically, whether you trying to develop findings that are generalisable to a population or not. Practicalities and resource constraints also play a large role here, as it can oftentimes be challenging to gain access to a truly random sample. In the video below, we explore some of the most common sampling strategies.

Methodological Choice #6 – Data Collection Method

Next up, you’ll need to explain how you’ll go about collecting the necessary data for your study. Your data collection method (or methods) will depend on the type of data that you plan to collect – in other words, qualitative or quantitative data.

Typically, quantitative research relies on surveys , data generated by lab equipment, analytics software or existing datasets. Qualitative research, on the other hand, often makes use of collection methods such as interviews , focus groups , participant observations, and ethnography.

So, as you can see, there is a tight link between this section and the design choices you outlined in earlier sections. Strong alignment between these sections, as well as your research aims and questions is therefore very important.

Methodological Choice #7 – Data Analysis Methods/Techniques

The final major methodological choice that you need to address is that of analysis techniques . In other words, how you’ll go about analysing your date once you’ve collected it. Here it’s important to be very specific about your analysis methods and/or techniques – don’t leave any room for interpretation. Also, as with all choices in this chapter, you need to justify each choice you make.

What exactly you discuss here will depend largely on the type of study you’re conducting (i.e., qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods). For qualitative studies, common analysis methods include content analysis , thematic analysis and discourse analysis . In the video below, we explain each of these in plain language.

For quantitative studies, you’ll almost always make use of descriptive statistics , and in many cases, you’ll also use inferential statistical techniques (e.g., correlation and regression analysis). In the video below, we unpack some of the core concepts involved in descriptive and inferential statistics.

In this section of your methodology chapter, it’s also important to discuss how you prepared your data for analysis, and what software you used (if any). For example, quantitative data will often require some initial preparation such as removing duplicates or incomplete responses . Similarly, qualitative data will often require transcription and perhaps even translation. As always, remember to state both what you did and why you did it.

Section 3 – The Methodological Limitations

With the key methodological choices outlined and justified, the next step is to discuss the limitations of your design. No research methodology is perfect – there will always be trade-offs between the “ideal” methodology and what’s practical and viable, given your constraints. Therefore, this section of your methodology chapter is where you’ll discuss the trade-offs you had to make, and why these were justified given the context.

Methodological limitations can vary greatly from study to study, ranging from common issues such as time and budget constraints to issues of sample or selection bias . For example, you may find that you didn’t manage to draw in enough respondents to achieve the desired sample size (and therefore, statistically significant results), or your sample may be skewed heavily towards a certain demographic, thereby negatively impacting representativeness .

In this section, it’s important to be critical of the shortcomings of your study. There’s no use trying to hide them (your marker will be aware of them regardless). By being critical, you’ll demonstrate to your marker that you have a strong understanding of research theory, so don’t be shy here. At the same time, don’t beat your study to death . State the limitations, why these were justified, how you mitigated their impacts to the best degree possible, and how your study still provides value despite these limitations .

Section 4 – Concluding Summary

Finally, it’s time to wrap up the methodology chapter with a brief concluding summary. In this section, you’ll want to concisely summarise what you’ve presented in the chapter. Here, it can be a good idea to use a figure to summarise the key decisions, especially if your university recommends using a specific model (for example, Saunders’ Research Onion ).

Importantly, this section needs to be brief – a paragraph or two maximum (it’s a summary, after all). Also, make sure that when you write up your concluding summary, you include only what you’ve already discussed in your chapter; don’t add any new information.

Methodology Chapter Example

In the video below, we walk you through an example of a high-quality research methodology chapter from a dissertation. We also unpack our free methodology chapter template so that you can see how best to structure your chapter.

Wrapping Up

And there you have it – the methodology chapter in a nutshell. As we’ve mentioned, the exact contents and structure of this chapter can vary between universities , so be sure to check in with your institution before you start writing. If possible, try to find dissertations or theses from former students of your specific degree program – this will give you a strong indication of the expectations and norms when it comes to the methodology chapter (and all the other chapters!).

Also, remember the golden rule of the methodology chapter – justify every choice ! Make sure that you clearly explain the “why” for every “what”, and reference credible methodology textbooks or academic sources to back up your justifications.

If you need a helping hand with your research methodology (or any other component of your research), be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through every step of the research journey. Until next time, good luck!

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