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How to Write the Definition of Terms in Chapter 1 of a Thesis

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Confusion to Clarity: Definition of Terms in a Research Paper

Explore the definition of terms in research paper to enhance your understanding of crucial scientific terminology and grow your knowledge.

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Have you ever come across a research paper and found yourself scratching your head over complex synonyms and unfamiliar terms? It’s a hassle as you have to fetch a dictionary and then ruffle through it to find the meaning of the terms.

To avoid that, an exclusive section called ‘ Definition of Terms in a Research Paper ’ is introduced which contains the definitions of terms used in the paper. Let us learn more about it in this article.

What Is The “Definition Of Terms” In A Research Paper?

The definition of terms section in a research paper provides a clear and concise explanation of key concepts, variables, and terminology used throughout the study. 

In the definition of terms section, researchers typically provide precise definitions for specific technical terms, acronyms, jargon, and any other domain-specific vocabulary used in their work. This section enhances the overall quality and rigor of the research by establishing a solid foundation for communication and understanding.

Purpose Of Definition Of Terms In A Research Paper

This section aims to ensure that readers have a common understanding of the terminology employed in the research, eliminating confusion and promoting clarity. The definitions provided serve as a reference point for readers, enabling them to comprehend the context and scope of the study. It serves several important purposes:

  • Enhancing clarity
  • Establishing a shared language
  • Providing a reference point
  • Setting the scope and context
  • Ensuring consistency

Benefits Of Having A Definition Of Terms In A Research Paper

Having a definition of terms section in a research paper offers several benefits that contribute to the overall quality and effectiveness of the study. These benefits include:

Clarity And Comprehension

Clear definitions enable readers to understand the specific meanings of key terms, concepts, and variables used in the research. This promotes clarity and enhances comprehension, ensuring that readers can follow the study’s arguments, methods, and findings more easily.

Consistency And Precision

Definitions provide a consistent framework for the use of terminology throughout the research paper. By clearly defining terms, researchers establish a standard vocabulary, reducing ambiguity and potential misunderstandings. This precision enhances the accuracy and reliability of the study’s findings.

Common Understanding

The definition of terms section helps establish a shared understanding among readers, including those from different disciplines or with varying levels of familiarity with the subject matter. It ensures that readers approach the research with a common knowledge base, facilitating effective communication and interpretation of the results.

Avoiding Misinterpretation

Without clear definitions, readers may interpret terms and concepts differently, leading to misinterpretation of the research findings. By providing explicit definitions, researchers minimize the risk of misunderstandings and ensure that readers grasp the intended meaning of the terminology used in the study.

Accessibility For Diverse Audiences

Research papers are often read by a wide range of individuals, including researchers, students, policymakers, and professionals. Having a definition of terms in a research paper helps the diverse audience understand the concepts better and make appropriate decisions. 

Types Of Definitions

There are several types of definitions that researchers can employ in a research paper, depending on the context and nature of the study. Here are some common types of definitions:

Lexical Definitions

Lexical definitions provide the dictionary or commonly accepted meaning of a term. They offer a concise and widely recognized explanation of a word or concept. Lexical definitions are useful for establishing a baseline understanding of a term, especially when dealing with everyday language or non-technical terms.

Operational Definitions

Operational definitions define a term or concept about how it is measured or observed in the study. These definitions specify the procedures, instruments, or criteria used to operationalize an abstract or theoretical concept. Operational definitions help ensure clarity and consistency in data collection and measurement.

Conceptual Definitions

Conceptual definitions provide an abstract or theoretical understanding of a term or concept within a specific research context. They often involve a more detailed and nuanced explanation, exploring the underlying principles, theories, or models that inform the concept. Conceptual definitions are useful for establishing a theoretical framework and promoting deeper understanding.

Descriptive Definitions

Descriptive definitions describe a term or concept by providing characteristics, features, or attributes associated with it. These definitions focus on outlining the essential qualities or elements that define the term. Descriptive definitions help readers grasp the nature and scope of a concept by painting a detailed picture.

Theoretical Definitions

Theoretical definitions explain a term or concept based on established theories or conceptual frameworks. They situate the concept within a broader theoretical context, connecting it to relevant literature and existing knowledge. Theoretical definitions help researchers establish the theoretical underpinnings of their study and provide a foundation for further analysis.

Also read: Understanding What is Theoretical Framework

Types Of Terms

In research papers, various types of terms can be identified based on their nature and usage. Here are some common types of terms:

A key term is a term that holds significant importance or plays a crucial role within the context of a research paper. It is a term that encapsulates a core concept, idea, or variable that is central to the study. Key terms are often essential for understanding the research objectives, methodology, findings, and conclusions.

Technical Term

Technical terms refer to specialized vocabulary or terminology used within a specific field of study. These terms are often precise and have specific meanings within their respective disciplines. Examples include “allele,” “hypothesis testing,” or “algorithm.”

Legal Terms

Legal terms are specific vocabulary used within the legal field to describe concepts, principles, and regulations. These terms have particular meanings within the legal context. Examples include “defendant,” “plaintiff,” “due process,” or “jurisdiction.”

Definitional Term

A definitional term refers to a word or phrase that requires an explicit definition to ensure clarity and understanding within a particular context. These terms may be technical, abstract, or have multiple interpretations.

Career Privacy Term

Career privacy term refers to a concept or idea related to the privacy of individuals in the context of their professional or occupational activities. It encompasses the protection of personal information, and confidential data, and the right to control the disclosure of sensitive career-related details. 

A broad term is a term that encompasses a wide range of related concepts, ideas, or objects. It has a broader scope and may encompass multiple subcategories or specific examples.

Also read: Keywords In A Research Paper: The Importance Of The Right Choice

Steps To Writing Definitions Of Terms

When writing the definition of terms section for a research paper, you can follow these steps to ensure clarity and accuracy:

Step 1: Identify Key Terms

Review your research paper and identify the key terms that require definition. These terms are typically central to your study, specific to your field or topic, or may have different interpretations.

Step 2: Conduct Research

Conduct thorough research on each key term to understand its commonly accepted definition, usage, and any variations or nuances within your specific research context. Consult authoritative sources such as academic journals, books, or reputable online resources.

Step 3: Craft Concise Definitions

Based on your research, craft concise definitions for each key term. Aim for clarity, precision, and relevance. Define the term in a manner that reflects its significance within your research and ensures reader comprehension.

Step 4: Use Your Own Words

Paraphrase the definitions in your own words to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity. While you can draw inspiration from existing definitions, rephrase them to reflect your understanding and writing style. Avoid directly copying from sources.

Step 5: Provide Examples Or Explanations

Consider providing examples, explanations, or context for the defined terms to enhance reader understanding. This can help illustrate how the term is applied within your research or clarify its practical implications.

Step 6: Order And Format

Decide on the order in which you present the definitions. You can follow alphabetical order or arrange them based on their importance or relevance to your research. Use consistent formatting, such as bold or italics, to distinguish the defined terms from the rest of the text.

Step 7: Revise And Refine

Review the definitions for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Ensure that they align with your research objectives and are tailored to your specific study. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or experts in your field to further refine and improve the definitions.

Step 8: Include Proper Citations

If you have drawn ideas or information from external sources, remember to provide proper citations for those sources. This demonstrates academic integrity and acknowledges the original authors.

Step 9: Incorporate The Section Into Your Paper

Integrate the definition of terms section into your research paper, typically as an early section following the introduction. Make sure it flows smoothly with the rest of the paper and provides a solid foundation for understanding the subsequent content.

By following these steps, you can create a well-crafted and informative definition of terms section that enhances the clarity and comprehension of your research paper.

In conclusion, the definition of terms in a research paper plays a critical role by providing clarity, establishing a common understanding, and enhancing communication among readers. The definition of terms section is an essential component that contributes to the overall quality, rigor, and effectiveness of a research paper.

Also read: Beyond The Main Text: The Value Of A Research Paper Appendix

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Definitions of terms in a bachelors', master's or PhD thesis - 3 cases

Finding a suitable definition for a term in a bachelor's thesis, master's thesis or dissertation is often tedious, but absolutely necessary. Otherwise, you start from scratch. There are often many definitions for the same term...

What definition do I use? Fortunately, there are proven methods for searching and formulating definitions. This will help you get a grip on the terms. Let's go!

What is a definition?

A definition always leads a term back to a generic term. In an academic paper, such as a Bachelor's thesis, Master's Thesis or dissertation, the definitions MUST come from recognized sources. But sometimes there aren’t any scientific sources for a research subject, which is especially true when exploring a new field. At that point, you have to formulate a definition yourself.

Three cases can be distinguished with regard to the definition of terms:

  • Accepted term - Case 1
  • New inconsistent concept - case 2
  • New, largely unexplored term (YOUR focus) - Case 3.

Let's go through the cases in order.

Case 1: Definition of an accepted term

The term has been known for a long time and is frequently used in scientific sources. The definitions in different sources are relatively consistent. This can be seen from the fact that the same source references appear repeatedly in definitions.

Examples of such terms are attitudes, motivation, incentives, learning disabilities or controlling.

Such terms are hardly ever discussed anymore. They are simply implied by the definition. Nevertheless, there may be new variations of definitions. However, they are usually for a very specific term and therefore not relevant for your text.

A quick way to get started in defining these terms:

  • Be sure to use the correct spelling of the term. Distinguish singular and plural. Search the term in Google.
  • Go to Wikipedia and look up the references inside the term article. Focus on scientific sources like books or papers. (Of course you can also do this without a wiki!)
  • Locate these sources and gather them. Search at the beginning of the chapter or book for possible definitions. Usually several authors are cited. This is followed by a proposal for a definition, as it is subsequently used in the textbook.
  • Adopt this definition, but refer to the original source if it came from another source.
  • Write the definition into your text, with the full reference.

IMPORTANT: Do not use Google, Wikipedia, other pure online sources or encyclopedias as a source reference for definitions of recognized terms. It signals carelessness, if not laziness... The only possible sources for the definition of terms are

  • textbooks or reference books
  • scientific articles (paper)
  • lists of standards like DIN, ISO, Law Codices...

By the way, the best sources are standards like DIN and ISO or laws of all kinds. These legal definitions are the best.

Case 2: Definition of still inconsistent term

A characteristic of this type of term is the existence of several definitions by different authors. Ultimately, each definition focuses on specific characteristics. That is why it is often not "either-or", but "both-also".

This is reminiscent of the example with the elephant, which six blind people examine by touch and then describe. The person who touches the trunk says it is a snake. The one sitting on his back says, "That's a mountain." Whoever touches the legs says it is a tree trunk, the ears are ferns, the ivory teeth are field cliffs, etc.

This situation is typical for relatively new subject areas where there is still a lot to discover. New is of course relative and depends on the subject. If there are only five to ten articles on a subject area, this indicates a need for research.

Examples of such terms are social media, trust, mediation.

Proceed as follows when defining these terms for the dissertation:

  • Search for the relevant authors on the subject area.
  • Search in their scientific articles for the definitions used.
  • Make an overview of these definitions. Literally and with reference!!
  • Filter out the substance from the respective definitions, the central words and the generic term.
  • Check which of these definitions fits your approach.
  • Use the appropriate definition or combine several definitions.
  • Reconsider and justify your decision. Further work depends on this.
  • Ask experts in the field, authors of papers.
  • Agree upon the definition with the supervisor of the dissertation.

Case 3: Definition of new, still largely unexplored terms = focus of a dissertation

In this case it is a completely new concept. So far, there are only definitions of experts with experience in the subject area. These have themselves formulated a definition, but it has not been recognized officially. In any case, there are no recognized scientific sources on the field of research to date. But you need a clear definition for your text.

IMPORTANT: Please think very carefully if you really want to work on this topic. The lack of scientifically formulated definitions suggests that this could be an extremely tedious project. You practically have to explore the field without any orientation in the literature. Maybe you are the first to build a model. It could be heroic, but I'm sure it's a lot of work.

This is how you should proceed with new terms in the dissertation:

  • Collect all available publications with information on this topic.
  • Sort the publications found according to their quality, substance and scientific quality. Use only the best sources (data sources must be traceable and trustworthy)
  • Make a comprehensive word cloud of relevant terms and variants.
  • Collect the characteristics for the object or terms.
  • Think carefully about which other terms are related to the term.
  • Filter the ideas and arguments from texts that describe characteristics and are heading towards a definition.
  • Make a list of these attributes. These are candidates for the definition.
  • Search for generic terms for the term in appropriate documents.
  • Make a list.

If you have collected enough sources or five days have passed (whichever happens first):

  • Formulate YOUR first definition.
  • Leave it for a day or two.
  • Check, revise, iterate, collect the evidence, share the definition with others.
  • Formulate the working definition for your text. It may be refined along the way.
  • Discuss the draft of your definition with the supervisor or even with experts as soon as you are sure you have something to show.

IMPORTANT: Include the reference for each quote.

Now formulate the preliminary working definition that you will use during your research for the dissertation. Refine it if necessary.

Good luck writing your text! Silvio and the Aristolo Team

PS: Check out the Thesis-ABC and the Thesis Guide for writing a bachelor's or master's thesis in 31 days.

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Defining terms.

  • GENERAL LANGUAGE FUNCTIONS
  • Being cautious
  • Being critical
  • Classifying and listing
  • Compare and contrast
  • Describing trends
  • Describing quantities
  • Explaining causality
  • Giving examples
  • Signalling transition
  • Writing about the past

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In academic work students are often expected to give definitions of key words and phrases in order to demonstrate to their tutors that they understand these terms clearly. More generally, however, academic writers define terms so that their readers understand exactly what is meant when certain key terms are used. When important words are not clearly understood misinterpretation may result. In fact, many disagreements (academic, legal, diplomatic, personal) arise as a result of different interpretations of the same term. In academic writing, teachers and their students often have to explore these differing interpretations before moving on to study a topic.

Introductory phrases

The term ‘X’ was first used by … The term ‘X’ can be traced back to … Previous studies mostly defined X as … The term ‘X’ was introduced by Smith in her … Historically, the term ‘X’ has been used to describe … It is necessary here to clarify exactly what is meant by … This shows a need to be explicit about exactly what is meant by the word ‘X’.

Simple three-part definitions

General meanings or application of meanings.

X can broadly be defined as … X can be loosely described as … X can be defined as … It encompasses … In the literature, the term tends to be used to refer to … In broad terms, X can be defined as any stimulus that is … Whereas X refers to the operations of …, Y refers to the … The broad use of the term ‘X’ is sometimes equated with … The term ‘disease’ refers to a biological event characterised by … Defined as …, X is now considered a worldwide problem and is associated with …

Indicating varying definitions

The definition of X has evolved. There are multiple definitions of X. Several definitions of X have been proposed. In the field of X, various definitions of X are found. The term ‘X’ embodies a multitude of concepts which … This term has two overlapping, even slightly confusing meanings. Widely varying definitions of X have emerged (Smith and Jones, 1999). Despite its common usage, X is used in different disciplines to mean different things. Since the definition of X varies among researchers, it is important to clarify how the term is …

Indicating difficulties in defining a term

X is a contested term. X is a rather nebulous term … X is challenging to define because … A precise definition of X has proved elusive. A generally accepted definition of X is lacking. Unfortunately, X remains a poorly defined term. There is no agreed definition on what constitutes … There is little consensus about what X actually means. There is a degree of uncertainty around the terminology in … These terms are often used interchangeably and without precision. Numerous terms are used to describe X, the most common of which are …. The definition of X varies in the literature and there is terminological confusion. Smith (2001) identified four abilities that might be subsumed under the term ‘X’: a) … ‘X’ is a term frequently used in the literature, but to date there is no consensus about … X is a commonly-used notion in psychology and yet it is a concept difficult to define precisely. Although differences of opinion still exist, there appears to be some agreement that X refers to …

Specifying terms that are used in an essay or thesis

The term ‘X’ is used here to refer to … In the present study, X is defined as … The term ‘X’ will be used solely when referring to … In this essay, the term ‘X’ will be used in its broadest sense to refer to all … In this paper, the term that will be used to describe this phenomenon is ‘X’. In this dissertation, the terms ‘X’ and ‘Y’ are used interchangeably to mean … Throughout this thesis, the term ‘X’ is used to refer to informal systems as well as … While a variety of definitions of the term ‘X’ have been suggested, this paper will use the definition first suggested by Smith (1968) who saw it as …

Referring to people’s definitions: author prominent

For Smith (2001), X means … Smith (2001) uses the term ‘X’ to refer to … Smith (1954) was apparently the first to use the term … In 1987, psychologist John Smith popularized the term ‘X’ to describe … According to a definition provided by Smith (2001:23), X is ‘the maximally … This definition is close to those of Smith (2012) and Jones (2013) who define X as … Smith, has shown that, as late as 1920, Jones was using the term ‘X’ to refer to particular … One of the first people to define nursing was Florence Nightingale (1860), who wrote: ‘… …’ Chomsky writes that a grammar is a ‘device of some sort for producing the ….’ (1957, p.11). Aristotle defines the imagination as ‘the movement which results upon an actual sensation.’ Smith  et al . (2002) have provided a new definition of health: ‘health is a state of being with …

Referring to people’s definitions: author non-prominent

X is defined by Smith (2003: 119) as ‘… …’ The term ‘X’ is used by Smith (2001) to refer to … X is, for Smith (2012), the situation which occurs when … A further definition of X is given by Smith (1982) who describes … The term ‘X’ is used by Aristotle in four overlapping senses. First, it is the underlying … X is the degree to which an assessment process or device measures … (Smith  et al ., 1986).

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Glossary in a Dissertation – A Comprehensive Guide

Published by Owen Ingram at August 26th, 2021 , Revised On September 20, 2023

A list of glossary contains all those terms used in your dissertation, but the meanings of which may not be evident to the readers. Here is all you need to know about the glossary in a dissertation.

Basically, any term you use in your dissertation that you know, without a doubt, is not going to be common knowledge to readers outside of your field, is included in a list called glossary. And since every field has its unique, technical jargon, a glossary list can contain many terms some readers might not have even heard of before.

A typical glossary in a dissertation may look something like this:

glossary in a dissertation

Do you Even Need Glossary in your Dissertation to Begin with?

You may or may not be required to have a separate list of glossaries in your  dissertation . The decision whether to have a list of glossaries in a dissertation depends on whether it will improve the readability of your paper.

For example , if you are  writing a dissertation  for an engineering degree and have used several technical terms that readers—especially laymen—may not be familiar with, \ it is advised to add a glossary in a dissertation.

Listing Terms in a Glossary

A recommended practice of adding a glossary in a dissertation is to sort the terms alphabetically and provide a definition or explanations for each of those terms. Having the terms listed in alphabetical order will help the readers to easily locate the information they are interested in.

Location of a Glossary List in a Dissertation

The glossary list is generally placed at the beginning of the dissertation paper, just after the  list of tables and figures or the list of abbreviations.  However, if your paper does not have a list of abbreviations or a list of tables and figures, you can place the glossary right after the  table of contents .

This gives readers the opportunity to understand the meanings of key terms they are not familiar with even before they start to read the main content of the paper.

However, if you haven’t used a lot of technical terms in your dissertation, you can choose to provide an explanation and meanings of the few terms that you have used in the form of footnotes .

Difference Between Abbreviations and Glossary

It is important not to confuse the glossary in the dissertation with the abbreviations, which are put in the list of abbreviations.

A list of abbreviations contains all the terms that have abbreviations. For instance, if you have used terms like NASA , UNICEF , UNESCO , UN , NIH , etc., such terms along with what they stand for will come under the list of abbreviations.

Note, however, that only their full forms, and not their meanings, are mentioned in that list. That is what’s mentioned in a glossary list, though: meanings. Definitions of terms, terms that were used in the dissertation. The terms themselves aren’t abbreviation.

For instance, in a linguistics’ dissertation, you might end up creating a glossary list containing terms like phenomenology, code-switching, diglossia, etc. Notice how these are complete terms , not abbreviations.

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definition of terms sample in thesis

Example of a Glossary in Dissertation

If you haven’t created a list of glossaries before then you will find the below example of a glossary in a dissertation particularly useful:

example of glossary

Other Lists you can have in your Dissertation

You might also want to have a list of tables and figures as well as a list of abbreviations in your dissertation particularly if you are writing a master’s or PhD dissertation. However, make sure to keep the following order:

  • Table of contents
  • Lists of figures and tables
  • List of abbreviations

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FAQs About Glossary in a Dissertation

What is a glossary.

It’s a list of special terms—single words, phrases, etc.—that are not commonly known to the ‘average’ reader or to a reader who isn’t an expert in that field.

What is included in a glossary?

Ideally, words are included in a glossary. However, in some cases—depending on the topic— abbreviations , phrases etc. might also be mentioned within the list of glossary in a dissertation. Sometimes, it might also include a brief definition of how to pronounce a certain word/phrase.

What is the best way to create a glossary?

Keep in mind two things while creating a glossary list: keep the language of the definition simple so that every kind of reader can understand it. That’s why a glossary is given, to begin with, to simplify technical jargon and inform laymen. Secondly, arrange the terms inside it alphabetically.

How many times can I include the same term in a glossary list?

No matter how many times a word or a phrase appears in your dissertation , include it and define it only once in your glossary. There should be no duplicate entries in a glossary list.

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Definition of terms for every dissertation.

If you don’t know it already, you will very soon–the Definition of Terms section in the introductory chapter of your dissertation, that is. As your chair, peers, or friendly dissertation consultants have probably shared with you, this section serves to introduce your readers to key terminology that you’ll use throughout your dissertation or thesis writing in discussing your study’s specific contribution to your academic discipline.

definition of terms sample in thesis

You’ve also probably come across a few Definition of Terms sections in your own research (and especially in preparing for the literature review ) and found that they can include everything from specific populations, to key variables (for studies undertaking statistical analysis) or concepts (for qualitative research and analysis), to specific legislation or medical procedures–and beyond.

The best way to think about what to include in your study’s Definition of Terms section is by thinking of it almost as a short glossary or checklist of what your readers absolutely need to know to orient themselves to the specific ideas and language of your topic and field of research. By way of illustration, and since examples in context are often the best form of dissertation assistance, we thought we’d offer up our own Definition of Terms–basically, a short (or not-so-short) list of the main terms and concepts our dissertation consulting clients encounter, and often for the first time, during the research process.

For this and many other terms on the list, alignment has a specific meaning within the context of academic research and, especially, dissertation and thesis writing . However! Alignment, in its perhaps most common real-word usage–wheel alignment for automobiles–actually serves as a helpful analogy here. When your wheel alignment is off, your car might pull off to one side, shake, and often your steering wheel won’t actually correspond to how straight your car drives on the road. To fix wheel alignment, you don’t adjust the wheels themselves, but rather the suspension, the system that connects the wheels to the car.

definition of terms sample in thesis

Similarly, with dissertation research, alignment refers to how well you’ve clearly connected the foundational elements of your study. Does your purpose statement, in fact, address the specific issue identified in your problem statement–or does it pull away from the problem to focus on something perhaps only tangentially related? Does your methodology correspond to the problem as you’ve described it? If you’re planning on a quantitative study with statistical analysis , for example, do your variables tie back to the problem and purpose, as well?

The vast majority of doctoral candidates who reach out to us for dissertation consulting often need support with exactly this issue in their studies, and we’ve found that if you think about the dissertation as a system that needs to properly connect all of its key parts, then it often becomes easier to look at the foundations of your study with a fresh perspective.

Research problem

If there’s a word you’re likely to get sick of hearing first from your chair, committee, and yes, even your dissertation coach, we’re betting that word is problem, in all its variations–research problem, problem statement, general and/or local problem, business problem… You get the idea. That being said, as with the rest of the terms on this list, while problem gets used and abused during the dissertation process, it’s because it’s a very important (you might say the most important) element of your overall study.

The research problem is the specific issue in your field that you plan to explore or examine in your dissertation or thesis writing. It’s a “problem” in the sense that you’ve identified an unanswered question (or series of questions!) and other scholars have pointed out that the lack of research on this topic needs to be addressed.

definition of terms sample in thesis

As this might indicate, you can’t figure out your research problem, of course, until you determine the gap in the research that your study will address! So while you might find, first, that there’s a gap in the research on successful strategies for food delivery apps, you might then decide to further focus this gap to look at specific strategies or barriers for success for areas with more urban or suburban sprawl (after confirming this is part of the existing gap). Finding that initial gap is key–so that you can narrow it down to the specific problem that you can address.

Hook and anchor

While this phrase is most directly relevant for DBA candidates studying at Walden University (one of our primary universities for dissertation assistance), the concept of “hook and anchor” is one that offers some important insight when it comes to breaking down your problem statement into a clear and compelling justification for your topic. In fact, those of you with some background in business or management, regardless of your current doctoral program or research focus, may already be familiar with the idea of a “hook” and an “anchor” in a professional setting.

definition of terms sample in thesis

The purpose of a hook and anchor in your problem statement is to establish the larger significance of your proposed research (sometimes also called the general problem or the global problem) before outlining the specific aspect of this issue that you’ll focus on for your dissertation research. The hook, specifically, should introduce the issue and include support from very recent scholarship, to clearly indicate that this issue is current and unaddressed–in other words, it should “hook” your reader and get their attention! At Walden, the hook is specifically talked about in terms of a “WOW statement” , a well-known sales term for getting to the point fast (and making sure your point’s a good one).

Once you’ve established your hook, the purpose of the anchor, then (also well-named) is to ground this initial statement in concrete evidence (if you’re thinking “statistics,” here, you’re right!). It’s important to understand this difference between the hook and anchor, and we can absolutely help you review your progress so far if you’re currently seeking preliminary dissertation help as you finalize your topic and problem statement.

If approached properly, the hook and anchor help you to establish, immediately and clearly, the importance of continued research in your field. However, if you’ve found an appropriate research gap (see above), then this broader introduction is far too much to tackle for one dissertation–so the hook and anchor also set the stage for a more focused discussion of the specific research problem you’ll address through your original quantitative and/or qualitative research .

Social change

Again, this term is particularly critical for doctoral candidates attending Walden University [https://www.waldenu.edu/about/social-change], but even if you’re attending another online or brick and mortar university for your doctoral studies, the concept of social change is useful when you’re thinking and writing about the overall significance of your proposed dissertation research. This is especially true since, more and more, academic research is evaluated on the merits of its contribution to society at large.

definition of terms sample in thesis

Put simply, “social change refers to the transformation of culture, behavior, social institutions, and social structure over time” . In the context of dissertation or thesis writing, then, understanding your study’s contribution to social change involves asking yourself, “why does this matter?” The next step is looking to the literature in your field to see why the research gap you plan to address is an important one in a broader societal context (as we discussed above, just because there’s a gap in the research, doesn’t mean that gap needs to be filled).

Don’t be daunted by this idea if your study focuses on a very specialized (or not traditionally “academic”) topic! After all, even food can be a tool for social change, according to “social gastronomist” David Hertz (and we’d love to help you with your dissertation as you determine your study’s contribution):

We can use food to create a more inclusive society. Food touches on every aspect of human life: the environment, agriculture, our economy, health, even our social lives. Social gastronomy “uses food to turn social inequalities — such as hunger, poor nutrition, unemployment, inequality — into dignity, opportunities and well-being,” says Hertz.

Anthropomorphism

Even seasoned academic writers often find themselves taken to task for anthropomorphism, so if you’re finding comments pointing this out as an issue to address in your dissertation editing , you’re in good company! And as with many of the terms on this list, it’s important to keep in mind the dissertation as your specific context for anthropomorphism. After all, in other contexts, this concept–the tendency of humans to attribute human qualities to animals or inanimate objects–is actually helping us learn exciting new things about the world around us.

Take Inky the Octopus , for example, whose escape from a New Zealand aquarium into the Pacific Ocean highlighted the ways in which animals’ complex intelligence and abilities are often minimized in order to emphasize their difference from people. Viewing animal and human intelligence on a continuum could, in fact, ultimately allow us to understand more about both.

definition of terms sample in thesis

However, in the context of editing your dissertation, anthropomorphism is a bit more cut-and-dry. In less formal (or more literary speech), you can easily find instances in which speakers refer to the ways in which a study “suggests” or “claims” or even “finds” some important knowledge that you, as a researcher, are excited to incorporate into your own discussion. However, technically, research itself cannot suggest or claim anything–those are human qualities.

That being said, if you’re desperate to change up your sentences (so it’s not just X and Y found that Z, over and over), you can (following APA editing guidelines for anthropomorphism) write that studies “show” or “indicate.” But that’s it! So use sparingly.

Reliability

definition of terms sample in thesis

For those who are considering developing their own quantitative instrument, however, there are a number of options for determining that an instrument accomplishes the purpose of your study (pilot testing, again, is critical here). These range from evaluating the content development of the instrument (using experts to develop survey questions, for example) to a cross-comparison with existing instruments that should provide similar results. Again–additional literature searches, outreach to experts, and statistical analysis are often required here, so especially for those already planning to employ statistical> [link to quant methods page] or other dissertation assistance for your study, try to find an existing instrument first! (And if you still have questions or need further statistics consulting, [link url="contact.shtml"]we’re happy to help )!

Belmont Report

You’re bound to come across the Belmont Report at some stage in your doctoral journey–for most doctoral candidates, this report becomes important while drafting the methodology chapter and preparing for Institutional Review Board (IRB) review and approval . Published in 1979, the Belmont Report is an exhaustive discussion of ethical guidelines to follow when conducting research using human subjects. Most relevant to doctoral researchers are the report’s guidelines for assessing and minimizing risk to participants, identifying and recruiting research participants, and ensuring informed consent.

definition of terms sample in thesis

While the necessary steps to ensure adherence to the guidelines and principles of the Belmont Report can often feel like just another task to complete before beginning the most exciting part of your study–the actual research!–it’s very important to ensure that you clearly and carefully plan your process for selecting participants, recruitment, and informed consent. In fact, as many doctoral candidates who reach out for help with their dissertations while completing their IRB applications find, there is a direct benefit for you (beyond ensuring the safe and voluntary participation of your study subjects). The better you plan your recruitment and data collection process, the easier it will be to carry out when the time comes!

Luckily, you can access the entire Belmont Report in its entirety online, so this information is readily available to you as you finalize your research design and begin to think about carrying out your proposed quantitative or qualitative research and analysis. And if you’re wondering at all where to begin, be sure to check out our data collection checklist or contact us for more information about our specialized approach to this phase of dissertation assistance!

Peer-reviewed articles

For many novice researchers, the literature review is often the most daunting part of the dissertation or thesis writing process. In fact, it’s one of the main areas that doctoral candidates reach out to us about when they ask about dissertation consulting or dissertation coach services. Over the past 12 years, we’ve found that the primary stumbling block for many graduate-level researchers is finding appropriately scholarly (i.e., peer-reviewed) research to include in the literature review. (We’ve actually devoted a separate blog post to this topic – so if this is an issue for you, and you’re currently considering dissertation assistance, definitely check that out.)

What does “peer reviewed” mean in this context? Luckily, there’s nothing complex about the name. Peer-reviewed research is research that, once completed, is then subjected to an extensive critique by scholars in the field. Journals that follow a peer review process are generally viewed as more credible and trustworthy, because the methods and findings of the researchers they publish have held up under scrutiny by established experts in the field. Perhaps you’ve already begun thinking about how to turn your completed dissertation research into a published article in your “dream journal”–it’s an exciting next step once you’ve completed your doctoral degree, and one we can assist with as a next or final step for many of our dissertation consulting clients.

definition of terms sample in thesis

In terms of determining whether a journal article is peer-reviewed , most major databases (like ProQuest) offer you the option of searching only for this type of publication. Of course the next step is to ensure that the article (not an opinion piece or letter to the editor) is in fact peer-reviewed, and a quick way to verify this is to check out the journal’s homepage. If the editors submit their articles to peer review, they won’t be shy about letting you know!

Of course, once you’ve mastered the search process to include only peer-reviewed and scholarly sources, you then need to refine your newly honed skills further–to ensure that you’re reviewing and including only the most recent, relevant sources (to support the need for your study right now, today). This can definitely be tricky, particularly if you’re further along in drafting your literature review, but we can absolutely help you with your dissertation so that you keep moving forward!

Did we miss anything? Let us know the essential terminology you’ve learned during your dissertation or thesis writing process in comments!

  • California Polytechnic State University. (2017). Find peer-reviewed articles. Retrieved from https://lib.calpoly.edu/support/how-to/find-articles
  • D’Arcy, Patrick. (2018, July 12). How food–yes, food–can be a tool for social change. TED Talks: IDEAS.TED.COM. Retrieved from https://ideas.ted.com/how-food-yes-food-can-be-a-tool-for-social-change/
  • Kaufmann Entrepreneurs. (2016, July 28). Powerful presentations: Crafting your WOW statement. Retrieved from https://www.entrepreneurship.org/videos/powerful-presentations/crafting-your-wow-statement
  • Lazzaroni, M., Peretto, P., Rinaldi, P., & Catelani, M. (2011). The Concept of “Statistical” Reliability. In Reliability Engineering (chapter 2). Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-20983-3_2
  • National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research. (1979). The Belmont report: Ethical principles and guidelines for the protection of human subjects of research. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
  • Phelan, C., & Wren, J. (2006). Exploring reliability in academic assessment. Retrieved from https://chfasoa.uni.edu/reliabilityandvalidity.htm
  • Riederer, R. (2016, April 26). Inky the Octopus and the upsides of anthropomorphism. The New Yorker. Retrieved from https://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/inky-the-octopus-and-the-upsides-of-anthropomorphism
  • University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing. (2010). Understanding social change. In Sociology: Understanding and Changing the Social World (chapter 20.1). Retrieved from http://open.lib.umn.edu/sociology/chapter/20-1-understanding-social-change/
  • Walden University. (2018). Social change. Retrieved from https://www.waldenu.edu/about/social-change

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.  

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence) 

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.  

Arguable thesis with analytical claim 

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.  

Arguable thesis with normative claim 

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.  

Questions to ask about your thesis 

  • Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?  
  • Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?  
  • Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?  
  • Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?  
  • Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
  • picture_as_pdf Thesis
  • Literary Terms
  • Definition & Examples
  • When & How to Write a Thesis

I. What is a Thesis?

The thesis (pronounced thee -seez), also known as a thesis statement, is the sentence that introduces the main argument or point of view of a composition (formal essay, nonfiction piece, or narrative). It is the main claim that the author is making about that topic and serves to summarize and introduce that writing that will be discussed throughout the entire piece. For this reason, the thesis is typically found within the first introduction paragraph.

II. Examples of Theses

Here are a few examples of theses which may be found in the introductions of a variety of essays :

In “The Mending Wall,” Robert Frost uses imagery, metaphor, and dialogue to argue against the use of fences between neighbors.

In this example, the thesis introduces the main subject (Frost’s poem “The Mending Wall”), aspects of the subject which will be examined (imagery, metaphor, and dialogue) and the writer’s argument (fences should not be used).

While Facebook connects some, overall, the social networking site is negative in that it isolates users, causes jealousy, and becomes an addiction.

This thesis introduces an argumentative essay which argues against the use of Facebook due to three of its negative effects.

During the college application process, I discovered my willingness to work hard to achieve my dreams and just what those dreams were.

In this more personal example, the thesis statement introduces a narrative essay which will focus on personal development in realizing one’s goals and how to achieve them.

III. The Importance of Using a Thesis

Theses are absolutely necessary components in essays because they introduce what an essay will be about. Without a thesis, the essay lacks clear organization and direction. Theses allow writers to organize their ideas by clearly stating them, and they allow readers to be aware from the beginning of a composition’s subject, argument, and course. Thesis statements must precisely express an argument within the introductory paragraph of the piece in order to guide the reader from the very beginning.

IV. Examples of Theses in Literature

For examples of theses in literature, consider these thesis statements from essays about topics in literature:

In William Shakespeare’s “ Sonnet 46,” both physicality and emotion together form powerful romantic love.

This thesis statement clearly states the work and its author as well as the main argument: physicality and emotion create romantic love.

In The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne symbolically shows Hester Prynne’s developing identity through the use of the letter A: she moves from adulteress to able community member to angel.

In this example, the work and author are introduced as well as the main argument and supporting points: Prynne’s identity is shown through the letter A in three ways: adulteress, able community member, and angel.

John Keats’ poem “To Autumn” utilizes rhythm, rhyme, and imagery to examine autumn’s simultaneous birth and decay.

This thesis statement introduces the poem and its author along with an argument about the nature of autumn. This argument will be supported by an examination of rhythm, rhyme, and imagery.

V. Examples of Theses in Pop Culture

Sometimes, pop culture attempts to make arguments similar to those of research papers and essays. Here are a few examples of theses in pop culture:

FOOD INC TEASER TRAILER - "More than a terrific movie -- it's an important movie." - Ent Weekly

America’s food industry is making a killing and it’s making us sick, but you have the power to turn the tables.

The documentary Food Inc. examines this thesis with evidence throughout the film including video evidence, interviews with experts, and scientific research.

Blackfish Official Trailer #1 (2013) - Documentary Movie HD

Orca whales should not be kept in captivity, as it is psychologically traumatizing and has caused them to kill their own trainers.

Blackfish uses footage, interviews, and history to argue for the thesis that orca whales should not be held in captivity.

VI. Related Terms

Just as a thesis is introduced in the beginning of a composition, the hypothesis is considered a starting point as well. Whereas a thesis introduces the main point of an essay, the hypothesis introduces a proposed explanation which is being investigated through scientific or mathematical research. Thesis statements present arguments based on evidence which is presented throughout the paper, whereas hypotheses are being tested by scientists and mathematicians who may disprove or prove them through experimentation. Here is an example of a hypothesis versus a thesis:

Hypothesis:

Students skip school more often as summer vacation approaches.

This hypothesis could be tested by examining attendance records and interviewing students. It may or may not be true.

Students skip school due to sickness, boredom with classes, and the urge to rebel.

This thesis presents an argument which will be examined and supported in the paper with detailed evidence and research.

Introduction

A paper’s introduction is its first paragraph which is used to introduce the paper’s main aim and points used to support that aim throughout the paper. The thesis statement is the most important part of the introduction which states all of this information in one concise statement. Typically, introduction paragraphs require a thesis statement which ties together the entire introduction and introduces the rest of the paper.

VII. Conclusion

Theses are necessary components of well-organized and convincing essays, nonfiction pieces, narratives , and documentaries. They allow writers to organize and support arguments to be developed throughout a composition, and they allow readers to understand from the beginning what the aim of the composition is.

List of Terms

  • Alliteration
  • Amplification
  • Anachronism
  • Anthropomorphism
  • Antonomasia
  • APA Citation
  • Aposiopesis
  • Autobiography
  • Bildungsroman
  • Characterization
  • Circumlocution
  • Cliffhanger
  • Comic Relief
  • Connotation
  • Deus ex machina
  • Deuteragonist
  • Doppelganger
  • Double Entendre
  • Dramatic irony
  • Equivocation
  • Extended Metaphor
  • Figures of Speech
  • Flash-forward
  • Foreshadowing
  • Intertextuality
  • Juxtaposition
  • Literary Device
  • Malapropism
  • Onomatopoeia
  • Parallelism
  • Pathetic Fallacy
  • Personification
  • Point of View
  • Polysyndeton
  • Protagonist
  • Red Herring
  • Rhetorical Device
  • Rhetorical Question
  • Science Fiction
  • Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
  • Synesthesia
  • Turning Point
  • Understatement
  • Urban Legend
  • Verisimilitude
  • Essay Guide
  • Cite This Website

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  • What is a Glossary? | Definition, Templates, & Examples

What Is a Glossary? | Definition, Templates, & Examples

Published on 26 May 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on 25 October 2022.

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader.

Your glossary only needs to include terms that your reader may not be familiar with, and it’s intended to enhance their understanding of your work. Glossaries are not mandatory, but if you use a lot of technical or field-specific terms, it may improve readability to add one.

If you do choose to include a glossary, it should go at the beginning of your document, just after the table of contents and (if applicable) list of tables and figures or list of abbreviations . It’s helpful to place your glossary at the beginning, so your readers can familiarise themselves with key terms prior to reading your work. Remember that glossaries are always in alphabetical order.

To help you get started, download our glossary template in the format of your choice below.

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  • Table of contents

Example of a glossary

Citing sources for your glossary, additional lists to include in your dissertation, frequently asked questions about glossaries.

example of a glossary

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

Glossaries and definitions often fall into the category of common knowledge , meaning that they don’t necessarily have to be cited.

However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to citing your sources , in order to avoid accidental plagiarism .

If you’d prefer to cite just in case, you can follow guidance for citing dictionary entries in MLA or APA Style for citations in your glossary. Remember that direct quotes should always be accompanied by a citation.

In addition to the glossary, you can also include a list of tables and figures and a list of abbreviations in your thesis or dissertation if you choose.

Include your lists in the following order:

  • List of figures and tables
  • List of abbreviations

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. Your glossary only needs to include terms that your reader may not be familiar with, and is intended to enhance their understanding of your work.

Definitional terms often fall into the category of common knowledge , meaning that they don’t necessarily have to be cited. This guidance can apply to your thesis or dissertation glossary as well.

However, if you’d prefer to cite your sources , you can follow guidance for citing dictionary entries in MLA or APA style for your glossary.

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. In contrast, an index is a list of the contents of your work organised by page number.

Glossaries are not mandatory, but if you use a lot of technical or field-specific terms, it may improve readability to add one to your thesis or dissertation. Your educational institution may also require them, so be sure to check their specific guidelines.

A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it’s a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. In contrast, dictionaries are more general collections of words.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.

George, T. (2022, October 25). What Is a Glossary? | Definition, Templates, & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 30 May 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/what-is-a-glossary/

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Sample Definition of Terms for Chapter 1-Thesis Writing

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  1. Thesis Sample Definition Of Terms In Research Paper Pdf

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  2. Define Thesis : What is a Thesis? Definition, Examples of Theses in

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  3. 25 Thesis Statement Examples (2024)

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  5. Key Term Thesis Definition Of Terms In Research Paper Pdf

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  6. Overview of Terms and Definitions Used in This Research.

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Write the Definition of Terms in Chapter 1 of a Thesis

    The study is intended to describe the methods of defining terms found in the theses of the English Foreign Language (EFL) students of IAIN Palangka Raya. The method to be used is a mixed method, qualitative and quantitative. Quantitative approach was used to identify, describe the frequencies, and classify the methods of defining terms.

  2. PDF Definition of Key Terms in Your Dissertation: How to Decide What to

    These terms are common knowledge and are mostly understood the same way by everyone. For this specific example, the author should consider including the definitions of global value chains, international business as conceptualized in this study, or any other terms that have a specific meaning within your study field.

  3. Confusion to Clarity: Definition of Terms in a Research Paper

    A key term is a term that holds significant importance or plays a crucial role within the context of a research paper. It is a term that encapsulates a core concept, idea, or variable that is central to the study. Key terms are often essential for understanding the research objectives, methodology, findings, and conclusions.

  4. PDF TITLE OF THE STUDY A Dissertation Presented to the The Faculty of the

    Definitions of Terms . Provide definitions for all important terms or variables that will be used in the dissertation. You might use hanging indents to set off the terms being defined. Include citations for definitions that are taken from the research literature.

  5. What Is a Glossary?

    Revised on July 18, 2023. A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it's a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. Your glossary only needs to include terms that your reader may not be familiar with, and it's intended to enhance their ...

  6. Definitions of terms in a bachelor, master or PhD thesis

    The term has been known for a long time and is frequently used in scientific sources. The definitions in different sources are relatively consistent. This can be seen from the fact that the same source references appear repeatedly in definitions. Examples of such terms are attitudes, motivation, incentives, learning disabilities or controlling.

  7. Academic Phrasebank

    Defining terms. In academic work students are often expected to give definitions of key words and phrases in order to demonstrate to their tutors that they understand these terms clearly. More generally, however, academic writers define terms so that their readers understand exactly what is meant when certain key terms are used.

  8. Glossary in a Dissertation

    Listing Terms in a Glossary. A recommended practice of adding a glossary in a dissertation is to sort the terms alphabetically and provide a definition or explanations for each of those terms. Having the terms listed in alphabetical order will help the readers to easily locate the information they are interested in.

  9. Definition of Terms for Every Dissertation

    The best way to think about what to include in your study's Definition of Terms section is by thinking of it almost as a short glossary or checklist of what your readers absolutely need to know to orient themselves to the specific ideas and language of your topic and field of research. By way of illustration, and since examples in context are ...

  10. Explicate the Definition of Terms

    You will then explicate the definition of each term that you have identified to best represent your understanding and application of each term in your dissertation. Generally, a component of Definitions and Terms is to ground the definitions using the literature. Specifically, a component of Definitions and Terms is to establish how the key ...

  11. Research Proposal 6

    EXAMPLES EXAMPLES OPERATIONAL DEFINITION: Reference: Basic Concepts and Methods in Research by Venancio B. Ardales Best, John W. Research in Education Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey:Prentice Hall, 1970. Chen, Paul C.Y. "Traditional and Modern Medicine in Malaysia" Social Sciencee and Medicine 15A(1981):127-136 Definition of terms

  12. What Is a Thesis?

    Revised on April 16, 2024. A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master's program or a capstone to a bachelor's degree. Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation, it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete.

  13. In Need of Definition: How to Select Terms to Define in your

    Introduction. One section that is often required in a dissertation is the "Definitions of Terms.". This gives your readers an understanding of the concepts or factors that will be discussed throughout your study, as well as contextual information as to how you will be using those concepts in your study. The "Definitions of Terms ...

  14. Thesis

    Thesis. Your thesis is the central claim in your essay—your main insight or idea about your source or topic. Your thesis should appear early in an academic essay, followed by a logically constructed argument that supports this central claim. A strong thesis is arguable, which means a thoughtful reader could disagree with it and therefore ...

  15. Q: How to write operational definition of terms?

    Answer: Operational definition of terms refers to a detailed explanation of the technical terms and measurements used during data collection. This is done to standardize the data. Whenever data is being collected, it is necessary to clearly define how to collect the data. Data that is not defined runs the risk of being inconsistent and might ...

  16. PDF Definition of Terms

    The term is the word to be defined, the genus is the class where the object of definition belongs, and the differentia is a characteristic that makes the object different from other members of the class. In the statement, "The triangle is a geometric figure with three sides and three angles", triangle is the term, geometric figure is the ...

  17. Thesis: Definition and Examples

    The thesis (pronounced thee -seez), also known as a thesis statement, is the sentence that introduces the main argument or point of view of a composition (formal essay, nonfiction piece, or narrative). It is the main claim that the author is making about that topic and serves to summarize and introduce that writing that will be discussed ...

  18. research process

    Example of a thesis discussing definitions in the literature review chapter: Contesting the Culture of the Doctoral Degree: Candidates' Experiences of Three Doctoral Degrees in the School of Education, RMIT University. Link. A handbook for writing Master thesis recommends discussing definitions in the introduction: Bui, Yvonne N.

  19. What Is a Glossary?

    Revised on 25 October 2022. A glossary is a collection of words pertaining to a specific topic. In your thesis or dissertation, it's a list of all terms you used that may not immediately be obvious to your reader. Your glossary only needs to include terms that your reader may not be familiar with, and it's intended to enhance their ...

  20. What is a thesis

    A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a particular topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic using evidence and logic. Writing a thesis showcases your ability of critical thinking, gathering evidence, and making a compelling argument. Integral to these competencies is thorough research ...

  21. Sample Definition of Terms for Chapter 1-Thesis Writing

    Sample Definition of Terms for Chapter 1-Thesis Writing. (From my thesis, "Enhancing Proficiency in Communication through Campus Journalism") Apprenticeship. As used in the study it refers to the manner by which students engage themselves to toil in actual work situation in return for instruction in journalism craft. Campus Paper Adviser.

  22. Sample Definition of Terms

    Sample Definition of Terms - Free download as Word Doc (.doc / .docx), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. This document defines key terms used in a study on solid waste management. It defines collection as removing solid waste from its source or storage point. Disposal refers to placing solid waste into land. Ecological solid waste management involves segregating ...

  23. Definition of Terms: Maed-Filipino

    The document defines and discusses the importance of the "Definition of Terms" section in research. It states that the definition of terms provides definitions for important words, acronyms, theoretical constructs, and operational definitions that may not be widely known outside of the researcher's discipline. There are two types of definitions: theoretical definitions, which define concepts ...