dissertation structure du plan

Comment faire un plan de dissertation ?

Tu passes le bac de français ? CLIQUE ICI et deviens membre de commentairecompose.fr ! Tu accèderas gratuitement à tout le contenu du site et à mes meilleures astuces en vidéo.

Trouver le plan de sa dissertation est l’une des étapes fondamentales de la méthode de la dissertation .

Tes professeurs évoquent souvent les différents types de plans – dialectique, thématique, analytique – et autres appellations barbares.

Mais que signifient réellement ces termes ? Et comment choisir le plan de dissertation qui se prête à ton sujet ?

Voici un tour d’horizon des plans de dissertation pour faire le bon choix.

Il existe trois types de plan de dissertation.

Il existe trois types de plan de dissertation, mais pour le bac de français, tu n’as besoin de ne maîtriser que les deux premiers : le plan dialectique et le plan thématique.

Chacun type de plan de dissertation correspond à un type de sujet . Tu ne peux donc pas choisir n’importe quel plan pour n’importe quel sujet.

C’est comme un jeu d’association : tu dois marier ton sujet avec le plan de dissertation qui lui correspond.

Il existe un test imparable : celui de la question ouverte ou fermée qui te permet de savoir si tu dois t’orienter vers un plan thématique ou dialectique.

Je t’explique tout :

Plan de dissertation n°1 : Le plan dialectique

Le plan dialectique se résume souvent par la formule : thèse / antithèse / synthèse.

Mais attention : le plan dialectique ne fonctionne pas pour tous les sujets de dissertation littéraire !

Le plan dialectique est pertinent lorsque le sujet de dissertation invite au débat, à la confrontation.

Ton sujet de dissertation doit donc poser une question fermée , c’est à dire une question à laquelle tu peux répondre par oui ou par non.

Astuce : Deux personnes pourraient-elles se crêper le chignon parce qu’elles n’ont pas le même avis sur la question posée par votre dissertation ? Si oui, votre sujet de dissertation se prête à une discussion et donc à un plan dialectique .

Sujets de dissertation se prêtant à un plan dialectique :

• On emploie parfois l’expression « créer un personnage » au sujet d’un acteur qui endosse le rôle pour la première fois. Selon vous, peut-on dire que c’est l’acteur qui crée le personnage ? ( annales du bac de français 2009, série L)

→ On peut très bien imaginer deux camps distincts prêts à se crêper le chignon sur la question : ceux qui croient que l’acteur crée le personnage, ceux qui croient que l’acteur ne crée pas le personnage.

On peut donc recourir à un plan dialectique .

• Au théâtre, la dénonciation passe-t-elle uniquement par la violence de la parole ?

→ Ce sujet se prête à une discussion , à un échange de deux points de vue opposés : d’une part, ceux qui pensent que la dénonciation au théâtre passe uniquement par la violence de la parole, d’autre part ceux qui pensent que ce n’est pas le cas.

Un plan dialectique va alors permettre d’examiner ces points de vue antagonistes.

Mais attention : le plan dialectique n’est pas si simple qu’il y paraît !

Tu dois apprendre à l’utiliser avec subtilité, comme je te le montre dans ma méthode détaillée du plan dialectique .

Plan de dissertation n°2 : Le plan thématique

Les sujets de dissertation ne correspondent pas toujours à des questions fermées, auxquelles on peut répondre par oui ou par non.

Le libellé du sujet appelle parfois à une réponse ouverte .

Par exemple, si je te demande « Quelles sont les fonctions de la poésie ? », il t’est impossible de répondre par oui ou par non.

La question est donc une question ouverte qui appelle un plan thématique (ou plan notionnel ).

Dans un plan thématique, les grandes parties de ton plan correspondent à des réponses possibles, à des arguments.

C’est donc le plan de dissertation le plus difficile car sa réussite repose entièrement sur tes connaissances et tes idées sur le sujet.

Tu peux trouver ici ma méthode détaillée du plan thématique .

Sujet de dissertation se prêtant à un plan thématique:

• Comment l’évocation de situations difficiles peut-elle amener le lecteur à une réflexion sur l’homme ?

→ Il n’est pas possible de répondre par oui ou par non à cette question. Ce sujet n’invite donc pas à une discussion. Il s’agit d’une question ouverte appelant à un plan thématique.

L’enjeu va donc être d’explorer les différents moyens dont dispose la littérature pour faire réfléchir et argumenter.

• En quoi la poésie permet-elle de porter un regard renouvelé sur le monde ?

→ La question est ouverte et n’invite pas à une prise de position, à une confrontation. Ce sujet de dissertation se prête donc à un plan thématique.

L’enjeu ici est d’ examiner la thèse de la question (« la poésie permet de porter un regard renouvelé sur le monde ») et d’ étayer cette thèse avec des arguments et des exemples.

Plan de dissertation n°3 : Le plan analytique (pour les autres matières que le français)

Le plan analytique n’est pas un plan qui sert en littérature. Tu n’en as donc pas besoin au bac de français .

Je l’évoque toutefois ici car le plan analytique est utile dans d’autres matières, comme l’ économie, l’histoire-géographie, la culture générale, le droit.

Le plan analytique vise à examiner un problème en profondeur. Il explore les différents aspects d’un sujet, décrit un problème, en suivant souvent la structure «  Problèmes – causes- conséquences ou solutions « .

Il ne s’agit donc plus de peser le pour ou le contre comme dans le plan dialectique ou d’explorer toutes les facettes d’une notions comme dans le plan thématique.

Exemple de sujet (non littéraire) amenant à un plan analytique :

• La puissance des Etats-Unis

→ Un tel sujet t’invite à examiner les différents aspects de la puissance des Etas-Unis (puissance économique, culturelle, politique…)

Saurais-tu trouver le bon plan de dissertation littéraire ?

Teste-toi facilement avec mon quiz spécial plan de dissertation .

Pour aller plus loin :

♦ Analyser un sujet de dissertation (méthode en 5 étapes) ♦ L’introduction de la dissertation ♦ Comment faire une conclusion de dissertation ♦ Exemple de dissertation

Les 3 vidéos préférées des élèves :

• La technique INCONTOURNABLE pour faire décoller tes notes en commentaire [vidéo]
• Quel sujet choisir au bac de français ? [vidéo]
• Comment trouver un plan de dissertation ? [vidéo]

Tu entres en Première ?

Commande ton livre 2025 en cliquant ici ⇓.

Qui suis-je ?

Amélie Vioux

Je suis professeur particulier spécialisée dans la préparation du bac de français (2nde et 1re).

Sur mon site, tu trouveras des analyses, cours et conseils simples, directs, et facilement applicables pour augmenter tes notes en 2-3 semaines.

Je crée des formations en ligne sur commentairecompose.fr depuis 14 ans.

Tu peux également retrouver mes conseils dans mon livre Réussis ton bac de français 2025 aux éditions Hachette.

J'ai également publié une version de ce livre pour les séries Techno ici.

94 commentaires

Peut on avoir des consignes qui peuvent nous aider à cerner un plan dialectique du plan analytique ? Par exemple : commentez et discutez ; montrer ; justifier,…

Bonjour, Amélie,

Merci pour ces cours et quizz de qualité qui m’ont enfin permise de comprendre la différence entre plan analytique et thématique !

Bonne continuation,

Bonjour, en classe on nous parle du plan concessif. Est ce que c’est un 4èm plan ? Merci d’avance

Bonjour j’ai besoin d’aide s’il vous plaît , je ne sais pas quelle plan ( dialectique,thématique ou analitique) utiliser pour mon sujet ,j’ai fait plusieurs recherches mais je ne trouve toujours pas.Voila la consigne : Michel Tournier a dit, à propos du personnage de Robinson Crusoé, lors d’un entretien radiophonique : « C’est ça qui est incroyable, dans le personnage de Robinson, c’est qu’il parle à tous les hommes, quel que soit le point de vue sous lequel on l’observe : il y a le technicien et l’administrateur, il y a le colonisateur puis le poète, l’homme de l’île déserte, le philosophe de la solitude et il y a le lecteur de la Bible. » Après avoir commenté cette citation de Michel Tournier, vous direz si selon vous Michel Tournier a réussi à parler à tous les hommes à travers son personnage de Robinson.

Le plan analytique

Bonjour qu’est ce que le « dépassement de la question » dans le plan analytique ?

Bonjour ! J’ai une question sur la méthode de la dissertation. Est-ce que dans chaque sous-partie, il ne doit y avoir qu’un seul exemple ou on peut en faire figurer par exemple 2 qui sont tous les 2 en rapport avec l’idée de la sous-partie ? Merci d’avance ! Et bravo pour votre site, il est extrement utile pour le bac de français.

Bonjour, j’ai une dissertation avec la problématique suivante : Dans qu’elle mesure le statut de l’écrivain lui permet-il de jouer un rôle spécifique dans la défense d’une cause. Cependant le terme « dans qu’elle mesure » me pose des problèmes sur le choix de mon plan. Pourriez-vous m’aider. Cordialement

Coucou Victoria, j’ai moi aussi une dissertation avec cette problématique: « Pensez-vous que le statut de l’écrivain lui permet de dire le monde ». Mais moi, je ne comprends pas ce qu’est le statut de l’écrivain (romancier, poète, dramaturge ou influence sur le peuple ?)

Bonjour Lisa, Il faut t’aider d’un dictionnaire pour définir les mots que tu ne comprends pas. C’est un impératif pour réussir une dissertation. Le statut d’une personne, c’est la position d’une personne dans la société. Ensuite, « l’écrivain » est la personne qui écrit des ouvrages littéraires. Il n ‘y a aucune raison de vouloir distinguer le type d’œuvres (poésie, théâtre, roman). Pars de la définition que tu trouves dans le dictionnaire.

Bonjour, j’ai une petite question : peut-on faire référence à des oeuvres artistiques dans une dissertation si elles ont un lien avec le sujet ou doit-on prendre seulement comme exemple des oeuvres littéraires ? Merci d’avance !

Bonjour Camille, Tu peux faire référence à des œuvres artistiques uniquement si elles sont en lien avec le sujet . Ce ne sera pas le cas lorsque le sujet vous impose de vous référer à un genre précis (par exemple la poésie, le roman ou le théâtre).

Sujet: pourquoi refuse-t-on là conscience à l’animal?

Svp ce sujet nous conduit à quel genre de plan?

Bonjour, j’aurais besoin de votre aide, en effet je suis en première et je fais une prépa tremplin pour pouvoir me préparer au concours science po. J’ai une dissertation à rédiger et le sujet est: « Le monde de l’hyper communication est un monde séduisant mais dangereux, dans lequel la communication entre les Hommes est réduite à presque rien. » C’est une citation de François Bayrou. J’ai choisis comme problématique: » Dans quelle mesure l’hypercommunication est-elle paradoxale? ». Ma problématique semble-t-elle intéressante? Quel plan dois-je suivre? Merci d’avance!

slt, je prépare un concours d’intégration pour les grandes écoles de France. Et parmi les épreuves à affronter il y a bien évidemment et comme toujours la dissertation. Ainsi je sollicite votre aide pour un meilleur apprentissage des techniques de dissertation. je vous remercie d’avance

Bonsoir Amelie, je doit réaliser une dissertation sur le sujet : « dites en quoi certaines productions artistiques ont pus changer votre vie ? » je n’y arrive pas trop car c’est la première que je fais pourriez vous m’aidez à trouver le thermes du sujet et le plans ? Merci d’avance

Je ne peux pas faire d’aide aux devoirs dans les commentaires de mon site. Mes articles sont là pour vous aider et vous montrer comment faire, mais si tu as besoin d’un accompagnement de A à Z sur un sujet, il faut te tourner vers un professeur particulier.

Bonsoir Amélie, j’ai fait une dissertation sur le sujet : “En quoi la littérature peut nous aider à mieux connaitre l’homme ?“. J’ai donc choisit un plan thématique mais d’autres élèves ont choisit un plan dialectique. Les deux étaient donc possible ?

Un plan thématique est plus approprié pour cette question.

Bonjour pouvez vous me rééxpliquer le plan analytique? Je ne l’ai pas compris.

Bonsoir Amélie comment connait-on qu’un sujet qui m’est donné demande un plan analitique ou c’est un autre

olalala trop utile cest trop super génial grace a vous jai eu 19,5 au bac de français merci beaucoup je recommande ce site pour toutes personnes en difficulté

Je suis désolée de poser autant de question ! Je passe le bac de français cette année et c’est la 1ere fois que je fais une dissertation; L’an dernier nous n’en avons fait aucune.

Mais est ce qu’on ne pourrait pas écrire en grand un : les écrivains qui réfléchissent à la question de l’Homme se réfèrent souvent à une nature originelle ? Et en grand deux : les écrivains qui réfléchissent à la question de l’Homme se réfèrent également à une nature inaccessible ?

Bonsoir Amélie, Vous m’avez dit qu’il faut que, pour ma dissertation j’utilise un plan thématique, pourrais-je savoir la raison ? Car si un jour je retombe sur un sujet comme celui là, je saurais ce qu’il faudra faire, je connaîtrais la méthode 🙂

Je n’ai fait qu’appliquer la méthode que j’explique dans cet article. Ta question est une question ouverte (on ne peut pas y répondre par oui ou non) et aucun plan n’est suggéré dans la formulation. Chaque partie de ta dissertation correspond donc à un argument que tu dois trouver seul : tu suis donc un plan thématique.

D’accord merci !

S’il vous plaît j’ai VRAIMENT besoin d’aide !!

Bonjour Amélie ! Vos vidéos m’aident beaucoup dans mes révisions depuis que j’ai découvert le site ! Heureusement que vous avez crée ce blog

J’aurai également besoin d’aide svp !!! J’ai une dissertation a faire et j’y ai passé beaucoup de temps dessus, seulement je ne sais pas si le plan que j’ai est correcte. Voici le sujet : « Montrez que les écrivains qui réfléchissent à la question de l’Homme se réfèrent souvent à une nature originelle et inaccessible. Vous pouvez vous reporter à Montaigne mais aussi à d’autres auteurs, poètes, philosophes, romancier, … » Au départ, je pensais qu’il fallait utiliser un plan thématique, après, comme le sujet commence par « Montrez que » je pense qu’il faut plutôt utiliser un plan analytique sauf que je n’en suis pas süre. Pouvez vous me dire si je suis sur la bonne voie en voulant utiliser un plan analytique svp ?

Ta question invite à un plan thématique : organise ta dissertation autour de 2 à 3 arguments permettant de démontrer la pertinence de la thèse qu’on te demande de défendre. Bon courage !

Bonjour j’ai besoin d’aide c’est urgent s’il vous plaît ! J’ai une dissertation à faire pour demain mais je n’arrive pas à trouver le plan qui correspond au sujet… Je suppose que c’est un plan thématique ? Voilà mon sujet: « Pour interpréter la société, pour éveiller la conscience humaine, que gagne l’écrivain à s’exprimer dans une forme poétique ? » Ce sujet est accompagné de trois textes différents. Je suis en 1ere S. En vous remerciant.

Ton sujet invite bien à un plan thématique. Mais tu t’y prends tard si tu dois le rendre demain. Analyse le sujet, revois l’objet d’étude poésie, réfléchis à ce que peut apporter le choix d’écrire dans une forme poétique (par rapport à d’autres formes d’écriture).

Merci beaucoup

bonsoirs pourrais tu mettre la méthode de la question sur corpus merci

Bonjour Amélie! J’ai une petite question pour toi. Une formule qui nous interroge directement (du type « Pensez-vous » « Selon vous » « Attendez-vous »), implique-t-elle de répondre avec un plan analytique? Merci d’avance.

Bonjour ! mon professeur nous a donné un sujet de dissertation sur le film Into the wild pour lequel je n’arrive pas à choisir de plan … le voici : « admettre que la vie humaine peut-être gouvernée par la raison, c’est détruire toute possibilté de vie ». En quoi selon vous, cette citation, tirée du roman Guerre et paix de Léon Tolstoï, et figurant dans la première partie du film, peut-elle se rapporter au parcours de Christopher MacCandless ? pourriez-vous m’aider ?

Bonjour, je viens de lire tout l’article mais la clairement je sèche: la question : Pensez-vous que la poésie permette le dépassement d’une épreuve ? On a en texte Victor Hugo les contemplations IV, Dany Laferrière paris 1983, et Louis Aragon Elsa « un homme pense sous sa fenêtre et chante ». Pouvez vous m’éclaire afin de trouver un plan merci

Bonjour Amélie Je viens de tomber sur votre site qui est très sympathique !

Alors je ne suis pas étudiante je prépare le concours d’aide soignante, je dois faire un exposé sur une image qui représente le ventre d’une femme entouré de ses mains et où il est écrit  » Mon corps , Mon droit  » cela m’a tout de suite fait penser à lavortement mais quel plan choisir ? Merci de votre aide

Bonjour j’ai une dissertation à fair mais j’ai peur de me tromper dans le plan. A l’ère de l’Internet et de la communication virtuelle dans un monde envahi d’image diffusée sur des écrans multiples quel plaisir peut il y avoir encore à lire ? C’est un plan analytique ?

Il faut t’orienter vers un plan thématique . Bon courage !

salut mme amélie je voulais te demander si tu pouvais m’aider à trouver une problematique pour une dissertation à faire sur Bel Ami mais le sujet est les Femmes de Georges Duroy

Bonjour Amélie! Je voulais tout d’abord que j’adore ton site, il est clair beau et tes exemples sont parlant et illustrés. Après avoir lu ton articles sur les plans, je voudrais savoir si j’ai bien tout compris. Si ma question est  » En quoi les œuvres littéraires permettent-elles de construire une réflexion sur la condition de l’homme » c’est un plan analytique( on peut par répondre par oui ou par non) mais je n’arrive pas à trouver un plan… Ce serait: I- Les oeuvres littéraires construisent une réflexion II- Les oeuvres littéraires contruisent la condition humaine? Désolé de t’embêter mais c’est ma toute première dissertation et le prof nous a pas fait de méthode…

Bonjour Anna, Ta questions suggère plutôt un plan thématique (plan n°3) : il s’agit d’une question ouverte mais le plan n’est pas suggéré dans la question (il n’est pas judicieux de séparer le terme « réflexion » de celui de « condition humaine »). C’est à toi de trouver des réponses à cette question puis de les organiser de la plus simple à la plus complexe (pour faire deux ou trois parties).

Bonjour , je ne sais pas si ce site est toujours occupé , je suis en 1èreL et on m’a donné comme question « dans quelle mesure l’écrivain ou l’artiste qui critique son époque et la société de son temps peut-il faire réfléchir le lecteur sur la question de l’homme en général? » j’en déduis que la question appelle à un plan analytique mais je n’ai aucune idée de la façon dont je dois présenter mon plan, aucune idée de parties..

Je dois participer à une épreuve écrite de réflexion à partir d’un document pour une entrée en formation..Cela signifie-t-il que je dois faire mon plan uniquement à travers ce document ou aussi à partir de mes connaissances personnelles ? Aussi est-ce obligatoire de faire 3 parties ?

Bonjour, j’aimerai savoir si le dépassement est obligatoire dans une dissertation de type dialectique puisque mon professeur nous a expliqué que si la conclusion comprenait un début de dépassement cela suffisait. Merci de votre réponse

Bonjour, mon sujet de dissertation est : Comment le théâtre représente t il la complexité des relations amoureuses? C’est donc un plan analytique, ainsi j’ai répondu de la manière suivante:

I- Le théâtre rend l’intériorité des personnages visibles A) Les règles du théâtre classiques du 17ème B) Les paroles des personnages C) Les didascalies

II- Le théâtre représente les sentiments amoureux pour rendre l’homme meilleur A) miroir du monde B) identification C) corriger l’homme

Pouvez-vous me dire ce qu’il y a à refaire, je voulais mettre dans le grand I- le « comment? » et dans le grand II- le « pourquoi? » mais du coup cela sépare les outils des thèmes..Comment pourrais-je l’arranger?

Slu je voudrais quel est le theme et la problematique de CE sujet:Demain le travail a la carte ?

Bonsoir Amélie

Tout d’abord merci beaucoup pour votre site, vos leçons ! J’aimerais savoir si la problématique « Qu’apportent, selon vous, au texte théâtral, le jeu des personnages et les choix de mise en scène ?  » amène bien à un plan thématique car il faudrait énoncer les apports de la représentation théâtrale par rapport au texte théâtral, ou si le « selon vous » amène à la discussion, au quel cas il faut utiliser un plan dialectique ? Je ne sais pas si je suis très claire… En tout cas encore une fois merci, bonne soirée !

Je suis membre depuis quelques heures seulement et j’ai beaucoup aimé votre blogue ! 🙂 Néanmoins j’ai un soucis dans les dissertations au sujet de la troisième partie : le dépassement de la question. Je ne sais pas en faire, si vous pouviez y remédier cela serait formidable !

Coucou . 🙂 Il me semble que tu as confondu le mot « dialectique » et analytique en parlant du plan Analytique car tu as dis  » Vous ne pouvez donc pas penser le pour et le contre AVEC un plan DIALECTIQUE! » Ou peut etre que c’est moi qui n’est rien compris au cours.. Lol ^^’ Sa m’a induit en erreur du coup :$ En tout cas je suis contente d’avoir tes cours à disposition pour réviser mon bac! 🙂

C’est une étourderie de ma part, qui est corrigée.

Bonjour ! Je m’interroge à propos de la question de dissertation suivante : Dans quelle mesure la forme littéraire peut-elle rendre une argumentation plus efficace ?

Doit-on citer les éléments qui font que la forme littéraire rend une argumentation efficace ou faut il faire un plan du type : I) la forme littéraire rend une argu efficace II) D’autres formes d’art rendent une argu efficace

Merci beaucoup !

Bonjour Amélie, Je voulais savoir s’il faut toujours faire un dépassement du sujet quelque soit le type de plan. Aussi, aurais-tu un conseil pour vite trouver un dépassement de sujet ? Je te remercie d’avance. M9ne

Bonjour Amélie, ton site m’a beaucoup aidé, je t’en remercie, j’ai juste une dernière question pour la dissertation ; Est-il possible d’utiliser des exemples d’auteurs qui ne sont pas français ? Par exemple, les Poétesses de Kaboul.

Je te remercie d’avance

Bonjour chere Amélie , j’ai juste une question concernant la dissertation en même temps le commentaire composé , ça va paraitre bête mais je veux savoir si pendant uue dissertation au bac, on écrit les titres sur sur sa copie , du genre Introduction, I)….. 1)…… A)…. a) … conclusion, mentionner les grands titres aussi commen on le voit dans les explication, je demande parceque je compose en candidat libre cette année apres des années a l’etranger et des amis avec qui j’ai revisé une fois m’ont mit ce doute si non personnellement je contente simplement de paragraphes espacés en fonction des parties , je serai tres heureux que vous m’enleviez ce doute avant les epreuves dans quelques jours merci

Bonjour chere Amélie , j’ai juste une question concernant la dissertation en même temps le commentaire composé , ça va paraitre bête mais je veux savoir si pendant uue dissertation au bac, on écrit les titres sur sur sa copie , du genre Introduction, I)….. 1)…… A)…. a) … conclusion, je demande parceque je compose en candidat libre cette année apres des années a l’etranger et des amis avec qui j’ai revisé une fois m’ont mit ce doute si non personnellement je contente simplement de paragraphes espacés en fonction des parties , je serai tres heureux que vous m’enleviez ce doute avant les epreuves dans quelques jours merci

Bonjours, voilà , j’ai beaucoup de mal avec mes corpus. Je me demandais si vous pourriez faire des tutoriels sur cela, car grâce à vous je comprend mieux le commentaire… Merci pour toute vos vidéos.

Bonjour Amélie! Tout d’abord je viens de découvrir ton site, à 1mois et demi du bac de français et je suis très contente! Tes explications sont très claires et aident beaucoup. Alors voila, j’ai une dissertation à faire avec pour sujet : « L’argumentation indirecte est-elle un moyen plus efficace pour traiter la question de l’homme? ». J’ai étudié en cours que des textes sur les sauvages, le cannibalisme, l’esclavagisme etc.. J’en ai dégagé un plan, qu’en penses-tu? I-Certes, l’argumentation indirecte est un moyen efficace pour traiter la question de l’homme II-Cependant, il en existe des limites III-Mais, il existe d’autres moyens aussi très compétents.

Merci d’avance, et bonne continuation.

( comment je peut te parler en priver ? )

ah d’accord merci ; sinon j’ai retravailler le sujet et je peut te reproposer un autre plan (mais détaillé ) cette fois mais en privé . Et j’ai une autre question , est ce que je doit parler de la catharsis dans ma dissertation ( ps je n’ai pas compris vraiment ce qu’est la catharsis) ;

merci d’avance

bonjour amelie j’ai cette dissertation : Aristote dit que le heros tragique doit susciter en nous la crainte et la pitié , dans la mesure ou il est à la fois victime et coupable . En quoi cette définition peut s’appliquer à Meursault ? J’ai fait ce plan : I) Effets sur le lecteur a) crainte b) pitié II) Absurdité du personnage a) victime b) coupable

Qu’est ce que tu en pense ?

( Meursault personnage de l’etranger de camus )

Merci d’avance 🙂

Ton plan répond mal à la question car tu n’as pas questionné le sujet. En effet, crainte/coupable et pitié/victimes sont des expressions qui vont de pair, il n’est donc pas cohérent de les séparer dans des parties différentes car tu répètes deux fois la même chose. Ensuite, il faudrait creuser ta réflexion pour proposer un dépassement en 3ème partie (ou si tu n’y arrives pas, uniquement en conclusion).

je doit parler dans ma dissertation de la catharsis?

Bonjour Amélie, je dois disserter sur cette citation : 《La vraie générosité envers l’avenir consiste à tout donner au présent .》Albert CAMUS l’homme révolté Voici le sujet : En quoi cette phrase résume t elle l’idée d’engagement ? Dissertez par un développement structuré qui s appuiera sur les textes vus en cours et vos connaissances personnelles. J ai compris la citation mais je ne sais pas quel plan utiliser analytique ou thématique et suivant le plan quelles parties utilisee Merci de me repondre au plus vite .

Il s’agit d’un sujet qui invite à un plan thématique puisque la question n’est pas fermée.

Bonsoir, j’ai une dissertation à faire et le sujet est : Les gens ne s’intéressent pas aux héros heureux. Il leur faut du tragique, du mythique, du monstrueux, du terrifiant. constante J. Lacarrière. Expliquez et discutez ce propos. Je pensais faire une partie sur l’explication de la phrase et une deuxième partie sur mon avis (plan que mon professeur de français nous a conseillé) mais je ne suis pas certaine que ce plan tienne la route… Je voulais avoir votre avis car je suis vos conseils depuis un certain temps et ils m’aident vraiment! Merci d’avance!

Bonjour Mel, Je te conseille de suivre le plan que vous conseille votre professeur et qui correspond bien à la consigne (Expliquez (I) et discutez (II). Bon courage !

Bonsoir Amélie et merci pour ces précieux conseils ! Puis-je t’en demander un autre ? (^_^’) Voila j’ai une dissertation à faire et le sujet est le suivant : Le véritable voyage est celui qui permet celon Rousseau de « secouer le joug de l’opinion « . Dans quelle mesure la littérature de voyage au sens large permet-elle de remettre en cause les idées reçue ?

J’ai tout d’abord (grâce à ton aide) choisis un plan thématique puisqu’il s’agit d’une question ouverte, en simplifiant le sujet cela donne : Jusqu’où la littérature de voyage peut-elle de changer les idées reçuts ?

Je voulais donc te demander si ce plan convient : La littérature de voyage permet de changer les idées reçut (I) cependant son action reste limité (II)

merci ( ^o ^) !!

Bonjour Eid, Tu as fait un plan dialectique mais il convient quand même pour ta question.

Bonsoir moi c’est une citation de Elsa Triolet « l’écriture est la plus noble conquête de l’homme.le roman l’intermédiaire entre l’homme et la vie. » J’ai choisi un plan analytique mais je ne suis pas trop sur

Bonjour J’ai une dissertation à faire et le sujet est :  » pensez-vous que pour argumenter , il soit préférable d’avoir recours à des textes typiquement argumentatifs ou à des formes plus littéraires ?  » je pense qu’il faut un plan thématique mais je ne suis pas sûr ! :$ pouvez vous m’aider svp ?

Bonsoir Alex, Ton sujet se prête à un plan analytique : le plan de ta dissertation est en réalité suggéré dans la question (tout au moins les deux premières parties qu’il faudrait ensuite dépasser dans une synthèse).

Bonjour, Dans le plan de type analytique, il est question d’un « dépassement de la question » en troisième partie. Pourriez-vous s’il vous plait expliciter ce point ? Qu’est ce qu’un dépassement de la question, et comment en rédiger un qui soit convenable ? Merci d’avance (et bravo pour ce blog !)

Bonjour Aïda, Dans ma formation gratuite en 10 leçons vidéo, j’explicite davantage ce point. Si tu n’es pas encore inscrite, tu peux le faire en cliquant ici . A bientôt.

Bonjour, j’ai un plan de dissertation a faire le sujet est le suivant « la littérature doit-elle se mêler de la politique ou de la religion » .Selon moi c’est le plan analytique qui convient le mieux mais je ne réussi pas à composé ce plan . Pouvez vous m’aider? Merci d’avance pour votre réponse .

Bonjour Naoufel,

Pour réussir ta dissertation, questionne le sujet : pourquoi le libellé emploie-t-il le verbe devoir (« doit-il ») ? Cela fait-il référence à une obligation, à un devoir ? Pourquoi opposer politique et religion ? Le sujet doit t’étonner : généralement on considère plutôt que la littérature n’a rien à voir avec la politique et la religion…Ainsi quels sont les présupposés de ton sujet ? Ce long travail de questionnement du sujet est primordial : sans lui, impossible de trouver un plan.

Bonjour Amélie ,merci pour votre réponse et je reviens vers vous car je pensais que je pouvais dans mon plan analytique (si c’est le bon plan?)parler de religieux et de politique puisqu’il me semble selon les œuvre que je connais (les juste de Albert Camus ,le père Goriot ,les misérable de Victor Hugo traitent de politique et que Pantagruel ch8 de Rabelais et « sur les cannibale »de Montaigne traitent eux de religion)c’est sur ces axes que j’ai composé mon plan. Bravo pour tout votre travaille et merci d’avance pour les explications que vous pourrez m’apporter .Naoufel

Bonjour Naoufel, Les œuvres que tu cites peuvent constituer de bons exemples. S’agissant de ta dissertation, tu dois opter plutôt pour un plan thématique : en effet, les parties de ta dissertation ne sont pas suggérées dans le libellé (il ne faut surtout par faire une partie sur la politique et une partie sur la religion car ça ne répond pas à la question). Comme je te l’ai expliqué, tu dois questionner le sujet, comprendre ses présupposés pour construire une réponse qui se tienne.

Salut, j’ai besoin d’aide! Je voudrais savoir quel plan choisir pour ma dissertation, ma citation est  » J’ai peur que la grande télévision ne tue la petite qu’il y a en chacun de nous, celle de l’imaginaire » de Devos. Merci

Bonjour Bever, Ta citation n’est-elle pas accompagnée d’une consigne ?

Dans ce cas, tu peux considérer que la consigne implicite de ton sujet est : « Pensez-vous comme Devos que la télévision tue l’imaginaire ? ». Cette question te mène vers un plan dialectique : c’est une question fermée (on peut y répondre par oui ou non) qui prête à discussion.

bonjour est-ce que je pourrais avoir la fiche de lecture de albert camus et l’education sentimentale de Gustave Flaubert et ce que l’auteur defend merci ce site est interresant

Bonjour, Je n’ai fait aucune fiche de lecture sur L’Education sentimentale de Flaubert. Tu peux toutefois trouver des informations sur Camus dans cet article sur l’absurde . A bientôt,

Bonjour amelie , ton site est excellent et jai besoin d’un peu d’aide Voila j ai une problématique pour une dissertation qui est de quel manière le maitre et le valet sont-ils inséparable sur scène mais également complémentaire et oppose ? On m’a demander de la reformuler la problématique cependant je n’arrive pas a la reformuler et a trouver un plan Pouvez-vous m’aider ?

Bonjour Roxane, Je ne peux pas vous aider de façon personnalisée pour faire vos devoirs. Tu as du mal à reformuler ta problématique car tu n’as pas trouvé de plan. Il faut travailler davantage ta dissertation et ton plan afin de mieux formuler tes idées.

Bonjour je voudrais savoir si le sujet est sur le theatre est ce que je peux utiliser en exemple une piece de theatre vu durant l’année (c’est a dire une représentation de theâtre)

Il est nécessaire d’avoir de nombreuses références riches et variés pour réussir la dissertation. Ainsi, citer et analyser des textes de votre connaissance n’est pas seulement une possibilité mais une obligation en dissertation.

Bonsoir, Alors j’ai voulu me faire un quiz en essayant d’identifier les plans dans différent sujet de dissertation mais j’ai un doute pour un sujet,qui est le suivant : » « La poésie n’a pas d’autre but qu’Elle-même. » écrit Beaudelaire. Vous vous interrogerez sur cette déclaration et vous vous demanderez si elle correspond à votre définition de la poésie. » Je pense que c’est un plan thématique mais je ne suis pas sur, qu’en pensez-vous ?

Bonjour Marjorie, C’est bien cela : ta question invite à un plan thématique dans lequel tu vas t’interroger sur les différents buts possibles de la poésie.

Tes méthodes sont vraiment bien, dommage que je t’ai pas comme prof de français parce que tout semble si facile dans tes explications.

très utile franchement merci 🙂

Waou, moi qui sèche sur ma dissert à rendre pour lundi, c’est exactement ce qu’il me fallait, j’avais pas compris les choses aussi clairement avant 🙂 ça va m’aidé pour faire mon plan de dissertation ce week-end, merci !

Laisse un commentaire ! X

Merci de laisser un commentaire ! Pour des raisons pédagogiques et pour m'aider à mieux comprendre ton message, il est important de soigner la rédaction de ton commentaire. Vérifie notamment l'orthographe, la syntaxe, les accents, la ponctuation, les majuscules ! Les commentaires qui ne sont pas soignés ne sont pas publiés.

Site internet

• How it works

How to Structure a Dissertation – A Step by Step Guide

Published by Owen Ingram at August 11th, 2021 , Revised On September 20, 2023

A dissertation – sometimes called a thesis –  is a long piece of information backed up by extensive research. This one, huge piece of research is what matters the most when students – undergraduates and postgraduates – are in their final year of study.

On the other hand, some institutions, especially in the case of undergraduate students, may or may not require students to write a dissertation. Courses are offered instead. This generally depends on the requirements of that particular institution.

If you are unsure about how to structure your dissertation or thesis, this article will offer you some guidelines to work out what the most important segments of a dissertation paper are and how you should organise them. Why is structure so important in research, anyway?

One way to answer that, as Abbie Hoffman aptly put it, is because: “Structure is more important than content in the transmission of information.”

Also Read:   How to write a dissertation – step by step guide .

How to Structure a Dissertation or Thesis

It should be noted that the exact structure of your dissertation will depend on several factors, such as:

• Your research approach (qualitative/quantitative)
• The nature of your research design (exploratory/descriptive etc.)
• The requirements set for forth by your academic institution.
• The discipline or field your study belongs to. For instance, if you are a humanities student, you will need to develop your dissertation on the same pattern as any long essay .

This will include developing an overall argument to support the thesis statement and organizing chapters around theories or questions. The dissertation will be structured such that it starts with an introduction , develops on the main idea in its main body paragraphs and is then summarised in conclusion .

However, if you are basing your dissertation on primary or empirical research, you will be required to include each of the below components. In most cases of dissertation writing, each of these elements will have to be written as a separate chapter.

But depending on the word count you are provided with and academic subject, you may choose to combine some of these elements.

For example, sciences and engineering students often present results and discussions together in one chapter rather than two different chapters.

If you have any doubts about structuring your dissertation or thesis, it would be a good idea to consult with your academic supervisor and check your department’s requirements.

Parts of  a Dissertation or Thesis

Your dissertation will  start with a t itle page that will contain details of the author/researcher, research topic, degree program (the paper is to be submitted for), and research supervisor. In other words, a title page is the opening page containing all the names and title related to your research.

The name of your university, logo, student ID and submission date can also be presented on the title page. Many academic programs have stringent rules for formatting the dissertation title page.

Acknowledgements

The acknowledgments section allows you to thank those who helped you with your dissertation project. You might want to mention the names of your academic supervisor, family members, friends, God, and participants of your study whose contribution and support enabled you to complete your work.

However, the acknowledgments section is usually optional.

Tip: Many students wrongly assume that they need to thank everyone…even those who had little to no contributions towards the dissertation. This is not the case. You only need to thank those who were directly involved in the research process, such as your participants/volunteers, supervisor(s) etc.

Perhaps the smallest yet important part of a thesis, an abstract contains 5 parts:

• A brief introduction of your research topic.
• The significance of your research.
•  A line or two about the methodology that was used.
• The results and what they mean (briefly); their interpretation(s).
• And lastly, a conclusive comment regarding the results’ interpretation(s) as conclusion .

Stuck on a difficult dissertation? We can help!

Our Essay Writing Service Features:

• Expert UK Writers
• Plagiarism-free
• Timely Delivery
• Thorough Research
• Rigorous Quality Control

“ Our expert dissertation writers can help you with all stages of the dissertation writing process including topic research and selection, dissertation plan, dissertation proposal , methodology , statistical analysis , primary and secondary research, findings and analysis and complete dissertation writing. “

Tip: Make sure to highlight key points to help readers figure out the scope and findings of your research study without having to read the entire dissertation. The abstract is your first chance to impress your readers. So, make sure to get it right. Here are detailed guidelines on how to write abstract for dissertation .

Table of Contents

Table of contents is the section of a dissertation that guides each section of the dissertation paper’s contents. Depending on the level of detail in a table of contents, the most useful headings are listed to provide the reader the page number on which said information may be found at.

Table of contents can be inserted automatically as well as manually using the Microsoft Word Table of Contents feature.

List of Figures and Tables

If your dissertation paper uses several illustrations, tables and figures, you might want to present them in a numbered list in a separate section . Again, this list of tables and figures can be auto-created and auto inserted using the Microsoft Word built-in feature.

List of Abbreviations

Dissertations that include several abbreviations can also have an independent and separate alphabetised  list of abbreviations so readers can easily figure out their meanings.

If you think you have used terms and phrases in your dissertation that readers might not be familiar with, you can create a  glossary  that lists important phrases and terms with their meanings explained.

Looking for dissertation help?

Researchprospect to the rescue then.

We have expert writers on our team who are skilled at helping students with quantitative dissertations across a variety of STEM disciplines. Guaranteeing 100% satisfaction!

Introduction

Introduction chapter  briefly introduces the purpose and relevance of your research topic.

Here, you will be expected to list the aim and key objectives of your research so your readers can easily understand what the following chapters of the dissertation will cover. A good dissertation introduction section incorporates the following information:

• It provides background information to give context to your research.
• It clearly specifies the research problem you wish to address with your research. When creating research questions , it is important to make sure your research’s focus and scope are neither too broad nor too narrow.
• it demonstrates how your research is relevant and how it would contribute to the existing knowledge.
• It provides an overview of the structure of your dissertation. The last section of an introduction contains an outline of the following chapters. It could start off with something like: “In the following chapter, past literature has been reviewed and critiqued. The proceeding section lays down major research findings…”
• Theoretical framework – under a separate sub-heading – is also provided within the introductory chapter. Theoretical framework deals with the basic, underlying theory or theories that the research revolves around.

All the information presented under this section should be relevant, clear, and engaging. The readers should be able to figure out the what, why, when, and how of your study once they have read the introduction. Here are comprehensive guidelines on how to structure the introduction to the dissertation .

“Overwhelmed by tight deadlines and tons of assignments to write? There is no need to panic! Our expert academics can help you with every aspect of your dissertation – from topic creation and research problem identification to choosing the methodological approach and data analysis.”

Literature Review 

The  literature review chapter  presents previous research performed on the topic and improves your understanding of the existing literature on your chosen topic. This is usually organised to complement your  primary research  work completed at a later stage.

Make sure that your chosen academic sources are authentic and up-to-date. The literature review chapter must be comprehensive and address the aims and objectives as defined in the introduction chapter. Here is what your literature research chapter should aim to achieve:

• Data collection from authentic and relevant academic sources such as books, journal articles and research papers.
• Analytical assessment of the information collected from those sources; this would involve a critiquing the reviewed researches that is, what their strengths/weaknesses are, why the research method they employed is better than others, importance of their findings, etc.
• Identifying key research gaps, conflicts, patterns, and theories to get your point across to the reader effectively.

While your literature review should summarise previous literature, it is equally important to make sure that you develop a comprehensible argument or structure to justify your research topic. It would help if you considered keeping the following questions in mind when writing the literature review:

• How does your research work fill a certain gap in exiting literature?
• Did you adopt/adapt a new research approach to investigate the topic?
• Does your research solve an unresolved problem?
• Is your research dealing with some groundbreaking topic or theory that others might have overlooked?
• Is your research taking forward an existing theoretical discussion?
• Does your research strengthen and build on current knowledge within your area of study? This is otherwise known as ‘adding to the existing body of knowledge’ in academic circles.

Tip: You might want to establish relationships between variables/concepts to provide descriptive answers to some or all of your research questions. For instance, in case of quantitative research, you might hypothesise that variable A is positively co-related to variable B that is, one increases and so does the other one.

Research Methodology

The methods and techniques ( secondary and/or primar y) employed to collect research data are discussed in detail in the  Methodology chapter. The most commonly used primary data collection methods are:

• questionnaires
• focus groups
• observations

Essentially, the methodology chapter allows the researcher to explain how he/she achieved the findings, why they are reliable and how they helped him/her test the research hypotheses or address the research problem.

You might want to consider the following when writing methodology for the dissertation:

• Type of research and approach your work is based on. Some of the most widely used types of research include experimental, quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
• Data collection techniques that were employed such as questionnaires, surveys, focus groups, observations etc.
• Details of how, when, where, and what of the research that was conducted.
• Data analysis strategies employed (for instance, regression analysis).
• Software and tools used for data analysis (Excel, STATA, SPSS, lab equipment, etc.).
• Research limitations to highlight any hurdles you had to overcome when carrying our research. Limitations might or might not be mentioned within research methodology. Some institutions’ guidelines dictate they be mentioned under a separate section alongside recommendations.
• Justification of your selection of research approach and research methodology.

Here is a comprehensive article on  how to structure a dissertation methodology .

Research Findings

In this section, you present your research findings. The dissertation findings chapter  is built around the research questions, as outlined in the introduction chapter. Report findings that are directly relevant to your research questions.

Any information that is not directly relevant to research questions or hypotheses but could be useful for the readers can be placed under the  Appendices .

As indicated above, you can either develop a  standalone chapter  to present your findings or combine them with the discussion chapter. This choice depends on  the type of research involved and the academic subject, as well as what your institution’s academic guidelines dictate.

For example, it is common to have both findings and discussion grouped under the same section, particularly if the dissertation is based on qualitative research data.

On the other hand, dissertations that use quantitative or experimental data should present findings and analysis/discussion in two separate chapters. Here are some sample dissertations to help you figure out the best structure for your own project.

Sample Dissertation

Tip: Try to present as many charts, graphs, illustrations and tables in the findings chapter to improve your data presentation. Provide their qualitative interpretations alongside, too. Refrain from explaining the information that is already evident from figures and tables.

The findings are followed by the  Discussion chapter , which is considered the heart of any dissertation paper. The discussion section is an opportunity for you to tie the knots together to address the research questions and present arguments, models and key themes.

This chapter can make or break your research.

The discussion chapter does not require any new data or information because it is more about the interpretation(s) of the data you have already collected and presented. Here are some questions for you to think over when writing the discussion chapter:

• Did your work answer all the research questions or tested the hypothesis?
• Did you come up with some unexpected results for which you have to provide an additional explanation or justification?
• Are there any limitations that could have influenced your research findings?

Here is an article on how to  structure a dissertation discussion .

Conclusions corresponding to each research objective are provided in the  Conclusion section . This is usually done by revisiting the research questions to finally close the dissertation. Some institutions may specifically ask for recommendations to evaluate your critical thinking.

By the end, the readers should have a clear apprehension of your fundamental case with a focus on  what methods of research were employed  and what you achieved from this research.

Quick Question: Does the conclusion chapter reflect on the contributions your research work will make to existing knowledge?

Answer: Yes, the conclusion chapter of the research paper typically includes a reflection on the research’s contributions to existing knowledge.  In the “conclusion chapter”, you have to summarise the key findings and discuss how they add value to the existing literature on the current topic.

Reference list

All academic sources that you collected information from should be cited in-text and also presented in a  reference list (or a bibliography in case you include references that you read for the research but didn’t end up citing in the text), so the readers can easily locate the source of information when/if needed.

At most UK universities, Harvard referencing is the recommended style of referencing. It has strict and specific requirements on how to format a reference resource. Other common styles of referencing include MLA, APA, Footnotes, etc.

Each chapter of the dissertation should have relevant information. Any information that is not directly relevant to your research topic but your readers might be interested in (interview transcripts etc.) should be moved under the Appendices section .

Things like questionnaires, survey items or readings that were used in the study’s experiment are mostly included under appendices.

An Outline of Dissertation/Thesis Structure

How can We Help you with your Dissertation?

If you are still unsure about how to structure a dissertation or thesis, or simply lack the motivation to kick start your dissertation project, you might be interested in our dissertation services .

If you are still unsure about how to structure a dissertation or thesis, or lack the motivation to kick start your dissertation project, you might be interested in our dissertation services.

Whether you need help with individual chapters, proposals or the full dissertation paper, we have PhD-qualified writers who will write your paper to the highest academic standard. ResearchProspect is UK-based, and a UK-registered business, which means the UK consumer law protects all our clients.

All You Need to Know About Us Learn More About Our Dissertation Services

FAQs About Structure a Dissertation

What does the title page of a dissertation contain.

The title page will contain details of the author/researcher, research topic , degree program (the paper is to be submitted for) and research supervisor’s name(s). The name of your university, logo, student number and submission date can also be presented on the title page.

What is the purpose of adding acknowledgement?

The acknowledgements section allows you to thank those who helped you with your dissertation project. You might want to mention the names of your academic supervisor, family members, friends, God and participants of your study whose contribution and support enabled you to complete your work.

Can I omit the glossary from the dissertation?

Yes, but only if you think that your paper does not contain any terms or phrases that the reader might not understand. If you think you have used them in the paper,  you must create a glossary that lists important phrases and terms with their meanings explained.

What is the purpose of appendices in a dissertation?

Any information that is not directly relevant to research questions or hypotheses but could be useful for the readers can be placed under the Appendices, such as questionnaire that was used in the study.

Which referencing style should I use in my dissertation?

You can use any of the referencing styles such as APA, MLA, and Harvard, according to the recommendation of your university; however, almost all UK institutions prefer Harvard referencing style .

What is the difference between references and bibliography?

References contain all the works that you read up and used and therefore, cited within the text of your thesis. However, in case you read on some works and resources that you didn’t end up citing in-text, they will be referenced in what is called a bibliography.

Additional readings might also be present alongside each bibliography entry for readers.

You May Also Like

Table of contents is an essential part of dissertation paper. Here is all you need to know about how to create the best table of contents for dissertation.

Anyone who supports you in your research should be acknowledged in dissertation acknowledgments. Learn more on how to write dissertation acknowledgements.

This brief introductory section aims to deal with the definitions of two paradigms, positivism and post-positivism, as well as their importance in research.

USEFUL LINKS

LEARNING RESOURCES

COMPANY DETAILS

• How It Works

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, automatically generate references for free.

• Knowledge Base
• Dissertation

How to Write a Dissertation | A Guide to Structure & Content

A dissertation or thesis is a long piece of academic writing based on original research, submitted as part of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

The structure of a dissertation depends on your field, but it is usually divided into at least four or five chapters (including an introduction and conclusion chapter).

The most common dissertation structure in the sciences and social sciences includes:

• An introduction to your topic
• A literature review that surveys relevant sources
• An explanation of your methodology
• An overview of the results of your research
• A discussion of the results and their implications
• A conclusion that shows what your research has contributed

Dissertations in the humanities are often structured more like a long essay , building an argument by analysing primary and secondary sources . Instead of the standard structure outlined here, you might organise your chapters around different themes or case studies.

Other important elements of the dissertation include the title page , abstract , and reference list . If in doubt about how your dissertation should be structured, always check your department’s guidelines and consult with your supervisor.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Be assured that you'll submit flawless writing. Upload your document to correct all your mistakes.

Table of contents

Acknowledgements, table of contents, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review / theoretical framework, methodology, reference list.

The very first page of your document contains your dissertation’s title, your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date. Sometimes it also includes your student number, your supervisor’s name, and the university’s logo. Many programs have strict requirements for formatting the dissertation title page .

The title page is often used as cover when printing and binding your dissertation .

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

The acknowledgements section is usually optional, and gives space for you to thank everyone who helped you in writing your dissertation. This might include your supervisors, participants in your research, and friends or family who supported you.

The abstract is a short summary of your dissertation, usually about 150-300 words long. You should write it at the very end, when you’ve completed the rest of the dissertation. In the abstract, make sure to:

• State the main topic and aims of your research
• Describe the methods you used
• Summarise the main results
• State your conclusions

Although the abstract is very short, it’s the first part (and sometimes the only part) of your dissertation that people will read, so it’s important that you get it right. If you’re struggling to write a strong abstract, read our guide on how to write an abstract .

In the table of contents, list all of your chapters and subheadings and their page numbers. The dissertation contents page gives the reader an overview of your structure and helps easily navigate the document.

All parts of your dissertation should be included in the table of contents, including the appendices. You can generate a table of contents automatically in Word.

If you have used a lot of tables and figures in your dissertation, you should itemise them in a numbered list . You can automatically generate this list using the Insert Caption feature in Word.

If you have used a lot of abbreviations in your dissertation, you can include them in an alphabetised list of abbreviations so that the reader can easily look up their meanings.

If you have used a lot of highly specialised terms that will not be familiar to your reader, it might be a good idea to include a glossary . List the terms alphabetically and explain each term with a brief description or definition.

In the introduction, you set up your dissertation’s topic, purpose, and relevance, and tell the reader what to expect in the rest of the dissertation. The introduction should:

• Establish your research topic , giving necessary background information to contextualise your work
• Narrow down the focus and define the scope of the research
• Discuss the state of existing research on the topic, showing your work’s relevance to a broader problem or debate
• Clearly state your objectives and research questions , and indicate how you will answer them
• Give an overview of your dissertation’s structure

Everything in the introduction should be clear, engaging, and relevant to your research. By the end, the reader should understand the what , why and how of your research. Not sure how? Read our guide on how to write a dissertation introduction .

Before you start on your research, you should have conducted a literature review to gain a thorough understanding of the academic work that already exists on your topic. This means:

• Collecting sources (e.g. books and journal articles) and selecting the most relevant ones
• Critically evaluating and analysing each source
• Drawing connections between them (e.g. themes, patterns, conflicts, gaps) to make an overall point

In the dissertation literature review chapter or section, you shouldn’t just summarise existing studies, but develop a coherent structure and argument that leads to a clear basis or justification for your own research. For example, it might aim to show how your research:

• Addresses a gap in the literature
• Takes a new theoretical or methodological approach to the topic
• Proposes a solution to an unresolved problem
• Advances a theoretical debate
• Builds on and strengthens existing knowledge with new data

The literature review often becomes the basis for a theoretical framework , in which you define and analyse the key theories, concepts and models that frame your research. In this section you can answer descriptive research questions about the relationship between concepts or variables.

The methodology chapter or section describes how you conducted your research, allowing your reader to assess its validity. You should generally include:

• The overall approach and type of research (e.g. qualitative, quantitative, experimental, ethnographic)
• Your methods of collecting data (e.g. interviews, surveys, archives)
• Details of where, when, and with whom the research took place
• Your methods of analysing data (e.g. statistical analysis, discourse analysis)
• Tools and materials you used (e.g. computer programs, lab equipment)
• A discussion of any obstacles you faced in conducting the research and how you overcame them
• An evaluation or justification of your methods

Your aim in the methodology is to accurately report what you did, as well as convincing the reader that this was the best approach to answering your research questions or objectives.

Next, you report the results of your research . You can structure this section around sub-questions, hypotheses, or topics. Only report results that are relevant to your objectives and research questions. In some disciplines, the results section is strictly separated from the discussion, while in others the two are combined.

For example, for qualitative methods like in-depth interviews, the presentation of the data will often be woven together with discussion and analysis, while in quantitative and experimental research, the results should be presented separately before you discuss their meaning. If you’re unsure, consult with your supervisor and look at sample dissertations to find out the best structure for your research.

In the results section it can often be helpful to include tables, graphs and charts. Think carefully about how best to present your data, and don’t include tables or figures that just repeat what you have written  –  they should provide extra information or usefully visualise the results in a way that adds value to your text.

Full versions of your data (such as interview transcripts) can be included as an appendix .

The discussion  is where you explore the meaning and implications of your results in relation to your research questions. Here you should interpret the results in detail, discussing whether they met your expectations and how well they fit with the framework that you built in earlier chapters. If any of the results were unexpected, offer explanations for why this might be. It’s a good idea to consider alternative interpretations of your data and discuss any limitations that might have influenced the results.

The discussion should reference other scholarly work to show how your results fit with existing knowledge. You can also make recommendations for future research or practical action.

The dissertation conclusion should concisely answer the main research question, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your central argument. Wrap up your dissertation with a final reflection on what you did and how you did it. The conclusion often also includes recommendations for research or practice.

In this section, it’s important to show how your findings contribute to knowledge in the field and why your research matters. What have you added to what was already known?

You must include full details of all sources that you have cited in a reference list (sometimes also called a works cited list or bibliography). It’s important to follow a consistent reference style . Each style has strict and specific requirements for how to format your sources in the reference list.

The most common styles used in UK universities are Harvard referencing and Vancouver referencing . Your department will often specify which referencing style you should use – for example, psychology students tend to use APA style , humanities students often use MHRA , and law students always use OSCOLA . M ake sure to check the requirements, and ask your supervisor if you’re unsure.

To save time creating the reference list and make sure your citations are correctly and consistently formatted, you can use our free APA Citation Generator .

Your dissertation itself should contain only essential information that directly contributes to answering your research question. Documents you have used that do not fit into the main body of your dissertation (such as interview transcripts, survey questions or tables with full figures) can be added as appendices .

Is this article helpful?

Other students also liked.

• What Is a Dissertation? | 5 Essential Questions to Get Started
• What is a Literature Review? | Guide, Template, & Examples
• How to Write a Dissertation Proposal | A Step-by-Step Guide

More interesting articles

• Checklist: Writing a dissertation
• Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates
• Dissertation binding and printing
• Dissertation Table of Contents in Word | Instructions & Examples
• Dissertation title page
• Example Theoretical Framework of a Dissertation or Thesis
• Figure & Table Lists | Word Instructions, Template & Examples
• How to Choose a Dissertation Topic | 8 Steps to Follow
• How to Write a Discussion Section | Tips & Examples
• How to Write a Results Section | Tips & Examples
• How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion
• How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction
• How to Write an Abstract | Steps & Examples
• How to Write Recommendations in Research | Examples & Tips
• List of Abbreviations | Example, Template & Best Practices
• Operationalisation | A Guide with Examples, Pros & Cons
• Prize-Winning Thesis and Dissertation Examples
• Relevance of Your Dissertation Topic | Criteria & Tips
• Research Paper Appendix | Example & Templates
• Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples
• Thesis & Dissertation Database Examples
• What is a Dissertation Preface? | Definition & Examples
• What is a Glossary? | Definition, Templates, & Examples
• What Is a Research Methodology? | Steps & Tips
• What is a Theoretical Framework? | A Step-by-Step Guide
• What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples

What’s Included: The Dissertation Template

If you’re preparing to write your dissertation, thesis or research project, our free dissertation template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research projects such as dissertations and theses. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your dissertation or thesis will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The dissertation template covers the following core sections:

• The title page/cover page
• Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
• Table of contents
• List of figures /list of tables
• Chapter 1: Introduction  (also available: in-depth introduction template )
• Chapter 2: Literature review  (also available: in-depth LR template )
• Chapter 3: Methodology (also available: in-depth methodology template )
• Chapter 4: Research findings /results (also available: results template )
• Chapter 5: Discussion /analysis of findings (also available: discussion template )
• Chapter 6: Conclusion (also available: in-depth conclusion template )
• Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required in each section.

The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Dissertation Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The dissertation template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of dissertations/theses can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research projects such as dissertations or theses, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Will this work for a research paper?

A research paper follows a similar format, but there are a few differences. You can find our research paper template here .

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my dissertation/thesis be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. As a general ballpark, Masters-level projects are usually 15,000 – 20,000 words in length, while Doctoral-level projects are often in excess of 60,000 words.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this dissertation template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our dissertation and thesis coaching services .

Academic & Employability Skills

Subscribe to academic & employability skills.

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 416 other subscribers.

Email Address

Writing your dissertation - structure and sections

Posted in: dissertations

In this post, we look at the structural elements of a typical dissertation. Your department may wish you to include additional sections but the following covers all core elements you will need to work on when designing and developing your final assignment.

The table below illustrates a classic dissertation layout with approximate lengths for each section.

Hopkins, D. and Reid, T., 2018.  The Academic Skills Handbook: Your Guid e to Success in Writing, Thinking and Communicating at University . Sage.

Your title should be clear, succinct and tell the reader exactly what your dissertation is about. If it is too vague or confusing, then it is likely your dissertation will be too vague and confusing. It is important therefore to spend time on this to ensure you get it right, and be ready to adapt to fit any changes of direction in your research or focus.

In the following examples, across a variety of subjects, you can see how the students have clearly identified the focus of their dissertation, and in some cases target a problem that they will address:

An econometric analysis of the demand for road transport within the united Kingdom from  1965 to 2000

To what extent does payment card fraud affect UK bank profitability and bank stakeholders?  Does this justify fraud prevention?

A meta-analysis of implant materials for intervertebral disc replacement and regeneration.

The role of ethnic institutions in social development; the case of Mombasa, Kenya.

Why haven’t biomass crops been adopted more widely as a source of renewable energy in the United Kingdom?

Mapping the criminal mind: Profiling and its limitation.

The Relative Effectiveness of Interferon Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C

Under what conditions did the European Union exhibit leadership in international climate change negotiations from 1992-1997, 1997-2005 and 2005-Copenhagen respectively?

The first thing your reader will read (after the title) is your abstract. However, you need to write this last. Your abstract is a summary of the whole project, and will include aims and objectives, methods, results and conclusions. You cannot write this until you have completed your write-up.

Introduction

Your introduction should include the same elements found in most academic essay or report assignments, with the possible inclusion of research questions. The aim of the introduction is to set the scene, contextualise your research, introduce your focus topic and research questions, and tell the reader what you will be covering.  It should move from the general  and work towards the specific. You should include the following:

• Attention-grabbing statement (a controversy, a topical issue, a contentious view, a recent problem etc)
• Background and context
• Introduce the topic, key theories, concepts, terms of reference, practices, (advocates and critic)
• Introduce the problem and focus of your research
• Set out your research question(s) (this could be set out in a separate section)
• Your approach to answering your research questions.

Literature review

Your literature review is the section of your report where you show what is already known about the area under investigation and demonstrate the need for your particular study. This is a significant section in your dissertation (30%) and you should allow plenty of time to carry out a thorough exploration of your focus topic and use it to help you identify a specific problem and formulate your research questions.

You should approach the literature review with the critical analysis dial turned up to full volume. This is not simply a description, list, or summary  of everything you have read. Instead, it is a synthesis of your reading, and should include analysis and evaluation of readings, evidence, studies and data, cases, real world applications and views/opinions expressed.  Your supervisor is looking for this detailed critical approach in your literature review, where you unpack sources, identify strengths and weaknesses and find gaps in the research.

In other words, your literature review is your opportunity to show the reader why your paper is important and your research is significant, as it addresses the gap or on-going issue you have uncovered.

You need to tell the reader what was done. This means describing the research methods and explaining your choice. This will include information on the following:

• Are your methods qualitative or quantitative... or both? And if so, why?
• Who (if any) are the participants?
• Are you analysing any documents, systems, organisations? If so what are they and why are you analysing them?
• What did you do first, second, etc?
• What ethical considerations are there?

It is a common style convention to write what was done rather than what you did, and write it so that someone else would be able to replicate your study.

Here you describe what you have found out. You need to identify the most significant patterns in your data, and use tables and figures to support your description. Your tables and figures are a visual representation of your findings, but remember to describe what they show in your writing. There should be no critical analysis in this part (unless you have combined results and discussion sections).

Here you show the significance of your results or findings. You critically analyse what they mean, and what the implications may be. Talk about any limitations to your study, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of your own research, and make suggestions for further studies to build on your findings. In this section, your supervisor will expect you to dig deep into your findings and critically evaluate what they mean in relation to previous studies, theories, views and opinions.

This is a summary of your project, reminding the reader of the background to your study, your objectives, and showing how you met them. Do not include any new information that you have not discussed before.

This is the list of all the sources you have cited in your dissertation. Ensure you are consistent and follow the conventions for the particular referencing system you are using. (Note: you shouldn't include books you've read but do not appear in your dissertation).

Include any extra information that your reader may like to read. It should not be essential for your reader to read them in order to understand your dissertation. Your appendices should be labelled (e.g. Appendix A, Appendix B, etc). Examples of material for the appendices include detailed data tables (summarised in your results section), the complete version of a document you have used an extract from, etc.

Share this:

• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Click here to cancel reply.

• Email * (we won't publish this)

Write a response

I am finding this helpful. Thank You.

It is very useful.

Glad you found it useful Adil!

I was a useful post i would like to thank you

Glad you found it useful! 🙂

Navigating the dissertation process: my tips for final years

Imagine for a moment... After months of hard work and research on a topic you're passionate about, the time has finally come to click the 'Submit' button on your dissertation. You've just completed your longest project to date as part...

8 ways to beat procrastination

Whether you’re writing an assignment or revising for exams, getting started can be hard. Fortunately, there’s lots you can do to turn procrastination into action.

My takeaways on how to write a scientific report

If you’re in your dissertation writing stage or your course includes writing a lot of scientific reports, but you don’t quite know where and how to start, the Skills Centre can help you get started. I recently attended their ‘How...

• HOW WE WORK
• THESIS WRITING
• DISSERTATION PROCESS

Dissertation Structure - A Step by Step Format Guide

Home >> Blog >> Dissertation Structure - A Step by Step Format Guide

A dissertation is a type of writing that is based on comprehensive research. It is a part of the undergraduate or postgraduate degree, and every student should have to submit this.

However, following the proper structure of the dissertation is necessary, and it depends on your field. Therefore, when you start writing the dissertation, you must consult your professor and understand what type of dissertation structure they need.

Also, when your professor does not define any specific structure, you are unsure how to structure your dissertation. Continue reading this blog, get to know the proper structure of the dissertation, and create a well-written piece of work.

Let’s get started!

Dissertation Structure Definition

Parts of a dissertation structure, dissertation structure examples, dissertation structure guidelines.

The structure of a dissertation is made up of different parts which are divided into paragraphs. This structure helps organize ideas in a research paper and makes it easier for the reader to follow your ideas.

Different academic disciplines have different rules for what your dissertation should look like. It is important to verify with your department what type of structure they require.

(back to top)

A dissertation structure is the arrangement of research contents. It consists of several parts that help the readers to navigate the ideas more easily. Also, it is essential to flow the ideas in the research paper properly.

However, the dissertation structure depends on your topic, field, and approach. For instance, the dissertation for science subjects has a different structure than humanities.

If you want to write a dissertation by research, your word count will be 12000 to 15000 words. However, if you write a dissertation by translating and commenting, the translation will be based on source text comprising 6,000 words. Moreover, the words of your commentary will be around 6000 to 8000 words.

Furthermore, the supervisor provides the dissertation structure plan, so read them first and then start outlining your dissertation. Even so, if not giving any particular instructions regarding the structure, follow the basic outline.

Below are some elements that will help you structure different types of dissertations.

Let us discuss these elements in detail.

• Representative

A good title for a paper typically includes information about the following:

• Broader area of research
• Focus of the research
• Research design

The title page is the first part of the dissertation, and it contains the following information:

• Dissertation title
• Name of the institution
• Department name
• Name of the degree program
• University logo
• Submission date

However, some universities or colleges recommend including the supervisor’s name and student registration number on the title page. Also, they have different arrangements of the title page components, so it is better that you inquire with your faculty.

Moreover, for printing and binding, the title page is used as a cover of the dissertation.

Acknowledgments

This section is optional, but it acknowledges those who helped you write the dissertation. For example, it might include supervisors, parents, friends, funding agencies, or any other person that supported you in writing the thesis.

You don't need to write a lot for your Thanksgiving letter. Just say who you're thankful for and what they did for you. For example, "I'm grateful to my supervisor, Brown John, for his patience and attentiveness." Keep this section no more than one page.

An abstract is a concise and accurate summary of your research work. It tells the readers the overall purpose of the research paper. It is usually about 150-300 words long and covers the following information:

• Introduce the topic
• Research problem
• Describe the research methodology
• Summarize the main results
• State the conclusion

Therefore, keep this information in mind and include it in your dissertation abstract . Also, it is preferable to write it last after the whole research is done. Otherwise, you will end up writing and rewriting the abstract multiple times.

However, some students or researchers prefer to write it first because it provides a framework for dissertation writing.

Table of Contents

This section lists all the chapters and headings that you use in the dissertation. This section guides the readers to navigate the document easily and gives an overview of the structure.

However, only write the most useful headings and main parts of the dissertation in this section. You can also automatically create the table of contents in Word.

List of Figures and Tables

You can also include the figures, charts, and tables if your dissertation has, and you should show them in a numbered list. Also, add a caption for each table, chart, or anything that you add graphically.

Introduction

An introduction is a part that introduces the reader to your dissertation. It acts as a guide to your readers and tells what they expect from the rest of the dissertation. Also, an introduction briefly introduces the purpose and relevance of your dissertation topic .

When you write the dissertation introduction , you should include the following information:

• Give some background information about the topic
• Demonstrates why is this topic is important
• Identify the scope of your research
• Mention your research questions or hypothesis
• Mention your methods/research design
• State the goals and objectives of your dissertation
• Provide an overview of the structure of your dissertation

Therefore, keep these points in mind and include them in your dissertation introduction. However, write all the information in a clear, engaging, and relevant way.

Here is a dissertation introduction sample for your ease.

Dissertation Structure Introduction (PDF)

Literature Review

The literature review is the main part of the dissertation. To write a good literature review for a dissertation , you need to read the previous work and research on the topic.

For this purpose, you have to do in-depth research and gather relevant information. Read journals, books, and research articles to help you write the literature review easily.

However, when you gather information for the literature review, you need to keep the following questions in mind:

• How does your research contribute to the original research?
• How will the previous research help you to develop your methodology?
• How does your research make a big difference?

Therefore, you must not summarize the existing studies but develop a well-organized argument for your research.

Also, in this section, you should:

• Define the key theories.
• Analyze the models and concepts that frame your research.
• Answer the descriptive research questions.
• Identify research gaps.

Check this sample for your help.

Dissertation Structure Literature Review (PDF)

Methodology

The dissertation methodology section explains how you conduct your research. In this section, you need to answer two critical questions:

• What is your intended research design?
• How do you justify your research design?

Also, you have to mention some other major information:

• The methods of data collection such as surveys, case studies, interviews, etc.
• Tools that you used for your research.
• Type of research such as qualitative, quantitative, ethnographic, etc.
• Difficulties that you faced in organizing the research and how you overcome them.

Therefore, try to make the methodology convincing and meet your research goals. Here is an example that you can use for your help.

Methodology Dissertation Structure (PDF)

Findings/Results

The findings produce the research methodology results. In some universities or departments, the findings and discussions are explained together. However, in others, they are different entities.

Usually, charts and graphs are used to show the findings but not using tables or figures.

The discussion is the section in which you present the data analysis results, interpret and analyze them. The results are explained in detail and discuss how well they fit your research framework. Also, you need to discuss your results regarding the research question.

You need to talk about what you found in your research. What did your research show? What do your research questions mean? Is it the same as what other researchers have found or different? If it's different, why do you think that is?

A good conclusion makes a huge difference in your dissertation. It is the last part where you demonstrate that your dissertation is well-evidenced and well-researched.

It is the final chapter where you answer your research questions. You will state what your conclusions are in terms of your research questions. This might feel a bit repetitive, as you would have touched on this in the previous parts, but it is important to explicitly state your answer(s) to the research question(s).

In the dissertation conclusion, you should include:

• Restate the research aims and objectives
• Possible recommendations
• Research gaps
• Your contribution to the knowledge

However, write all these things clearly and concisely. Also, try to make it strong and encourage the reader to do further research on the topic.

Reference List

The reference list includes all the sources you have cited in your dissertation. For the reference list, some use an APA, MLA, and Chicago citation format. However, no matter which format you use, cite the sources properly and save yourself from plagiarism issues.

Some universities may ask you to include a bibliography in your dissertation. This is similar to a reference list, but it also includes resources that you used to inform your thinking but not directly cited in your dissertation. So, make sure you use the right one.

It is part of the dissertation in which you add information that is too large for the main text. It includes:

• Questionnaires
• Transcripts
• Scholarly artifacts

Your appendices should provide more information that is interesting but not necessary for the analysis. Appendices are not a way to avoid having to write more, so don't put important information here.

Take a look at this template and get an idea of the perfect dissertation.

Dissertation Structure Template (PDF)

Here are some fantastic examples of how other people have written their dissertations. These examples may help you get started on writing your own.

Related: Dissertation Examples for Different Academic Levels & Fields

The following are the tips and guidelines that you should follow to write a great dissertation.

• Write the rough draft first.
• Spend time in the data collection phase.
• Gather information for your dissertation relevant to your research.
• When you are stuck in writing some section, move further.
• Use an easily readable font.
• You should know how to cite a dissertation .
• Gather data from credible and reliable sources.
• To make your document more interesting, use a font size of 12 and double spacing.
• Consult your instructor or supervisor and understand their requirements.
• Tables and figures must be formatted properly to appear on the page; if they aren't, you can change that particular document's pages to have a landscape orientation.
• The table of contents needs updating with headings created in Microsoft Word.
• Check the word count.
• Write all the dissertation chapters in the correct format.
• Know the difference between dissertation vs. thesis .
• Build the theoretical framework and define the key concepts, results, and discussion.
• In the introduction chapter, describe the main purpose of your research.
• Keep the main goal in mind in writing the discussion chapter.
• Add a list of abbreviations at the start.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When you are writing a dissertation, it can be difficult to stay motivated. You might find yourself feeling like the entire project is too much work and that all of your efforts would not matter in later life if they didn't come out correctly now - but don’t give up.

For your help, we gathered some mistakes that should be avoided and makes your dissertation writing process easy.

• If you want to get your dissertation done on time, don't procrastinate. Start by writing a plan and then stick to it. Write every day, even if it's only for a little while. And make sure you proofread and revise your work often.
• No matter how much you have learned in university, your dissertation will not be good if you don't have the skills to do research and write well. You need both research skills and writing talent to do a great job on your dissertation.
• Not following professional advice can be harmful. Although it is great to have faith in your own abilities, you should listen to the recommendations of others. Taking into account the experience of other professionals can be very helpful, no matter what field or topic you are writing about for your dissertation.

Hopefully, this blog must have helped you learn how to structure a dissertation. However, if you need any help regarding a dissertation or a thesis structure, you can contact GradSchoolGenius . Our professional writers will help you write a great dissertation structure.

We offer top-notch dissertation writing services for all types of academic levels. So, contact our team now and get the best help writing your dissertation.

So, contact our team now and get the best help in writing your dissertation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pages is a dissertation?

Usually, dissertations are written in 100-300 pages. However, your supervisor or institute can guide you on the length of pages of your dissertation.

How do I start my dissertation?

You can start your dissertation by considering the following main points:

• Choose a dissertation topic
• Identify the gaps in previous research
• Contact your supervisor or fellow students to get help with writing a dissertation structure
• Create a layout of your dissertation
• Start adding content to your dissertation structure

How to reduce plagiarism in my dissertation?

You can reduce plagiarism in your dissertation by properly paraphrasing and citing the research content. Ensure that you are using the correct citation and referencing method. In addition, you can use online plagiarism detection software to check the percentage of plagiarism in your dissertation.

Similar Blogs

• Dissertation Methodology
• Dissertation Introduction
• Dissertation Abstract
• Dissertation Vs Thesis
• Thesis Proposal

GradSchoolGenius is a top-ranked academic writing service. We are home to high-quality academic thesis and dissertations for graduate and post-graduate students worldwide.

• 100% Plagiarism-free Work
• 100% Deadline Driven
• 100% Confidentiality
• 100% Money-back Guarantee
• 15+ Years of Experience
• 500+ Happy Clients
• 500+ Projects Completed
• 24/7 Customer Support

• Thesis Action Plan New
• Academic Project Planner

Literature Navigator

Thesis dialogue blueprint, writing wizard's template, research proposal compass.

• Why students love us
• Why professors love us
• Rebels Blog (Free)
• Why we are different
• All Products
• Coming Soon

Chapter by Chapter: How to Structure a Dissertation Chapter

Writing a dissertation can be a daunting task, but breaking it down into manageable chapters can make the process much more approachable. Each chapter serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of your research. Understanding the role of each chapter and how to structure it effectively is crucial for a successful dissertation.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the role of each dissertation chapter is essential for a cohesive and well-structured thesis.
• A compelling introduction sets the context, states the research problem, and outlines the structure of the dissertation.
• A thorough literature review identifies key sources, synthesizes existing research, and highlights research gaps.
• A robust methodology chapter details the chosen methods, ensures validity and reliability, and addresses ethical considerations.
• Presenting and analyzing results involves organizing data, interpreting findings, and using visual aids effectively.

Understanding the Role of Each Dissertation Chapter

There are many moving parts to a dissertation, and the best way to simplify them is by chapter . Each chapter follows certain rules and serves a specific purpose. The most efficient way to break down the work ahead of you into pieces is to understand the role each chapter plays in the dissertation.

Purpose and Importance

Each chapter in a dissertation has a unique role and contributes to the overall coherence of your research. The introduction sets the stage, the literature review contextualizes your study, the methodology explains your research design, the results present your findings, the discussion interprets these findings, and the conclusion wraps everything up. Understanding these roles is crucial for structuring your dissertation effectively.

Common Misconceptions

A common misconception is that the chapters can be written in isolation. In reality, each chapter should build upon the previous one, creating a logical flow. Another misconception is that the literature review is just a summary of existing research. Instead, it should critically analyze and synthesize the literature to highlight gaps your research aims to fill.

Examples from Various Disciplines

Different disciplines may have specific requirements for dissertation chapters. For instance, a dissertation in the humanities might focus more on theoretical frameworks, while a science dissertation might emphasize experimental methods. Regardless of the discipline, the fundamental structure remains the same, ensuring that your research is presented in a clear and organized manner.

Crafting a Compelling Introduction

If done right, your introduction chapter will set a clear direction for the rest of your dissertation. Specifically, it will make it clear to the reader (and marker) exactly what you’ll be investigating, why that’s important, and how you’ll be going about the investigation. Conversely, if your introduction chapter leaves a first-time reader wondering what exactly you’ll be researching, you’ve still got some work to do.

Conducting a Thorough Literature Review

A thorough literature review is a cornerstone of any dissertation, providing a comprehensive overview of existing research and setting the stage for your own study. This chapter is essential for demonstrating your understanding of the field and identifying where your research fits within the broader academic conversation.

Designing a Robust Methodology

In this chapter, you need to address two critical questions: exactly how will you carry out your research, and why have you chosen to do things this way? Crafting an effective Ph.D. thesis proposal requires a well-thought-out methodology that aligns with your research objectives and questions. This chapter is crucial as it lays the foundation for your entire study, ensuring that your approach is both systematic and justified.

Presenting and Analyzing Results

In this chapter, you will present the raw results of your analysis, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. Dissertation data analysis is the process by which researchers interpret findings to drive useful insights. Focus on presenting the data clearly and concisely, without delving into interpretations, which will be covered in the discussion chapter.

Discussing the Implications of Your Findings

Next, you’ll typically discuss the implications of your findings . In other words, you’ve answered your research questions – but what does this mean for the real world (or even for academia)? What should now be done differently, given the new insight you’ve generated?

Concluding Your Dissertation Effectively

As the closing part, this section plays a big role in shaping readers’ opinion. There are many conclusion dissertation layout examples, so Google them to see what makes them important. Here, you repeat major points and make the final impact on your audience . Show some objectivity. Acknowledge that everything wasn’t flawless and topic still needs research. Offer solutions and underline your professionalism by providing recommendations for other experts who might feel interested in the same subject.

Concluding your dissertation effectively is crucial for leaving a lasting impression. If you're struggling with sleepless nights and anxiety, our step-by-step Thesis Action Plan is here to help. Designed by experts and validated by students worldwide, our guides will provide you with the clarity and confidence you need to finish strong. Don't let stress hold you back any longer. Visit our website to claim your special offer now and transform your thesis writing experience.

In conclusion, structuring a dissertation chapter by chapter is a meticulous yet rewarding process that demands careful planning and execution. Each chapter serves a distinct purpose and contributes to the overall coherence and rigor of the dissertation. By adhering to a structured approach, students can ensure that their research is presented logically and persuasively. This article has outlined the key components and considerations for each chapter, providing a comprehensive guide for students embarking on their dissertation journey. Ultimately, a well-structured dissertation not only reflects the depth and quality of the research but also enhances the readability and impact of the scholarly work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the introduction chapter in a dissertation.

The introduction chapter sets the context for your research, states the research problem, and outlines the structure of the dissertation.

How do I choose the appropriate methodology for my dissertation?

Choosing the appropriate methodology involves selecting methods that are suitable for your research questions and ensuring they are valid and reliable.

What should be included in a literature review chapter?

A literature review should identify key sources, synthesize existing research, and highlight research gaps that your dissertation aims to address.

How can I effectively present and analyze my results?

Effectively presenting and analyzing results involves organizing data systematically, interpreting findings, and using visual aids such as charts and graphs to enhance clarity.

What are common misconceptions about dissertation chapters?

Common misconceptions include the belief that all dissertations follow the same structure and that the literature review is merely a summary of existing research.

How should I discuss the implications of my findings?

Discussing the implications involves connecting your findings to the existing literature, exploring practical applications, and acknowledging limitations and areas for future research.

How to Write a Thesis: A Step-by-Step Guide with Tips for Success

How to start an introduction in a thesis: key strategies and examples, overcoming the fear of failure in your dissertation journey, what are the symptoms of phd burnout recognizing and overcoming it, how do i start writing my thesis expert advice and tips.

A Sample Master Thesis Outline for Reference

Demystifying Research: Understanding the Difference Between a Problem and a Hypothesis

Avoiding Procrastination Pitfalls: Bachelor Thesis Progress and Weekend Celebrations

How Do You Write a Hypothesis for a Research Paper? Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Thesis Fast: Tips and Strategies for Success

Thesis Action Plan

• Rebels Blog
• Blog Articles
• Terms and Conditions
• Payment and Shipping Terms
• Privacy Policy
• Return Policy

© 2024 Research Rebels, All rights reserved.

Your cart is currently empty.

Évitez les fautes dans vos écrits académiques

Évitez le plagiat gratuitement, faire une bibliographie gratuitement.

• Dissertation

Plan d’une dissertation de philosophie

Publié le 27 novembre 2018 par Justine Debret . Mis à jour le 7 décembre 2020.

Une dissertation de philosophie doit suivre un plan spécifique. Nous vous dévoilons ce plan type et vous donnons des exemples.

Note Nous illustrons le plan d’une dissertation de philosophie à partir d’un exemple complet que vous pouvez consulter ici .

Table des matières

Que mettre dans le plan d’une dissertation de philosophie , le plan type d’une dissertation de philosophie.

Une dissertation de philosophie est composée de trois parties (et deux sous-parties) .

1. Une introduction

L’introduction d’une dissertation de philosophie est très importante. Elle permet de définir les termes du sujet et d’annoncer le plan.

Dans l’introduction d’une dissertation de philosophie , on retrouve ces éléments :

• la phrase d’accroche (amorce) ;
• l’énoncé du sujet ;
• la définition termes et reformulation du sujet ;
• la problématique ;
• l’annonce du plan.

Exemple d’introduction de dissertation de philosophie

Sujet  : Etre libre, est-ce faire ce que l’on veut ?

« Tous les Hommes naissent et demeurent libres et égaux ». C’est ce que promet la Déclaration des Droits de l’Homme et du Citoyen française établie en 1789, ainsi que la Constitution française de la Vème République de 1958. Ainsi, la « liberté » semble être une vertu naturelle et innée que l’être humain est en droit de posséder dès sa naissance. Etre « libre » signifierait « faire tout ce que l’on veut ». Toutefois, comme dans tout texte juridique, ce droit accordé à l’Homme n’est valable que si certains devoirs imposés sont respectés. La « liberté » est donc entourée de normes et de lois qui la définissent au sein d’une société démocratique. On définit communément un être « libre » comme ayant le pouvoir de faire ce qu’il veut, d’agir ou non, et de n’être captif d’aucun devoir moral ou juridique. On peut donc lier la « liberté » à la seule « volonté » du sujet. Cette « volonté » pouvant être décrite comme le fait de « désirer » ou celui de « décider rationnellement » une chose. Toutefois, le « désir » peut sembler posséder un caractère coercitif qui rendrait toute liberté humaine impossible à atteindre. Il est donc nécessaire de se demander si l’Homme est un être libre capable de faire des choix rationnels ou s’il est esclave de lui-même et de ses désirs ? Pour répondre à cette question, il est tout d’abord nécessaire de s’interroger sur l’Homme en tant qu’individu considéré comme libre et doté de raison. Puis, il convient d’étudier l’Homme comme un être prisonnier qui subit la contrainte et l’obligation que lui impose sa personne, ainsi que l’environnement qui l’entoure.

2. Trois parties dans le développement

Chaque partie du développement doit être structurée en plusieurs sous-parties. Les sous-parties sont elles-mêmes structurées en paragraphes.

Chaque paragraphe est structuré ainsi :

• introduction de l’idée ;
• explication de l’idée (auteur, oeuvre, citation) ;
• exemples ;
• conclusion ;
• transition.

Exemple de paragraphe de dissertation de philosophie

Tout d’abord, l’Homme est souvent défini comme une personne « libre » et responsable de ses actes effectués librement. En effet, d’après le philosophe Jean-Paul Sartre dans L’existentialisme est un humanisme, l’Homme, contrairement aux objets, est un être indéterminé. D’après cet auteur, la particularité de l’être humain serait que son « existence précède [son] essence », c’est-à-dire que l’Homme serait un être libre de devenir ce qu’il veut et qu’il déciderait, par des actes effectués librement et en présence de conscience, vers quelle voie il voudrait se diriger sans que quelque autre élément n’entrave sa liberté personnelle. Ainsi, d’après Sartre « l’Homme n’est que ce qu’il se fait ». En d’autres mots, l’Homme est maître de son destin et le contrôle de manière libre, ce qui lui permet de devenir ce qu’il veut et de se définir d’après des actes réalisés librement et consciemment. Par conséquent, d’après Jean-Paul Sartre l’Homme serait un être libre, ce qui lui confère une certaine responsabilité puisqu’il est entièrement coupable de ce qu’il est et de ce qu’il fait. Ainsi, la liberté que possède l’Homme dans le choix de son avenir pourrait le conduire parfois vers une situation assez paradoxale. En effet, prenons comme exemple un enfant qui naît indéterminé et libre de faire des choix qui le mèneront à sa fonction déterminée choisie librement. Cet enfant va par exemple, au cours de son éducation, choisir librement et consciemment de ne pas continuer sa scolarité et de travailler au sein d’un trafic de stupéfiants. Par conséquent, sa liberté d’être humain lui a permis de choisir librement et consciemment cette voie, aussi néfaste soit elle. Au cours de sa vie, cet enfant devenu homme va enfreindre les normes sociales librement et en connaissance de cause, pour finalement être arrêté et se retrouver en prison, lieu où la liberté individuelle est niée. Ainsi, il se retrouve dans une situation assez paradoxale, puisque la liberté innée qu’il possédait l’a conduit à faire des choix libres qui l’ont mené dans l’enceinte d’un lieu où la liberté n’existe plus. Dans ce cas, on pourrait se demander si l’Homme reste libre lorsqu’il accepte la responsabilité des actes qu’il a commis, au risque de devenir prisonnier de cette « liberté » ? L’Homme serait donc libre dès qu’il accepte d’être responsable et coupable de ses actes rationnellement, même si les conséquences peuvent le mener à une perte de liberté personnelle. La véritable liberté de l’Homme serait donc sa capacité de décider rationnellement d’être responsable de ce qu’il est et de ce qu’il fait, sans faire appel à une déresponsabilisation qui prendrait la forme de la mauvaise foi. Prendre conscience du caractère néfaste d’un acte commis librement et accepter la punition qui en découle rationnellement seraient donc une forme de liberté innée chez l’être humain « libre ». Dans ce sens « vouloir » être responsable rationnellement peut constituer une forme de liberté chez l’être humain.

3. Une transition entre chaque partie et sous-partie

Il est important de rédiger une transition entre les grandes parties et entre chaque sous-partie de la dissertation de philosophie.

Les transitions entre les grandes parties sont primordiales et composées de plusieurs éléments :

• faire un bilan de la partie précédente ;
• critiquer un point faible de cette partie ;
• montrer que la partie suivante est nécessaire.

Exemple de transition de dissertation de philosophie

Nous avons précédemment montré que l’Homme pouvait, s’il écoutait sa raison et basait tous ses choix, ainsi que ses jugements sur celle-ci, être considéré comme un être libre. Ainsi, l’espèce humaine est un peuple où la liberté semble constituer l’idéal que tous les Hommes possèdent ou veulent atteindre par des évolutions conséquentes. Sommes-nous néanmoins capables de contrôler la nature qui parfois nous submerge ou de vivre dans une société où chaque Homme, pour être libre, doit respecter les règles de manière raisonnable ? Le psychisme de l’être humain étant complexe, on peut donc se demander si la liberté conférée par la raison est vraiment réelle ou si elle n’est qu’une illusion cachant l’absence totale de contrôle de l’Homme sur lui-même. Il convient donc, dans un second temps, d’étudier l’Homme en tant qu’être humain esclave de lui-même et de son environnement.

4. Une conclusion

La conclusion permet de faire le bilan des idées avancées dans les trois grandes parties.

Elle est composée :

• rappel de la problématique ;
• du bilan des trois parties ;
• de la réponse à la problématique ;
• d’une ouverture.

Exemple de conclusion de dissertation de philosophie

Pour conclure, notre raisonnement a questionné l’essence de liberté de l’être humain. L’Homme semble tout d’abord être un individu « libre » qui place sa raison au fondement de ses jugements et actions. Il semble posséder une liberté qui lui permet d’être responsable de sa personne, ainsi que de ses actes de manière rationnelle. Or, l’Homme est aussi un individu complexe qui finalement se révèle être contrôlé par des entités qui sont supérieures à sa propre volonté rationnelle et qui la contrôlent. En effet, sa nature (par les désirs et instincts), son psychisme (par l’Inconscient) et la société (grâce à l’éducation) sont des éléments qui le régissent et donc entrave la liberté personnelle du sujet. L’Homme semble donc s’illusionner sur sa capacité à désirer ou prendre des décisions rationnelles librement. Par conséquent, la question de la responsabilité de l’Homme se pose quant à son caractère coupable lorsqu’il commet des actes immoraux puisqu’il semble n’être pas libre et maître de sa propre volonté. Ainsi, il est possible de s’interroger sur la responsabilité des terroristes quant à leurs actes. Les frères Tsarnaev sont considérés comme étant responsables des attentats qu’ils ont commis le 15 avril 2013 lors du Marathon de Boston. Toutefois, on peut se demander s’ils étaient libres et conscients de leurs actions ou non.

Combien de fautes dans votre document ?

Nos correcteurs corrigent en moyenne 150 fautes pour 1 000 mots . Vous vous demandez ce qui sera corrigé exactement ? Déplacez le curseur de gauche à droite !

Faites corriger votre document

Les dissertations de philosophie sont construites en trois parties et chaque partie correspond à une idée générale. Toutes les parties ont des titres non-apparents .

Télécharger le plan type d’une dissertation de philosophie

Conseil Lorsque vous faites corriger et relire votre dissertation , vous pouvez faire vérifier le plan (la structure).

Citer cet article de Scribbr

Si vous souhaitez citer cette source, vous pouvez la copier/coller ou cliquer sur le bouton “Citez cet article” pour l’ajouter automatiquement à notre Générateur de sources gratuit.

Debret, J. (2020, 07 décembre). Plan d’une dissertation de philosophie. Scribbr. Consulté le 5 juillet 2024, de https://www.scribbr.fr/dissertation-fr/plan-dissertation-de-philosophie/

Cet article est-il utile ?

Justine Debret

D'autres étudiants ont aussi consulté..., la méthode de la dissertation de philosophie , exemple de dissertation de philosophie, plan de dissertation.

• Bénéficiez d'un compte unique sur web, mobile ou tablette
• Simplifiez-vous la commande
• Accédez plus rapidement aux "+ en ligne"
• Recevez des invitations à de nombreux événements
• Soyez informé des nouveautés et de l'actu des auteurs et recevez les communications de Dunod
• Livraison en France métropolitaine uniquement
• Découvrez l'Espace Enseignants du Supérieur et les offres qui vous sont réservées
• Sciences & Techniques
• Entreprise et économie
• Sciences humaines et sociales
• Histoire, Géographie et Sciences politiques
• Prépas & Concours
• Lettres et Arts
• Vie pratique

Réussir la dissertation littéraire - nouvelle présentation

• Présentation
• Caractéristiques

Présentation du livre

nouvelle présentation

La dissertation est l'un des principaux « exercices littéraires ». Selon les types d'examen ou de concours, les sujets se rapportent au programme d'une année (sujets portant sur un texte unique ou sur plusieurs, sujets « comparatistes »). où relèvent d'une question générale qui force l'étudiant à choisir ses exemples et ses références. Les exigences méthodologiques restent pourtant les mêmes. Cet ouvrage permet de les maîtriser quelle que soit la nature du sujet. L'auteur analyse une quarantaine de sujets, décrivant, point par point, les différentes étapes du travail, de l'analyse de l'énoncé à la construction du plan, de l'explicitation de la problématique à la rédaction proprement dite. Cet ouvrage constitue un vade-mecum de la dissertation, à conserver tout au long du cursus.

Françoise ADAM, ancienne élève de l'École normale supérieure de Sèvres, agrégée de lettres classiques, elle a enseigné en classe de première supérieure au lycée de Sèvres. Elle a été également membre du jury de CAPES de lettres classiques.

Auteur(s) de l'ouvrage

Caractéristiques du livre

Suggestions personnalisées.

How To Structure A PhD Thesis

Nov 21, 2019

Introduction

Universities and supervisors often assume that PhD students know how to structure their PhD theses. But often this assumption is false, which can cause considerable headache and uncertainty.  It can also waste a lot of time and money as you engage in a process of trial and error working out what goes where.

If you go to your university’s library, you’ll find whole shelves of   books on how to structure or write your PhD . Many of these are great, and I highly recommend you check them out, but here I want to present to you a thesis structure 101 lesson.

I’ve read those books,   proofread hundreds of PhDs   and   coached   dozens of students and want to take what I know and run you through a basic introduction to structuring your PhD   thesis .

In what follows, I’ll talk you through the basic outline of a typical thesis. This mirrors and expands upon the   PhD Writing Template   I’ve created. If you haven’t already downloaded it, you can find it   here .  

Now, I want to make an important observation: what I present below is an outline of the   typical   thesis. Yours may differ, whether considerably or just a little. That’s fine. The purpose is to give you an overarching summary so that when you do approach the books and guides that exist, you’ve already got a basic understanding of what goes where and why.

So, in what follows, I’ll walk you through each of the main sections and talk about what the purpose of each is, offer some tips for planning and writing them, and show you how they relate to one another.

At the end, I’ll tell you about an   email based course   I’ve put together that will teach you how to plan, structure and write your thesis. It goes into a lot more detail than I’ve presented here, so check it out if you’d like to learn more. 

How to Structure an Abstract

Your abstract should be a short summary at the beginning of the thesis that sums up the research, summarises the separate sections of the thesis and outlines the contribution.

Above all, your PhD abstract should answer the question: ‘So what?’ In other words, what is the contribution of your thesis to the field?

• What is the reason for writing the thesis?
• What are the current approaches and gaps in the literature?
• What are your research question(s) and aims?
• Which methodology have you used?
• What are the main findings?
• What are the main conclusions and implications?

One thing that should be obvious is that you can’t write your abstract until the study itself has been written. It’ll typically be the last thing you write (alongside the acknowledgements).

The tricky thing about writing a great PhD abstract is that you haven’t got much space to answer the six questions above. There are a few things to consider though that will help to elevate your writing and make your abstract as efficient as possible:

• Give a good first impression by writing in short clear sentences.
• Don’t repeat the title in the abstract.
• Don’t cite references.
• Use keywords from the document.
• Respect the word limit.
• Don’t be vague – the abstract should be a self-contained summary of the research, so don’t introduce ambiguous words or complex terms.
• Focus on just four or five essential points, concepts, or findings. Don’t, for example, try to explain your entire theoretical framework.
• Edit it carefully. Make sure every word is relevant (you haven’t got room for wasted words) and that each sentence has maximum impact.
• Avoid lengthy background information.
• Don’t mention anything that isn’t discussed in the thesis.
• Avoid overstatements.
• Don’t spin your findings, contribution or significance to make your research sound grander or more influential that it actually is.

How to Structure an Introduction

The introduction serves three purposes:

• Establish your territory.
• Establish and justify your niche.
• Explain the significance of your research.

The reader should be able to understand the whole thesis just by reading the introduction. It should tell them all they need to know about:

• What your thesis is about
• Why it is important
• How it was conducted
• How it is laid out

How to Structure a Literature Review

Imagine you’re making a new model of mobile phone. You’d need to look at old models to see how other people are designing them (and so you know how yours will differ) and to see how they are made. You’ll need to look for their flaws, and get an idea of where they can be improved.

That’s because you can’t make something new if you don’t know what the old one looks like.

The literature review is the same. You use it to make the case for your research by surveying the work that’s already been done in your discipline (and sometimes beyond). It’s a bit like a family tree. You use it to trace the lineage of your study. Putting it in its place.

A literature review has three objectives:

• Summarise what has already been discussed in your field, both to demonstrate that you understand your field and to show how your study relates to it.
• Highlight gaps, problems or shortcomings in existing research to show the original contribution that your thesis makes.
• Identify important studies, theories, methods or theoretical frameworks that can be applied in your research.
• Pick a broad topic
• Find the way in
• Who’s saying what and when
• Narrow down the field
• Narrow does the sources
• Think about questions that haven’t been asked
• Write early, write quickly and write relevantly

Your PhD Thesis. On one page.

Use our free PhD Structure Template to quickly visualise every element of your thesis.

How to Structure a Theory Framework Chapter

The theory framework is the scaffolding upon which your thesis is built. When you’re done writing your theory framework chapter or section, your reader should be able to answer these questions:

• What theoretical concepts are used in the research? What hypotheses, if any, are you using?
• Why have you chosen this theory?
• What are the implications of using this theory?
• How does the theory relate to the existing literature, your problem statement and your epistemological and ontological positions? How has this theory has been applied by others in similar contexts? What can you learn from them and how do you differ?
• How do you apply the theory and measure the concepts (with reference to the literature review/problem statement)?
• What is the relationship between the various elements and concepts within the model? Can you depict this visually?

That means that a theory framework can take different forms: 

It can state the theoretical assumptions underpinning the study.

• It can connect the empirical data to existing knowledge.
• It can allow you to come up with propositions, concepts or hypotheses that you can use to answer ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions.

Broadly speaking, a theory framework can be used to either derive certain testable assumptions or as a way of making sense of your data. In both cases, it structures your data collection by focusing your attention on a small subset of concepts.

You can, therefore, think of it as a toolbox. In your literature review, you outlined the problem that needs ‘fixing’. The theory framework is a toolbox stuffed full of concepts, variables, or hypotheses (your tools) that you’ll then use to address the problem and do the fixing.

You can find an   extended guide on creating your theory framework . Check it out if you’re still struggling.

When you discuss theory, you are seeking to provide a background examination of what other researchers think about a phenomenon and how they have conceptualised it. You should discuss the relevance of particular theoretical approaches for your study, and you should take care to consider the dominant theoretical schools in your field. This shows the examiner you have understood the state of the art.

But, you should do so critically, and question the suitability of any theories that exist or that you are creating to your particular study. That means that you should discuss previous applications of theory in order to discuss what implications they have for your own research.

The reason you do this is that your discipline likely has accepted and ’tried and tested’ ways of doing things. In many cases, this is an advantage, because it can serve as inspiration for your choice of concepts, hypotheses or variables, and can influence your choice of methods.

In other cases, it may be that the existing theory is ill-equipped to account for your particular phenomenon. In either case, you need to demonstrate a good understanding of what that theory is discussing, both to demonstrate your skills as a researcher and scholar, but also to justify your own theoretical and methodological position. 

How to Structure a Methods Chapter

The job of a methods chapter is:

• To summarise, explain and recount how you answered your research questions and to explain how this relates to the methods used by other scholars in similar contexts and similar studies
• To discuss – in detail – the techniques you used to collect the data used to answer your research questions 
• To discuss why the techniques are relevant to the study’s aims and objectives
• To explain how you used them

Your reader should be able to answer the following questions when they’re done reading it:

• What did you did do to achieve the research aims?
• Why did you choose this particular approach over others?
• How does it relate to your epistemological and ontological positions?
• What tools did you use to collect data and why? What are the implications?
• When did you collect data, and from whom?
• What tools have you used to analyze the data and why? What are the implications? Are there ethical considerations to take into account?

How to Structure an Empirical Chapter

• What are the results of your investigations?  
• How do the findings relate to previous studies?  
• Was there anything surprising or that didn’t work out as planned?  
• Are there any themes or categories that emerge from the data?   
• Have you explained to the reader why you have reached particular conclusions?
• Have you explained the results?

Having your PhD proofread will save you time and money

Our top-rated PhD proofreaders check your writing, formatting, references and readability. The goal? To make sure your research is written and presented in the most compelling manner possible. 

That way, you’ll have complete peace of mind prior to submission and save yourself months of costly revisions. 

How to Structure a Discussion Chapter 

The discussion chapter is the place in which you discuss your empirics. Many people find it the hardest chapter, primarily because it’s the stage at which you start to flex your academic muscles and speak like a doctor. It is here that you start to push the boundaries of knowledge.

That’s a hard thing to do, largely because you’ve probably never had to do it before. All through your masters and undergraduate work you’ve learnt what other people have found. Now you’re finding out things that no-one else knows.

The difference between a discussion and an empirical chapter is subtle, but I’ve written   a detailed guide   that will clear up any confusion you’ve got.

How to Structure a Conclusion

The job of the conclusion is to:

• Fully and clearly articulate the answer to your research questions
• Discuss how the research is related to your aims and objectives
• Explain the significance of the work
• Outline its shortcomings
• Suggest avenues for future research

It is not the place to introduce new ideas and concepts, or to present new findings.

Your job is to reflect back on your original aims and intentions and discuss them in terms of your findings and new expertise.

Three things to do in a conclusion:

• Own your research by speaking with authority! You’ve earned the right to do that by the time you reach your conclusion 
• See the thesis and not the detail. Drive home the contribution that the thesis has made. Whatever it is, you need to shout about it. Loudly. Like an expert.
• Each chapter is a piece of the puzzle and only when they are all slotted together do you have an entire thesis. That means that a great conclusion is one that shows that the thesis is bigger than the sum of its individual chapters. 
• By the time the reader has finished reading the conclusion, they should be able to answer the following questions:
• Have you briefly recapped the research questions and objectives?
• Have you provided a brief recount of the answer to those questions?
• Have you clearly discussed the significance and implications of those findings?
• Have you discussed the contribution that the study has made?
• Do the claims you are making align with the content of the results and discussion chapters?

Wrapping Up 

There’s clearly a lot more that can be said about how to structure each of these sections. Go to your university library and you’ll find dozens of books on how to write a PhD. Google it and you’ll find thousands of posts. It’s hard to know where to start.

That’s why  I’ve put together an  email based course on How To Write Your Thesis . Over twelve emails you’ll get detailed chapter guides that expand on the above, a ton of templates, checklist and worksheets, and lots of curated videos and external resources to really cement your learning. By the end, you’ll understand what goes where and why and would have saved yourself a bunch of time and energy sifting through all those books and posts.

That way, you can write more, worry less and graduate sooner.

To sign up,   click here . 

Hello, Doctor…

Sounds good, doesn’t it?  Be able to call yourself Doctor sooner with our five-star rated How to Write A PhD email-course. Learn everything your supervisor should have taught you about planning and completing a PhD.

Now half price. Join hundreds of other students and become a better thesis writer, or your money back. 

Share this:

26 comments.

This is seriously and absolutely helpful but some terminologies used may not be understood by most beginners in research methodology. Beginners would better understand the use of chapter1, etc. Thank you.

Thanks for the useful feedback. Enjoy the rest of your day.

Wonderful…. It is really practical to have such tips… Many thanks….

You’re welcome!

Well done Max, very informative post.

Great. Thanks for the kind words.

Cheers Max! Sent it on to many friends starting the journey

Great. Thanks Dean!

Hi Dr Lumpriere,

Thanks for creating this website, it is really helpful to situate oneself – I am really new to this. In your experience, how many hours does one (roughly. – of course depending on the scope of the project) have to dedicate to a PhD weekly on average?

Thanks again, Maureen

Hi Maureen – it really depends on so many factors, including how much familiarity you already have with research and how quickly you want to finish. It’s hard to say! I devoted around 3/4 of full time to mine per week – so roughly 30 hours. But then I had never conducted research before, didn’t have any caregiving responsibilities, and wanted to complete quickly.

Thanks a lot for dedicating your time and effort to helping those who are still struggling with writing up their PhD!

Best, Felix

You’re welcome Felix.

Good job. Thanks for the information here.

You’re welcome! Glad you found it useful.

This is great, I am impressed by the guideline. I shall consult these steps as I work on my Thesis for my PhD.

Thanks for this information keep it up.

Very interesting and useful job!

Well done Dr Max. Quite helpful, thanks

I am really grateful for this tip. God bless the writer in Jesus’ name

Thank you for this guide.

Thank you very much for the information. It’s very useful.

This article is insanely helpful. Especially the questions that should be answered in each part. Even though I was aware of most of it, seeing it all put together so neatly helps a lot. Thank you!

Wow. Such great praise. Thanks!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search The PhD Knowledge Base

Most popular articles from the phd knowlege base.

The PhD Knowledge Base Categories

• Your PhD and Covid
• Mastering your theory and literature review chapters
• How to structure and write every chapter of the PhD
• How to stay motivated and productive
• Techniques to improve your writing and fluency
• Advice on maintaining good mental health
• Resources designed for non-native English speakers
• PhD Writing Template
• Explore our back-catalogue of motivational advice

The Plagiarism Checker Online For Your Academic Work

Start Plagiarism Check

Editing & Proofreading for Your Research Paper

Get it proofread now

Online Printing & Binding with Free Express Delivery

Configure binding now

• Academic essay overview
• The writing process
• Structuring academic essays
• Types of academic essays
• Academic writing overview
• Sentence structure
• Academic writing process
• Improving your academic writing
• Titles and headings
• APA style overview
• APA citation & referencing
• APA structure & sections
• Citation & referencing
• Structure and sections
• APA examples overview
• Commonly used citations
• Other examples
• British English vs. American English
• Chicago style overview
• Chicago citation & referencing
• Chicago structure & sections
• Chicago style examples
• Citing sources overview
• Citation format
• Citation examples
• College essay overview
• Application
• How to write a college essay
• Types of college essays
• Commonly confused words
• Definitions
• Dissertation overview
• Dissertation structure & sections
• Dissertation writing process
• Graduate school overview
• Application & admission
• Study abroad
• Master degree
• Harvard referencing overview
• Language rules overview
• Grammatical rules & structures
• Parts of speech
• Punctuation
• Methodology overview
• Analyzing data
• Experiments
• Observations
• Inductive vs. Deductive
• Qualitative vs. Quantitative
• Types of validity
• Types of reliability
• Sampling methods
• Theories & Concepts
• Types of research studies
• Types of variables
• MLA style overview
• MLA examples
• MLA citation & referencing
• MLA structure & sections
• Plagiarism overview
• Plagiarism checker
• Types of plagiarism
• Printing production overview
• Research bias overview
• Types of research bias
• Example sections
• Types of research papers
• Research process overview
• Problem statement
• Research proposal
• Research topic
• Statistics overview
• Levels of measurment
• Frequency distribution
• Measures of central tendency
• Measures of variability
• Hypothesis testing
• Parameters & test statistics
• Types of distributions
• Correlation
• Effect size
• Hypothesis testing assumptions
• Types of ANOVAs
• Types of chi-square
• Statistical data
• Statistical models
• Spelling mistakes
• Tips overview
• Academic writing tips
• Dissertation tips
• Sources tips
• Working with sources overview
• Evaluating sources
• Finding sources
• Including sources
• Types of sources

Your Step to Success

Plagiarism Check within 10min

Printing & Binding with 3D Live Preview

Dissertation Structure – Definition, Parts and Other Guidelines

How do you like this article cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 Definition: Dissertation Structure
• 3 Parts of a Dissertation Structure
• 4 Other Dissertation Structure Guidelines
• 5 In a Nutshell

Definition: Dissertation Structure

A dissertation structure is the arrangement of research contents. It contains numerous parts which are also divided into paragraphs. It is essential to the flow of ideas in a research paper and to helping the reader navigate the ideas.

Different academic disciplines require a certain dissertation structure, so it is important to verify with your department of studies what type of structure is needed.

How do I start my dissertation?

Pick a dissertation topic of interest and determine the issue to be explored. Previous research is sufficient in preparation since gaps identified in the previous dissertations are targeted. Talk to supervisors or fellow students to help you get a rough idea of the whole dissertation structure. Narrow down the topic to a specific issue to be tackled; this increases the chances that the topic is accepted by the board. Read broadly on the topic and take notes. By doing so, the next steps are easy to follow and keep the dissertation structure intact.

How to reduce plagiarism in my dissertation?

Ensure all works written by other authors are appropriately paraphrased and cited. Be sure that you’re using the correct referencing and citation method before you begin writing. Plagiarism is an academic offence which in some universities can lead to immediate failure, or even expulsion.

What is the acceptable dissertation structure?

All dissertation structures are similar, but they differ in relation to the discipline. It is recommended that you consult with your supervisor and your department to find out what the acceptable dissertation structure is. Sections such as the dissertation introduction and conclusion are standard in most pieces of academic writing. However, health and social sciences are examples of disciplines with completely different dissertation structures.

What is the dissertation word count?

The word count is dependent on the institution. Most institutions have a word count limit of 6000 give or take 10%. Some parts of the dissertation structure, such as the bibliography or the table of contents do not factor into the word count of a dissertation. But check with your institution to play it safe.

What are the main components of a dissertation structure?

The main dissertation structure features that need to be included are a title, an introduction, headings, a conclusion and a bibliography. These key components must be in any dissertation presented for a bachelor’s thesis, master’s thesis or doctoral program. Depending on the institution, different formatting and referencing styles such as APA or MLA may be required.

Parts of a Dissertation Structure

A dissertation starts with a title page. It contains the research title and the name of the institution where the research is being submitted. Different disciplines require different arrangements of the title page components. Be sure to inquire with your faculty.

Introduction

The introduction explains more on the abstract. As earlier stated, the abstract is short and concise hence an introduction broadens its contents. A reader can identify how, what and why of the specific research after reading the introduction.

Literature review

To write a literature review one needs to read previous work and research on the topic. Journals, books and research articles are used in collection of information which is later analysed, then connections are made from the different information collected. Gaps are identified, hence finding ways to build more on what is present.

Methodology

It explains how the research will be conducted. The type of research to be used is presented, the method used to collect data, the research area is stated, data analysis is described, any tool used, limitations and the justification of the choices made when collecting data. The methodology needs to be convincing to meet the research goals.

The findings give the results of the methodology. In some departments, findings and discussions may be explained together, while in others they are different entities. Charts, histograms and tables are useful in showing the findings.

It is the research summary. An abstract gives the overall goal of the research in a page or less. Anyone reading an abstract should have a rough idea of the whole research since it contains a stand-alone thesis. Some institutions have a word limit of the abstract that need to be adhered to the latter. Despite its location in the dissertation structure, an abstract is often written last after the whole research is done. Although some people prefer to write it first since it provides a framework for writing the dissertation. An abstract is short but concise.

Acknowledgements

In an acknowledgement individuals who helped through the research are mentioned. Individuals mentioned include supervisors, parents, spouses, children and friends among others.

Table of content

The dissertation structure is well-written and it includes sub-sections. In Microsoft Word, the table of contents is clicked and automatically takes one to a specific section.

List of figures and tables

In case your research has figures and tables, number them and insert caption such that when one clicks on it the figure or table opens.

List of abbreviations

Abbreviations used in the dissertation are written with what they represent. They are arranged in an alphabetical order.

The findings are explained in detail forming different relationships from the literature review. Recommendations are presented to help improve the issue being discussed.

It brings all the dissertation together to explain the findings and research questions. Contribution to the current literature is highlighted in the conclusion section.

Reference list

A reference list includes all the sources used in the research. Most dissertation is written in either APA or MLA citation.

It is the last part of a dissertation structure, and it includes questionnaires, surveys, or transcripts.

Other Dissertation Structure Guidelines

• The most common font is Times New Roman, font size 12, double spaced.
• The margins for bottom, top and right are 1 inch while the left margin is 1.5 inches.
• Figures and tables need to fit on the page; if they do not, you can change that particular page to landscape format.
• The table of contents must be updated using Microsoft Word headings.

In a Nutshell

• Always consult with your supervisor and instructor regarding the dissertation structure since this can vary from one faculty to the next. Ensure you follow the required dissertation structure.
• Proofread and edit the document for grammar. A dissertation structure with very few grammatical errors increases the chances of success.
• Be clear and direct when writing a dissertation. This will ensure that it is approved by the examination board. When an institution does not have dissertation structure guidelines, ensure the dissertation structure components listed above are included.
• Ensure the dissertation structure specifications are followed to the letter. Specifications include font and paper size, among others.
• Abbreviations are a part of the dissertation structure; a list of all abbreviated words used in the dissertation should be included.

Excellent product. Quick delivery. Easy to order and you can see the finished...

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential, while others help us to improve this website and your experience.

• External Media

Individual Privacy Preferences

Cookie Details Privacy Policy Imprint

Here you will find an overview of all cookies used. You can give your consent to whole categories or display further information and select certain cookies.

Accept all Save

Essential cookies enable basic functions and are necessary for the proper function of the website.

Show Cookie Information Hide Cookie Information

Statistics cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.

Content from video platforms and social media platforms is blocked by default. If External Media cookies are accepted, access to those contents no longer requires manual consent.

Privacy Policy Imprint

• Offre Business
• 01 74 88 44 44 Numéro non surtaxé
• Demander une aide technique
• Je m'abonne !
• Je m'abonne

Les Secrets d'un Bon Plan Structuré

Les trois questions clés pour un plan réussi.

Les objectifs de cette vidéo sont d'enseigner comment évaluer et structurer un plan pour qu'il soit pertinent, bien hiérarchisé, et équilibré.

Apprenez à évaluer votre plan en répondant à trois questions essentielles pour assurer sa pertinence , sa hiérarchisation et son équilibrage .

Description

Dans cette leçon, nous examinons les éléments qui garantissent qu'un plan est bien conçu. Tout d'abord, un plan doit être pertinent , ce qui signifie qu'il doit répondre à la problématique posée, en évitant les hors-sujets. Pour cela, il doit contenir suffisamment d'arguments de qualité, soutenus par des concepts et des auteurs reconnus.

Ensuite, l' hiérarchisation du plan est cruciale. Un ordre logique doit être visible, permettant au correcteur de suivre naturellement la progression du raisonnement jusqu'à la conclusion. Enfin, un plan doit être équilibré . Chaque partie doit avoir une importance appropriée et un volume de contenu comparable, afin d'éviter tout déséquilibre.

En répondant à ces trois questions essentielles, vous serez en mesure de bâtir des plans solides et convaincants pour vos travaux académiques ou professionnels.

Questions - réponses

Transcription de la leçon, programme détaillé de la formation, module 1 - construire le plan de la dissertation, module 2 - introduction et conclusion de la dissertation, module 3 - philosophie générale, sujet et problématique de la dissertation, le budget, principal moyen d'intervention de l'etat, l’essor inquiétant des crises financières, l'essor des échanges internationaux et l'évolution des flux géographiques, les collectivités territoriales, le circuit économique, éditeur de vidéos pédagogiques.

Besoin d’aide ? Contactez notre support technique !

Notre équipe est disponible du lundi au vendredi de 9h 12h et de 14h à 17h au  01 74 88 44 44

*appel non surtaxé

Inscrivez-vous ou connectez-vous pour ajouter cette formation à vos favoris.