Undergraduate Dissertation Proposal

Writing a dissertation need not be cumbersome.  Undergraduate dissertation writing means, first and foremost, a presentation of one’s findings based on research in support of their candidature to earn their degree. 

One very significant role that must be clear to anyone writing an undergraduate dissertation proposal is that one should be able to enlighten the readers on the facts presented in the writing.   No argument is necessary but one should be able to clearly present the points made in the writing.   It is also important to demonstrate the significance of the proposal to convince the readers on its necessity.  Here, one should be able to establish some form of “credibility.”  The undergraduate dissertation proposal shall be able to show one’s mastery of the field of study. 

Simple Steps in Writing a Dissertation Proposal

1. Know the specific requirements from your dissertation advisor.  Although there are general rules and requirement as to the form and style, check for any particular requirement that your advisor needs to see in the writing.
2. Research, research, and research.  There is no substitute to a well researched proposal.  You should be able to gather sufficient materials that should evaluate your thoughts in full swing.  Know what and what not to include in bolstering the ideas presented in your writing.
3. Write your proposal following the format consulted with and approved by your advisor. 
   

Easy Guidelines to Observe

Length of an undergraduate dissertation proposal.   How long or how short your proposal will be is dependent on how you are going to address your points.  On the average, a 20-page proposal is desirable.  You can go more or less as long as all your necessary points are presented in the proposal.

Key Parts of the Dissertation Proposal.  As a general rule, the following components should be seen in your proposal:

• Title – states the nature of your proposal.  A good title should not exceed 15 words.
• Abstract – brief explanation of your field of study, its scope and limitations, as well as your planned methodology, and plausible conclusions.
• Introduction – brief summary of your points.  Readers should be able to understand from the introduction what you are attempting to explain and why it is important.
• Statement of the Problem - description of your field of study including a backgrounder on why you are endeavoring on the study.
• Review of Related Literature – evaluation of earlier works you have referenced citing why they are significant to your own proposal.
• Methodology - the specifics and procedures of your endeavor.  It explains in detail how you will go about to resolve your study.
• References – an acknowledgement and citation of all the studies used as reference. 
• Appendices – date-gathering tools to be used in the course of the study such as survey forms, questionnaires, correspondence, etc.

Remember that the undergraduate dissertation proposal is your blueprint.  It should be able to provide focus and procedural direction to one’s study.  In a sense, it is also a documented agreement between you and your advisor as to the strategy and expectations. 

It is therefore prudent to invest a lot of time and effort to come up with a substantial proposal because it shall guide you towards your dissertation.