Writing your dissertation or thesis can be an exciting and intimidating process. So, where do you start? How do you sustain the momentum and finish such a large project? Whether you are just getting started planning your dissertation or thesis or you need a final read through, we are happy to help! To get you started, we’ve compiled some resources below.

Also, did you know the writing center also offers dissertation and thesis writing groups? Send us an email at wrc@du.edu if you would like to be involved!

No matter what stage of the writing process you are in, we are here to help!

Dissertation and Thesis Writing

Managing the work of writing a dissertation or thesis is a huge job; we've compiled some resources to help!

Want to brush up on some of the writing habits and strategies that can help you to approach the writing assignments in your graduate courses with confidence? The video below offers tips on approaching the more complex writing that graduate school requires.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsUGT0hUz_c

Originally recorded on Wednesday, January 27, 12pm MST via Zoom & Monday, February 1, 5pm MST via Zoom

Formatting

Below are some resources on fundamental formatting operations that graduate students need to format their theses and dissertations before submitting to the Office of Graduate Education and ProQuest.

We have a few recommendations to make this process a bit easier:

1. Do not try to use the online Word 365 for this work. It will not work because certain functions (like section breaks) are not available. Download the software for Word and use that.

2. Use the template provided by OGE to do this work. It walks you through the process step by step. When you don't know how to do something, try searching online -- there are a lot of short, clear, and accessible videos for just about everything. And refer to the formatting requirements document as well.

The videos here offer brief demos of some of the basics. These videos are not professional, and the presenter is not a tech expert!

Working from the OGE template and importing your content from another doc

Overall doc -- setting margins and footers

Sections and page numbers

Links to Additional Resources

One of the most difficult aspects of writing is just getting started. One strategy might be to break up your writing into sections. The smaller the section, the more manageable the task! Another strategy is to set manageable goals for yourself. Here’s a link on how to set doable goals as you begin the process of writing your thesis or dissertation:

Goal Setting for Graduate Writers

You might also consider starting a writing group. A writing group is a fun way to maintain accountability and talk through the experience with others. Here’s a helpful link for starting your own writing group:

Starting a Writing Group (handout)

When you’re finished with your dissertation or thesis, you may be considering revising your work towards publication. If you’re curious about this process, start here:

From Dissertation to Book