CIE6002

Dissertation structure, Writing style,

Presentations, Research ethics

Lekshmi Rajesh

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 Possible Dissertation Structure
Chapter 0: Prelim pages (including ABSTRACT)
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Theory and Lit Rev
Chapter 3: Research design and methodology
Chapter 4: Analysis, results and findings
Chapter 5: Discussion
Chapter 6: Conclusions and recommendations
References or Bibliography
Appendices

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 Prelim Pages
• Cover page
• Abstract
• Declaration
• Acknowledgements
• Contents page
• List of figures (includes pie charts, graphs, diagrams)
• List of tables
• List of abbreviations
• Glossary of symbols
• Glossary of terms
• List of Appendices

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• Each individual chapter must begin with an intro
and end with a summary. Why?

• Numbering headings within chapters 1.1, 1.2,

etc.

• Page numbering entire document except cover

Prelim pages- Roman numerals
Main body- Arabic numerals
Appendices- A,B,C

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 Writing style- House style

• Main Text - Arial – 11point

• 1.5 line spacing, fully justified
• 3 cm margins
• Tables-Left justification, tables in simple grids
• Table text Arial 10 point
• Chapter Heading - 14 pt bold,
• Paginate each page in the centre bottom

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 Writing Style

• Word limits
• Adopt third-person writing
• Write consistently in plural
• Avoid slang
• Avoid words with abbreviated apostrophes
• Use professional language
• 1 or ‘one’
• Maintain same tense (depends on chapter)

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 Ethical Compliance

• Do not hurt anyone; risk assessment for lab

work
• Do not offend anyone; emotional harm
• Accidentally, thoughtlessly, carelessly
• University code of practice; on web site and on
Moodle
• Confidentiality vs Anonymity- person A or
organisation B
• Permission to observe/interview
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 Presentations

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 Prep & Planning
• PLAN

• Organise your structure

• Know your topic

• Rehearse and time yourself

DO NOT READ
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 Visual Aids
• Powerpoint or similar
• This is 40 font size: this is 20 font
• Five or six points each slide
• Reveal as you go
• Point at the projector
• Graphs or clipart: sensible colours

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 The Individual
• Nerves
• Posture; hands; mannerisms
• Voice exercises; stammer-er-er!
• Eye contact; be cheerful
• Deep breathing; physical exercise
• Emphasise your structure: 1, 2, 3

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 References
• Farrell, P., 2011, Writing a Built Environment
Dissertation Practical Guidance and examples,
John Wiley & Sons, West Sussex

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 The End

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