Dissertation Planning Worksheet

Use this worksheet to turn a broad topic into a workable dissertation plan. Complete each section in your own words, and discuss any uncertainties with your supervisor.

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Topic and question

My topic is stated in one sentence.
My research question is specific, focused and answerable.
I have written two or three objectives that follow from the question.
I can explain why the question matters, in plain language.

Method in outline

I have noted whether my approach is mainly qualitative, quantitative or mixed, and why.
I have listed the data or sources I would need, and how I would access them ethically.
I have noted the main limitations and ethical considerations.

Plan and milestones

I have broken the work into stages: proposal, literature review, method, analysis, writing and revision.
Each stage has a target date and a deliverable.
I have built in time for supervisor feedback and final checks.
I have a plan for what to do if a stage takes longer than expected.

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