How do I format my dissertation?
Answer
Dissertation format varies widely by subject area; for exact specifications, we recommend consulting your Dissertation Handbook. You will usually find your handbook on the "Module Information" page of your module's Brightspace area.
Please note, dissertations will typically include the following:
- Cover sheet and/or title page
- Table of contents (see here for guidance)
- List of tables and/or figures (see here for guidance)
- Several chapters or sections (e.g., Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology, Findings, Discussion, Conclusion)
- Complete reference list
- Appendices comprising significant information not included in the main body of the dissertation
In some disciplines, you may be expected to use Roman numerals for any dissertation front matter (e.g., acknowledgements, abstract, table of contents) and numeric digits for the main body of your work, reference list and appendices. For guidance on formatting page numbers in this way for both Windows and Mac, click here.