One of the major challenges students face is choosing a dissertation topic. A dissertation is a crucial part of a student’s life as it accounts for a large percentage of the final result. Therefore, you need to choose wisely.
In their final years, most undergraduate and postgraduate students find themselves in an unbearablesituation because of the uncertainties surrounding their selected topic. They keep wondering whether the chosen topic is worth investigating and if its scope is manageable.
Before you select your dissertation topic, you need to find existing literature on the subject. The literature base will tell you whether the topic has been adequately researched. Additionally, you will know if it is important to your field.
Are you trying to find the most engaging topic for your dissertation? Read below to get insights on selecting an ideal research topic.
Interest
The greater the interest in the topic, the higher your commitment level. You will spend several months working on your research project; therefore, you need to choose a topic that interests you. You could select a research area that aligns with your future career aspirations, or maybe you could be interested in another subject. Either way, you will have an easier time focusing on your dissertation if you are passionate about the topic.
However, your professors would recommend choosing a subject area that will be beneficial to your career. The research you will do in your project will give you an in-depth understanding of the area.What’s more, it will add to your strengths when applying for jobs in the future.
Select a Unique Topic
Avoid choosing topics that many researchers have investigated. You must think of something different so that you have the chance of carrying out research and making your conclusions.
Finding a subject area that has not been researched is seldom possible. However, you could approach the topic from a different angle. Or better yet, come up with a unique idea from an unsaturated area.
Avoid Vagueness
A dissertation is an essential piece of document that students must write carefully. Each sentence should have new information that builds up on the research problem. In addition, the document’s structure should be clear.
If you select a broad topic, you will have difficulty fully exploring it, therefore drawing concise conclusions might be more challenging.
Do not be Too Narrow
While your professor will discourage you from having a lengthy document, you still need to fulfil the research’s word count. Focusing on a narrow research question or the subject area will cost you. You will struggle to make your arguments and drawing proper conclusions.
Furthermore, when writing your dissertation, ensure you do not choose a question that can be answered with a yes or no.
Conduct a Thorough Research
Research about different topics and their literature base to determine the most suitable subject. During your research, you need to take into account the proposal submission deadline. As a result, you will know how to plan your time to research topics that pique your interest.
It is critical to research since it will let you know if you have sufficient resources to expand your thoughts.
Be Objective
Some students end falling in love with specific subjects early in their research. Consequently, they ignore the topic’s weaknesses. You need to be realistic about your scope’s idea. Analyze the subject area like an outsider to ensure you make the right decision. Remember, you can still find other incredible topics if you are well-organized.
Consider Practical Use of the Data
Some dissertation topics have more outstanding practical applications than others. Select a topic that will make a huge difference and impact your career. A great dissertation will be important to policy makers and will contribute to your field of study.
Consult your Supervisor
Before beginning your research, you should find a tutor to guide you through the entire dissertation writing process. The professor will be like your mentor and will help with any questions that you have.
When you get ideas for your research topic, do preliminary research, then schedule a time to discuss your thoughts with the tutor. They will give you great advice since they have experience guiding previous students to select the ideal topics.
Budget
Research is costly. You will have to spend money on travel expenses, maybe to meet participants or collect data. Additionally, there are proofreading, transcription and printing costs that you will incur. The overall cost of your research will depend on the topic you choose.
Make sure you consider the money you are willing to spend on the dissertation before selecting a topic.
Research can be interesting, especially if you are looking to solve a problem in a subject you are interested in. However, finding a topic you want can be confusing too. Follow this guide to know how to choose the most suitable dissertation topic for you.