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420 by Zim Sailing

$ 12,130.00

Please Contact Us for Availability

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Zim Club 420 – 3 VERSIONS

The Zim C420 is the Club 420 of choice for yacht clubs, community sailing programs, and individuals. One-design sailors want the strongest, lightest, most durable boats and rigging available. We’ve met this demand with proven boat construction techniques and a race rigging package that ensure performance, strength, and durability. This durability has led to many happy repeat customers. The Zim 420 continues to prove itself on the course with victories at local, regional, National, and North American Championship regattas.

C420 CONSTRUCTION

Toughened resin and plexus bond for superior strength and durability
Colored gelcoat racing stripes on aft end of cockpit or traditional grey deck
Matching smoke gray rudder blade and centerboard
All through-deck mounted hardware is supported by tapped aluminum backing plates
Shroud chain plate is a forged eye strap supported with an aluminum back-up bar under the rail
Harken Carbo cleats and blocks
Roller pins on shrouds instead of guy hooks
Mylar centerboard gaskets
Low drag bailer
Round traveler bar

SAILS & RIGGING

North Sails class approved mainsail, jib, and spinnaker
Custom Spinnaker colors available
Zim Race Rigging
Dyneema main halyard for max hoist and low stretch
Spliced single adjustment mainsheet bridle
16:1 Dyneema vang
FSE Robline line package
2:1 rudder downhaul
Pulley trapeze rings; handle and ring are both adjustable for gross and fine tuning
Tapered aluminum spinnaker pole
Dwyer aluminum mast and boom
C420 – Club – $12,130.00
C420 – Race – $12,235.00
C420 – Pro – $12,880.00

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Header image - 420 Sailboat: A Comprehensive Review

420 Sailboat: An In-depth Analysis

The 420 sailboat, a classic in the sailing world, is known for its versatility and performance. Loved by both beginners and seasoned sailors alike, this craft offers a unique sailing experience. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into its features, functionality, and overall value.

The History of the 420 Sailboat

The 420 sailboat has been a staple in the boating community since its creation in 1959. Designed by Christian Maury, this French-made dinghy has gained a reputation for being a top choice for youth training, high school and collegiate sailing, and even for competitive events. Over the decades, it has proven its worth and stood the test of time, making it a much-loved choice for many sailors.

Design and Construction

When it comes to design and construction, the 420 sailboat is nothing short of impressive. Its 4.2 meters of length coupled with a light hull weight of around 80 kg allows for easier transportation and storage. The boat's construction materials have evolved over time, with modern versions often featuring a durable fiberglass hull and an aluminum mast.

Sails and Rigging

The 420's sailplan consists of a mainsail, a jib, and a spinnaker. This configuration offers a balanced performance in various wind conditions, allowing sailors to efficiently manage and adjust sails as necessary.

Performance on Water

The 420 sailboat's performance is noteworthy, as it strikes a perfect balance between speed, stability, and maneuverability. Its responsiveness, combined with the simplicity of its handling, makes it an ideal boat for a wide range of skill levels.

Handling and Maneuverability

The 420's handling and maneuverability is where this vessel truly shines. Its lightweight design and efficient hull shape allow for quick tacking and gybing, while the adjustable rigging system enables sailors to modify the boat's performance according to changing conditions.

Comfort and Safety

Although primarily designed for competitive sailing, the 420 sailboat doesn't compromise on comfort and safety. The cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate two people comfortably, while the hull's robust construction and the boat's inherent stability offer peace of mind to the crew on board.

The 420 sailboat is truly a gem in the sailing world. With its enduring design, commendable performance, and solid build, it promises an enjoyable sailing experience. Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable boat to learn on, or an experienced sailor seeking a versatile craft for competitive racing, the 420 sailboat certainly warrants consideration.

Price and Value

When it comes to value for money, the 420 sailboat stands tall among its competitors. While the initial investment may seem significant, its longevity, performance capabilities, and the enduring demand in the second-hand market make it a worthwhile investment for the serious sailor.

Initial Cost

The price of a new 420 sailboat can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, equipment included, and the specific model. As of 2023, you can expect to pay anywhere between $8,000 to $12,000 for a new 420 sailboat.

Maintenance and Operating Costs

The 420 sailboat's maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other similar vessels. Due to its robust construction and simple design, regular cleaning and occasional rigging adjustments are generally all that's needed to keep a 420 in top shape. Additionally, being a small sailing dinghy, it doesn't incur mooring fees and its transportation costs are minimal.

Resale Value

One of the standout aspects of the 420 sailboat is its strong resale value. Given its popularity in sailing schools and racing events, there is always demand in the second-hand market. Well-maintained boats often retain a significant percentage of their original value, making the 420 a financially sound choice.

Final Thoughts

The 420 sailboat is a true classic that continues to hold its own in the contemporary sailing world. With its perfect balance of performance, durability, and value, it offers a versatile sailing solution for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

In conclusion, the 420 sailboat ticks all the right boxes for both recreational and competitive sailing. From its clever design and excellent performance to its safety features and overall value, it offers everything a sailor could ask for. For those in the market for a reliable, efficient, and enjoyable sailing vessel, the 420 sailboat is indeed a worthy contender.

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Accelerate skill development in a boat that delivers an edge.

A Mackay 420 has been behind nearly every world champion success since we commenced building 420’s in 2012.

Specifications

Hull Length 4.2 m

Beam Length 1.63 m

Mainsail Area 7.4 m2

Headsail Area 2.8 m2

Spinnaker Area 9.0 m2

Boat Weight 100 kg

Hull Weight 80 kg

Hull Material GRP

No. of Crew 2

Opt Crew Weight 110 - 145 kg

Number of Trapeze Single

Designer Christian Maury

420 Class Association website: http://www.420sailing.org/

The 420 is one of the best options to learn the ropes about two-person dinghy sailing. Crews learn how to tune a boat, set up control systems, trim sail combinations (jib, main and spinnaker together), work on downwind and upwind techniques, and importantly, learn how to work with another crew.

The Class has attracted many top sailors to it, providing a learning platform that has led them into successful Olympic campaigns and big boat careers.

The 420’s design and class rules gave us the opportunity to build a boat similar to how the Mackay 470 is built in terms of the mould structure and look of the boat.

The Mackay 420 hull shape was developed by naval architect Kevin Trotter. Kevin has designed very fast dinghies here in New Zealand over the years. Using the latest design and analysis software, along with the luxury of time we were able to evaluate the expected performance along with the look of the boat.

Looking at where crews tended to sit in the boat in different conditions affected where we pushed the displacement curve of the boat. Additionally, Kevin's skiff designs gave valuable insight into the way the rocker curve and buttocks lines should run through the middle and aft sections.

The hull is made from a polyester e-glass fibre, using foam core ribs and core mat panels.

The Mackay 420 deck to hull joint system is the same as our 470s, which allows for the same exceptionally strong but light gunwale arrangement. This extends around the bow and across the transom.

We have also borrowed some other features off the 470. As an example, the way the mast partner is fitted to the deck after the boat is built allows the bulkhead in front of the mast to be more vertical and closer to the mast. This is better for rig tension and weight distribution. It also improves the look of the boat giving it a longer foredeck.

The rudder stock is in cast aluminum which provides excellent support. The foils are built in the same way as our 470 foils by resin infusion.

Most importantly the time and energy we put into the rudder and centreboard design along with the finishing of the moulds has resulted in some very special foils.

420: Our recent successes

420 Mackay Boats History

How to do a gelcoat repair.

Small gel coat repairs are relatively easy to do.

What is Gelcoat made up of?

Gelcoat is a polyester product that is cured by using a catalyst called MEKP. (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide)

MEKP is a dangerous substance and should be treated as such when using, being very careful not to get any on your skin or in your eyes.

How can I get the catalyst - MERK?

We cannot ship MEKP so you will always need to buy it separately from your local marine store or fibreglass manufacturer.

How much MERK do I need?

The amount of Catalyst varies depending on the conditions you are using it in, but around 2%-3% will always work.

It is best to use a small syringe or dropper to get the required catalyst rate.

If you have mixed 100gm of gelcoat, then you are aiming for 2ml of catalyst.

What are the Gelcoat colours?

Gelcoats colours are not always a 100% perfect match.

Colour will vary depending on the depth of the repair and the batch.

470, 420, 29er & Starling are built from polyester resin.

For Polyester boats

470 White- LS30 White PA 337

470 Grey- Grey RAL 7035

Blue = is supplier by Nuplex who have their own code which is not an international code

Does Mackay Boats supply gelcoat?

We supply a small tin (of each relevant colour) with each new boat.

Order additional gelcoat from our store, although it cannot be shipped by courier.

How do I do gelcoat repairs?

Doing gelcoat repairs is an art that improves with experience.

Making sure the surface is prepared well and keyed up is critical.

Overfill and then sanding back is a slow and time-consuming process.

Be very careful not to scratch the boat around the repair.

You shouldn’t sand the original surface around the repair with any paper coarser than 600grit.

Mask around the repair to protect the boat.

You can initially use a file or 150g to take the high parts off the filling, but don't use the coarse paper for too long or you will end up with scratches in the finished repair.

Once you have it fair with 600g, you can work your way through the sandpaper grades until you finish with 1500grit before cutting and polishing.

We would typically use 600g, then 800g or 1000g, then 1200g, then finally 1500g.

What can be customised?

Deck colour and non-skid on the side-decks. You can find these options if you try the boat configurator on our website.

What colour options do you offer?

White, Light Grey, Light Blue, Light Green, and Cream. On the 420, Grey is the most popular, with Blue and White equal second most popular.

How do you fit a mylar gasket the hull?

Please watch this short video that demonstrates fitting a mylar gasket to the 420 hull -

>> Fitting a mylar gasket .

420 Tuning Tips

Are you sure you want to change currency.

Junior to Collegiate Level double-handed sailing boat . Safe for beginners and quick enough to keep collegiate sailors interested, the Club 420 provides the most double handed racing of any boat in the world. The C420 enables young sailors to learn teamwork, trapeze, and spinnaker techniques that can’t be learned from a single-handed boat.

Sailing institutions are using the C420 to develop team racing and fleet racing events that are keeping young sailors excited while building participation in junior programs.

The racing and learning continue to improve as more clubs standardize to the Club 420 and participation grows at every level.

The class maintains an active membership of over 800 sailors and is growing rapidly
It forms the basis of many junior sailing programs
It is the basis of over 470 high school sailing programs (ISSA)

79.65 ft 2 7.40 m 2

95 ft 2 8.83 m 2

5.50 FT 1.68 M

2.95 FT 0.90 M

13.90 FT 4.24 M

Club -> National

Beginner -> Advanced

230 LB 104.33 KG

BOAT LIGHTNESS

TIME TO WATER

SKILL LEVEL

PARTS LOCATOR

RIGGING MANUAL

Parts & Accessories

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Zim club 420.

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Description.

If you're using 420s in your program, you want to have a ZIM. Quality construction, low cost, and a full parts network for support year round.

A feature rich Club 420 for yacht clubs and institutional racing programs that want a larger fiberglass boat than the FJ. The Zim Club 420 is for one-design sailors who want the strongest, lightest 420 with the best rigging available. Proven boat construction techniques and a race rigging package ensure performance, strength, and durability. The choice of champions, with victories at many local, regional, and national events.

Click Here to Request a Quote

You can also reach us at [email protected] or by calling 503-285-5536 ext2

Construction

Toughened resin and plexus bond for superior strength and durability
Colored gelcoat racing stripes on aft end of cockpit or traditional grey deck
Matching smoke Grey rudder blade and centerboard
All through-deck mounted hardware is supported by tapped aluminum backing plates
Shroud chain plate is a forged eye strap supported with an aluminum back-up bar under the rail
Harken Carbo cleats and blocks
Roller pins on shrouds instead of guy hooks
Captive shroud adjusters for safe rig adjustments
Mylar centerboard gaskets
Low drag bailer with replaceable parts
Round traveler bar

Sails & Rigging

North Sails class approved mainsail, jib, and spinnaker
Custom Spinnaker colors available
Zim Race Rigging
Dyneema main halyard for max hoist and low stretch
Spliced single adjustment mainsheet bridle
FSE Robline line package
2:1 rudder downhaul
Pulley trapeze rings; handle and ring are both adjustable for gross and fine tuning
Tapered aluminum spinnaker pole
Dwyer aluminum mast and boom

Specifications

Length - 13'10"
Beam - 5'6"
Mainsail Area - 80 sq ft
Jib Area - 30 sq ft
Spinnaker Area - 95 sq ft
Hull Weight - 230 lbs
Shop 420 Parts
420 Parts Locator
420 Rigging Guide

Why West Coast Sailing

We represent a dozen sailboat brands from all around the world. Our dinghy sailboat inventory is second to none, with at least 100 boats in stock in our warehouse at any time. Our staff has extensive experience sailing, racing, rigging, coaching and delivering boats worldwide. This is what we do:

Selection – 70+ models of boats from manufacturers around the world.
Service – Our staff is focused on helping you Own The Water.
Experience – The team here has decades of experience on all types of dinghies.
Inventory – Over $1million of boats and parts inventory in stock at all times.
Logistics – We have experience shipping boats all over the world, at reasonable rates, quickly.
Rigging – We rig most boats by hand, and stand behind our work.
Long Term Support – We are a leader in our industry, and we didn't get here by cutting corners. We have your back.
Apparel and Accessories – We have the apparel, accessories, trailers and dollies to go with each boat.

Product Reviews

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Delivery Info: Enjoy Free Standard Shipping on most orders* to the Continental United States over $99. Our Standard Shipping method utilizes USPS, UPS, and FedEx to send packages near and far. Oversize/Freight shipping (where applicable), Expedited Shipping (where available), and rates to other destinations will be calculated at checkout.

See our Shipping Page for more information (and exceptions).

Returns Info: Your 100% satisfaction is our goal - we want you to love your sailing gear, but if something doesn't work out, we accept returns on most new, unused items*. Returns can be made within 366 days (1 year + 1 day) of your original order date. Exceptions include (and are not limited to) cut line, Rig Shop products, special order items, numbered sailors, and items used or worn sailing.

See our Returns Page for more information.

Prop 65 Warning

Related Products

Zim Club Optimist

420 Hull Cover (Zim)

Zim 420/FJ Pintle (Lower)

Zim 420/FJ Pintle (Upper)

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News Just a few Reasons why the 420 Leads as the Boat of Choice for Youth Sailors

Racing at the 420 Junior Europeans © Event Media

Racing at the 420 Worlds © Christian Beeck

420 Sailors simply hanging out together © Christian Beeck

Podium Finishers at the 420 Worlds © Christian Beeck

Racing at the 420 Worlds © Event Media

Just a few Reasons why the 420 Leads as the Boat of Choice for Youth Sailors

The International 420 Class has been the boat of choice for youth sailor for many years, both as a performance two-person spinnaker racing dinghy for youth and a learn-to-sail boat.

Choosing the 420 pathway provides sailors with the essential skills they will need whatever their next step in sailing. It is the perfect boat to develop skill in strategy, tactics, boat handling, tuning and technique and as the 420 is so accessible, these skills can easily be obtained by sailors in developing nations.

Whilst the 420 is accessible and easy to start to sail – it is also a performance boat which demands excellent skills to compete at the top level. MNAs and sailing clubs can invest knowing their investment will last both across the generations of sailors (for young and old) and as current sailors progress through their careers.

The 420 has been by far the most popular two-person dinghy at the Youth Sailing World Championships over the last forty years and continues to be selected.

Sailed in well over 45 countries , the 420 is proven as a great training boat, and an ideal class whatever your next step in sailing. Many sailors successfully move to the Olympic two-person classes, and former 420 sailors are World Champions in many dinghy and yacht classes, as well as pursuing offshore, match racing and team racing sailing careers. Just a few of today's well-known sailors who learnt their skills in the 420 are: Jo Aleh/Polly Powrie (NZL), Mat Belcher/Will Ryan (AUS), Peter Burling (NZL), Lucas Calabrese (ARG), Taylor Canfield (ISV), Paul Campbell-James (GBR), Asenathi Jim/Roger Hudson (RSA), Peter Lang (DEN), Hannah Mills (GBR), Nathan Outteridge (AUS), Luke Patience (GBR) .... and many more.

The 420 is a proven transition class which provides sailors with excellent skills in strategy, tactics, boat handling, tuning and technique.

There are 420 builders all over the world and equipment is easily available, with a 420 ready to sail costing on average EUR5,500.

Choosing your Crew As with any two-person boat, finding a crew is important. Sailing with a good crew is part of the fun of the International 420, but also a vital learning process for future sailing. When starting out, a good sailing friend is probably a sensible start! In due course, you may need a partner who has the same sailing ambitions as you.

Sailing the International 420 often leads to Olympic Class sailing, as the quality of the racing and international competition is very high. Ideally, the combined weight should be in the 110-145 kilo range. But at first, learning to work in partnership is important, with both roles mutually dependent, as well as learning the controls of the boat. When these are mastered, it may be time to get the lighter sailor on the helm and the heavier sailor “on the wire”.

The 420 Class runs regional training clinics and pre-Championship Clinics, led by expert coaches. The 420 Class has also partnered with World Sailing to support the “Youth Worlds Emerging Nations Programme” .

Most importantly – 420 Sailors Have Fun!

facebook.com/international420classassociation twitter.com/420class

Take a look at our 420 Flyer and Powerpoint Presentation on the 420 Class

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Description

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The 420E from Zim Sailing sets a new standard in enclosed deck technology for high school and college sailing. The airtight foredeck has taken weight out of the bow, increasing performance and safety, without sacrificing the durability Zim Sailing's boats are known for. Institutions such as high schools, colleges, and community sailing programs, demand a unique combination of performance and toughness, and the 420E delivers.

Hull and Deck

All thru deck mounted hardware is supported by tapped aluminum backing plates glassed to the inside of the boat which eliminate inspection ports.
Enclosed foredeck so water does not flow to the bow which will increase safety and provide greater performance.
Forestay chain plate, extruded aluminum with three ¼” fasteners thru bolted into an aluminum backing plate which add durability and strength to the boat.
Shroud chain plate is a forged eye strap supported with an aluminum back-up bar under the rail for additional durability.
Jib leads have been moved 4 inches inboard to eliminate inboard sheeting and promote a higher pointing angle.
All flanges and hull to deck joints are bonded with Plexus methyl methacrylate structural adhesive to eliminate leaks and hull/deck separation. This is the strongest bonding agent on the market and Zim is the only company to use this to bond their boats.
Keelson rib is solid and laminated to the aft end of the centerboard trunk to strengthen the hull when loaded with water and pulled onto the dock which will prevent the boat from buckling which cause stress cracks on the hull.
Keelson rib height has been increased to provide the perfect platform for skippers to step across the boat for perfect maneuvers.
Elastomeric urethane bow bumpers are the industry standard for increased durability.
One-piece high density urethane gasket retainer with cloth gaskets to increased durability and allow for easy maintenance.
Reinforced mast partner
Harken 75mm carbo mainsheet blocks and jib sheet cleats will provide increased reliability.
Heavy Duty transom pintles are the longest lasting pintles on the market and the rudder retainer clip has a plastic tip to eliminate pinching fingers. The rudder comes with a lanyard to secure it to the boat.
Tennis ball transom bailer is connected to an eye strap on the keelson for easy closure.
6:1 Harken vang system which allows for easy adjustment.
Horn cleat for the aft hiking strap will provide easy adjustment between sets.
Jib tack quick pin with lanyard to eliminate pins being dropped in water.
Heavy duty webbing hiking straps for greater longevity.
FJ rudder promotes less drag and while providing more pointing.
Dwyer mast.
Selden boom with drilled and tapped screws to prevent block movement
External outhaul.
Selden boom gooseneck spigot is permanently attached to the boom

	13.9'
	5.5'
	2.95'
	225 lbs
	79.65ft²
	30.14ft²

Base Boat Includes

Zim Platinum sails with team race graphics and program logo up to 1sq meter and 3 colors
Dwyer mast and Selden boom
Recessed gasket
Tennis ball bailer – Double
Vinyl bow number
Filled stern rails
Lanyard to attached drain plugs
Marlow line package

*Boat price doesn't include freight from Zim Sailing to Customer

Product Reviews

420E Hiking Strap

FJ / 420E Rudder - White

Base, 420E Vang Cleat

420 SCV / 420E Gasket Retainer Molded

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Youth Sailors, Take Notice. Meet The New Turbo 420

February 7, 2013 by Sail1Design Editor Leave a Comment

Mildly resembling that mad scientist from Back to the Future , both in action and in thought, Fran Charles continues to push our community, and sometimes drag others, toward sailing innovation. Because it is often very comfortable to get stuck in the past, using antiquated ideas, equipment, and rules, over and over again, it is important to guard against complacency, and to look forward to new innovation and progress. For several decades now, through the MIT Sailing Pavilion , Fran has done just that, tirelessly focusing on making sailing better, more accessible, and more fun, especially for those that are the future of our sport: young sailors. From carbon Techs, FJ innovations, colored boats & sails, team racing management, to Fireflies, Fran has kept the thought curve moving forward. This latest innovation, however, will launch this spring much further north, at Mount Desert Island in Maine, where Fran serves as the summertime sailing master. In what will surely be an exciting development for the youth sailing world, Sail 1 Design introduces you to youth/institutional sailing’s Flux Capacitor, the Rondar Turbo 420 , a 420 hybrid that in its development assumed (almost) nothing, re-evaluated everything, employs very modern construction techniques. This platform promises to be a great deal of fun for kids. This boat is being developed now at the Rondar boatbuilding facility in Peabody, Massachusetts. Sail 1 Design plans to cover, first hand, the first ever high school regatta held in Turbo 420’s. Stay tuned right here.

THE FUTURE, FINALLY

While change simply for change’s sake can be bad, what may be worse is never changing, and never adapting. All too often we read about where, how and why the sailing community is dwindling, that regatta participation is down, we read articles about “saving sailing”, and the like. Simply put, at the youth level, to attract kids, sailing has to be, well, fun . We risk irrelevancy if we don’t at least attempt to keep up with technology and innovation curves that usher in exciting developments to our game. Youth sailing today, along with institutional sailing, is certainly well-organized, well-meaning, and competitive, but could it be better? Could it be more fun? Does it need to be better and more fun than it is now? If you imagine youth & instituational sailing today, from Opti sailing up through club 420’s and Lasers, to high school and college regattas, what words come to mind? Is holding on to the Opti, the club 420, the FJ, to the Laser, the thing to do simply because they are the platforms we’ve been using for so long? Is it time fundamentally to change the game? What are other countries doing? What about college sailing; how many post-collegiate sailors pack it in after their senior spring, never to return? Many complain of permanent “burn-out” and droning, over mechanical sailing. Given the recent conversations about official equipment (see recent articles posted at the bottom of this piece), might the Turbo 420, or LaserPerformance ‘s “New Collegiate 420” help re-energize college sailing by virtue of being a vastly higher performing boat? A good test would be to interview those that sail the unique Tech dinghies and Fireflies at MIT, or those that sail the carbon-rigged Larks at Tufts. Do these boats make college sailing more interesting, and/or better? We welcome your comments at the bottom of this article.

For now, if one had to constructively criticize the vast pool of youth sailing, or institutional sailing, what might one say? The boats we are using for major youth sailing, and for high school & college sailing development, to put it diplomatically, are, well, old, and somewhat bland. Some argue we are not adequately preparing the top-end sailors, while others argue we are not engaging everyone else. And while adult, contemporary, forward-looking one-design classes have exploded, and many feature very modern design concepts, from composite construction to exciting rig development, our one-design kids and school sailors still too often are sailing around in the same boats their parents, and even grandparents, were. Not a bad thing, necessarily; for example the Lightning class is still as strong today, if not stronger, than it was years and years ago, and there is nothing wrong with a great class and association, regardless of age. However, even old, established classes have updated their philosophy and class rules to acknowledge, if grudgingly, progress. Furthermore, other than the 29er (which is very difficult for intermediate-level kids to sail and not for light air at all) what real options do we provide, or better yet even encourage, our most important generation? If our goal is to develop a life-long passion and a love for sailing in our youth, we need to employ business concepts that work for any successful corporate institution: we need listen to our clients. If participation is down, or stagnant, then what are our next-generation sailors saying about sailing, and how well are we responding to their ideas?

THE NEXT-GEN DINGHY CONCEPT

In comes the new Rondar Turbo 420. It will be interesting to compare this boat to the “New Collegiate 420” that is now built by the official college championship dinghy supplier, LaserPerformance. (Please see our earlier article on this new LaserPerformance collegiate 420). The “Turbo” features very modern vacuum-bag resin-infusion construction techniques, producing a very strong, very light hull (50-70 lbs lighter than a club 420 hull). The hulls are brightly colored for looks and for team racing. Hen ry (“you can have any color Model-T as long as it is black”) Ford is rolling over in his grave. Rondar boats has vast experience with high performance dinghy construction, so the job is in good hands.

The rig is modernized, updated, ergonomic, and simple. Unlike it’s sistership, the Turbo 420, among other things, has thoughtfully updated jib leads, floating spinnaker poles, and a newer slightly higher aspect sail design for the jib. In its first deployment, the Turbo 420 will fulfill the mission of the Mount Desert Island Sailing consortium, spearheaded by the Northeast Harbor Fleet, the MDI Community Sailing Center & Fran Charles, known as the “ Great Harbor Dream .” The plan is to keep all 21 boats in one central location during the summer months, so that all clubs can take part, share, and benefit from being together with these new high performance boats. It reads:

“The mission of the Great Harbor Dream is to bring together Mount Desert Island’s youth 420 sailors. By rallying the various resources of local yacht clubs in one location for instruction, we will foster a compelling and fun teaching environment and create beneficial learning opportunities through more competitive racing. Bringing our sailors together will potentially reduce the operating costs of our collective sailing programs, more effectively use the 420’s we own during peak seasonal demand, and inspire and challenge our area youth by jointly promoting 420 sailing in the Great Harbor for generations to come.”

While teen social community building is the overall focus, the Turbo 420 is the real tangible key to making it happen on the water. Fran explains: “To further stimulate The Great Harbor Dream we made a decision to abandon the Club 420 Class boat and create a boat that would be more durable, much faster, safer by making changes to the rigging yet simple and easy to rig/de-rig.” These are not at all standard 420s but a hybrid which will be much more lively, fun, AND durable than any of the equipment on the market today. And, they cost virtually the same as club 420s.”

TAKING A CLOSER LOOK

SAILS – Sail designers from North Sails visited the builder to review the Turbo’s newly designated jib fairlead location. It is a bit further forward and inboard from the current position to get the cleat out of the sailors butt (crews, this is a welcome upgrade!) and to make it easier to release the jib sheet while tacking in big breeze. This will also eliminate the need for weather sheeting. The jib will be a bit longer on the leech, shorter on the foot and fuller hoist. This will simulate sheeting on a 470 or a 505 so the transition to higher performance dinghies will be more natural. Ample windows will be supplied on both sails. The sails will have out-of-the-box factory options for colored graphics and very large colored numbers on them. The mainsail will have the top two battens full length, a low-profile foam pad in the head to keep them from going turtle and a reef point for breezy conditions. Spins will be white and also offer a colored custom graphic (think: your club burgee or logo here).

North Sails Marblehead has done extensive rig analysis for the Turbo. Above, the Turbo rig model being run in 9 knots TWS. This extensive VPP modeling work was done to determine exactly where and how much to move inboard the jib fairleads, how that would affect main trim, and how best to set up the entire rig plan and sail shape. Pretty cool. These images are shown courtesy of North Sails, and lead designers on this project Doug Slocum & Will Welles.

FOILS – Cassette style heavy duty rudder head which remains bolted to back of boat. Rudder and centerboard will be epoxy cored, and very durable. Rudders to float. Centerboard to have both uphaul and downhaul lines and cleats. Hull will also feature recessed centerboard gaskets to alleviate gasket damage when boats are stored/dragged on their hulls.

RIGGING – The Turbo 420 spar will be approximately 6″ longer than current 420, however the hounds height will remain the same from deck level. This will get boom higher and reduce head impact and likelihood of concussive head injuries. Spars will be Selden with the innovative gnav kicker system which pushes down instead of pulling down, a stainless-steel fixed gooseneck, 3mm sidestays, 2.5mm trap wires and quick release safety harnesses in a variety of sizes.

CONSTRUCTION – The Rondar Turbo 420, as mentioned earlier, will employ high-end construction techniques, separating it from virtually all other institutional youth sailing dinghies. The precision-oriented vacuum bag, resin-infusion system creates an extremely strong, very light product when finished. The whole process takes as little as 90 minutes.

Above, the vacuum pump is humming and the vinylester resin is bled into the layup. Full saturation and nothing more. No air bubbles (voids). The whole saturation process takes about 20 minutes. Ki cks off hard in 90 minutes. All up weight of boats will probably be in the neighborhood of 185-190lbs. This is 50 lbs less than club 420 rule and 70 lbs less than most.

Unless that guy is really, really strong, this boat is really light.

PUTTING IT IN PLAY

A collective effort of several Maine sailing clubs created the drive to purchase twenty-one new Turbo 420s. The goal is to rejuvenate youth sailing, retain and invigorate current sailors, and attract new up-and-coming sailors to the sport. The goal also is to promote a centralized, color-coded fleet for team racing, which encourages this up-and-coming part of the sport. Explains Fran, “In sailing, as in many sports, there is a dropout rate as the participants get into their teenage years. By creating a cohesive, centralized, team race-ready, exciting to sail fleet, the hope is that teens will stay with the sport a bit longer.” Time is ticking down to the launch of this new fleet. The first event scheduled is a high school regatta this spring, and then they’re off to their summer duty as a collective youth sailing fleet. Part of the logic of this boat, and future fleets they will assuredly inspire, is also to lend themselves well to team racing, which many young sailors love, and see as a fun alternative to racing around in long ovals in indistinguishable boats. Will it catch on?

THE DINOSAURS HAD THEIR CHANCE

The Turbo 420 hybrid represents a bold, unapologetic embrace of next generation youth dinghy concepts, designed to continue to stimulate our young sailors not only to enjoy the sport but to stick with it. Some will see it as a threat to the establishment, and others may call for even more changes. To wit, why not make this Turbo 420 have an asymmetrical spinnaker with retractable pole? This is easier to rig and to sail, arguably a lot more fun, and clearly (just look at the J/70) the wave of our downwind future. Change is coming. Acknowledge, accept, debate, embrace, and then apply wisely, or risk obsolescence, or worse.

Our kids aren’t as impressed with our toys as we onc e were, especially in the rapidly changing landscape of the 21st century. You may not like it, but someday Google may well be driving all of our “cars”. There is an argument to be made that for the future of sailing, we need to learn to adapt our approach to our next generation to survive. Nothing lasts forever, and this boat moves us to that discussion.

Happy Sailing.

To research some similar concepts and debates, we suggest the following:

Meet the New Collegiate 420 , by Zach Brown. This article analyzes the new collegiate 420 built by LaserPerformance.

The Firefly Returns to the Charles , by Dan Rabin. This article profiles the forward-thinking MIT sailing dinghy, the Firefly.

Controversy in the ICSA: The Future of the College Sailing Dinghy . This article explores the recent decision by the ICSA to standardize championship equipment based on boat builder.

Zim Sailing Responds to ICSA Sponsorship/Championship Boat Agreement . This editorial from Zim Sailing offers thoughts on the ICSA boat decision.

Rondar Boats . You can learn more about the Turbo 420 here.

The Sail1Design Turbo 420 Poll . Take our poll and see where people stand.

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Thumbnail Filmstrip of Club 420 Images

Sku: lp17001 club 420.

Description

Currently Unavailable

The C420 enables young sailors to learn teamwork, trapeze and spinnaker techniques that simply can't be learned in single-handed boats. Safe for beginning sailors and quick enough to keep collegiate All-Americans interested, sailors graduating from the Optimist class will find the C420 to be manageable and a lot of fun.

Progressive sailing associations are developing team racing and fleet racing events around their double-handed trainers. These new sailing challenges are keeping young sailors excited while building participation in junior programs.

Built-in 3:1 jib halyard purchase.
12:1 boom vang led aft.
Harken hardware.
Molded fiberglass kick-up rudder.
Rounded seat tanks for comfort and buoyancy.
Strong, proven spreader bracket.
Marlow line package
Unidirectional knitted fiberglass for durability.
Length: 13' 10"
Beam: 5' 6"
Hull Weight: 230lbs
Mainsail Area: 80sqft
Jib Area 30sqft
Spinnaker Area 95sqft

Information

Characteristics.

The 420 is the most popular double-dinghy in the world. Designed in 1961, about 60,000 boats have been built in all these years. In Spain, the class is at a great moment. The Cup and Championship of Spain hover around 100 participants each year, there are regattas with lots of participation in all the communities and titles and international recognition is constant.

Lenam Vela Ligera, licensed for manufacture since 1998 has contributed with more than 1300 boats to the 420 class. At Lenam we make a 420 without haste, with passion. The whole process is studied in detail.

The 420 has a strict regulation regarding the materials to be used in its manufacture. Only polyester resin is allowed, while Sandwich-type construction, which is allowed on Optimist, Europa, Snipe…, is forbidden. From these premises, the quality of the raw materials used in the construction of the 420 Lenam is maximum. The NPG isophthalic gelcoat and the isophthalic polyester resin, both with the highest H.D.T (temperature at which the gelcoat and resin can degrade), allow an elongation and elasticity of the laminated materials unequalled, enduring the harshest sailing conditions and suffering less with collisions than other boats.

The glass fibre used is the mat with powder binder, which avoids osmosis problems and offers better chemical resistance properties than other fibres of lower cost.

These materials are much more expensive than other permitted materials, but they ensure an unsurpassed quality of finish and a longer life and competitiveness of the boat over time.

It has already been mentioned mentioned that solutions to give rigidity to the hull or sandwich-type deck with P.V.C. foam are not allowed in 420. What is allowed to give consistency to the hull and deck are omega-type reinforcements to be placed according to the criteria of the shipyard. And it is at this point where the 420 Lenam has an important number of original reinforcements, which perfectly combine its minimum weight and maximum rigidity. In addition, the 420 in general for its special shape with a bulky bow, must take special care to make it light in that area, which Lenam achieves with a particular design of omegas in bow, very light and consistent, which at the same time allow it to provide the hull with a center of gravity more backward than its competitors, a fundamental aspect in short wave conditions or with weighty crews.

Once the hull and deck have been laminated, they remain in the mould for a minimum of one week, in a post-curing process at a constant temperature, in order to achieve the necessary degree of rigidity and curing that will provide the definitive dinghy with a long life at full performance.

And if the materials to be used are very limited, as we have commented in the 420 rules, on the other hand the water lines of the class allow tolerances that give a lot of game. Lenam gives a very versatile response to all wind and wave conditions. The wave conditions can be very different depending on where you are sailing. For instance, the typicall Mediterranean wave, characterized for being short, is different than the waves you can find in the Atlantic. Because of the knowledge provided by sailors and monitors, the water lines of the Lenam give a very easy navigation and maximum speed in these so diverse conditions.

The position and draft of the centreboard and rudder have also been studied to optimise navigation.

The design of the deck, the only one of all the shipyards manufacturing the 420 that is in one piece, contributes to the perfect alignment of the key elements in this section, such as stay chain, bonfire, cockpit, centreboard box and rudder hardware.

The boat is presented with the best hardware and accessories, with the cockpit as “clean” and tidy as possible. Details such as the padded belts with no water absorption, the neoprene anti-slip system for the crew, the spi bags made of water- and sun-repellent fabric… everything to give the sailor the peace of mind of knowing that he is sailing in a boat in which everything is designed to give maximum speed and comfort to the 420!

Elias Aretz, together with Pablo Garcia, runners-up of the world and Spain 2018

“We have been fortunate to be part of the Lenam team in recent years, getting material that has allowed us to fight at the highest level in this class. It’s a boat that adapts very well to all conditions. The quality of the materials used and the personal dedication behind each boat manufactured, is noticeable in the finish and over time. Added to this is the constant research always looking for the most innovative technologies of the moment to continue being one of the most competitive boats on the market”.

Wichy Hernandez, together with Nacho Balaguer, champions of Spain and fourth of the world 2018

“I have had a long ride in the 420 class, about 8 years uninterrupted in active sailing. From 2016 until now I have sailed with Lenam and in the last two years there has been a great evolution to reach the current boat. Manel has managed to make a very competitive boat, you only have to look at the results obtained that endorse it in recent years. Its volume in the bow gives us a boat much more stable than the rest and, in wavy conditions, it gives us a lot of comfort and ease to pass the wave. With low wind conditions it is one of the fastest boats in the market. The new Lenam Race One is harder than its predecessor, the Lenam Gold. The internal construction has been changed and the result is a very fast boat with wind conditions and also it has more durability. Without a doubt, it is the best quality-to-price ratio 420 you can find. We have the best at home!”

New lighter, softer and more aesthetic kicker and main sail cuningham controls.

New control system of the spi sheet with the barber hook to the maximum in front of the chain allowed.

Simple and effective transom window system with “suction” effect.

New padded belts with no water absorption adjustable thanks to the dynema rope

New material in anti-slip neoprene for the crew member. Perfect grip of the foot and soft to the touch that does not tear the water suits.

New transom bead, which provides greater strength and helps to avoid the annoying collisions typical of regatta starts.

Large opening in front of the daggerboard box that helps to drain the water in the direction of the bayler.

Large opening behind the daggerboard box that helps the perfect drainage of the water in the direction of the bayler.

Simple and hidden centreboard lowering system.

Large bags of anti-solar fabric and Teflon finish, water repellent, with diagonal openings that facilitate the lifting and lowering of the spinaker. Transparent window in starboard bag for “instructions”.

If you would like us to send you a quote for this boat or any accessory, please fill in the attached form. If you indicate the place of delivery we will detail the budget with transportation included.

Boat Pursuits

How much is a 420 sailboat (a comprehensive guide).

For those looking to purchase a 420 Sailboat, the cost is likely the first question on your mind.

The cost of a 420 Sailboat can vary greatly depending on several factors, including whether you are buying new or used.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know when researching the cost of a 420 sailboat.

From understanding what a 420 sailboat is and the factors that affect its cost, to the cost of new and used 420 sailboats, additional costs, and tips for researching the cost, we will provide all the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing your 420 sailboat.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

The cost of a 420 sailboat can vary greatly depending on its age, condition, and features.

Generally, a new model 420 sailboat will cost between $6,000 and $10,000.

For a used model, buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $7,000.

It is also important to factor in additional costs such as maintenance, insurance, and storage.

What is a 420 Sailboat?

A 420 sailboat is a class of dinghy, or small sailing boat, designed for racing purposes.

It is a two-person boat with a spinnaker, a lightweight sail designed to catch the wind and help the boat go faster.

The 420 is a small and lightweight boat, making it easy to transport and maneuver around the water.

It is a popular boat for recreational sailing and has been used in competitive sailing since the 1950s.

The 420 is a great boat for beginners and experienced sailors alike, as it is easy to learn and can be adjusted to suit different skill levels.

With its low cost, ease of use, and ability to perform well in competitive sailing, the 420 is a great choice for anyone looking to get into sailing.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a 420 Sailboat

When it comes to the cost of a 420 sailboat, there are a few key factors to consider.

The age of the boat, size, and condition all play a role in determining the overall price.

Additionally, additional costs such as sails, rigging, and other accessories can also add to the total cost.

The age of the boat is an important factor in determining the cost.

Generally, newer boats will be more expensive due to the higher quality materials and components used in their construction.

On the other hand, used boats can be a great way to save money as they are often much more affordable.

However, it is important to inspect the boat carefully and make sure it is in good condition before making a purchase.

The size of the boat is also a major factor in determining its cost.

Larger boats tend to be more expensive, as they require more materials and components.

Additionally, larger boats can require more sails and rigging, which can add to the total cost.

The condition of the boat is also an important factor in determining the cost.

Boats that are in good condition will cost more than boats that are in need of repair.

It is important to inspect the boat carefully and make sure it is in good condition before making a purchase.

Additionally, doing some research and comparing prices can help ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are also additional costs to consider when purchasing a 420 sailboat.

These costs include sails, rigging, and other accessories.

Sails and rigging can be expensive, so it is important to factor in these costs when budgeting for a sailboat.

Additionally, other accessories such as safety equipment and electronics can add to the total cost.

Overall, the cost of a 420 sailboat can vary greatly depending on the age, size, and condition of the boat.

Generally, new boats can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000.

Used boats are usually more affordable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 depending on the condition and age of the boat.

Additional costs such as sails, rigging, and other accessories can add to the total cost.

Before making a purchase, it is important to do research and compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

Cost of New 420 Sailboats

When it comes to the cost of a 420 sailboat, the price can vary greatly depending on the age, size, and condition of the boat.

New boats, in particular, can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000.

The price of a new boat will depend on its features and amenities, such as the number of sails, the type and size of the mainsail, the quality of the rigging, and the interior layout.

Higher-end boats may also come equipped with additional features such as electronics, a sail-handling system, and a navigation system.

In addition to the cost of the boat itself, there are additional costs to consider.

Depending on the type of sailing you plan to do, you may need to purchase sails, rigging, and other accessories.

It is important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for a new sailboat.

It is also important to consider the ongoing costs of owning a sailboat, such as dock fees, insurance, and maintenance.

There are a number of online resources that can provide detailed information about the various sailboats available, as well as the prices for new and used boats.

Additionally, it is a good idea to speak to a qualified yacht broker, who can provide expert advice and guidance on your purchase.

Cost of Used 420 Sailboats

When it comes to finding a great deal on a 420 sailboat, it is important to consider the cost of a used boat.

Used boats can be a great way to get into sailing without breaking the bank.

The cost of a used 420 sailboat will vary depending on the age, size, and condition of the boat.

Generally, used boats can range from as low as $2,000 for older boats in need of some repair, to $15,000 for newer boats in excellent condition.

When shopping for a used 420 sailboat, it is important to keep in mind that the older the boat, the more likely it is to need additional repairs or maintenance.

While older boats may need some work, they can also be a great way to get a great deal on a sailboat.

It is important to inspect the boat thoroughly before making a purchase to ensure that it is in good condition and any necessary repairs are taken care of.

Additionally, it may be wise to purchase a boat with a warranty to protect against any unexpected repairs that may arise.

In addition to the cost of the boat itself, there are several other costs associated with owning a 420 sailboat.

These costs include sails, rigging, and other accessories such as a cover and anchor.

Sails are typically the most expensive part of buying a sailboat , and can range from a few hundred dollars for used sails to several thousand for new sails.

Rigging, which includes the lines, pulleys, and blocks, is also necessary for sailing and can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

The other accessories such as a cover and anchor can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand depending on the type and quality.

New boats can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000.

Additionally, there are several other costs associated with owning a sailboat such as sails, rigging, and other accessories.

It is important to do research and compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

Additional Costs for 420 Sailboats

For any prospective 420 sailboat owner, it is important to consider the additional costs that come with purchasing a boat.

Sailboats require a variety of accessories, from rigging and sails to other necessary items such as anchors and life jackets.

All of these items can add up quickly and should be taken into account when budgeting for a new sailboat.

Rigging for a 420 sailboat typically includes a mast, boom, and various types of line and hardware.

This can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the type of rigging desired.

Sails are another important part of the cost equation, with pricing depending on the type of material and the number of sails that you buy.

Prices for sails can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

In addition to the cost of the boat, rigging, and sails, there are also several other accessories and supplies that should be taken into account.

These can include safety equipment such as life jackets, flares, and other items.

Anchors, ropes, and other items for mooring the boat should also be considered.

Other items such as cleaning supplies, tools, and boat covers can also add to the overall cost.

Finally, it is important to consider the cost of maintenance for a 420 sailboat.

Regular maintenance and repair of the boat, sails, and rigging will be necessary to ensure the boat is in safe working condition.

The cost of this maintenance can vary greatly depending on the condition of the boat and the frequency of use.

Overall, the cost of a 420 sailboat can be quite varied, and it is important to do research and compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

While the initial cost of the boat can be substantial, it is important to consider the additional costs associated with the boat before making a purchase.

By taking all of these costs into account, you can ensure that your purchase is truly the best value for your money.

Tips for Researching the Cost of 420 Sailboats

When researching the cost of 420 sailboats, it’s important to do your due diligence and shop around.

Start by researching the market to get an idea of what prices are being asked.

Check out online classifieds such as eBay and Craigslist, as well as local boat dealers and sailing clubs.

If you are in a coastal area, explore marinas and boatyards to find used boats for sale.

When comparing prices, consider the age, condition, and size of the boat.

Newer boats tend to be more expensive, but may also come with additional features and upgraded components.

Older boats can be more affordable, but may need more maintenance and repairs.

In addition, consider the cost of accessories and supplies needed for the boat, such as sails, rigging, and other equipment.

Another way to save money on a 420 sailboat is to look for used boats.

Used boats are generally more affordable and can provide a great value for the money.

However, be sure to inspect the boat thoroughly before making a purchase.

Check for signs of wear and tear, and ask the seller questions about the boats history and maintenance.

Finally, dont be afraid to negotiate.

Many sellers are willing to work with buyers to reach a reasonable price.

By researching, comparing prices, and negotiating, you can find the perfect boat for your budget.

Comparing Prices of 420 Sailboats

When it comes to purchasing a 420 sailboat, it is important to do your research and compare prices.

There are many factors to consider when comparing prices, such as the age, size, and condition of the boat.

Additionally, it is important to factor in any additional costs, such as sails, rigging, and other accessories.

New 420 sailboats can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000.

It is important to carefully consider the features and quality of the boat to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

When comparing prices, always make sure to factor in the cost of any additional accessories or upgrades you may need.

Used 420 sailboats are usually more affordable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 depending on the condition and age of the boat.

Purchasing a used boat is a great way to save money, but it is important to inspect the boat thoroughly and have a professional evaluate it before making a purchase.

When comparing prices, it is also important to consider the cost of insurance and maintenance.

Insurance can be expensive, so make sure to factor in the cost of insurance when comparing prices.

Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of any maintenance or repairs that may be needed in the future.

Finally, it is important to consider the cost of any additional accessories or upgrades you may need.

For example, if you intend to sail in rough waters, you may need to purchase stronger sails or additional rigging.

Additionally, you may need to purchase additional safety equipment, such as life jackets, flares, or a distress beacon.

All of these items can add to the cost of your boat, so make sure to factor them into your budget.

In conclusion, it is important to do your research and carefully compare prices before making a purchase.

New boats can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000, while used boats are usually more affordable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $15,000.

Additionally, it is important to factor in any additional costs such as sails, rigging, and other accessories, as well as the cost of insurance and maintenance.

Final Thoughts

A 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for a sailing enthusiast, and the cost of one can vary greatly depending on a number of factors.

The cost of a new 420 sailboat can range from around $12,000 to more than $20,000, while used boats are usually more affordable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $15,000.

Additional costs such as sails, rigging, and other accessories can add to the total cost, so it is important to do research and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Now that you’ve read this comprehensive guide on the cost of a 420 sailboat, you’re ready to make an informed decision on your purchase.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

rules for a thesis

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

Explain the analysis of the college admission process
Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence)

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.

Arguable thesis with analytical claim

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Arguable thesis with normative claim

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.

Questions to ask about your thesis

Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?
Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?
Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?
Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?
Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
picture_as_pdf Thesis

Developing a Thesis Statement

Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you’ll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

Keep in mind that not all papers require thesis statements . If in doubt, please consult your instructor for assistance.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

nature = peaceful
war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
need for time and space to mourn the dead
war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
_______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
Question each part of your draft thesis
Clarify vague phrases and assertions
Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

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How to write a thesis statement, what is a thesis statement.

Almost all of us—even if we don’t do it consciously—look early in an essay for a one- or two-sentence condensation of the argument or analysis that is to follow. We refer to that condensation as a thesis statement.

Why Should Your Essay Contain a Thesis Statement?

to test your ideas by distilling them into a sentence or two
to better organize and develop your argument
to provide your reader with a “guide” to your argument

In general, your thesis statement will accomplish these goals if you think of the thesis as the answer to the question your paper explores.

How Can You Write a Good Thesis Statement?

Here are some helpful hints to get you started. You can either scroll down or select a link to a specific topic.

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is Assigned How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is not Assigned How to Tell a Strong Thesis Statement from a Weak One

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is Assigned

Almost all assignments, no matter how complicated, can be reduced to a single question. Your first step, then, is to distill the assignment into a specific question. For example, if your assignment is, “Write a report to the local school board explaining the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class,” turn the request into a question like, “What are the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class?” After you’ve chosen the question your essay will answer, compose one or two complete sentences answering that question.

Q: “What are the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class?” A: “The potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class are . . .”

A: “Using computers in a fourth-grade class promises to improve . . .”

The answer to the question is the thesis statement for the essay.

[ Back to top ]

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is not Assigned

Even if your assignment doesn’t ask a specific question, your thesis statement still needs to answer a question about the issue you’d like to explore. In this situation, your job is to figure out what question you’d like to write about.

A good thesis statement will usually include the following four attributes:

take on a subject upon which reasonable people could disagree
deal with a subject that can be adequately treated given the nature of the assignment
express one main idea
assert your conclusions about a subject

Let’s see how to generate a thesis statement for a social policy paper.

Brainstorm the topic . Let’s say that your class focuses upon the problems posed by changes in the dietary habits of Americans. You find that you are interested in the amount of sugar Americans consume.

You start out with a thesis statement like this:

Sugar consumption.

This fragment isn’t a thesis statement. Instead, it simply indicates a general subject. Furthermore, your reader doesn’t know what you want to say about sugar consumption.

Narrow the topic . Your readings about the topic, however, have led you to the conclusion that elementary school children are consuming far more sugar than is healthy.

You change your thesis to look like this:

Reducing sugar consumption by elementary school children.

This fragment not only announces your subject, but it focuses on one segment of the population: elementary school children. Furthermore, it raises a subject upon which reasonable people could disagree, because while most people might agree that children consume more sugar than they used to, not everyone would agree on what should be done or who should do it. You should note that this fragment is not a thesis statement because your reader doesn’t know your conclusions on the topic.

Take a position on the topic. After reflecting on the topic a little while longer, you decide that what you really want to say about this topic is that something should be done to reduce the amount of sugar these children consume.

You revise your thesis statement to look like this:

More attention should be paid to the food and beverage choices available to elementary school children.

This statement asserts your position, but the terms more attention and food and beverage choices are vague.

Use specific language . You decide to explain what you mean about food and beverage choices , so you write:

Experts estimate that half of elementary school children consume nine times the recommended daily allowance of sugar.

This statement is specific, but it isn’t a thesis. It merely reports a statistic instead of making an assertion.

Make an assertion based on clearly stated support. You finally revise your thesis statement one more time to look like this:

Because half of all American elementary school children consume nine times the recommended daily allowance of sugar, schools should be required to replace the beverages in soda machines with healthy alternatives.

Notice how the thesis answers the question, “What should be done to reduce sugar consumption by children, and who should do it?” When you started thinking about the paper, you may not have had a specific question in mind, but as you became more involved in the topic, your ideas became more specific. Your thesis changed to reflect your new insights.

How to Tell a Strong Thesis Statement from a Weak One

1. a strong thesis statement takes some sort of stand..

Remember that your thesis needs to show your conclusions about a subject. For example, if you are writing a paper for a class on fitness, you might be asked to choose a popular weight-loss product to evaluate. Here are two thesis statements:

There are some negative and positive aspects to the Banana Herb Tea Supplement.

This is a weak thesis statement. First, it fails to take a stand. Second, the phrase negative and positive aspects is vague.

Because Banana Herb Tea Supplement promotes rapid weight loss that results in the loss of muscle and lean body mass, it poses a potential danger to customers.

This is a strong thesis because it takes a stand, and because it's specific.

2. A strong thesis statement justifies discussion.

Your thesis should indicate the point of the discussion. If your assignment is to write a paper on kinship systems, using your own family as an example, you might come up with either of these two thesis statements:

My family is an extended family.

This is a weak thesis because it merely states an observation. Your reader won’t be able to tell the point of the statement, and will probably stop reading.

While most American families would view consanguineal marriage as a threat to the nuclear family structure, many Iranian families, like my own, believe that these marriages help reinforce kinship ties in an extended family.

This is a strong thesis because it shows how your experience contradicts a widely-accepted view. A good strategy for creating a strong thesis is to show that the topic is controversial. Readers will be interested in reading the rest of the essay to see how you support your point.

3. A strong thesis statement expresses one main idea.

Readers need to be able to see that your paper has one main point. If your thesis statement expresses more than one idea, then you might confuse your readers about the subject of your paper. For example:

Companies need to exploit the marketing potential of the Internet, and Web pages can provide both advertising and customer support.

This is a weak thesis statement because the reader can’t decide whether the paper is about marketing on the Internet or Web pages. To revise the thesis, the relationship between the two ideas needs to become more clear. One way to revise the thesis would be to write:

Because the Internet is filled with tremendous marketing potential, companies should exploit this potential by using Web pages that offer both advertising and customer support.

This is a strong thesis because it shows that the two ideas are related. Hint: a great many clear and engaging thesis statements contain words like because , since , so , although , unless , and however .

4. A strong thesis statement is specific.

A thesis statement should show exactly what your paper will be about, and will help you keep your paper to a manageable topic. For example, if you're writing a seven-to-ten page paper on hunger, you might say:

World hunger has many causes and effects.

This is a weak thesis statement for two major reasons. First, world hunger can’t be discussed thoroughly in seven to ten pages. Second, many causes and effects is vague. You should be able to identify specific causes and effects. A revised thesis might look like this:

Hunger persists in Glandelinia because jobs are scarce and farming in the infertile soil is rarely profitable.

This is a strong thesis statement because it narrows the subject to a more specific and manageable topic, and it also identifies the specific causes for the existence of hunger.

Produced by Writing Tutorial Services, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN

What is a thesis | A Complete Guide with Examples

A thesis is a comprehensive academic paper based on your original research that presents new findings, arguments, and ideas of your study. It’s typically submitted at the end of your master’s degree or as a capstone of your bachelor’s degree.

However, writing a thesis can be laborious, especially for beginners. From the initial challenge of pinpointing a compelling research topic to organizing and presenting findings, the process is filled with potential pitfalls.

Therefore, to help you, this guide talks about what is a thesis. Additionally, it offers revelations and methodologies to transform it from an overwhelming task to a manageable and rewarding academic milestone.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a particular topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic using evidence and logic.

Writing a thesis showcases your ability of critical thinking, gathering evidence, and making a compelling argument. Integral to these competencies is thorough research, which not only fortifies your propositions but also confers credibility to your entire study.

Furthermore, there's another phenomenon you might often confuse with the thesis: the ' working thesis .' However, they aren't similar and shouldn't be used interchangeably.

A working thesis, often referred to as a preliminary or tentative thesis, is an initial version of your thesis statement. It serves as a draft or a starting point that guides your research in its early stages.

As you research more and gather more evidence, your initial thesis (aka working thesis) might change. It's like a starting point that can be adjusted as you learn more. It's normal for your main topic to change a few times before you finalize it.

While a thesis identifies and provides an overarching argument, the key to clearly communicating the central point of that argument lies in writing a strong thesis statement.

A strong thesis statement (aka thesis sentence) is a concise summary of the main argument or claim of the paper. It serves as a critical anchor in any academic work, succinctly encapsulating the primary argument or main idea of the entire paper.

Typically found within the introductory section, a strong thesis statement acts as a roadmap of your thesis, directing readers through your arguments and findings. By delineating the core focus of your investigation, it offers readers an immediate understanding of the context and the gravity of your study.

Furthermore, an effectively crafted thesis statement can set forth the boundaries of your research, helping readers anticipate the specific areas of inquiry you are addressing.

Different types of thesis statements

A good thesis statement is clear, specific, and arguable. Therefore, it is necessary for you to choose the right type of thesis statement for your academic papers.

Thesis statements can be classified based on their purpose and structure. Here are the primary types of thesis statements:

Argumentative (or Persuasive) thesis statement

Purpose : To convince the reader of a particular stance or point of view by presenting evidence and formulating a compelling argument.

Example : Reducing plastic use in daily life is essential for environmental health.

Analytical thesis statement

Purpose : To break down an idea or issue into its components and evaluate it.

Example : By examining the long-term effects, social implications, and economic impact of climate change, it becomes evident that immediate global action is necessary.

Expository (or Descriptive) thesis statement

Purpose : To explain a topic or subject to the reader.

Example : The Great Depression, spanning the 1930s, was a severe worldwide economic downturn triggered by a stock market crash, bank failures, and reduced consumer spending.

Cause and effect thesis statement

Purpose : To demonstrate a cause and its resulting effect.

Example : Overuse of smartphones can lead to impaired sleep patterns, reduced face-to-face social interactions, and increased levels of anxiety.

Compare and contrast thesis statement

Purpose : To highlight similarities and differences between two subjects.

Example : "While both novels '1984' and 'Brave New World' delve into dystopian futures, they differ in their portrayal of individual freedom, societal control, and the role of technology."

When you write a thesis statement , it's important to ensure clarity and precision, so the reader immediately understands the central focus of your work.

What is the difference between a thesis and a thesis statement?

While both terms are frequently used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings.

A thesis refers to the entire research document, encompassing all its chapters and sections. In contrast, a thesis statement is a brief assertion that encapsulates the central argument of the research.

Here’s an in-depth differentiation table of a thesis and a thesis statement.

Aspect	Thesis	Thesis Statement
Definition	An extensive document presenting the author's research and findings, typically for a degree or professional qualification.	A concise sentence or two in an essay or research paper that outlines the main idea or argument.
Position	It’s the entire document on its own.	Typically found at the end of the introduction of an essay, research paper, or thesis.
Components	Introduction, methodology, results, conclusions, and bibliography or references.	Doesn't include any specific components
Purpose	Provides detailed research, presents findings, and contributes to a field of study.	To guide the reader about the main point or argument of the paper or essay.

Now, to craft a compelling thesis, it's crucial to adhere to a specific structure. Let’s break down these essential components that make up a thesis structure

15 components of a thesis structure

Navigating a thesis can be daunting. However, understanding its structure can make the process more manageable.

Here are the key components or different sections of a thesis structure:

Your thesis begins with the title page. It's not just a formality but the gateway to your research.

Here, you'll prominently display the necessary information about you (the author) and your institutional details.

Title of your thesis
Your full name
Your department
Your institution and degree program
Your submission date
Your Supervisor's name (in some cases)
Your Department or faculty (in some cases)
Your University's logo (in some cases)
Your Student ID (in some cases)

In a concise manner, you'll have to summarize the critical aspects of your research in typically no more than 200-300 words.

This includes the problem statement, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. For many, the abstract will determine if they delve deeper into your work, so ensure it's clear and compelling.

Acknowledgments

Research is rarely a solitary endeavor. In the acknowledgments section, you have the chance to express gratitude to those who've supported your journey.

This might include advisors, peers, institutions, or even personal sources of inspiration and support. It's a personal touch, reflecting the humanity behind the academic rigor.

A roadmap for your readers, the table of contents lists the chapters, sections, and subsections of your thesis.

By providing page numbers, you allow readers to navigate your work easily, jumping to sections that pique their interest.

List of figures and tables

Research often involves data, and presenting this data visually can enhance understanding. This section provides an organized listing of all figures and tables in your thesis.

It's a visual index, ensuring that readers can quickly locate and reference your graphical data.

Introduction

Here's where you introduce your research topic, articulate the research question or objective, and outline the significance of your study.

Present the research topic : Clearly articulate the central theme or subject of your research.
Background information : Ground your research topic, providing any necessary context or background information your readers might need to understand the significance of your study.
Define the scope : Clearly delineate the boundaries of your research, indicating what will and won't be covered.
Literature review : Introduce any relevant existing research on your topic, situating your work within the broader academic conversation and highlighting where your research fits in.
State the research Question(s) or objective(s) : Clearly articulate the primary questions or objectives your research aims to address.
Outline the study's structure : Give a brief overview of how the subsequent sections of your work will unfold, guiding your readers through the journey ahead.

The introduction should captivate your readers, making them eager to delve deeper into your research journey.

Literature review section

Your study correlates with existing research. Therefore, in the literature review section, you'll engage in a dialogue with existing knowledge, highlighting relevant studies, theories, and findings.

It's here that you identify gaps in the current knowledge, positioning your research as a bridge to new insights.

To streamline this process, consider leveraging AI tools. For example, the SciSpace literature review tool enables you to efficiently explore and delve into research papers, simplifying your literature review journey.

Methodology

In the research methodology section, you’ll detail the tools, techniques, and processes you employed to gather and analyze data. This section will inform the readers about how you approached your research questions and ensures the reproducibility of your study.

Here's a breakdown of what it should encompass:

Research Design : Describe the overall structure and approach of your research. Are you conducting a qualitative study with in-depth interviews? Or is it a quantitative study using statistical analysis? Perhaps it's a mixed-methods approach?
Data Collection : Detail the methods you used to gather data. This could include surveys, experiments, observations, interviews, archival research, etc. Mention where you sourced your data, the duration of data collection, and any tools or instruments used.
Sampling : If applicable, explain how you selected participants or data sources for your study. Discuss the size of your sample and the rationale behind choosing it.
Data Analysis : Describe the techniques and tools you used to process and analyze the data. This could range from statistical tests in quantitative research to thematic analysis in qualitative research.
Validity and Reliability : Address the steps you took to ensure the validity and reliability of your findings to ensure that your results are both accurate and consistent.
Ethical Considerations : Highlight any ethical issues related to your research and the measures you took to address them, including — informed consent, confidentiality, and data storage and protection measures.

Moreover, different research questions necessitate different types of methodologies. For instance:

Experimental methodology : Often used in sciences, this involves a controlled experiment to discern causality.
Qualitative methodology : Employed when exploring patterns or phenomena without numerical data. Methods can include interviews, focus groups, or content analysis.
Quantitative methodology : Concerned with measurable data and often involves statistical analysis. Surveys and structured observations are common tools here.
Mixed methods : As the name implies, this combines both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

The Methodology section isn’t just about detailing the methods but also justifying why they were chosen. The appropriateness of the methods in addressing your research question can significantly impact the credibility of your findings.

Results (or Findings)

This section presents the outcomes of your research. It's crucial to note that the nature of your results may vary; they could be quantitative, qualitative, or a mix of both.

Quantitative results often present statistical data, showcasing measurable outcomes, and they benefit from tables, graphs, and figures to depict these data points.

Qualitative results , on the other hand, might delve into patterns, themes, or narratives derived from non-numerical data, such as interviews or observations.

Regardless of the nature of your results, clarity is essential. This section is purely about presenting the data without offering interpretations — that comes later in the discussion.

In the discussion section, the raw data transforms into valuable insights.

Start by revisiting your research question and contrast it with the findings. How do your results expand, constrict, or challenge current academic conversations?

Dive into the intricacies of the data, guiding the reader through its implications. Detail potential limitations transparently, signaling your awareness of the research's boundaries. This is where your academic voice should be resonant and confident.

Practical implications (Recommendation) section

Based on the insights derived from your research, this section provides actionable suggestions or proposed solutions.

Whether aimed at industry professionals or the general public, recommendations translate your academic findings into potential real-world actions. They help readers understand the practical implications of your work and how it can be applied to effect change or improvement in a given field.

When crafting recommendations, it's essential to ensure they're feasible and rooted in the evidence provided by your research. They shouldn't merely be aspirational but should offer a clear path forward, grounded in your findings.

The conclusion provides closure to your research narrative.

It's not merely a recap but a synthesis of your main findings and their broader implications. Reconnect with the research questions or hypotheses posited at the beginning, offering clear answers based on your findings.

Reflect on the broader contributions of your study, considering its impact on the academic community and potential real-world applications.

Lastly, the conclusion should leave your readers with a clear understanding of the value and impact of your study.

References (or Bibliography)

Every theory you've expounded upon, every data point you've cited, and every methodological precedent you've followed finds its acknowledgment here.

In references, it's crucial to ensure meticulous consistency in formatting, mirroring the specific guidelines of the chosen citation style .

Proper referencing helps to avoid plagiarism , gives credit to original ideas, and allows readers to explore topics of interest. Moreover, it situates your work within the continuum of academic knowledge.

To properly cite the sources used in the study, you can rely on online citation generator tools to generate accurate citations!

Here’s more on how you can cite your sources.

Often, the depth of research produces a wealth of material that, while crucial, can make the core content of the thesis cumbersome. The appendix is where you mention extra information that supports your research but isn't central to the main text.

Whether it's raw datasets, detailed procedural methodologies, extended case studies, or any other ancillary material, the appendices ensure that these elements are archived for reference without breaking the main narrative's flow.

For thorough researchers and readers keen on meticulous details, the appendices provide a treasure trove of insights.

Glossary (optional)

In academics, specialized terminologies, and jargon are inevitable. However, not every reader is versed in every term.

The glossary, while optional, is a critical tool for accessibility. It's a bridge ensuring that even readers from outside the discipline can access, understand, and appreciate your work.

By defining complex terms and providing context, you're inviting a wider audience to engage with your research, enhancing its reach and impact.

Remember, while these components provide a structured framework, the essence of your thesis lies in the originality of your ideas, the rigor of your research, and the clarity of your presentation.

As you craft each section, keep your readers in mind, ensuring that your passion and dedication shine through every page.

Thesis examples

To further elucidate the concept of a thesis, here are illustrative examples from various fields:

Example 1 (History): Abolition, Africans, and Abstraction: the Influence of the ‘Noble Savage’ on British and French Antislavery Thought, 1787-1807 by Suchait Kahlon.

Example 2 (Climate Dynamics): Influence of external forcings on abrupt millennial-scale climate changes: a statistical modelling study by Takahito Mitsui · Michel Crucifix

Checklist for your thesis evaluation

Evaluating your thesis ensures that your research meets the standards of academia. Here's an elaborate checklist to guide you through this critical process.

Content and structure

Is the thesis statement clear, concise, and debatable?
Does the introduction provide sufficient background and context?
Is the literature review comprehensive, relevant, and well-organized?
Does the methodology section clearly describe and justify the research methods?
Are the results/findings presented clearly and logically?
Does the discussion interpret the results in light of the research question and existing literature?
Is the conclusion summarizing the research and suggesting future directions or implications?

Clarity and coherence

Is the writing clear and free of jargon?
Are ideas and sections logically connected and flowing?
Is there a clear narrative or argument throughout the thesis?

Research quality

Is the research question significant and relevant?
Are the research methods appropriate for the question?
Is the sample size (if applicable) adequate?
Are the data analysis techniques appropriate and correctly applied?
Are potential biases or limitations addressed?

Originality and significance

Does the thesis contribute new knowledge or insights to the field?
Is the research grounded in existing literature while offering fresh perspectives?

Formatting and presentation

Is the thesis formatted according to institutional guidelines?
Are figures, tables, and charts clear, labeled, and referenced in the text?
Is the bibliography or reference list complete and consistently formatted?
Are appendices relevant and appropriately referenced in the main text?

Grammar and language

Is the thesis free of grammatical and spelling errors?
Is the language professional, consistent, and appropriate for an academic audience?
Are quotations and paraphrased material correctly cited?

Feedback and revision

Have you sought feedback from peers, advisors, or experts in the field?
Have you addressed the feedback and made the necessary revisions?

Overall assessment

Does the thesis as a whole feel cohesive and comprehensive?
Would the thesis be understandable and valuable to someone in your field?

Ensure to use this checklist to leave no ground for doubt or missed information in your thesis.

After writing your thesis, the next step is to discuss and defend your findings verbally in front of a knowledgeable panel. You’ve to be well prepared as your professors may grade your presentation abilities.

Preparing your thesis defense

A thesis defense, also known as "defending the thesis," is the culmination of a scholar's research journey. It's the final frontier, where you’ll present their findings and face scrutiny from a panel of experts.

Typically, the defense involves a public presentation where you’ll have to outline your study, followed by a question-and-answer session with a committee of experts. This committee assesses the validity, originality, and significance of the research.

The defense serves as a rite of passage for scholars. It's an opportunity to showcase expertise, address criticisms, and refine arguments. A successful defense not only validates the research but also establishes your authority as a researcher in your field.

Here’s how you can effectively prepare for your thesis defense .

Now, having touched upon the process of defending a thesis, it's worth noting that scholarly work can take various forms, depending on academic and regional practices.

One such form, often paralleled with the thesis, is the 'dissertation.' But what differentiates the two?

Dissertation vs. Thesis

Often used interchangeably in casual discourse, they refer to distinct research projects undertaken at different levels of higher education.

To the uninitiated, understanding their meaning might be elusive. So, let's demystify these terms and delve into their core differences.

Here's a table differentiating between the two.

Aspect	Thesis	Dissertation
Purpose	Often for a master's degree, showcasing a grasp of existing research	Primarily for a doctoral degree, contributing new knowledge to the field
Length	100 pages, focusing on a specific topic or question.	400-500 pages, involving deep research and comprehensive findings
Research Depth	Builds upon existing research	Involves original and groundbreaking research
Advisor's Role	Guides the research process	Acts more as a consultant, allowing the student to take the lead
Outcome	Demonstrates understanding of the subject	Proves capability to conduct independent and original research

Wrapping up

From understanding the foundational concept of a thesis to navigating its various components, differentiating it from a dissertation, and recognizing the importance of proper citation — this guide covers it all.

As scholars and readers, understanding these nuances not only aids in academic pursuits but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the relentless quest for knowledge that drives academia.

It’s important to remember that every thesis is a testament to curiosity, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of discovery.

Good luck with your thesis writing!

A thesis typically ranges between 40-80 pages, but its length can vary based on the research topic, institution guidelines, and level of study.

A PhD thesis usually spans 200-300 pages, though this can vary based on the discipline, complexity of the research, and institutional requirements.

To identify a thesis topic, consider current trends in your field, gaps in existing literature, personal interests, and discussions with advisors or mentors. Additionally, reviewing related journals and conference proceedings can provide insights into potential areas of exploration.

The conceptual framework is often situated in the literature review or theoretical framework section of a thesis. It helps set the stage by providing the context, defining key concepts, and explaining the relationships between variables.

A thesis statement should be concise, clear, and specific. It should state the main argument or point of your research. Start by pinpointing the central question or issue your research addresses, then condense that into a single statement, ensuring it reflects the essence of your paper.

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Writing studio.

How do i write a thesis statement.

This page is Part 1 of a two-part handout that continues with our Thesis Statement Checklist .

What is a Thesis Statement?

In an effort to make our handouts more accessible, we have begun converting our PDF handouts to web pages. Download this page as a PDF: See p. 1 of How Do I Write a Thesis Statement Return to Writing Studio Handouts

A thesis statement is a very specific argument that guides your paper. Generally, a thesis statement consists of two parts :

A clearly identifiable topic or subject matter
A succinct summary of what you have to say about that topic

For your reader, a thesis functions like the case a lawyer has to make to the judge and jury in a courtroom. An effective thesis statement explains to your reader the case you are going to make and how you are going to make it.

For you as the author, your thesis can also help you to stay focused as a writer and determine what information you do (and don’t) need to include in your analysis.

Traditionally, the thesis statement is found near the end of your introduction , though this may change depending on the assignment and context. Don’t be afraid to draft a thesis statement that is more than one sentence.

A Note on Writing Process

You do not need a perfect thesis statement before you draft the rest of the paper. In fact, you will likely need to modify your thesis once you have a complete draft to make sure that your draft and your thesis match one another. If your argument evolves in productive ways as you write, your thesis should, too.

Honing and tweaking a thesis statement during the revision process is ultimately more important than having it exact and precise during the drafting process.

Characteristics of a WEAK thesis statement

Vague: Raises an interesting topic or question but doesn’t specify an argument
Offers plot summary, statement of fact, or obvious truths instead of an argument
Offers opinion or conjecture rather than an argument (cannot be proven with textual evidence)
Is too broad or too complex for the length of the paper
Uses meaningful-sounding words, but doesn’t actually say anything of substance

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list! You can probably think of many more characteristics of a weak thesis statement.

Characteristics of a STRONG thesis statement

Answers a specific question
Takes a distinct position on the topic
Is debatable (a reasonable person could argue an alternative position)
Appropriately focused for the page length of the assignment
Allows your reader to anticipate the organization of your argument

Having trouble drafting a thesis? Try filling in the blanks in these template statements:

In this paper, I argue that _____, because/by _____.
While critics argue _____, I argue _____, because _____.
By looking at _____, I argue that _____, which is important because _____.
The text, _____, defines _____ as _____, in order to argue _____.

Disclaimer: These are only models. They’ll be useful to help you to get started, but you’ll have to do quite a bit of tweaking before your thesis is ready for your paper.

For more on thesis statements, check out part 2: Our Thesis Statement Checklist .

Last revised: 07/15/2008 | Adapted for web delivery: 5/2021

In order to access certain content on this page, you may need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader or an equivalent PDF viewer software.

How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis

8 straightforward steps to craft an a-grade dissertation.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020

Writing a dissertation or thesis is not a simple task. It takes time, energy and a lot of will power to get you across the finish line. It’s not easy – but it doesn’t necessarily need to be a painful process. If you understand the big-picture process of how to write a dissertation or thesis, your research journey will be a lot smoother.

In this post, I’m going to outline the big-picture process of how to write a high-quality dissertation or thesis, without losing your mind along the way. If you’re just starting your research, this post is perfect for you. Alternatively, if you’ve already submitted your proposal, this article which covers how to structure a dissertation might be more helpful.

How To Write A Dissertation: 8 Steps

Clearly understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is
Find a unique and valuable research topic
Craft a convincing research proposal
Write up a strong introduction chapter
Review the existing literature and compile a literature review
Design a rigorous research strategy and undertake your own research
Present the findings of your research
Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Step 1: Understand exactly what a dissertation is

This probably sounds like a no-brainer, but all too often, students come to us for help with their research and the underlying issue is that they don’t fully understand what a dissertation (or thesis) actually is.

So, what is a dissertation?

At its simplest, a dissertation or thesis is a formal piece of research , reflecting the standard research process . But what is the standard research process, you ask? The research process involves 4 key steps:

Ask a very specific, well-articulated question (s) (your research topic)
See what other researchers have said about it (if they’ve already answered it)
If they haven’t answered it adequately, undertake your own data collection and analysis in a scientifically rigorous fashion
Answer your original question(s), based on your analysis findings

A dissertation or thesis is a formal piece of research, reflecting the standard four step academic research process.

In short, the research process is simply about asking and answering questions in a systematic fashion . This probably sounds pretty obvious, but people often think they’ve done “research”, when in fact what they have done is:

Started with a vague, poorly articulated question
Not taken the time to see what research has already been done regarding the question
Collected data and opinions that support their gut and undertaken a flimsy analysis
Drawn a shaky conclusion, based on that analysis

If you want to see the perfect example of this in action, look out for the next Facebook post where someone claims they’ve done “research”… All too often, people consider reading a few blog posts to constitute research. Its no surprise then that what they end up with is an opinion piece, not research. Okay, okay – I’ll climb off my soapbox now.

The key takeaway here is that a dissertation (or thesis) is a formal piece of research, reflecting the research process. It’s not an opinion piece , nor a place to push your agenda or try to convince someone of your position. Writing a good dissertation involves asking a question and taking a systematic, rigorous approach to answering it.

If you understand this and are comfortable leaving your opinions or preconceived ideas at the door, you’re already off to a good start!

A dissertation is not an opinion piece, nor a place to push your agenda or try to convince someone of your position.

Step 2: Find a unique, valuable research topic

As we saw, the first step of the research process is to ask a specific, well-articulated question. In other words, you need to find a research topic that asks a specific question or set of questions (these are called research questions ). Sounds easy enough, right? All you’ve got to do is identify a question or two and you’ve got a winning research topic. Well, not quite…

A good dissertation or thesis topic has a few important attributes. Specifically, a solid research topic should be:

Let’s take a closer look at these:

Attribute #1: Clear

Your research topic needs to be crystal clear about what you’re planning to research, what you want to know, and within what context. There shouldn’t be any ambiguity or vagueness about what you’ll research.

Here’s an example of a clearly articulated research topic:

An analysis of consumer-based factors influencing organisational trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms.

As you can see in the example, its crystal clear what will be analysed (factors impacting organisational trust), amongst who (consumers) and in what context (British low-cost equity brokerage firms, based online).

Need a helping hand?

Attribute #2: Unique

Your research should be asking a question(s) that hasn’t been asked before, or that hasn’t been asked in a specific context (for example, in a specific country or industry).

For example, sticking organisational trust topic above, it’s quite likely that organisational trust factors in the UK have been investigated before, but the context (online low-cost equity brokerages) could make this research unique. Therefore, the context makes this research original.

One caveat when using context as the basis for originality – you need to have a good reason to suspect that your findings in this context might be different from the existing research – otherwise, there’s no reason to warrant researching it.

Attribute #3: Important

Simply asking a unique or original question is not enough – the question needs to create value. In other words, successfully answering your research questions should provide some value to the field of research or the industry. You can’t research something just to satisfy your curiosity. It needs to make some form of contribution either to research or industry.

For example, researching the factors influencing consumer trust would create value by enabling businesses to tailor their operations and marketing to leverage factors that promote trust. In other words, it would have a clear benefit to industry.

So, how do you go about finding a unique and valuable research topic? We explain that in detail in this video post – How To Find A Research Topic . Yeah, we’ve got you covered 😊

Step 3: Write a convincing research proposal

Once you’ve pinned down a high-quality research topic, the next step is to convince your university to let you research it. No matter how awesome you think your topic is, it still needs to get the rubber stamp before you can move forward with your research. The research proposal is the tool you’ll use for this job.

So, what’s in a research proposal?

The main “job” of a research proposal is to convince your university, advisor or committee that your research topic is worthy of approval. But convince them of what? Well, this varies from university to university, but generally, they want to see that:

You have a clearly articulated, unique and important topic (this might sound familiar…)
You’ve done some initial reading of the existing literature relevant to your topic (i.e. a literature review)
You have a provisional plan in terms of how you will collect data and analyse it (i.e. a methodology)

At the proposal stage, it’s (generally) not expected that you’ve extensively reviewed the existing literature , but you will need to show that you’ve done enough reading to identify a clear gap for original (unique) research. Similarly, they generally don’t expect that you have a rock-solid research methodology mapped out, but you should have an idea of whether you’ll be undertaking qualitative or quantitative analysis , and how you’ll collect your data (we’ll discuss this in more detail later).

Long story short – don’t stress about having every detail of your research meticulously thought out at the proposal stage – this will develop as you progress through your research. However, you do need to show that you’ve “done your homework” and that your research is worthy of approval .

So, how do you go about crafting a high-quality, convincing proposal? We cover that in detail in this video post – How To Write A Top-Class Research Proposal . We’ve also got a video walkthrough of two proposal examples here .

Step 4: Craft a strong introduction chapter

Once your proposal’s been approved, its time to get writing your actual dissertation or thesis! The good news is that if you put the time into crafting a high-quality proposal, you’ve already got a head start on your first three chapters – introduction, literature review and methodology – as you can use your proposal as the basis for these.

Handy sidenote – our free dissertation & thesis template is a great way to speed up your dissertation writing journey.

What’s the introduction chapter all about?

The purpose of the introduction chapter is to set the scene for your research (dare I say, to introduce it…) so that the reader understands what you’ll be researching and why it’s important. In other words, it covers the same ground as the research proposal in that it justifies your research topic.

What goes into the introduction chapter?

This can vary slightly between universities and degrees, but generally, the introduction chapter will include the following:

A brief background to the study, explaining the overall area of research
A problem statement , explaining what the problem is with the current state of research (in other words, where the knowledge gap exists)
Your research questions – in other words, the specific questions your study will seek to answer (based on the knowledge gap)
The significance of your study – in other words, why it’s important and how its findings will be useful in the world

As you can see, this all about explaining the “what” and the “why” of your research (as opposed to the “how”). So, your introduction chapter is basically the salesman of your study, “selling” your research to the first-time reader and (hopefully) getting them interested to read more.

How do I write the introduction chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this post .

The introduction chapter is where you set the scene for your research, detailing exactly what you’ll be researching and why it’s important.

Step 5: Undertake an in-depth literature review

As I mentioned earlier, you’ll need to do some initial review of the literature in Steps 2 and 3 to find your research gap and craft a convincing research proposal – but that’s just scratching the surface. Once you reach the literature review stage of your dissertation or thesis, you need to dig a lot deeper into the existing research and write up a comprehensive literature review chapter.

What’s the literature review all about?

There are two main stages in the literature review process:

Literature Review Step 1: Reading up

The first stage is for you to deep dive into the existing literature (journal articles, textbook chapters, industry reports, etc) to gain an in-depth understanding of the current state of research regarding your topic. While you don’t need to read every single article, you do need to ensure that you cover all literature that is related to your core research questions, and create a comprehensive catalogue of that literature , which you’ll use in the next step.

Reading and digesting all the relevant literature is a time consuming and intellectually demanding process. Many students underestimate just how much work goes into this step, so make sure that you allocate a good amount of time for this when planning out your research. Thankfully, there are ways to fast track the process – be sure to check out this article covering how to read journal articles quickly .

Literature Review Step 2: Writing up

Once you’ve worked through the literature and digested it all, you’ll need to write up your literature review chapter. Many students make the mistake of thinking that the literature review chapter is simply a summary of what other researchers have said. While this is partly true, a literature review is much more than just a summary. To pull off a good literature review chapter, you’ll need to achieve at least 3 things:

You need to synthesise the existing research , not just summarise it. In other words, you need to show how different pieces of theory fit together, what’s agreed on by researchers, what’s not.
You need to highlight a research gap that your research is going to fill. In other words, you’ve got to outline the problem so that your research topic can provide a solution.
You need to use the existing research to inform your methodology and approach to your own research design. For example, you might use questions or Likert scales from previous studies in your your own survey design .

As you can see, a good literature review is more than just a summary of the published research. It’s the foundation on which your own research is built, so it deserves a lot of love and attention. Take the time to craft a comprehensive literature review with a suitable structure .

But, how do I actually write the literature review chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this video post .

Step 6: Carry out your own research

Once you’ve completed your literature review and have a sound understanding of the existing research, its time to develop your own research (finally!). You’ll design this research specifically so that you can find the answers to your unique research question.

There are two steps here – designing your research strategy and executing on it:

1 – Design your research strategy

The first step is to design your research strategy and craft a methodology chapter . I won’t get into the technicalities of the methodology chapter here, but in simple terms, this chapter is about explaining the “how” of your research. If you recall, the introduction and literature review chapters discussed the “what” and the “why”, so it makes sense that the next point to cover is the “how” –that’s what the methodology chapter is all about.

In this section, you’ll need to make firm decisions about your research design. This includes things like:

Your research philosophy (e.g. positivism or interpretivism )
Your overall methodology (e.g. qualitative , quantitative or mixed methods)
Your data collection strategy (e.g. interviews , focus groups, surveys)
Your data analysis strategy (e.g. content analysis , correlation analysis, regression)

If these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these in plain language in other posts. It’s not essential that you understand the intricacies of research design (yet!). The key takeaway here is that you’ll need to make decisions about how you’ll design your own research, and you’ll need to describe (and justify) your decisions in your methodology chapter.

2 – Execute: Collect and analyse your data

Once you’ve worked out your research design, you’ll put it into action and start collecting your data. This might mean undertaking interviews, hosting an online survey or any other data collection method. Data collection can take quite a bit of time (especially if you host in-person interviews), so be sure to factor sufficient time into your project plan for this. Oftentimes, things don’t go 100% to plan (for example, you don’t get as many survey responses as you hoped for), so bake a little extra time into your budget here.

Once you’ve collected your data, you’ll need to do some data preparation before you can sink your teeth into the analysis. For example:

If you carry out interviews or focus groups, you’ll need to transcribe your audio data to text (i.e. a Word document).
If you collect quantitative survey data, you’ll need to clean up your data and get it into the right format for whichever analysis software you use (for example, SPSS, R or STATA).

Once you’ve completed your data prep, you’ll undertake your analysis, using the techniques that you described in your methodology. Depending on what you find in your analysis, you might also do some additional forms of analysis that you hadn’t planned for. For example, you might see something in the data that raises new questions or that requires clarification with further analysis.

The type(s) of analysis that you’ll use depend entirely on the nature of your research and your research questions. For example:

If your research if exploratory in nature, you’ll often use qualitative analysis techniques .
If your research is confirmatory in nature, you’ll often use quantitative analysis techniques
If your research involves a mix of both, you might use a mixed methods approach

Again, if these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these concepts and techniques in other posts. The key takeaway is simply that there’s no “one size fits all” for research design and methodology – it all depends on your topic, your research questions and your data. So, don’t be surprised if your study colleagues take a completely different approach to yours.

The research philosophy is at the core of the methodology chapter

Step 7: Present your findings

Once you’ve completed your analysis, it’s time to present your findings (finally!). In a dissertation or thesis, you’ll typically present your findings in two chapters – the results chapter and the discussion chapter .

What’s the difference between the results chapter and the discussion chapter?

While these two chapters are similar, the results chapter generally just presents the processed data neatly and clearly without interpretation, while the discussion chapter explains the story the data are telling – in other words, it provides your interpretation of the results.

For example, if you were researching the factors that influence consumer trust, you might have used a quantitative approach to identify the relationship between potential factors (e.g. perceived integrity and competence of the organisation) and consumer trust. In this case:

Your results chapter would just present the results of the statistical tests. For example, correlation results or differences between groups. In other words, the processed numbers.
Your discussion chapter would explain what the numbers mean in relation to your research question(s). For example, Factor 1 has a weak relationship with consumer trust, while Factor 2 has a strong relationship.

Depending on the university and degree, these two chapters (results and discussion) are sometimes merged into one , so be sure to check with your institution what their preference is. Regardless of the chapter structure, this section is about presenting the findings of your research in a clear, easy to understand fashion.

Importantly, your discussion here needs to link back to your research questions (which you outlined in the introduction or literature review chapter). In other words, it needs to answer the key questions you asked (or at least attempt to answer them).

For example, if we look at the sample research topic:

In this case, the discussion section would clearly outline which factors seem to have a noteworthy influence on organisational trust. By doing so, they are answering the overarching question and fulfilling the purpose of the research .

Your discussion here needs to link back to your research questions. It needs to answer the key questions you asked in your introduction.

For more information about the results chapter , check out this post for qualitative studies and this post for quantitative studies .

Step 8: The Final Step Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Last but not least, you’ll need to wrap up your research with the conclusion chapter . In this chapter, you’ll bring your research full circle by highlighting the key findings of your study and explaining what the implications of these findings are.

What exactly are key findings? The key findings are those findings which directly relate to your original research questions and overall research objectives (which you discussed in your introduction chapter). The implications, on the other hand, explain what your findings mean for industry, or for research in your area.

Sticking with the consumer trust topic example, the conclusion might look something like this:

Key findings

This study set out to identify which factors influence consumer-based trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms. The results suggest that the following factors have a large impact on consumer trust:

While the following factors have a very limited impact on consumer trust:

Notably, within the 25-30 age groups, Factors E had a noticeably larger impact, which may be explained by…

Implications

The findings having noteworthy implications for British low-cost online equity brokers. Specifically:

The large impact of Factors X and Y implies that brokers need to consider….

The limited impact of Factor E implies that brokers need to…

As you can see, the conclusion chapter is basically explaining the “what” (what your study found) and the “so what?” (what the findings mean for the industry or research). This brings the study full circle and closes off the document.

In the final chapter, you’ll bring your research full circle by highlighting the key findings of your study and the implications thereof.

Let’s recap – how to write a dissertation or thesis

You’re still with me? Impressive! I know that this post was a long one, but hopefully you’ve learnt a thing or two about how to write a dissertation or thesis, and are now better equipped to start your own research.

To recap, the 8 steps to writing a quality dissertation (or thesis) are as follows:

Understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is – a research project that follows the research process.
Find a unique (original) and important research topic
Craft a convincing dissertation or thesis research proposal
Write a clear, compelling introduction chapter
Undertake a thorough review of the existing research and write up a literature review
Undertake your own research
Present and interpret your findings

Once you’ve wrapped up the core chapters, all that’s typically left is the abstract , reference list and appendices. As always, be sure to check with your university if they have any additional requirements in terms of structure or content.

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

20 Comments

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Thank you, it was really helpful

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Great to hear that – thanks for the feedback. Good luck writing your dissertation/thesis.

This is the most comprehensive explanation of how to write a dissertation. Many thanks for sharing it free of charge.

Very rich presentation. Thank you

Thanks Derek Jansen|GRADCOACH, I find it very useful guide to arrange my activities and proceed to research!

Thank you so much for such a marvelous teaching .I am so convinced that am going to write a comprehensive and a distinct masters dissertation

It is an amazing comprehensive explanation

This was straightforward. Thank you!

I can say that your explanations are simple and enlightening – understanding what you have done here is easy for me. Could you write more about the different types of research methods specific to the three methodologies: quan, qual and MM. I look forward to interacting with this website more in the future.

Thanks for the feedback and suggestions 🙂

Hello, your write ups is quite educative. However, l have challenges in going about my research questions which is below; *Building the enablers of organisational growth through effective governance and purposeful leadership.*

Very educating.

Just listening to the name of the dissertation makes the student nervous. As writing a top-quality dissertation is a difficult task as it is a lengthy topic, requires a lot of research and understanding and is usually around 10,000 to 15000 words. Sometimes due to studies, unbalanced workload or lack of research and writing skill students look for dissertation submission from professional writers.

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Hi. Where is the excel spread sheet ark?

could you please help me look at your thesis paper to enable me to do the portion that has to do with the specification

my topic is “the impact of domestic revenue mobilization.

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HOW TO WRITE A THESIS: Steps by step guide

In the academic world, one of the hallmark rites signifying mastery of a course or academic area is the writing of a thesis . Essentially a thesis is a typewritten work, usually 50 to 350 pages in length depending on institutions, discipline, and educational level which is often aimed at addressing a particular problem in a given field.

While a thesis is inadequate to address all the problems in a given field, it is succinct enough to address a specialized aspect of the problem by taking a stance or making a claim on what the resolution of the problem should be. Writing a thesis can be a very daunting task because most times it is the first complex research undertaking for the student. The lack of research and writing skills to write a thesis coupled with fear and a limited time frame are factors that makes the writing of a thesis daunting. However, commitment to excellence on the part of the student combined with some of the techniques and methods that will be discussed below gives a fair chance that the student will be able to deliver an excellent thesis regardless of the subject area, the depth of the research specialization and the daunting amount of materials that must be comprehended(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

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A thesis is a statement, theory, argument, proposal or proposition, which is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved. It explains the stand someone takes on an issue and how the person intends to justify the stand. It is always better to pick a topic that will be able to render professional help, a topic that you will be happy to talk about with anybody, a topic you have personal interest and passion for, because when writing a thesis gets frustrating personal interest, happiness and passion coupled with the professional help it will be easier to write a great thesis (see you through the thesis). One has to source for a lot of information concerning the topic one is writing a thesis on in order to know the important question, because for you to take a good stand on an issue you have to study the evidence first.

Qualities of a good thesis

A good thesis has the following qualities

A good thesis must solve an existing problem in the society, organisation, government among others.
A good thesis should be contestable, it should propose a point that is arguable which people can agree with or disagree.
It is specific, clear and focused.
A good thesis does not use general terms and abstractions.
The claims of a good thesis should be definable and arguable.
It anticipates the counter-argument s
It does not use unclear language
It avoids the first person. (“In my opinion”)
A strong thesis should be able to take a stand and not just taking a stand but should be able to justify the stand that is taken, so that the reader will be tempted to ask questions like how or why.
The thesis should be arguable, contestable, focused, specific, and clear. Make your thesis clear, strong and easy to find.
The conclusion of a thesis should be based on evidence.

Steps in writing a Thesis

First, think about good topics and theories that you can write before writing the thesis, then pick a topic. The topic or thesis statement is derived from a review of existing literature in the area of study that the researcher wants to explore. This route is taken when the unknowns in an area of study are not yet defined. Some areas of study have existing problems yearning to be solved and the drafting of the thesis topic or statement revolves around a selection of one of these problems.
Once you have a good thesis, put it down and draw an outline . The outline is like a map of the whole thesis and it covers more commonly the introduction, literature review, discussion of methodology, discussion of results and the thesis’ conclusions and recommendations. The outline might differ from one institution to another but the one described in the preceding sentence is what is more commonly obtainable. It is imperative at this point to note that the outline drew still requires other mini- outlines for each of the sections mentioned. The outlines and mini- outlines provide a graphical over- view of the whole project and can also be used in allocating the word- count for each section and sub- section based on the overall word- count requirement of the thesis(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
Literature search. Remember to draw a good outline you need to do literature search to familiarize yourself with the concepts and the works of others. Similarly, to achieve this, you need to read as much material that contains necessary information as you can. There will always be a counter argument for everything so anticipate it because it will help shape your thesis. Read everything you can–academic research, trade literature, and information in the popular press and on the Internet(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
After getting all the information you need, the knowledge you gathered should help in suggesting the aim of your thesis.

Remember; a thesis is not supposed to be a question or a list, thesis should specific and as clear as possible. The claims of a thesis should be definable and also arguable.

Then collecting and analyzing data, after data analysis, the result of the analysis should be written and discussed, followed by summary, conclusion, recommendations, list of references and the appendices
The last step is editing of the thesis and proper spell checking.

Structure of a Thesis

A conventional thesis has five chapters – chapter 1-5 which will be discussed in detail below. However, it is important to state that a thesis is not limited to any chapter or section as the case may be. In fact, a thesis can be five, six, seven or even eight chapters. What determines the number of chapters in a thesis includes institution rules/ guideline, researcher choice, supervisor choice, programme or educational level. In fact, most PhD thesis are usually more than 5 chapters(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

Preliminaries Pages: The preliminaries are the cover page, the title page, the table of contents page, and the abstract.

The introduction: The introduction is the first section and it provides as the name implies an introduction to the thesis. The introduction contains such aspects as the background to the study which provides information on the topic in the context of what is happening in the world as related to the topic. It also discusses the relevance of the topic to society, policies formulated success and failure. The introduction also contains the statement of the problem which is essentially a succinct description of the problem that the thesis want to solve and what the trend will be if the problem is not solved. The concluding part of the statement of problem ends with an outline of the research questions. These are the questions which when answered helps in achieving the aim of the thesis. The third section is the outline of research objectives. Conventionally research objectives re a conversion the research questions into an active statement form. Other parts of the introduction are a discussion of hypotheses (if any), the significance of the study, delimitations, proposed methodology and a discussion of the structure of the study(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The main body includes the following; the literature review, methodology, research results and discussion of the result, the summary, conclusion and recommendations, the list of references and the appendices.

The literature review : The literature review is often the most voluminous aspects of a thesis because it reviews past empirical and theoretical literature about the problem being studied. This section starts by discussing the concepts relevant to the problem as indicated in the topic, the relationship between the concepts and what discoveries have being made on topic based on the choice of methodologies. The validity of the studies reviewed are questioned and findings are compared in order to get a comprehensive picture of the problem. The literature review also discusses the theories and theoretical frameworks that are relevant to the problem, the gaps that are evident in literature and how the thesis being written helps in resolving some of the gaps.

The major importance of Literature review is that it specifies the gap in the existing knowledge (gap in literature). The source of the literature that is being reviewed should be specified. For instance; ‘It has been argued that if the rural youth are to be aware of their community development role they need to be educated’ Effiong, (1992). The author’s name can be at the beginning, end or in between the literature. The literature should be discussed and not just stated (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The methodology: The third section is a discussion of the research methodology adopted in the thesis and touches on aspects such as the research design, the area, population and sample that will be considered for the study as well as the sampling procedure. These aspects are discussed in terms of choice, method and rationale. This section also covers the sub- section of data collection, data analysis and measures of ensuring validity of study. It is the chapter 3. This chapter explains the method used in data collection and data analysis. It explains the methodology adopted and why it is the best method to be used, it also explains every step of data collection and analysis. The data used could be primary data or secondary data. While analysing the data, proper statistical tool should be used in order to fit the stated objectives of the thesis. The statistical tool could be; the spearman rank order correlation, chi square, analysis of variance (ANOVA) etc (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The findings and discussion of result : The next section is a discussion of findings based on the data collection instrumentation used and the objectives or hypotheses of study if any. It is the chapter 4. It is research results. This is the part that describes the research. It shows the result gotten from data that is collected and analysed. It discusses the result and how it relates to your profession.

Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation: This is normally the chapter 5. The last section discusses the summary of the study and the conclusions arrived at based on the findings discussed in the previous section. This section also presents any policy recommendations that the researcher wants to propose (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

References: It cite all ideas, concepts, text, data that are not your own. It is acceptable to put the initials of the individual authors behind their last names. The way single author is referenced is different from the way more than one author is referenced (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The appendices; it includes all data in the appendix. Reference data or materials that is not easily available. It includes tables and calculations, List of equipment used for an experiment or details of complicated procedures. If a large number of references are consulted but all are not cited, it may also be included in the appendix. The appendices also contain supportive or complementary information like the questionnaire, the interview schedule, tables and charts while the references section contain an ordered list of all literature, academic and contemporary cited in the thesis. Different schools have their own preferred referencing styles(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

Follow the following steps to achieve successful thesis writing

Start writing early. Do not delay writing until you have finished your project or research. Write complete and concise “Technical Reports” as and when you finish each nugget of work. This way, you will remember everything you did and document it accurately, when the work is still fresh in your mind. This is especially so if your work involves programming.

Spot errors early. A well-written “Technical Report” will force you to think about what you have done, before you move on to something else. If anything is amiss, you will detect it at once and can easily correct it, rather than have to re-visit the work later, when you may be pressured for time and have lost touch with it.

Write your thesis from the inside out. Begin with the chapters on your own experimental work. You will develop confidence in writing them because you know your own work better than anyone else. Once you have overcome the initial inertia, move on to the other chapters.

End with a bang, not a whimper. First things first, and save the best for last. First and last impressions persist. Arrange your chapters so that your first and last experimental chapters are sound and solid.

Write the Introduction after writing the Conclusions. The examiner will read the Introduction first, and then the Conclusions, to see if the promises made in the former are indeed fulfilled in the latter. Ensure that your introduction and Conclusions match.

“No man is an Island”. The critical review of the literature places your work in context. Usually, one third of the PhD thesis is about others’ work; two thirds, what you have done yourself. After a thorough and critical literature review, the PhD candidate must be able to identify the major researchers in the field and make a sound proposal for doctoral research. Estimate the time to write your thesis and then multiply it by three to get the correct estimate. Writing at one stretch is very demanding and it is all too easy to underestimate the time required for it; inflating your first estimate by a factor of three is more realistic.

Punctuating your thesis

Punctuation Good punctuation makes reading easy. The simplest way to find out where to punctuate is to read aloud what you have written. Each time you pause, you should add a punctuation symbol. There are four major pause symbols, arranged below in ascending order of “degree of pause”:

Comma. Use the comma to indicate a short pause or to separate items in a list. A pair of commas may delimit the beginning and end of a subordinate clause or phrase. Sometimes, this is also done with a pair of “em dashes” which are printed like this:
Semi-colon. The semi-colon signifies a longer pause than the comma. It separates segments of a sentence that are “further apart” in position, or meaning, but which are nevertheless related. If the ideas were “closer together”, a comma would have been used. It is also used to separate two clauses that may stand on their own but which are too closely related for a colon or full stop to intervene between them.
Colon. The colon is used before one or more examples of a concept, and whenever items are to be listed in a visually separate fashion. The sentence that introduced the itemized list you are now reading ended in a colon. It may also be used to separate two fairly—but not totally—independent clauses in a sentence.
Full stop or period. The full stop ends a sentence. If the sentence embodies a question or an exclamation, then, of course, it is ended with a question mark or exclamation mark, respectively. The full stop is also used to terminate abbreviations like etc., (for et cetera), e.g., (for exempli gratia), et al., (for et alia) etc., but not with abbreviations for SI units. The readability of your writing will improve greatly if you take the trouble to learn the basic rules of punctuation given above.

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How to structure a thesis

A typical thesis structure

1. abstract, 2. introduction, 3. literature review, 6. discussion, 7. conclusion, 8. reference list, frequently asked questions about structuring a thesis, related articles.

Starting a thesis can be daunting. There are so many questions in the beginning:

How do you actually start your thesis?
How do you structure it?
What information should the individual chapters contain?

Each educational program has different demands on your thesis structure, which is why asking directly for the requirements of your program should be a first step. However, there is not much flexibility when it comes to structuring your thesis.

Abstract : a brief overview of your entire thesis.

Literature review : an evaluation of previous research on your topic that includes a discussion of gaps in the research and how your work may fill them.

Methods : outlines the methodology that you are using in your research.

Thesis : a large paper, or multi-chapter work, based on a topic relating to your field of study.

The abstract is the overview of your thesis and generally very short. This section should highlight the main contents of your thesis “at a glance” so that someone who is curious about your work can get the gist quickly. Take a look at our guide on how to write an abstract for more info.

Tip: Consider writing your abstract last, after you’ve written everything else.

The introduction to your thesis gives an overview of its basics or main points. It should answer the following questions:

Why is the topic being studied?
How is the topic being studied?
What is being studied?

In answering the first question, you should know what your personal interest in this topic is and why it is relevant. Why does it matter?

To answer the "how", you should briefly explain how you are going to reach your research goal. Some prefer to answer that question in the methods chapter, but you can give a quick overview here.

And finally, you should explain "what" you are studying. You can also give background information here.

You should rewrite the introduction one last time when the writing is done to make sure it connects with your conclusion. Learn more about how to write a good thesis introduction in our thesis introduction guide .

A literature review is often part of the introduction, but it can be a separate section. It is an evaluation of previous research on the topic showing that there are gaps that your research will attempt to fill. A few tips for your literature review:

Use a wide array of sources
Show both sides of the coin
Make sure to cover the classics in your field
Present everything in a clear and structured manner

For more insights on lit reviews, take a look at our guide on how to write a literature review .

The methodology chapter outlines which methods you choose to gather data, how the data is analyzed and justifies why you chose that methodology . It shows how your choice of design and research methods is suited to answering your research question.

Make sure to also explain what the pitfalls of your approach are and how you have tried to mitigate them. Discussing where your study might come up short can give you more credibility, since it shows the reader that you are aware of its limitations.

Tip: Use graphs and tables, where appropriate, to visualize your results.

The results chapter outlines what you found out in relation to your research questions or hypotheses. It generally contains the facts of your research and does not include a lot of analysis, because that happens mostly in the discussion chapter.

Clearly visualize your results, using tables and graphs, especially when summarizing, and be consistent in your way of reporting. This means sticking to one format to help the reader evaluate and compare the data.

The discussion chapter includes your own analysis and interpretation of the data you gathered , comments on your results and explains what they mean. This is your opportunity to show that you have understood your findings and their significance.

Point out the limitations of your study, provide explanations for unexpected results, and note any questions that remain unanswered.

This is probably your most important chapter. This is where you highlight that your research objectives have been achieved. You can also reiterate any limitations to your study and make suggestions for future research.

Remember to check if you have really answered all your research questions and hypotheses in this chapter. Your thesis should be tied up nicely in the conclusion and show clearly what you did, what results you got, and what you learned. Discover how to write a good conclusion in our thesis conclusion guide .

At the end of your thesis, you’ll have to compile a list of references for everything you’ve cited above. Ideally, you should keep track of everything from the beginning. Otherwise, this could be a mammoth and pretty laborious task to do.

Consider using a reference manager like Paperpile to format and organize your citations. Paperpile allows you to organize and save your citations for later use and cite them in thousands of citation styles directly in Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or LaTeX:

🔲 Introduction

🔲 Literature review

🔲 Discussion

🔲 Conclusion

🔲 Reference list

The basic elements of a thesis are: Abstract, Introduction, Literature Review, Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, and Reference List.

It's recommended to start a thesis by writing the literature review first. This way you learn more about the sources, before jumping to the discussion or any other element.

It's recommended to write the abstract of a thesis last, once everything else is done. This way you will be able to provide a complete overview of your work.

Usually, the discussion is the longest part of a thesis. In this part you are supposed to point out the limitations of your study, provide explanations for unexpected results, and note any questions that remain unanswered.

The order of the basic elements of a thesis are: 1. Abstract, 2. Introduction, 3. Literature Review, 4. Methods, 5. Results, 6. Discussion, 7. Conclusion, and 8. Reference List.

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Dissertation
Checklist: Writing a dissertation

Checklist: Writing a Thesis or Dissertation

Published on August 30, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 18, 2023.

Your thesis or dissertation is probably the longest academic text you’ve ever had to write, and there are a lot of different elements to keep in mind.

Use this simple checklist to make sure you’ve included all the essentials and submit your dissertation with confidence.

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Other interesting articles, checklist: dissertation.

My title page includes all information required by my university.

I have included acknowledgements thanking those who helped me.

My abstract provides a concise summary of the dissertation, giving the reader a clear idea of my key results or arguments.

I have created a table of contents to help the reader navigate my dissertation. It includes all chapter titles, but excludes the title page, acknowledgements, and abstract.

My introduction leads into my topic in an engaging way and shows the relevance of my research.

My introduction clearly defines the focus of my research, stating my research questions and research objectives .

My introduction includes an overview of the dissertation’s structure (reading guide).

I have conducted a literature review in which I (1) critically engage with sources, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of existing research, (2) discuss patterns, themes, and debates in the literature, and (3) address a gap or show how my research contributes to existing research.

I have clearly outlined the theoretical framework of my research, explaining the theories and models that support my approach.

I have thoroughly described my methodology , explaining how I collected data and analyzed data.

I have concisely and objectively reported all relevant results .

I have (1) evaluated and interpreted the meaning of the results and (2) acknowledged any important limitations of the results in my discussion .

I have clearly stated the answer to my main research question in the conclusion .

I have clearly explained the implications of my conclusion, emphasizing what new insight my research has contributed.

I have provided relevant recommendations for further research or practice.

If relevant, I have included appendices with supplemental information.

I have included an in-text citation every time I use words, ideas, or information from a source.

I have listed every source in a reference list at the end of my dissertation.

I have consistently followed the rules of my chosen citation style .

I have followed all formatting guidelines provided by my university.

Congratulations!

The end is in sight—your dissertation is nearly ready to submit! Make sure it's perfectly polished with the help of a Scribbr editor.

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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > Rules for writing a thesis statement

Rules for writing a thesis statement

If you struggle with writing thesis statements, you’re not alone—there are plenty of rules that go into writing them. Learn the different rules to write a strong thesis statement that will shape a persuasive argument for your essay.

A thesis statement is a sentence that summarizes the main points or themes of your essay. Not only does it establish the core of your argument, every point you make in your essay should reinforce it. To write a strong thesis statement, you should know where to put it, what it should include, and how long it should be.

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Follow these rules to create a strong thesis statement.

Know what to include in your thesis statement

Use this checklist as a guide to ensure you write a strong thesis statement right from the beginning. A good thesis statement should:

Be debatable
Can be supported
Makes a clear, specific point
Make the reader care about your stance
Answer the essay’s prompt or question
Not contain a question

Here’s an example of a weak thesis statement:

Access to clean water is a serious concern that should be considered.

Why is this weak? The above thesis doesn’t contain a persuasive argument or specific, compelling facts.

Here’s an example of a strong thesis statement:

Improving irrigation, recycling wastewater, and developing better water conservation technologies are essential to providing people around the world with clean water.

Why is this strong? This thesis makes clear, specific points that can be supported with facts.

Use a confident tone

For a powerful thesis statement, write with a confident tone . Especially when writing a persuasive essay or an argumentative essay , confidence goes a long way. Make sure to research your points and back them with supporting facts throughout your essay. Simply “doing your homework” can push you to write with more certainty.

Know where to put your thesis statement

A thesis statement should always go at the end of your introductory paragraph. In this position, the statement captures the audience’s attention and sets the stage for what they can expect in the following paragraphs.

Make your thesis statement the right length

Concise and to the point, effective thesis statements are usually only one sentence long. The length of your thesis may vary depending on the prompt and complexity of your paper. There’s no specific rule as to how many words your thesis statement should be, but 20 to 50 words is a common length.

Use the correct punctuation

Don’t use question marks. A thesis statement should not be raised in the form of a question—so question marks have no place in an effective thesis.

Similarly, while you may be excited about your thesis statement, don’t use exclamation points either. This is standard for most common forms of academic writing as well.

Avoid quotations

While tempting, don’t use a quote as your thesis statement. Unfortunately, one of the rules of thesis writing is that you can’t use quotes in it. Your thesis statement should reflect the points discussed in your paper as well as the stance you are taking, and it’s unlikely you can find a single quote that can do that.

Use a third-person voice

Don’t use phrases like “I think,” “I feel,” or “I believe” in your thesis statement, as using first-person phrases can weaken the impact of your thesis. In general, most academic papers require writing in the third person.

Writing a thesis statement can feel challenging but knowing the seven different rules that go into creating one will make the process easier. Next, explore how you can master the art of essay writing .

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How to write a thesis statement to make it clear.

A good thesis statement is the basis for an excellent essay. Without it, your writing won’t have a starting point or clear structure.

Thesis statement definition

A thesis statement is a concise claim (one or two sentences) that reflects the main idea of an essay or research paper and establishes the structure of the main body.

Your main purpose is to make your thesis relevant to the body paragraphs so that they develop the topic in the context of your interpretation.

Functions of the thesis statement

A thesis statement serves as the:

Argumentative claim on the topic and your conclusions on the topic.
Promise to the reader on what to expect in the subsequent text.
Focus on a specific angle of the topic and the circumscription of the paper’s scope.
An important part of the paper that is typically placed at the end of the introduction.
A golden thread that ties the pieces of the text together and is the focal point of the arguments.

Methods to make a thesis statement from a topic

Whether your professor has given you a specific topic or you have chosen one by yourself, there will be a similar list of methods you can use to formulate a thesis statement.

Pass the test by asking “So what?” questions. When reading the topic imagine what questions a prospective reader might ask you. So what is the main point? Who cares? You might explore a topic deeper at a deeper level to clarify or create a relationship to the larger topic.
Think how you can convince the reader to agree with your ideas. If you are writing an argumentative essay, your thesis statement must address the main argument that you will develop in the main body.
Start with justifying a discussion. A good thesis statement invites the reader to engage with a contradictory viewpoint and build interest to see how you will support your stance.

Thesis statement checklist

As soon as you formulate your thesis statement, take a moment to go through the checklist and ensure your text shines. What are the qualities of a good thesis statement?

It answers the question assigned by the professor.
It contains a position on the topic and is arguable.
It focuses on the ideas you discuss in the body paragraphs.
It utilizes specific words and terms that have direct meaning and can’t be misunderstood.
It consists of one sentence and is as short as possible without losing the content.
It connects with all ideas in the body paragraphs.
It has no grammar and spelling errors.

Let’s figure out how to write a strong thesis statement step by step like each essay writer online does.

How to write a thesis statement for an A-level essay: 5 steps

1. Turn your topic into a question.

If you’re not lucky enough and your topic doesn’t sound like a question, you have to transform it. For example, let’s say your topic is on double characters in the novel “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

You can transform this topic into the following question: “What heroes in the novel Crime and Punishment are double characters, and how do they represent different sides of Raskolnikov’s character?”

2. Answer this question.

“Sonya, Svidrigailov, and Lebezyatnikov are double characters in the novel Crime and Punishment. ”

That’s a great start. But that’s not it. We haven’t answered the whole question. Let’s try again.

3. Refine your answer.

“Sonya, Svidrigailov, and Lebezyatnikov are double characters in the novel Crime and Punishment , and they represent three different sides of Raskilnikov’s nature.”

Much better. That’s already a good thesis statement. But we want to make it perfect, right? Let’s see how we can add more detail.

4. Remember the examples.

“Sonya, Svidrigailov, and Lebezyatnikov are double characters in the novel Crime and Punishment , and they represent three different sides of Raskolnikov’s nature: sense of consciousness, destructiveness, and desire to follow progressive ideas.”

With this thesis statement, you give your readers a sense of direction. They’ll know what exactly you’re going to write about.

But we can dig deeper. A list of characters isn’t enough. You have to answer the question, “So what?” What is the role of the double characters? How do they contribute to the plot of the novel?

5. Polish your thesis statement.

That’s our finalized thesis statement for an A-level essay. How do you like it?

You’re welcome to use the same instruction to compose thesis statements for any kind of topic. Now, let us share a few rules that will make your thesis statement even better.

6 rules on how to write a good thesis statement

The thesis statement isn’t your topic.

You can’t simply say: “In this essay, I’ll analyze double characters in the novel Crime and Punishment. ” You have to explain to your readers what exactly you’re going to write in your essay.

Put your thesis statement at the end of your introductory paragraph.

A perfect essay introduction consists of three main elements: a hook, transition, and a thesis statement. The hook grabs the attention, and the thesis statement provides information.

Your thesis statement should give your readers (and you) direction.

Imagine that your thesis statement is a guiding point for you and your readers. It will help you to stay on track during the writing process, and it will help your readers to follow your thoughts.

Link back to your thesis statement.

The research process can be really exciting, and sometimes, it goes far beyond our plans. Look at your thesis statement from time to time not to lose you path.

Your thesis statement shouldn’t be a fact, but an OPINION that needs to be proved.

“The beagle is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world” – that’s a fact. You can’t use this sentence as your thesis statement. “The beagle is the best dog breed for apartments” – that’s an opinion. This claim is debatable, and you can use it as your thesis statement.

You can change your thesis statement throughout the writing process.

The thesis statement is your compass. But what if you decide to change your final destination? Remember that you can change your thesis statement at any moment. The most important part is that it remains relevant to your text as a whole.

Thesis statement examples

Our guide on how to write a thesis statement can serve as a list of hints for you each time you write an essay. One day, your skills will improve, and you won’t need it. Until then, keep it at your fingertips so that you can always take a look.

By the way, on our blog, you can also find a helpful guide on how to write an essay for beginners . We’re sure that it’ll come in handy for composing your essays.

Thesis statement writing help from EssayShark.com

Unfortunately, the thesis statement isn’t the whole essay. If you have difficulties with your custom term paper , apply to our writers. You can place your order at any time. EssayShark is available 24/7!

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Thesis and dissertation guide.

« Thesis & Dissertation Resources
The Graduate School Home

Copyright Page

Dedication, Acknowledgements, Preface (optional)
List of Tables, Figures, and Illustrations
List of Abbreviations

List of Symbols

Non-traditional formats.

Font type and size, spacing and indentation, tables, figures, and illustrations, formatting previously published work.

Internet Distribution
Open Access
Registering Copyright
Using Copyrighted Materials
Use of Your Own Previously Published Materials
Submission Steps
Submission Checklist
Sample Pages

II. Formatting Guidelines

All copies of a thesis or dissertation must have the following uniform margins throughout the entire document:

Left: 1″ (or 1 1/4" to ensure sufficient room for binding the work if desired)
Right: 1″
Bottom: 1″ (with allowances for page numbers; see section on Pagination )
Top: 1″

Exceptions : The first page of each chapter (including the introduction, if any) begins 2″ from the top of the page. Also, the headings on the title page, abstract, first page of the dedication/ acknowledgements/preface (if any), and first page of the table of contents begin 2″ from the top of the page.

Non-traditional theses or dissertations such as whole works comprised of digital, artistic, video, or performance materials (i.e., no written text, chapters, or articles) are acceptable if approved by your committee and graduate program. A PDF document with a title page, copyright page, and abstract at minimum are required to be submitted along with any relevant supplemental files.

Fonts must be 10, 11, or 12 points in size. Superscripts and subscripts (e.g., formulas, or footnote or endnote numbers) should be no more than 2 points smaller than the font size used for the body of the text.

Space and indent your thesis or dissertation following these guidelines:

Spacing and Indentation with mesaurements described in surrounding text

The text must appear in a single column on each page and be double-spaced throughout the document. Do not arrange chapter text in multiple columns.
New paragraphs must be indicated by a consistent tab indentation throughout the entire document.
The document text must be left-justified, not centered or right-justified.
For blocked quotations, indent the entire text of the quotation consistently from the left margin.
Ensure headings are not left hanging alone on the bottom of a prior page. The text following should be moved up or the heading should be moved down. This is something to check near the end of formatting, as other adjustments to text and spacing may change where headings appear on the page.

Exceptions : Blocked quotations, notes, captions, legends, and long headings must be single-spaced throughout the document and double-spaced between items.

Paginate your thesis or dissertation following these guidelines:

Use lower case Roman numerals (ii, iii, iv, etc.) on all pages preceding the first page of chapter one. The title page counts as page i, but the number does not appear. Therefore, the first page showing a number will be the copyright page with ii at the bottom.
Arabic numerals (beginning with 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.) start at chapter one or the introduction, if applicable. Arabic numbers must be included on all pages of the text, illustrations, notes, and any other materials that follow. Thus, the first page of chapter one will show an Arabic numeral 1, and numbering of all subsequent pages will follow in order.
Do not use page numbers accompanied by letters, hyphens, periods, or parentheses (e.g., 1., 1-2, -1-, (1), or 1a).
Center all page numbers at the bottom of the page, 1/2″ from the bottom edge.
Pages must not contain running headers or footers, aside from page numbers.
If your document contains landscape pages (pages in which the top of the page is the long side of a sheet of paper), make sure that your page numbers still appear in the same position and direction as they do on pages with standard portrait orientation for consistency. This likely means the page number will be centered on the short side of the paper and the number will be sideways relative to the landscape page text. See these additional instructions for assistance with pagination on landscape pages in Microsoft Word .

Pagination example with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Format footnotes for your thesis or dissertation following these guidelines:

Footnote spacing with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Footnotes must be placed at the bottom of the page separated from the text by a solid line one to two inches long.
Begin at the left page margin, directly below the solid line.
Single-space footnotes that are more than one line long.
Include one double-spaced line between each note.
Most software packages automatically space footnotes at the bottom of the page depending on their length. It is acceptable if the note breaks within a sentence and carries the remainder into the footnote area of the next page. Do not indicate the continuation of a footnote.
Number all footnotes with Arabic numerals. You may number notes consecutively within each chapter starting over with number 1 for the first note in each chapter, or you may number notes consecutively throughout the entire document.
Footnote numbers must precede the note and be placed slightly above the line (superscripted). Leave no space between the number and the note.
While footnotes should be located at the bottom of the page, do not place footnotes in a running page footer, as they must remain within the page margins.

Endnotes are an acceptable alternative to footnotes. Format endnotes for your thesis or dissertation following these guidelines:

Endnotes with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Always begin endnotes on a separate page either immediately following the end of each chapter, or at the end of your entire document. If you place all endnotes at the end of the entire document, they must appear after the appendices and before the references.
Include the heading “ENDNOTES” in all capital letters, and center it 1″ below the top of the first page of your endnotes section(s).
Single-space endnotes that are more than one line long.
Number all endnotes with Arabic numerals. You may number notes consecutively within each chapter starting over with number 1 for the first note in each chapter, or you may number notes consecutively throughout the entire document.
Endnote numbers must precede the note and be placed slightly above the line (superscripted). Leave no space between the number and the note.

Tables, figures, and illustrations vary widely by discipline. Therefore, formatting of these components is largely at the discretion of the author.

For example, headings and captions may appear above or below each of these components.

These components may each be placed within the main text of the document or grouped together in a separate section.

Space permitting, headings and captions for the associated table, figure, or illustration must be on the same page.

The use of color is permitted as long as it is consistently applied as part of the finished component (e.g., a color-coded pie chart) and not extraneous or unprofessional (e.g., highlighting intended solely to draw a reader's attention to a key phrase). The use of color should be reserved primarily for tables, figures, illustrations, and active website or document links throughout your thesis or dissertation.

The format you choose for these components must be consistent throughout the thesis or dissertation.

Ensure each component complies with margin and pagination requirements.

Refer to the List of Tables, Figures, and Illustrations section for additional information.

If your thesis or dissertation has appendices, they must be prepared following these guidelines:

Appendices with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Appendices must appear at the end of the document (before references) and not the chapter to which they pertain.
When there is more than one appendix, assign each appendix a number or a letter heading (e.g., “APPENDIX 1” or “APPENDIX A”) and a descriptive title. You may number consecutively throughout the entire work (e.g., 1, 2 or A, B), or you may assign a two-part Arabic numeral with the first number designating the chapter in which it appears, separated by a period, followed by a second number or letter to indicate its consecutive placement (e.g., “APPENDIX 3.2” is the second appendix referred to in Chapter Three).
Include the chosen headings in all capital letters, and center them 1″ below the top of the page.
All appendix headings and titles must be included in the table of contents.
Page numbering must continue throughout your appendix or appendices. Ensure each appendix complies with margin and pagination requirements.

You are required to list all the references you consulted. For specific details on formatting your references, consult and follow a style manual or professional journal that is used for formatting publications and citations in your discipline.

References with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Your reference pages must be prepared following these guidelines:

If you place references after each chapter, the references for the last chapter must be placed immediately following the chapter and before the appendices.
If you place all references at the end of the thesis or dissertation, they must appear after the appendices as the final component in the document.
Select an appropriate heading for this section based on the style manual you are using (e.g., “REFERENCES”, “BIBLIOGRAPHY”, or “WORKS CITED”).
Include the chosen heading in all capital letters, and center it 1″ below the top of the page.
References must be single-spaced within each entry.
Include one double-spaced line between each reference.
Page numbering must continue throughout your references section. Ensure references comply with margin and pagination requirements.

In some cases, students gain approval from their academic program to include in their thesis or dissertation previously published (or submitted, in press, or under review) journal articles or similar materials that they have authored. For more information about including previously published works in your thesis or dissertation, see the section on Use of Your Own Previously Published Materials and the section on Copyrighting.

If your academic program has approved inclusion of such materials, please note that these materials must match the formatting guidelines set forth in this Guide regardless of how the material was formatted for publication.

Some specific formatting guidelines to consider include:

Formatting previously published work with mesaurements described in surrounding text

Fonts, margins, chapter headings, citations, and references must all match the formatting and placement used within the rest of the thesis or dissertation.
If appropriate, published articles can be included as separate individual chapters within the thesis or dissertation.
A separate abstract to each chapter should not be included.
The citation for previously published work must be included as the first footnote (or endnote) on the first page of the chapter.
Do not include typesetting notations often used when submitting manuscripts to a publisher (i.e., insert table x here).
The date on the title page should be the year in which your committee approves the thesis or dissertation, regardless of the date of completion or publication of individual chapters.
If you would like to include additional details about the previously published work, this information can be included in the preface for the thesis or dissertation.

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Organizing and Formatting Your Thesis and Dissertation

Learn about overall organization of your thesis or dissertation. Then, find details for formatting your preliminaries, text, and supplementaries.

Overall Organization

A typical thesis consists of three main parts – preliminaries, text, and supplementaries. Each part is to be organized as explained below and in the order indicated below:

1. Preliminaries:

Title page (required)
Copyright page (required)
Abstract (required) only one abstract allowed
Acknowledgments (optional) located in the Preliminary Section only
Preface (optional)
Autobiography (optional)
Dedication (optional)
Table of Contents (required)
List of Tables (optional)
List of Figures (optional)
List of Plates (optional)
List of Symbols (optional)
List of Keywords (optional)
Other Preliminaries (optional) such as Definition of Terms

3. Supplementaries:

References or bibliography (optional)
Appendices (optional)
List of Abbreviations (optional)

Preliminaries

These are the general requirements for all preliminary pages.

Preliminary pages are numbered with lower case Roman numerals.
Page numbers are ½” from the bottom of the page and centered.
The copyright page is included in the manuscript immediately after the title page and is not assigned a page number nor counted.
The abstract page is numbered with the Roman numeral “ii”.
The remaining preliminary pages are arranged as listed under “Organizing and Formatting the Thesis/Dissertation” and numbered consecutively.
Headings for all preliminary pages must be centered in all capital letters 1” from the top of the page.
Do not bold the headings of the preliminary pages.

Preliminaries have no page number on the first two. Then it is numbered with roman numerals.

A sample Thesis title page pdf is available here , and a sample of a Dissertation title page pdf is available here.

Refer to the sample page as you read through the format requirements for the title page.

Do not use bold.
Center all text except the advisor and committee information.

The heading “ Thesis ” or “ Dissertation ” is in all capital letters, centered one inch from the top of the page.

Your title must be in all capital letters, double spaced and centered.
Your title on the title page must match the title on your GS30 – Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form

Submitted by block

Divide this section exactly as shown on the sample page. One blank line must separate each line of text.

Submitted by
School of Advanced Materials Discovery
School of Biomedical Engineering
Graduate Degree Program in Cell and Molecular Biology
Graduate Degree Program in Ecology

If your department name begins with “School of”, list as:

School of Education
School of Music, Theatre and Dance
School of Social Work

If you have questions about the correct name of your department or degree, consult your department. Areas of Study or specializations within a program are not listed on the Title Page.

Degree and Graduating Term block

In partial fulfillment of the requirements
For the Degree of
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado (do not abbreviate Colorado)

Committee block

Master’s students will use the heading Master’s Committee:
Doctoral students will use the heading Doctoral Committee:
The Master’s Committee and Doctoral Committee headings begin at the left margin.
One blank line separates the committee heading and the advisor section.
One blank line separates the advisor and committee section.
Advisor and committee member names are indented approximately half an inch from the left margin.
Titles before or after the names of your advisor and your members are not permitted (Examples – Dr., Professor, Ph.D.).
A sample copyright page pdf is available here.
A copyright page is required.
A copyright page is included in the manuscript immediately after the title page.
This page is not assigned a number nor counted.
Center text vertically and horizontally.
A sample abstract page pdf is available here – refer to the sample page as you read through the format requirements for the abstract.
Only one abstract is permitted.
The heading “ Abstract ” is in all capital letters, centered one inch from the top of the page.
Three blank lines (single-spaced) must be between the “ Abstract ” heading and your title.
Your title must be in all capital letters and centered.
The title must match the title on your Title Page and the GS30 – Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form
Three blank lines (single-spaced) must be between the title and your text.
The text of your abstract must be double-spaced.
The first page of the abstract is numbered with a small Roman numeral ii.
A sample Table of Contents page pdf is available.
The heading “ Table of Contents ” is in all capital letters centered one inch from the top of the page.
Three blank lines (single-spaced) follow the heading.
List all parts of the document (except the title page) and the page numbers on which each part begins.
The titles of all parts are worded exactly as they appear in the document.
Titles and headings and the page numbers on which they begin are separated by a row of dot leaders.
Major headings are aligned flush with the left margin.
Page numbers are aligned flush with the right margin.

The text of a thesis features an introduction and several chapters, sections and subsections. Text may also include parenthetical references, footnotes, or references to the bibliography or endnotes.

Any references to journal publications, authors, contributions, etc. on your chapter pages or major heading pages should be listed as a footnote .

Text and Supplementaries use Arabic numbering starting at 1

The entire document is 8.5” x 11” (letter) size.
Pages may be in landscape position for figures and tables that do not fit in “portrait” position.
Choose one type style (font) and font size and use it throughout the text of your thesis. Examples: Times New Roman and Arial.
Font sizes should be between 10 point and 12 point.
Font color must be black.
Hyperlinked text must be in blue. If you hyperlink more than one line of text, such as the entire table of contents, leave the text black.
Margins are one inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right).
Always continue the text to the bottom margin except at the end of a chapter.

Please see preliminary page requirements .
Body and references are numbered with Arabic numerals beginning with the first page of text (numbered 1).
Page numbers must be centered ½” from the bottom of the page.

Major Headings

A sample page pdf for major headings and subheadings is available here.
Use consistent style for major headings.
Three blank lines (single-spaced) need to be between the major heading and your text.
Each chapter is started on a new page.
The References or Bibliography heading is a major heading and the formatting needs to match chapter headings.

Subheadings

A sample page pdf for major headings and subheadings is available here .
Style for subheadings is optional but the style should be consistent throughout.
Subheadings within a chapter (or section) do not begin on a new page unless the preceding page is filled. Continue the text to the bottom of the page unless at the end of a chapter.
Subheadings at the bottom of a page require two lines of text following the heading and at least two lines of text on the next page.

Running Head

Do not insert a running head.

When dividing paragraphs, at least two lines of text should appear at the bottom of the page and at least two lines of text on the next page.

Hyphenation

The last word on a page may not be divided. No more than three lines in succession may end with hyphens. Divide words as indicated in a standard dictionary.

The text of the thesis is double-spaced.
Bibliography or list of reference entries and data within large tables may be single-spaced. Footnotes should be single spaced.
Footnotes and bibliography or list of reference entries are separated by double-spacing.
Quoted material of more than three lines is indented and single-spaced. Quoted material that is three lines or fewer may be single-spaced for emphasis.

Poems should be double-spaced with triple-spacing between stanzas. Stanzas may be centered if lines are short.

Consult a style manual approved by your department for samples of footnotes.
Footnotes are numbered consecutively throughout the entire thesis.
Footnotes appear at the bottom of the page on which the reference is made.
Footnotes are single-spaced.
Consult a style manual approved by your department for samples of endnotes.
Endnotes are numbered consecutively throughout the entire thesis.
Endnotes may be placed at the end of each chapter or following the last page of text.
The form for an endnote is the same as a footnote. Type the heading “endnote”.

Tables and Figures

Tables and figures should follow immediately after first mentioned in the text or on the next page.
If they are placed on the next page, continue the text to the bottom of the preceding page.
Do not wrap text around tables or figures. Text can go above and/or below.
If more clarity is provided by placing tables and figures at the end of chapters or at the end of the text, this format is also acceptable.
Tables and Figures are placed before references.
Any diagram, drawing, graph, chart, map, photograph, or other type of illustration is presented in the thesis as a figure.
All tables and figures must conform to margin requirements.
Images can be resized to fit within margins
Table captions go above tables.
Figure captions go below figures.
Captions must be single spaced.

Landscape Tables and Figures

Large tables or figures can be placed on the page landscape or broadside orientation.
Landscape tables and figures should face the right margin (unbound side).
The top margin must be the same as on a regular page.
Page numbers for landscape or broadside tables or figures are placed on the 11” side.

Supplementaries

These are the general requirements for all supplementary pages.

Supplementary pages are arranged as listed under “Organizing and Formatting the Thesis/Dissertation” and numbered consecutively.
Headings for all supplementary pages are major headings and the formatting style needs to match chapter headings.

Arabic numbers continue into the supplementaries.

References or Bibliography

The References or Bibliography heading is always a major heading and the formatting style needs to match chapter headings.
References or Bibliography are ordered after each chapter, or at the end of the text.
References or Bibliography must start on a new page from the chapter text.
References are aligned flush with the left margin.
The style for references should follow the format appropriate for the field of study.
The style used must be consistent throughout the thesis.
Appendices are optional and used for supplementary material.
The Appendices heading is a major heading and the formatting style needs to match chapter headings.
As an option the appendix may be introduced with a cover page bearing only the title centered vertically and horizontally on the page. The content of the appendix then begins on the second page with the standard one inch top margin.
Quality and format should be consistent with requirements for other parts of the thesis including margins.
Page numbers used in the appendix must continue from the main text.

A Foreign Language Thesis

Occasionally, theses are written in languages other than English. In such cases, an English translation of the title and abstract must be included in the document.

Submit one title page in the non-English language (no page number printed).
Submit one title page in English (no page number printed).
Submit one abstract in the non-English language (page number is ii).
Submit one abstract in English (page number is numbered consecutively from previous page – example: if the last page of the abstract in the foreign language is page ii the first page of the abstract in English is numbered page iii).

Multipart Thesis

In some departments, a student may do research on two or more generally related areas which would be difficult to combine into a single well-organized thesis. The solution is the multi-part thesis.

Each part is considered a separate unit, with its own chapters, bibliography or list of references, and appendix (optional); or it may have a combined bibliography or list of references and appendix.
A single abstract is required.
The pages of a multi-part thesis are numbered consecutively throughout the entire thesis, not through each part (therefore, the first page of Part II is not page 1).
The chapter numbering begins with Chapter 1 for each part, or the chapters may be numbered consecutively.
Pagination is consecutive throughout all parts, including numbered separation sheets between parts.
Each part may be preceded by a separation sheet listing the appropriate number and title.

/images/cornell/logo35pt_cornell_white.svg" alt="rules for a thesis"> Cornell University --> Graduate School

Required sections, guidelines, and suggestions.

Beyond those noted on the Formatting Requirements page , the Graduate School has no additional formatting requirements. The following suggestions are based on best practices and historic requirements for dissertations and theses but are not requirements for submission of the thesis or dissertation. The Graduate School recommends that each dissertation or thesis conform to the standards of leading academic journals in your field.

For both master’s and doctoral students, the same basic rules apply; however, differences exist in some limited areas, particularly in producing the abstract and filing the dissertation or thesis.

Information in this guide that pertains specifically to doctoral candidates and dissertations is clearly marked with the term “ dissertation ” or “ doctoral candidates .”
Information pertaining specifically to master’s candidates and theses is clearly marked with the term “ thesis ” or “ master’s candidates .”
All other information pertains to both.

Examples of formatting suggestions for both the dissertation and thesis are available as downloadable templates .

Required? Yes.

Suggested numbering: Page included in overall document, but number not typed on page.

The following format for your title page is suggested, but not required.

The title should be written using all capital letters, centered within the left and right margins, and spaced about 1.5 inches from the top of the page. (For an example, please see the template .)
Carefully select words for the title of the dissertation or thesis to represent the subject content as accurately as possible. Words in the title are important access points to researchers who may use keyword searches to identify works in various subject areas.
Use word substitutes for formulas, symbols, superscripts, Greek letters, etc.
Below the title, at the vertical and horizontal center of the margins, place the following five lines (all centered):

Line 1: A Dissertation [or Thesis]

Line 2: Presented to the Faculty of the Graduate School

Line 3: of Cornell University

Line 4: in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

Line 5: Doctor of Philosophy [or other appropriate degree]

Center the following three lines within the margins:

Line 2: Primary or Preferred Name [as registered with the University Registrar’s Office and displayed in Student Center]

Line 3: month and year of degree conferral [May, August, December; no comma between month and year]

Suggested numbering: Page included in overall document, but number not typed on page

The following format for your copyright page is suggested, but not required.

A notice of copyright should appear as the sole item on the page centered vertically and horizontally within the margins: © 20__ [Primary or Preferred Name [as registered with the University Registrar’s Office]. Please note that there is not usually a page heading on the copyright page.
The copyright symbol is a lowercase “c,” which must be circled. (On Macs, the symbol is typed by pressing the “option” and “g” keys simultaneously. If the font does not have the © symbol, type the “c” and circle it by hand. On PCs, in the insert menu, choose “symbol,” and select the © symbol.)
The date, which follows the copyright symbol, is the year of conferral of your degree.
Your name follows the date.

Required? Yes.

Suggested numbering: Page(s) not counted, not numbered

Abstract formats for the doctoral dissertation and master’s thesis differ greatly. The Graduate School recommends that you conform to the standards of leading academic journals in your field.

Doctoral candidates:

TITLE OF DISSERTATION
Student’s Primary or Preferred Name, Ph.D. [as registered with the University Registrar’s Office]
Cornell University 20__ [year of conferral]
Following the heading lines, begin the text of the abstract on the same page.
The abstract states the problem, describes the methods and procedures used, and gives the main results or conclusions of the research.
The abstract usually does not exceed 350 words in length (about one-and-one-half correctly spaced pages—but not more than two pages).

Master’s candidate:

In a thesis, the page heading is simply the word “ABSTRACT” in all capital letters and centered within the margins at the top of the page. (The thesis abstract does not display the thesis title, author’s name, degree, university, or date of degree conferral.)
The abstract should state the problem, describe the methods and procedures used, and give the main results or conclusions.
The abstract usually does not exceed 600 words in length, which is approximately two-and-one-half to three pages of correctly spaced typing.
In M.F.A. theses, an abstract is not required.

Biographical Sketch

Suggested numbering: iii (may be more than one page)

Type number(s) on page(s).

The following content and format are suggested:

The biographical sketch is written in third-person voice and contains your educational background. Sometimes additional biographical facts are included.
As a page heading, use “BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH” in all capital letters, centered on the page.
Number this page as iii.

Required? Optional.

Suggested numbering: iv (may be more than one page)

The dedication page is not required and can contain whatever text that you would like to include. Text on this page does not need to be in English.

Acknowledgements

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PLoS Comput Biol
v.9(7); 2013 Jul

Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Literature Review

Marco pautasso.

1 Centre for Functional and Evolutionary Ecology (CEFE), CNRS, Montpellier, France

2 Centre for Biodiversity Synthesis and Analysis (CESAB), FRB, Aix-en-Provence, France

Literature reviews are in great demand in most scientific fields. Their need stems from the ever-increasing output of scientific publications [1] . For example, compared to 1991, in 2008 three, eight, and forty times more papers were indexed in Web of Science on malaria, obesity, and biodiversity, respectively [2] . Given such mountains of papers, scientists cannot be expected to examine in detail every single new paper relevant to their interests [3] . Thus, it is both advantageous and necessary to rely on regular summaries of the recent literature. Although recognition for scientists mainly comes from primary research, timely literature reviews can lead to new synthetic insights and are often widely read [4] . For such summaries to be useful, however, they need to be compiled in a professional way [5] .

When starting from scratch, reviewing the literature can require a titanic amount of work. That is why researchers who have spent their career working on a certain research issue are in a perfect position to review that literature. Some graduate schools are now offering courses in reviewing the literature, given that most research students start their project by producing an overview of what has already been done on their research issue [6] . However, it is likely that most scientists have not thought in detail about how to approach and carry out a literature review.

Reviewing the literature requires the ability to juggle multiple tasks, from finding and evaluating relevant material to synthesising information from various sources, from critical thinking to paraphrasing, evaluating, and citation skills [7] . In this contribution, I share ten simple rules I learned working on about 25 literature reviews as a PhD and postdoctoral student. Ideas and insights also come from discussions with coauthors and colleagues, as well as feedback from reviewers and editors.

Rule 1: Define a Topic and Audience

How to choose which topic to review? There are so many issues in contemporary science that you could spend a lifetime of attending conferences and reading the literature just pondering what to review. On the one hand, if you take several years to choose, several other people may have had the same idea in the meantime. On the other hand, only a well-considered topic is likely to lead to a brilliant literature review [8] . The topic must at least be:

interesting to you (ideally, you should have come across a series of recent papers related to your line of work that call for a critical summary),
an important aspect of the field (so that many readers will be interested in the review and there will be enough material to write it), and
a well-defined issue (otherwise you could potentially include thousands of publications, which would make the review unhelpful).

Ideas for potential reviews may come from papers providing lists of key research questions to be answered [9] , but also from serendipitous moments during desultory reading and discussions. In addition to choosing your topic, you should also select a target audience. In many cases, the topic (e.g., web services in computational biology) will automatically define an audience (e.g., computational biologists), but that same topic may also be of interest to neighbouring fields (e.g., computer science, biology, etc.).

Rule 2: Search and Re-search the Literature

After having chosen your topic and audience, start by checking the literature and downloading relevant papers. Five pieces of advice here:

keep track of the search items you use (so that your search can be replicated [10] ),
keep a list of papers whose pdfs you cannot access immediately (so as to retrieve them later with alternative strategies),
use a paper management system (e.g., Mendeley, Papers, Qiqqa, Sente),
define early in the process some criteria for exclusion of irrelevant papers (these criteria can then be described in the review to help define its scope), and
do not just look for research papers in the area you wish to review, but also seek previous reviews.

The chances are high that someone will already have published a literature review ( Figure 1 ), if not exactly on the issue you are planning to tackle, at least on a related topic. If there are already a few or several reviews of the literature on your issue, my advice is not to give up, but to carry on with your own literature review,

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The bottom-right situation (many literature reviews but few research papers) is not just a theoretical situation; it applies, for example, to the study of the impacts of climate change on plant diseases, where there appear to be more literature reviews than research studies [33] .

discussing in your review the approaches, limitations, and conclusions of past reviews,
trying to find a new angle that has not been covered adequately in the previous reviews, and
incorporating new material that has inevitably accumulated since their appearance.

When searching the literature for pertinent papers and reviews, the usual rules apply:

be thorough,
use different keywords and database sources (e.g., DBLP, Google Scholar, ISI Proceedings, JSTOR Search, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science), and
look at who has cited past relevant papers and book chapters.

Rule 3: Take Notes While Reading

If you read the papers first, and only afterwards start writing the review, you will need a very good memory to remember who wrote what, and what your impressions and associations were while reading each single paper. My advice is, while reading, to start writing down interesting pieces of information, insights about how to organize the review, and thoughts on what to write. This way, by the time you have read the literature you selected, you will already have a rough draft of the review.

Of course, this draft will still need much rewriting, restructuring, and rethinking to obtain a text with a coherent argument [11] , but you will have avoided the danger posed by staring at a blank document. Be careful when taking notes to use quotation marks if you are provisionally copying verbatim from the literature. It is advisable then to reformulate such quotes with your own words in the final draft. It is important to be careful in noting the references already at this stage, so as to avoid misattributions. Using referencing software from the very beginning of your endeavour will save you time.

Rule 4: Choose the Type of Review You Wish to Write

After having taken notes while reading the literature, you will have a rough idea of the amount of material available for the review. This is probably a good time to decide whether to go for a mini- or a full review. Some journals are now favouring the publication of rather short reviews focusing on the last few years, with a limit on the number of words and citations. A mini-review is not necessarily a minor review: it may well attract more attention from busy readers, although it will inevitably simplify some issues and leave out some relevant material due to space limitations. A full review will have the advantage of more freedom to cover in detail the complexities of a particular scientific development, but may then be left in the pile of the very important papers “to be read” by readers with little time to spare for major monographs.

There is probably a continuum between mini- and full reviews. The same point applies to the dichotomy of descriptive vs. integrative reviews. While descriptive reviews focus on the methodology, findings, and interpretation of each reviewed study, integrative reviews attempt to find common ideas and concepts from the reviewed material [12] . A similar distinction exists between narrative and systematic reviews: while narrative reviews are qualitative, systematic reviews attempt to test a hypothesis based on the published evidence, which is gathered using a predefined protocol to reduce bias [13] , [14] . When systematic reviews analyse quantitative results in a quantitative way, they become meta-analyses. The choice between different review types will have to be made on a case-by-case basis, depending not just on the nature of the material found and the preferences of the target journal(s), but also on the time available to write the review and the number of coauthors [15] .

Rule 5: Keep the Review Focused, but Make It of Broad Interest

Whether your plan is to write a mini- or a full review, it is good advice to keep it focused 16 , 17 . Including material just for the sake of it can easily lead to reviews that are trying to do too many things at once. The need to keep a review focused can be problematic for interdisciplinary reviews, where the aim is to bridge the gap between fields [18] . If you are writing a review on, for example, how epidemiological approaches are used in modelling the spread of ideas, you may be inclined to include material from both parent fields, epidemiology and the study of cultural diffusion. This may be necessary to some extent, but in this case a focused review would only deal in detail with those studies at the interface between epidemiology and the spread of ideas.

While focus is an important feature of a successful review, this requirement has to be balanced with the need to make the review relevant to a broad audience. This square may be circled by discussing the wider implications of the reviewed topic for other disciplines.

Rule 6: Be Critical and Consistent

Reviewing the literature is not stamp collecting. A good review does not just summarize the literature, but discusses it critically, identifies methodological problems, and points out research gaps [19] . After having read a review of the literature, a reader should have a rough idea of:

the major achievements in the reviewed field,
the main areas of debate, and
the outstanding research questions.

It is challenging to achieve a successful review on all these fronts. A solution can be to involve a set of complementary coauthors: some people are excellent at mapping what has been achieved, some others are very good at identifying dark clouds on the horizon, and some have instead a knack at predicting where solutions are going to come from. If your journal club has exactly this sort of team, then you should definitely write a review of the literature! In addition to critical thinking, a literature review needs consistency, for example in the choice of passive vs. active voice and present vs. past tense.

Rule 7: Find a Logical Structure

Like a well-baked cake, a good review has a number of telling features: it is worth the reader's time, timely, systematic, well written, focused, and critical. It also needs a good structure. With reviews, the usual subdivision of research papers into introduction, methods, results, and discussion does not work or is rarely used. However, a general introduction of the context and, toward the end, a recapitulation of the main points covered and take-home messages make sense also in the case of reviews. For systematic reviews, there is a trend towards including information about how the literature was searched (database, keywords, time limits) [20] .

How can you organize the flow of the main body of the review so that the reader will be drawn into and guided through it? It is generally helpful to draw a conceptual scheme of the review, e.g., with mind-mapping techniques. Such diagrams can help recognize a logical way to order and link the various sections of a review [21] . This is the case not just at the writing stage, but also for readers if the diagram is included in the review as a figure. A careful selection of diagrams and figures relevant to the reviewed topic can be very helpful to structure the text too [22] .

Rule 8: Make Use of Feedback

Reviews of the literature are normally peer-reviewed in the same way as research papers, and rightly so [23] . As a rule, incorporating feedback from reviewers greatly helps improve a review draft. Having read the review with a fresh mind, reviewers may spot inaccuracies, inconsistencies, and ambiguities that had not been noticed by the writers due to rereading the typescript too many times. It is however advisable to reread the draft one more time before submission, as a last-minute correction of typos, leaps, and muddled sentences may enable the reviewers to focus on providing advice on the content rather than the form.

Feedback is vital to writing a good review, and should be sought from a variety of colleagues, so as to obtain a diversity of views on the draft. This may lead in some cases to conflicting views on the merits of the paper, and on how to improve it, but such a situation is better than the absence of feedback. A diversity of feedback perspectives on a literature review can help identify where the consensus view stands in the landscape of the current scientific understanding of an issue [24] .

Rule 9: Include Your Own Relevant Research, but Be Objective

In many cases, reviewers of the literature will have published studies relevant to the review they are writing. This could create a conflict of interest: how can reviewers report objectively on their own work [25] ? Some scientists may be overly enthusiastic about what they have published, and thus risk giving too much importance to their own findings in the review. However, bias could also occur in the other direction: some scientists may be unduly dismissive of their own achievements, so that they will tend to downplay their contribution (if any) to a field when reviewing it.

In general, a review of the literature should neither be a public relations brochure nor an exercise in competitive self-denial. If a reviewer is up to the job of producing a well-organized and methodical review, which flows well and provides a service to the readership, then it should be possible to be objective in reviewing one's own relevant findings. In reviews written by multiple authors, this may be achieved by assigning the review of the results of a coauthor to different coauthors.

Rule 10: Be Up-to-Date, but Do Not Forget Older Studies

Given the progressive acceleration in the publication of scientific papers, today's reviews of the literature need awareness not just of the overall direction and achievements of a field of inquiry, but also of the latest studies, so as not to become out-of-date before they have been published. Ideally, a literature review should not identify as a major research gap an issue that has just been addressed in a series of papers in press (the same applies, of course, to older, overlooked studies (“sleeping beauties” [26] )). This implies that literature reviewers would do well to keep an eye on electronic lists of papers in press, given that it can take months before these appear in scientific databases. Some reviews declare that they have scanned the literature up to a certain point in time, but given that peer review can be a rather lengthy process, a full search for newly appeared literature at the revision stage may be worthwhile. Assessing the contribution of papers that have just appeared is particularly challenging, because there is little perspective with which to gauge their significance and impact on further research and society.

Inevitably, new papers on the reviewed topic (including independently written literature reviews) will appear from all quarters after the review has been published, so that there may soon be the need for an updated review. But this is the nature of science [27] – [32] . I wish everybody good luck with writing a review of the literature.

Many thanks to M. Barbosa, K. Dehnen-Schmutz, T. Döring, D. Fontaneto, M. Garbelotto, O. Holdenrieder, M. Jeger, D. Lonsdale, A. MacLeod, P. Mills, M. Moslonka-Lefebvre, G. Stancanelli, P. Weisberg, and X. Xu for insights and discussions, and to P. Bourne, T. Matoni, and D. Smith for helpful comments on a previous draft.

Funding Statement

This work was funded by the French Foundation for Research on Biodiversity (FRB) through its Centre for Synthesis and Analysis of Biodiversity data (CESAB), as part of the NETSEED research project. The funders had no role in the preparation of the manuscript.

Published on 24 July 2024 in ISS Today

Africa has much to gain from a more contained BRI

Despite the belt and road’s mixed record in africa, careful involvement in china’s smaller, greener projects could be beneficial..

By Jana de Kluiver Research Officer, Africa in the World

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has gained significant traction in Africa since its launch in 2013, with 53 African nations participating in varying degrees. In 2023, African countries received US$21.7 billion in BRI deals, including investments in ports, railways and renewable energy.

As China shifts BRI towards smaller, greener and less risky projects, Africa will have much to gain from the programme. But countries need to be more proactive in aligning the potential benefits with their own strategic priorities, and galvanising efforts to strengthen the governance of BRI.

September’s Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is an opportunity for Africa to enhance its agency. China will use FOCAC to deepen BRI cooperation, with discussions focusing on concessional development finance, infrastructure and trade. The shift from the Dakar Action Plan (2022-2024) to a new framework has already sparked debate about its potential impact on Africa.

The ‘small and beautiful’ BRI model focuses on less financially risky projects for Beijing and host countries

Originally conceived to emulate the ancient Silk Road trade routes, the BRI has grown significantly. It now involves 151 countries spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America. It includes the Digital Silk Road and Health Silk Road, broadening its scope beyond infrastructure to encompass various fields including tourism, capacity building and nuclear energy.

The BRI has a strategic element, providing China with a platform to project its power globally. The initiative ensures long-term access to resources and markets while positioning China as a key ally to developing nations, challenging traditional Western dominance in these regions.

The BRI also offers an alternative source of development finance, particularly benefitting poorer African nations by addressing substantial infrastructure investment deficits with minimal conditions. Consequently, China has become a pivotal lender in Africa, extending loans exceeding US$170 billion to 49 African countries and regional institutions from 2000-22. BRI projects are often executed swiftly by Chinese contractors on a turnkey basis, making them more attractive than the slower, condition-heavy financing from institutions like the World Bank and African Development Bank.

However, BRI projects haven’t always been well conceived or strategically chosen, leading to outcomes that fail to deliver the desired economic impact. Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway for example has been criticised for not being economically viable or benefitting local communities. These kinds of ‘white elephant’ projects intensify worries about debt sustainability – if they don’t generate sufficient economic benefit, countries may struggle to repay loans.

While BRI projects have contributed to debt distress in some host countries, experts argue that this isn’t a deliberate strategy by Beijing. The ‘debt trap diplomacy’ narrative has been challenged, with an emphasis on Chinese banks’ need to recover their investments. For instance, Ethiopia renegotiated its US$4 billion railway project loan, extending the repayment period without losing control over the infrastructure. However, the impact of commercial loans for BRI projects still comes under scrutiny, as in the Zambia case.

The BRI is evolving, engaging new stakeholders and changing modes of operation

Despite state guarantees and high interest rates, Beijing has reassessed its appetite for high-risk lending and scaled back accordingly, with an increasing emphasis on sustainable investments. The ‘small and beautiful’ model of BRI investment, established in 2021, focuses on smaller, greener, less financially risky projects for both Beijing and host countries.

The aim is to mitigate the environmental degradation and social discontent that have plagued some of the larger, more ambitious projects such as Uganda’s Kampala-Entebbe Expressway . Chinese President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech at the third Belt and Road Forum in 2023 emphasised a strategic shift towards more sustainable, community-focused projects. He highlighted priority areas such as renewable energy, healthcare and technology, which are expected to yield long-term benefits for local communities.

Regardless of Beijing’s attempts to improve the BRI’s outcomes, success will be limited if African countries do not approach the initiative more proactively. Paul Nantulya, a Research Associate and China Specialist at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, emphasises the importance of African agency and ownership in strengthening accountability and reducing risk.

'When all the initiative in terms of concept design, funding instruments, and execution is coming from Chinese entities, then the BRI partner country feels less constrained by domestic accountability mechanisms since they don’t have major stakes involved,' he says.

Nantulya says that African countries must develop a strategic approach towards the programme. 'While there has been quite a bit of deliberate policy thinking on the Chinese side, I don’t see a corresponding effort on the African side to identify Africa’s strategic approach towards China and Africa’s interest in the BRI.'

African states must avoid becoming a platform for China or any other external power’s agenda

It is unlikely that China, under Xi Jinping’s leadership, will abandon the BRI. Rather, the initiative is evolving, engaging new stakeholders and changing modes of operation. Stephen Brawer, Chairman of the Belt & Road Institute in Sweden, says the BRI remains crucial to China’s global strategy and economic diplomacy. He says Beijing has already adjusted the initiative to enhance its sustainability, suggesting it will continue being a significant force in international relations.

A leaner BRI addresses numerous problems, enabling development that has a more immediate impact on local communities, such as renewable energy projects in Kenya and South Africa. It also better aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. A reformed BRI could be a valuable tool for Africa’s development, but won’t fix all the continent’s problems.

The most significant lesson from a decade of African engagement is clear: countries must define their goals and strategies before engaging with external actors. Otherwise, they risk becoming platforms for the agendas of external powers, weakening their own domestic credibility in the process.

In the build-up to this year’s FOCAC, African countries must prepare to articulate clearly what they want from Beijing. This will involve having conversations with regional counterparts and considering how new projects fit into broader initiatives, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Exclusive rights to re-publish ISS Today articles have been given to Daily Maverick in South Africa and Premium Times in Nigeria. For media based outside South Africa and Nigeria that want to re-publish articles, or for queries about our re-publishing policy, email us .

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Is proceeding with elections in South Sudan the lesser of many evils?

ICJ rules that ending Palestine’s occupation is a global undertaking

As AES and ECOWAS drift apart, dialogue on the fundamentals is vital

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Learn how to craft a clear and effective thesis statement for your academic writing with tips and examples from the Purdue OWL.

Thesis Your thesis is the central claim in your essay—your main insight or idea about your source or topic. Your thesis should appear early in an academic essay, followed by a logically constructed argument that supports this central claim. A strong thesis is arguable, which means a thoughtful reader could disagree with it and therefore needs your careful analysis of the evidence to ...

Developing a Thesis Statement Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you'll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

What is a Thesis Statement? Almost all of us—even if we don't do it consciously—look early in an essay for a one- or two-sentence condensation of the argument or analysis that is to follow. We refer to that condensation as a thesis statement.

Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation, it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete. It relies on your ability to conduct research from start to finish: choosing a relevant topic, crafting a proposal, designing your research, collecting data, developing a robust analysis, drawing strong conclusions, and writing concisely.

What is a thesis? A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a specific topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic.

A thesis statement is a very specific argument that guides your paper. Generally, a thesis statement consists of two parts: A clearly identifiable topic or subject matter. A succinct summary of what you have to say about that topic. For your reader, a thesis functions like the case a lawyer has to make to the judge and jury in a courtroom.

Learn how to write a top-notch dissertation or thesis with Grad Coach's straightforward 8-step guide (including examples and videos).

Steps in writing a Thesis. First, think about good topics and theories that you can write before writing the thesis, then pick a topic. The topic or thesis statement is derived from a review of existing literature in the area of study that the researcher wants to explore.

Learn how to structure a thesis with Paperpile's guide, covering the main chapters, information, and tips for academic writing.

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Before you write your thesis statement, explore the rules that go into creating one. Learn the seven different rules for writing a thesis.

You should be prepared to hire assistance with coding and data entry and analysis if needed. 8. Get a copy of the graduate school's guidelines for writing theses and dissertations and follow these guidelines exactly. Writing. 9. Each thesis or dissertation is unique but all share several common elements.

PREFACE Writing a PhD dissertation or thesis is probably the most challenging task that a young scholar attempts to do. We have traveled this journey ourselves and helped numerous students to achieve their goal of successfully completing a PhD. If you are about to embark on your own journey, you will want to start at the beginning of this book and work your way through the chapters which are ...

How to Write a Thesis Statement to Make It Clear A good thesis statement is the basis for an excellent essay. Without it, your writing won't have a starting point or clear structure. Table of contents hide 1 Thesis statement definition 2 Functions of the thesis statement 3 Methods to make a thesis statement from a topic 4 Thesis statement checklist 5 How to write a thesis statement for an A ...

Format footnotes for your thesis or dissertation following these guidelines: Footnotes must be placed at the bottom of the page separated from the text by a solid line one to two inches long. Begin at the left page margin, directly below the solid line. Single-space footnotes that are more than one line long.

Thesis and Dissertation organization and formating instructions, guides and policies for Colorado State University graduate students (Master's and Doctoral).

The thesis statement should clearly state the author's claim and therefore guide the development of the entire paper. Thesis statements should strongly assert the topic in a way that helps to unify the paper. While instructors have varying requirements, most agree upon a few certain rules when writing a thesis statement.

Required Sections, Guidelines, and Suggestions Beyond those noted on the Formatting Requirements page, the Graduate School has no additional formatting requirements. The following suggestions are based on best practices and historic requirements for dissertations and theses but are not requirements for submission of the thesis or dissertation. The Graduate School recommends that each ...

Reviewing the literature requires the ability to juggle multiple tasks, from finding and evaluating relevant material to synthesising information from various sources, from critical thinking to paraphrasing, evaluating, and citation skills [7]. In this contribution, I share ten simple rules I learned working on about 25 literature reviews as a PhD and postdoctoral student. Ideas and insights ...

Africa has much to gain from a more contained BRI Despite the Belt and Road's mixed record in Africa, careful involvement in China's smaller, greener projects could be beneficial.

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Paraphrasing Tool

Paraphrasing Tool powered by QuillBot. Paraphrase everywhere with the free Chrome Extension .

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What is a paraphrasing tool?

This AI-powered paraphrasing tool lets you rewrite text in your own words. Use it to paraphrase articles, essays, and other pieces of text. You can also use it to rephrase sentences and find synonyms for individual words. And the best part? It’s all 100% free!

What is paraphrasing?

Paraphrasing involves expressing someone else’s ideas or thoughts in your own words while maintaining the original meaning. Paraphrasing tools can help you quickly reword text by replacing certain words with synonyms or restructuring sentences. They can also make your text more concise, clear, and suitable for a specific audience. Paraphrasing is an essential skill in academic writing and professional communication.

Why use this paraphrasing tool?

Save time: Gone are the days when you had to reword sentences yourself; now you can rewrite an individual sentence or a complete text with one click.
Improve your writing: Your writing will always be clear and easy to understand. Automatically ensure consistent language throughout.
Preserve original meaning: Paraphrase without fear of losing the point of your text.
No annoying ads: We care about the user experience, so we don’t run any ads.
Accurate: Reliable and grammatically correct paraphrasing.
No sign-up required: We don’t need your data for you to use our paraphrasing tool.
Super simple to use: A simple interface even your grandma could use.
It’s 100% free: No hidden costs, just unlimited use of a free paraphrasing tool.

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No Signup Needed

You don’t have to register or sign up. Insert your text and get started right away.

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Multi-lingual

Use our paraphraser for texts in different languages.

Features of the paraphrasing tool

Rephrase individual sentences

With the Scribbr Paraphrasing Tool, you can easily reformulate individual sentences.

Write varied headlines
Rephrase the subject line of an email
Create unique image captions

Paraphrase a whole text

Our paraphraser can also help with longer passages (up to 125 words per input). Upload your document or copy your text into the input field.

With one click, you can reformulate the entire text.

Find synonyms with ease

Simply click on any word to open the interactive thesaurus.

Choose from a list of suggested synonyms
Find the synonym with the most appropriate meaning
Replace the word with a single click

Paraphrase in two ways

Standard: Offers a compromise between modifying and preserving the meaning of the original text
Fluency: Improves language and corrects grammatical mistakes

Upload different types of documents

Upload any Microsoft Word document, Google Doc, or PDF into the paraphrasing tool.

Download or copy your results

After you’re done, you can easily download or copy your text to use somewhere else.

Powered by AI

The paraphrasing tool uses natural language processing to rewrite any text you give it. This way, you can paraphrase any text within seconds.

Avoid accidental plagiarism

Want to make sure your document is plagiarism-free? In addition to our paraphrasing tool, which will help you rephrase sentences, quotations, or paragraphs correctly, you can also use our anti-plagiarism software to make sure your document is unique and not plagiarized.

Scribbr’s anti-plagiarism software enables you to:

Detect plagiarism more accurately than other tools
Ensure that your paraphrased text is valid
Highlight the sources that are most similar to your text

Start for free

How does this paraphrasing tool work?

1. put your text into the paraphraser, 2. select your method of paraphrasing, 3. select the quantity of synonyms you want, 4. edit your text where needed, who can use this paraphrasing tool.

Paraphrasing tools can help students to understand texts and improve the quality of their writing.

Create original lesson plans, presentations, or other educational materials.

Researchers

Explain complex concepts or ideas to a wider audience.

Journalists

Quickly and easily rephrase text to avoid repetitive language.

Copywriters

By using a paraphrasing tool, you can quickly and easily rework existing content to create something new and unique.

Bloggers can rewrite existing content to make it their own.

Writers who need to rewrite content, such as adapting an article for a different context or writing content for a different audience.

A paraphrasing tool lets you quickly rewrite your original content for each medium, ensuring you reach the right audience on each platform.

The all-purpose paraphrasing tool

The Scribbr Paraphrasing Tool is the perfect assistant in a variety of contexts.

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Paraphrase sources smoothly in your thesis or research paper.

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Craft memorable captions and content for your social media posts.

Paraphrase text online, for free

The Scribbr Paraphrasing Tool lets you rewrite as many sentences as you want—for free.

💶 100% free	Rephrase as many texts as you want
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📜 Sentences & paragraphs	Suitable for individual sentences or whole paragraphs
🖍️ Choice of writing styles	For school, university, or work
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Scribbr is committed to protecting academic integrity. Our plagiarism checker , AI Detector , Citation Generator , proofreading services , paraphrasing tool, grammar checker , summarizer , and free Knowledge Base content are designed to help students produce quality academic papers.

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Frequently asked questions

The act of putting someone else’s ideas or words into your own words is called paraphrasing, rephrasing, or rewording. Even though they are often used interchangeably, the terms can mean slightly different things:

Paraphrasing is restating someone else’s ideas or words in your own words while retaining their meaning. Paraphrasing changes sentence structure, word choice, and sentence length to convey the same meaning.

Rephrasing may involve more substantial changes to the original text, including changing the order of sentences or the overall structure of the text.

Rewording is changing individual words in a text without changing its meaning or structure, often using synonyms.

It can. One of the two methods of paraphrasing is called “Fluency.” This will improve the language and fix grammatical errors in the text you’re paraphrasing.

Paraphrasing and using a paraphrasing tool aren’t cheating. It’s a great tool for saving time and coming up with new ways to express yourself in writing. However, always be sure to credit your sources. Avoid plagiarism.

If you don’t properly cite text paraphrased from another source, you’re plagiarizing. If you use someone else’s text and paraphrase it, you need to credit the original source. You can do that by using citations. There are different styles, like APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago. Find more information about citing sources here.

The Paraphrasing Tool on our page is powered by the QuillBot service, which uses advanced language processing technology.

Both Scribbr and QuillBot are Learneo, Inc. services, ensuring that your inputs are processed in accordance with Learneo’s Privacy Policy.

For more, please read the QuillBot section of the Learneo Privacy Policy . Your use of our Paraphraser is subject to QuilBot Terms .

Paraphrasing without crediting the original author is a form of plagiarism , because you’re presenting someone else’s ideas as if they were your own.

However, paraphrasing is not plagiarism if you correctly cite the source . This means including an in-text citation and a full reference, formatted according to your required citation style .

As well as citing, make sure that any paraphrased text is completely rewritten in your own words.

Plagiarism means using someone else’s words or ideas and passing them off as your own. Paraphrasing means putting someone else’s ideas in your own words.

So when does paraphrasing count as plagiarism?

Paraphrasing is plagiarism if you don’t properly credit the original author.
Paraphrasing is plagiarism if your text is too close to the original wording (even if you cite the source). If you directly copy a sentence or phrase, you should quote it instead.
Paraphrasing is not plagiarism if you put the author’s ideas completely in your own words and properly cite the source .

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Advanced Paraphrasing Tool

Elevate your writing with our free and ai-powered paraphraser. instantly correct or rephrase your sentences in different tones., paraphrasing tool, please rewrite my sentence, what is paraphrasing.

Paraphrasing is the art of rewriting text into other words. This includes using synonyms, restructuring phrases, and connecting ideas in different ways. A state-of-the-art paraphraser provides automatic and simple-to-use rephrasing of complete sentences.

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Why Should I Paraphrase My Sentences?

By paraphrasing existing sentences, you can elevate your writing and achieve different goals as a writer. That’s why rephrasing is helpful in plenty of cases: rewriting citations, strengthening the message of your text, and rewording your ideas while improving style.

messages.future.landing_page_paraphrasing.features.feature_lt_paraphrasing_02_headline

How Does Rephrasing Help Me Become a Better Writer?

This feature is highly customizable, meaning you’re in control. Choose from five different categories—general, formal, concise, fluent, or simple—to transform your writing to better suit the context and tone. Paraphrasing helps you by refining and perfecting your masterpieces.

Where Can I Use the Paraphrasing Tool?

Rephrasing is available wherever and whenever! All you need is a LanguageTool account and a stable internet connection to rewrite your sentences in almost all of LanguageTool's extensions. The feature is easily accessible for everyone that aims to improve their writing.

Thunderbird

What exactly does an online paraphraser do.

LanguageTool’s paraphrasing feature does so much more than just rewrite sentences. Not only does it check for stronger, more suitable word choice, but it also corrects your sentence as a whole to ensure high-quality writing. With its intuitive and user-friendly interface, everyone can leverage Artificial Intelligence to achieve the best results possible.

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What Other Features Does LanguageTool’s Paraphraser Provide?

The best part of using A.I. to paraphrase your writing is that the suggested sentences come free of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Want to also improve style? Simply go back to the general correction to view stylistic suggestions.

messages.future.landing_page_paraphrasing.features.feature_lt_paraphrasing_04_headline

As multilingual as you

Make your text sound professional and avoid embarrassing style, punctuation, and grammar mistakes

It’s an online tool that rewrites texts in a new (stylistically different) way by using alternative wording and a rephrased sentence structure.

This function is recommended for all types of texts, including professional, academic, and creative writing. It’s available for all LanguageTool users, but unlimited paraphrasing is only available in Premium.

A paraphrasing tool can easily enhance your writing by improving the tone and style of your text. Moreover, it helps you avoid having to write direct citations by rewriting copy-and-pasted text.

Premium accounts offer even more useful and powerful features:

Only with Premium

Sentence correction of longer texts

Style guide for customizing individual rules

Team features for companies

More in-depth suggestions, especially for word choice and style

How Can I Effectively Use the Rephrasing Tool?

For basic users, the paraphrasing feature is limited to three times daily. If you need more rephrased sentences, you can upgrade to LanguageTool Premium to get access to unlimited paraphrasing in six languages and several English dialects. Remember: No personal data is stored (ever) and privacy guidelines are strictly followed (always).

Strengthen Your Communication Skills

Try out the best paraphrasing tool for free and discover how LanguageTool can elevate your writing.

By creating account, you agree with our terms and privacy policy .

Limit Exceed!

Verify, Are You Human?

Word Changer

Paraphraser is the best AI paraphrasing tool that helps you accurately paraphrase sentences, paragraphs, and essays using state-of-the-art technology.

Features of Paraphraser

Paraphraser has many features that make its paraphrasing tool the best on the market, including rephrasing essays, writing effective content, and creating original copies with AI.

Paraphrase Like Human

Paraphraser has the art of human-level paraphrasing. The final rephrased output will be creative, more readable, sensible, and plagiarism free.

Cutting-edge AI Paraphrase Tool

Our free paraphrase tool is the most advanced AI rephraser based on NLP. Our paraphrase generator can rephrase sentences and complete articles in seconds.

Maintain Original Meaning

Unlike other online paraphrase tools, our AI-based sentence rephraser maintains the original meaning of the context while changing the sentence structure.

Why our Paraphrasing Tool is best?

Our paraphrasing tool uses advanced AI algorithms to accurately paraphrase text. AI-based text rephrasing was never possible before Paraphraser launched.

Some benefits are mentioned below that make Paraphraser the best:

Quality Content

The rephrase tool generates more readable, engaging, and grammatically error-free content without ruining the quality of the content after paraphrasing.

It replaces proper synonyms, rephrases like real humans, and paraphrases better than professional writers.

Plagiarism-free output

Our Paraphrasing tool helps you to avoid duplication of content . Paraphraser.io is useful to increase productivity as it quickly and easily generates multiple versions of the same text.

As compared to other tools, Paraphraser provides the fastest results by keeping the best quality. It can provide large text results within a few seconds.

Easy to use

Sentence rephraser by Paraphraser is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. Do you have any suggestions to improve our interface? Please let us know .

We provide Fluency & Standard mode with 600 words limit free of cost. You can rephrase unlimited text without any daily limit. You can increase the word limit to 1500, by upgrading to pro .

Paraphrasing APIs

Colleges and universities can integrate our rephraser using our paraphrasing APIs .

Customer support

We take care of our users. In case you have any questions or need assistance, You can contact us via chat or open a ticket on our support page .

How to paraphrase online?

To paraphrase online using our rewording tool, follow these simple steps:

Type the text in the input box or upload a file.
Click on the submit button and let this paraphrasing tool do the rest of the work. 😊

Paraphrasing tool users

Our tool can be used in a number of ways, so it is up to you to decide how you want to use it.

We are always here for any alterations or paraphrasing you may need. Our Paraphrasing tool is commonly used by the following people:

If you are a student and looking for an accurate and best solution for paraphrasing, we are here for you.

Our online paraphrase generator gives different ideas for assignment writing and thesis writing. You can make your assignments plagiarism-free and more readable. Use our rephrasing tool, Get good grades, and Thank us later 😉.

Teachers:

If you are a teacher, we know your feelings. For a teacher, a paraphrasing tool is not less than a life-savour, as they have to prepare notes, reports, quizzes, and helpful study material on a regular basis.

With our tool, teachers can create study notes that are easier to understand.
Our professional paraphrasing tool helps teachers save time by automatically rephrasing the text.
Teachers can also use our rewording tool to create quiz questions that are more challenging and varied.

Researchers:

By rephrasing technical terms researchers can avoid plagiarism and summarize key points in their research papers. You can paraphrase the main ideas of a source to better understand the information.

A sentence changer can be helpful when writing a review or synthesis of the literature.

Copywriters:

To make your copywriting more creative, our word rephraser is a very handy tool .

Generating your content for advertising, public relations, and media is very easy using word changer, because the choice of the words matters.

Using our tool, copywriters can

Craft compelling and persuasive messages to sell products, services, or ideas.

Work with creative teams, including art directors and designers, to ensure that the writing is visually appealing and effective.

Create copy for a wide range of media, including print, digital, and social media.

Bloggers:

Write more engaging and killer quality content using our free paraphrasing tool. Different word choices and sentence structures make blog content appealing to blog readers.

Every Blogger should use a rephrasing tool to

Avoid Plagiarism : Our free tool creates original content to avoid plagiarism by changing the words and sentences.

Improve readability : make blog content readable for all types of users.

Save time : we can save your time and effort by automating the process of rephrasing. For large projects with tight deadlines, our paraphraser tool is super helpful.

Create best-performing content for your social media posts, emails, advertisements, and article submissions with our online paraphrase tool.

Marketers can cut down the writing cost using our free tool.

Get Multiple versions of the content for A/B Testing, for example, email subject lines or social media posts, to test which ones are most effective.

Paraphrase text in a way that is easier to understand for their audience.

Webmasters:

Display the best tag lines and descriptions for your website with our advanced paraphrase tool. Writing the best quality content attracts readers and is also good for SEO purposes. We had six different modes; you can choose the most suitable mode for your e-commerce, landing page or a saas website.

Paraphraser.io helps you rephrase text easily and quickly

Our paraphrasing tool online lets you paraphrase text in one go. You can use this free tool to paraphrase your sentences, paragraphs, articles, and even long blogs with advanced AI technology. It further provides several useful features that help you customize the rephrased text to fit your content needs.

🥰 Improves:	Readability, fluency, & vocabulary
🚀 Instant Paraphrase:	Sentences, paragraphs, & more
✔️ Modes:	3+ Unique AI Modes
🌐 Multilingual:	Supports 20+ Languages.

How Does This Paraphrasing Tool Work?

It is an AI-based paraphraser developed with state-of-the-art technology. It rewrites articles, rewords sentences, and paraphrases the text. It also works as a reworder and rewriter for lessness chances of plagiarism.

Paraphrase Anywhere

Our free paraphrasing tool can be used online across all devices, including Android & IOS.

Multiple Languages

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO KNOW

Some of The Most Frequently Asked Questions

Is using a paraphrasing tool is illegal?

No, using a paraphrasing tool is not illegal if used correctly. In academic writing, if you use a word rephraser to create content then it must be correctly cited. Using paraphrased content as original work could be considered academic misconduct.

Can you get in trouble for using a paraphrasing tool?

Sentence rephraser developed using advanced AI algorithms to paraphrase content like a human. You can use our different modes to check which rephrase model is the best fit for you. Pro Tips: Cite the sources to avoid any trouble.

Is using a paraphrasing tool count as plagiarism?

No, Using a paraphrase online tool does not count as plagiarism. As mentioned above, our tool provides plagiarism-free content while keeping the original meaning of the context. Our text paraphraser helps users to rephrase text and avoid plagiarism. The content generated by our tool is completely unique.

Can I use a paraphrasing tool for legal writing?

Check plagiarism: Double-check the rephrased text for plagiarism.
Cite Sources: Cite any sources used, even if you used a paraphraser tool to rephrase a text.

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ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that uses NLP to write human-like AI content & answer questions. Here are some tips to paraphrase AI content effectively ...

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There are several types of paraphrasing, including: Direct paraphrasing Indirect paraphrasing Summary paraphrasing Transformation paraph...

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Free Paraphrasing Tool

Paraphrase text effortlessly with AI Sparks, a powerful paraphraser by ProWritingAid.

Start typing, paste or use

We are unable to generate rephrasings for this text. Please try a different piece of text.

Why choose our paraphrasing tool?

Choose how to paraphrase.

Expand text, enhance readability, or even add descriptive detail.

Paraphrase in the click of a button. If you’re not satisfied with the result, simply try again.

Strengthen your text

Enhance the structure and vocabulary of your text without removing key information.

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Power up your writing with ProWritingAid

Our paraphrasing tool reworks vocabulary, sentence structure, and syntax to create new, high-quality content that resonates with your readers.

Find the best way to express your ideas with AI Sparks, a powerful paraphraser. Explore options to enhance readability, expand text, change tense, or even add descriptive detail.

Correct grammar and spelling

Whether you’re working on a quick email or a full-length novel, ProWritingAid catches grammar and spelling errors as you write so no pesky mistakes slip through.

Evaluate your writing

Assess your writing with 25+ reports, including established readability tests, sentence structure analysis, overused words, and more.

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Experiment with AI Sparks Continue to find fresh ideas to continue your writing. Add new lines of dialogue, find an interesting analogy, formulate a counterargument, and more.

ProWritingAid is used by every type of writer

Join over 3 million users improving their writing.

I am continually impressed with the positive input this program offers me every time I sit down to write. My skills have improved immensely since I bought it and heartily recommend it to anyone who wants to have more confidence in their own writing.

Ginger Wakem

I’ve tried every free and paid writing/editing/grammar extension out there and this by far is the best one my team and I have found. It’s fast, accurate and really helps improve your writing beyond simple grammar suggestions.

Joel Widmer

ProWritingAid has been a resource in my writer toolkit for many years. The program helps me to craft and clarify my stories for a better reader experience. Your editor will thank you for making their job easier.

Siera London

Who can benefit from a paraphraser?

Anyone who wants help expressing their writing in a stronger and clearer way.

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Our free paraphraser can help you write logical, eloquent, and plagiarism-free assignments. Use ProWritingAid to write a strong thesis statement, make your arguments sound compelling, or craft a poignant conclusion.

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ProWritingAid makes sure your language is always appropriately formal and helps you easily present complex ideas in a digestible manner—all while avoiding plagiarism.

Bring your story to life image with knight and dragon coming out of a book

Trying to add more vivid descriptions to your prose? Do your characters keep doing the same actions over and over? Use ProWritingAid like a great critique partner or line editor to improve your fiction or nonfiction writing.

Communication is crucial for any successful business. Spend more time thinking about what to say and less time on how to say it. ProWritingAid can help you write emails, presentations, reports, training documents, and so much more.

Works in all your favorite writing apps

Access all ProWritingAid's features directly in your writing app of choice.

Paraphrasing Tool FAQs

What is prowritingaid.

ProWritingAid is a digital toolkit that helps you craft your story and bring it to life.

ProWritingAid helps you unlock the full potential of your story by fixing grammatical errors, improving sentence clarity, and creating more engaging prose. Plus, it integrates with any writing app, so you can get support in whichever one you use.

It’s like having an English teacher, professional editor, writing buddy and honest critic sitting inside your favorite writing app.

Is ProWritingAid free?

A free account allows you to edit and run reports on up to 500 words. It also gives you three AI Sparks per day, which is needed to paraphrase text. If you want more, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan .

How do I access the paraphraser in-app?

Follow these steps to paraphrase text:

Highlight the text you want to paraphrase, then click “ Sparks. ”

Next, choose how you want to paraphrase.

For standard paraphrasing, the Fluency mode works best. However, you can also improve readability, expand text, change tense, or even add descriptive detail.

A paraphrasing tool is a tool that helps you express words in different way to improve the understanding of your message. It keeps the original meaning of your text but makes it clearer, more impactful, or more professional.

Is paraphrasing the same as rewording?

Originally, the terms paraphrasing and rewording had slightly different meanings. Paraphrasing meant rewriting text in a different form, while still retaining the meaning of the original text. Rewording meant simply switching out words with synonyms. Nowadays, the terms are often used interchangeably.

What software integrations does ProWritingAid offer?

ProWritingAid works in all major writing apps, like MS Word, Google Docs, Scrivener, Atticus, Apple Notes, and more. To access ProWritingAid in a computer-based writing app, you must install Desktop Everywhere. If you’re writing online, we offer browser extensions (Google Chrome, Firefox and Microsoft Edge). Click here to learn more.

Does ProWritingAid have a plagiarism checker?

Yes, it does. ProWritingAid’s plagiarism checker will check your work against over a billion web pages, published works, and academic papers, so you can be sure of its originality. Find out more about pricing for plagiarism checks here .

Try our paraphraser today

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

QuillBot's online paraphrasing tool uses AI to find new ways to phrase sentences without changing their meaning or context. Think of it like a full-sentence thesaurus and an effective sentence rephraser .

Free AI Paraphrasing Tool. Quickly rephrase and reword any text for essays, articles, emails, and more.

Enhance your writing with LanguageTool's free AI paraphrasing tool. Discover a smarter way to rewrite and refine your text for improved clarity and uniqueness.

Paraphraser is a free paraphrasing tool that helps you rephrase text , sentences , and paragraphs with AI algorithms to express ideas in your own words.

Start typing, paste or use. Sample text. Mode: Fluency. Paraphrase . Modified Text. Your text will appear here. Get Started. — it's free. Why choose our paraphrasing tool? Choose how to paraphrase . Expand text, enhance readability, or even add descriptive detail. Save time. Paraphrase in the click of a button.

> > Moscow Boat Show 2015



8th International exhibition for yachts and boats Moscow Boat
Dates: Tuesday, March 10, 2015 - Sunday, March 15, 2015
Venue: Crocus Expo IEC, ,

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Moscow Boat Show provides the perfect platform from which to preview new products, evaluate market trends, and establish long-lasting and commercially profitable partnerships. Despite the dynamic changes taking place in Russia and the rapid growth of the yachting sector, the show continues to complement and reflect the industry's demand and is a promotional opportunity not to be missed! The best companies professionally involved into yachting and small navigation business - 180 exhibitors from 16 regions of the Russian Federation and 12 countries traditionally presented the best and the newest in the world of yachting: vessels, water sports, equipment, services, specialized mass media and many other things. The overall exhibit space comprised 18 000 sq m.
Website:



			Mezhdunarodnaya str. 16, 18, 20, Krasnogorsk, Krasnogorsk area, Moscow region, Moscow Tel: +7-495-727-2626



			Mezhdunarodnaya str. 16, 18, 20, Krasnogorsk, Krasnogorsk area, Moscow region, Moscow Tel: +7-495-727-2626


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COMMENTS

Zim C420 Sailboats
ZIM. $11,500.00. Zim C420 - Ex Charter Click Here to Request a Quote! Complete, race ready C420 packages from Zim at a great value for the active sailor. These Ex Charter C420s include the PRO rigging package, brand new set of North Sails, dolly, top cover, and blade bag... Zim Sailing makes the highest-performing, durable, and dependable 420's ...
Introduction to the 420
Despite the emergence of newer commercial driven classes and asymmetrics, the 420 is still the world's top youth training boat. A brand new 420 ready to sail costs approximately EUR5500 - 6000, making the boat an extremely affordable choice. About 350 boats are built per year, with 1850 boats built over the past 5 years.
420 by Zim Sailing • Shoreline Sailboats
Zim Club 420 - 3 VERSIONS The Zim C420 is the Club 420 of choice for yacht clubs, community sailing programs, and individuals. One-design sailors want the strongest, lightest, most durable boats and rigging available. We've met this demand with proven boat construction techniques and a race rigging package that ensure […]
C420
Zim Sailing's Club 420 has quickly become the go-to C420, regardless of whether you're winning the Triple Crown circuit or just teaching learn-to-sail at the local sailing club. One-design sailors want the strongest, lightest, most durable boats and rigging available. We've met this demand with proven boat construction techniques and a ...
420 Sailboat: A Comprehensive Review
The price of a new 420 sailboat can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, equipment included, and the specific model. As of 2023, you can expect to pay anywhere between $8,000 to $12,000 for a new 420 sailboat. Maintenance and Operating Costs. The 420 sailboat's maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other similar vessels.
420 Sailing
2024 420 & 470 Eastern European Championships. Aug 13, 2024 - Aug 16, 2024.
420
The 420's design and class rules gave us the opportunity to build a boat similar to how the Mackay 470 is built in terms of the mould structure and look of the boat. The Mackay 420 hull shape was developed by naval architect Kevin Trotter. Kevin has designed very fast dinghies here in New Zealand over the years.
C420
Junior to Collegiate Level double-handed sailing boat. Safe for beginners and quick enough to keep collegiate sailors interested, the Club 420 provides the most double handed racing of any boat in the world. The C420 enables young sailors to learn teamwork, trapeze, and spinnaker techniques that can't be learned from a single-handed boat. SEE ...
Zim Club 420 Sailboat
A feature rich Club 420 for yacht clubs and institutional racing programs that want a larger fiberglass boat than the FJ. The Zim Club 420 is for one-design sailors who want the strongest, lightest 420 with the best rigging available. ... new product announcements, and upcoming sales. Email Address Subscribe. Footer Start. Contact Us. Call us ...
Why 420 Sailing Continues to Stay Strong as the Boat of Choice
The 420 is a proven transition class which provides sailors with excellent skills in strategy, tactics, boat handling, tuning and technique. There are 420 builders all over the world and equipment is easily available, with a 420 ready to sail costing on average EUR5,500. Choosing your Crew. As with any two-person boat, finding a crew is important.
420E
The 420E from Zim Sailing sets a new standard in enclosed deck technology for high school and college sailing. The airtight foredeck has taken weight out of the bow, increasing performance and safety, without sacrificing the durability Zim Sailing's boats are known for. Institutions such as high schools, colleges, and community sailing programs ...
Youth Sailors, Take Notice. Meet The New Turbo 420
Meet the New Collegiate 420, by Zach Brown. This article analyzes the new collegiate 420 built by LaserPerformance. The Firefly Returns to the Charles, by Dan Rabin. This article profiles the forward-thinking MIT sailing dinghy, the Firefly. Controversy in the ICSA: The Future of the College Sailing Dinghy. This article explores the recent ...
Sailboat Listings sailboats for sale by owner
31' Mariner Ketch - Major Restoration & Repower - New Rigging & Sails Tenants Harbor Maine, Maine Asking $45,000
420 sailboats for sale by owner.
420 preowned sailboats for sale by owner. 420 used sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. ... New Rigging & Sails Tenants Harbor Maine, Maine Asking $45,000. 42' Beneteau 42 First Essex, Connecticut Asking $44,500. 25' Beiley B-25 Wabamun Lake near Edmonton Alberta Canada
Laser Performance C420
The Club 420 by Laser Performance is the junior boat that teaches young sailors teamwork, trapeze and spinnaker techniques. Check out the deal on Club 420 at The Dinghy Shop. ... These new sailing challenges are keeping young sailors excited while building participation in junior programs. Features.
420
The new Lenam Race One is harder than its predecessor, the Lenam Gold. The internal construction has been changed and the result is a very fast boat with wind conditions and also it has more durability. Without a doubt, it is the best quality-to-price ratio 420 you can find. We have the best at home!"
How Much is a 420 Sailboat? (A Comprehensive Guide)
Short Answer. The cost of a 420 sailboat can vary greatly depending on its age, condition, and features. Generally, a new model 420 sailboat will cost between $6,000 and $10,000. For a used model, buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $7,000. It is also important to factor in additional costs such as maintenance, insurance, and storage.
Vanguard Club 420 sailboat for sale in Connecticut
5.5'. 2.95'. Connecticut. $3,500. Description: The Vanguard Club 420 is a very popular one-design racing sailboat which can also take two people out for an enjoyable sail. It has a mainsail, jib, spinnaker and trapeze hardware. It is very well built, stable, fast and can be also used as a teaching learn-to-sail at the local sailing club.
wasa 420 sailboat
The Wasa 420 is a 42.16ft masthead sloop designed by Leif Ängermark and built in fiberglass by Wasa Yachts since 1987. The Wasa 420 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a high
used club 420 sailboat for sale
NCA's login; 420 World Championships; 420 Junior European Championships; 420 European Championships; Youth Sailing World Championships; 2022 Eurosaf 420 Cup; Regional Games; Res
2015 Prestige 420 Motor Yacht
Welcome to BoatTube!!! On our channel we upload every week day short, (2-5min) walkaround videos of Motor Boats, Sailing Yachts, Jet Ski and everything that ...
Moscow Boat Show 2015
Moscow Boat Show provides the perfect platform from which to preview new products, evaluate market trends, and establish long-lasting and commercially prof. Moscow Boat Show 2015 is held in Moscow, Russia, from 3/10/2015 to 3/10/2015 in Crocus Expo IEC.
420 sailboats for sale by owner.
420 preowned sailboats for sale by owner. 420 used sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. Avoid Fraud. ... New Rigging & Sails Tenants Harbor Maine, Maine Asking $45,000. 42' Beneteau 42 First Essex, Connecticut Asking $44,500. 25' Beiley B-25 Wabamun Lake near Edmonton Alberta Canada

420 by Zim Sailing

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Zim Club 420 – 3 VERSIONS

C420 CONSTRUCTION

SAILS & RIGGING

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420 Sailboat: An In-depth Analysis

The History of the 420 Sailboat

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Initial Cost

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News Just a few Reasons why the 420 Leads as the Boat of Choice for Youth Sailors

Just a few Reasons why the 420 Leads as the Boat of Choice for Youth Sailors

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