Recommendations On How To Start Writing A Dissertation In Engineering

One of the hardest parts about writing a dissertation in engineering is simply getting started. We say “simply” because the idea is simple enough, the process of actually doing it is a lot harder for most students who have spent most of their time conducting research, testing experiments, and working on mathematical equations instead of doing the kind of writing that needs to occur for a project of this magnitude. So here are some helpful recommendations on how to start writing a dissertation in engineering that are sure to get you a step closer toward earning your degree:

Keep Notes Organized for Easy Access

After hours of research you’re bound to have several notebooks filled with citations, facts, data, and any other piece of information you found in your study. You will probably find this overwhelming at first, so it’s a good idea to arrange everything into related sub-topics. There are several different systems you can use, so it’s best to choose the one you find the most efficient for easy access.

Develop a Dissertation Outline and Thesis

From your years of collegiate and graduate experience, you probably already know the importance of having an outline to help guide your writing, especially when doing your first draft. There’s probably a dissertation template you can download from the engineering department’s website. Use this to create your dissertation and draft a thesis statement to give your work a sense of direction.

Set Up a Work Space and Writing Plan

Most of your research should have been done at the library, but now that you’re ready to start writing you should create a sort of sanctuary where you can work without distraction. This space may very well be at the library or in your room. It just needs to be a space where you can get several hours of writing done each day without constantly having to stop every few minutes.

Be Confident When Starting the Draft

Finally, you’re ready to start writing the first draft. Many students freeze up at this stage because they are under the false belief they have to write down a near perfect draft. Don’t panic. Take a moment to remind yourself that you have done great research to this point and only need to write a “rough” draft. You will have plenty of opportunity to make revisions at the next stage. Be confident and get started.