A Manual of Thesis-Writing

Contents: Introduction. 1. Problems prior to composition: i. Choice of subject. ii. Preliminary plans for procedure. iii. Preparation of a working bibliography. iv. Collection of data. v. Preparation for composition. 2. Composition: i. General considerations. ii. Matters of form. 3. Final tasks: i. Revising and editing. ii. Typing and binding. iii. Editing symbol or proofreader\'s marks. Bibliography.

"Dissertation writers need strong, practical advice, as well as someone to assure them that their struggles aren\'t unique. Cole and Bigelow offer invaluable suggestions for the graduate-student writer. Using positive reinforcement, they begins by reminding thesis writers that being able to devote themselves to a project that truly interests them can be a pleasurable adventure. They encourage them to pay close attention to their writing method in order to discover their individual work strategies that promote productivity; to stop feeling fearful that they may disappoint their advisors or family members; and to tailor their theses to their own writing style and personality needs. Using field-tested strategies they assist the student through the entire thesis-writing process, offering advice on choosing a topic and an advisor, on disciplining one\'s self to work at least fifteen minutes each day; setting short-term deadlines, on revising and defying the thesis, and on life and publication after the dissertation.

Cole and Bigelow make writing the dissertation an enjoyable challenge." (jacket)