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Home » Blog » How to Structure a Dissertation | EasyMarks

Academic Writing Tips

How to Structure a Dissertation

The standard chapter order and what belongs in each section.

7 min read · Written by UK academic writers

Quick Answer

A typical dissertation runs: title page, abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion and references, plus appendices. Each chapter has a specific job, and your university specification sets the exact requirements and word weightings.

Knowing the standard structure of a dissertation helps you plan your work and meet examiners' expectations. While disciplines vary, most follow a recognisable shape. Here is what each part does.

The Standard Chapters

Most dissertations follow a familiar order, with each section doing a distinct job.

  • Abstract: a self-contained summary
  • Introduction: background, problem, aims
  • Literature review: critical survey of the field
  • Methodology: how you did the research
  • Results: what you found
  • Discussion: what it means
  • Conclusion: contribution and recommendations
  • References and appendices

Front and Back Matter

Beyond the main chapters, dissertations include a title page, contents page, and often acknowledgements at the front, and references and appendices at the back.

Word Count Weighting

Chapters are not equal in length. The literature review, results and discussion usually carry the most words, while the abstract and conclusion are short.

Keep It Coherent

Use consistent headings, signposting and cross-references so the chapters read as one connected argument rather than separate documents.

Follow Your Specification

Always check your department's requirements, as structure, chapter names and weightings vary between disciplines and universities.

Key Takeaways
  • Follow the standard chapter order
  • Each chapter has a distinct purpose
  • Include front and back matter correctly
  • Weight word counts towards the major chapters
  • Always follow your university specification

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main chapters of a dissertation?

Typically introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion and conclusion, framed by an abstract and references.

Does every dissertation have the same structure?

The core is similar, but chapter names and structure vary by discipline, especially between sciences and humanities.

How long should each chapter be?

The literature review, results and discussion usually carry the most words; follow your specification for exact weightings.

Where do appendices go?

At the very end, after the reference list, for supporting material that would interrupt the main text.

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