Capstone Project Checkpoint
 
Abstract and Acknowledgements
1. Overall Shape of a Dissertation or Thesis

2. Structure of Each Section

3. Abstract and Acknowledgements

More information

Dissertation structure
(From University of Warwick)

Extraction of Constructing a Good Dissertation
(Hofstee, 2006)

How to Write a Better Thesis
(Evans et al. 2011)

Abstract

The abstract is very important because it gives an examiner the first impression of your dissertation. As is defined by Colley & Lewkowicz (2003:112), “it is a summary of the text and it informs readers of what can be found in the dissertation and in what order, functioning as an overall signpost for the reader”. An abstract is written after the completion of a dissertation.

1. Structure of the abstract
  1. overview of the study
  2. reason for the study
  3. methodology used in the study
  4. findings of the study
(Paltridge and Starfield, 2007:156)

2. Samples of the abstract
(From Cardiff University)


Acknowledgements

1. Structure of the acknowledgements

In the section of acknowledgements, writers show disciplinary membership and allegiance, meanwhile express thanks to people for their support

i. Reflecting move (Optional)
  • Introspective comments on the writer’s research experience
ii. Giving credit for individual or institutions (Obligatory)
  • Thanking for academic assistance
  • Thanking for moral supports and encouragement
iii. Announcing move (Optional)
  • Accepting the responsibility for any flaws and errors
  • Dedicating the thesis to individuals
2. Samples of the acknowledgements


References

Cardiff.ac.uk. (2015). Dissertation abstracts. Retrieved from http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/jomec/degreeprogrammes/pgmasters/dissertations/abstracts.html

Cooley, L., & Lewkowicz, J. (2003). Dissertation writing in practice: Turning ideas into text. Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press.

Evans, D., Gruba, P., & Zobel, J. (2011). How to write a better thesis. Carlton South, Vic: Melbourne University Press.

Paltridge, B., & Starfield, S. (2007). Thesis and dissertation writing in a second language: A handbook for supervisors. New York: Routledge.

Swales, J. M., & Feak, C. B. (2004). Academic writing for graduate students: Essential tasks and skills. Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press.

Hofstee, E. (2006). Constructing a good dissertation: A practical guide to finishing a Master's, MBA or PhD on schedule. EPE.