So writing a dissertation is perhaps my biggest accomplishment to this date. Now looking back it doesn't seem as hard as I have felt it in time but I can assure you, it's not a job of one night or day, or week. It is a big committment which requires a lot of faith in yourself and your potential, as a researcher, lover of the area you work in and scientist.
My dissertation was on eyewitness testimony. I could easily bore you guys with details you wouldn't either remember or comprehend (not that I think people aren't smart enough, it's just area-specific terms), however instead I will list you a few things anyone should keep in mind when attempting to write a research piece of work.
1. ORGANISATION. ORGANISATION. ORGANISATION. Well let me repeat one more time, ORGANISATION.
The foundation of your work IS oganisation. If you don't organise yourself, you will find yourself struggling several times. And it is likely you won't be able to meet your first and most important deadline. Dedication was key to my work. I have never been as organised as I was during the time I was focused on writing my dissertation. I had a diary with daily goals for 40 days in a row and I have made an effort to follow them religiously. Not always was possible but due to it, I was able not only to write my dissetation but to proofread it and rewrite sections which weren't as good, first time round.
2. TUTOURING. I am a self-made researcher and student. I have always learned better by myself than in any sort of classes. I am not a good team member. I rarely agree with people and I feel pressured and diminished within groups. So it was a big surprise of mine that I would make a good team this year with my supervisor when writing this dissertation. Without the work we have done together, I wouldn't have been able to achieve as much as I did. He was impecable, flawless, all throughout, and I feel so grateful for all he's done.
3. READING. I guess this is an easy one to understand but not an easy one to do. The amount of reading necessary for your dissertation is proportional to the accuracy and quality of the work you will present. Reading really makes up half of the work needed to be undertaken. I can't tell you how messed up your head feels after spending days in a row reading articles and books. It is pure insanity, that is why, it is important when doing it to have some breaks to let your brain relax and oxigenate.
4. MAKE NOTES. Making notes is essential part of essay writing. When doing your reading you will find yourself struggling to remember all information and more importantly assimilate the crucial part of it, therefore continuously making notes on margins of books/articles and highlighting areas, end up being critical to save you time and effort to re-read paragraphs again.
5. PRIORITISE. It is critical as much as the others are. Your dissertation must become your priority, above your job, your friends and even your other half. For the time being, it has to be your everything if you want it to be an impressive reading work at the end of the day.
6. SLEEP AND EAT. Sounds perhaps silly to say but if you are anything like me, you will channel all the stress concerning your dissertation and eating, drinking water and sleeping will be at the end of your To Do List. However it can't happen as all of the above are essential for excellence. You need to have a good night of sleep as much as a good hot meal and constantly hidrating yourself.
I could continue writing about this but truth is, this is the most hard-working and empowering work any scientist can face and there are no short cuts when writing a good, logical and intriguing piece of research. Anyone can do it if they put their hearts, minds and focus on it. For anyone about to submit their masters dissertation, I know the deadlines are just around the corner so keep up the good work, you're almost meeting the deadline. Keep up the good work, geekies and Good Luck, y'all!
Love always,
Tommy
"Façam o Favor de Ser Felizes" - Raul Solnado
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