Journal · 6 articles
Notes for the stuck.
Practical guides on research, writing, admissions and academic integrity. Free to read, no sign-up.
- 01How to choose a dissertation topic you can actually finishInteresting is not enough. A good topic is also narrow, researchable and approved. Here is a simple, step-by-step way to find and test yours.
- 02Turning vague supervisor feedback into a clear plan“Be more critical.” “Restructure this.” What these comments usually mean, how to act on them, and how to ask for clarity without feeling awkward.
- 03Literature review: from summary to synthesisIf every paragraph starts with an author's name, you are summarising. Learn how to group sources by theme, use a synthesis matrix and build a real argument.
- 04Writing a statement of purpose admissions tutors rememberSkip the childhood story and the dictionary definition. Tutors want evidence, direction and fit. Here is a clear structure, with examples.
- 05Seven referencing mistakes that quietly cost marksSmall, repeated errors in citations add up. Learn the most common APA and Harvard mistakes, with clear examples of how to fix each one.
- 06Proofreading, editing, AI detectors: what help is allowed?Many students worry about crossing a line they cannot see. Here is what universities typically allow, what they don't, and how to protect yourself.
● Research5 min read
How to choose a dissertation topic you can actually finish
Interesting is not enough. A good topic is also narrow, researchable and approved. Here is a simple, step-by-step way to find and test yours.