Formatting Tips Every Student Needs for Dissertation Writing

Formatting Tips Every Student Needs for Dissertation Writing

Failing your PhD dissertation is the biggest nightmare for any student. And I am sure that no one wants to experience that.

But writing a dissertation is not an easy task. It requires lots of research and critical thinking skills to craft a perfect one for you.


But this is not what it is all about. The success of your dissertation depends not only on your research. But your presentation and formatting skills are important as well.


Many students make this blunder of just focusing on their research for dissertation and ignoring formatting details. But trust me, it is a whole package that works together.


So, make sure that you are formatting your dissertations before submitting them to ensure good grades for you. So, no worries, I will tell you exactly how you can do it.


Why Formatting Matters in a Dissertation

Just imagine, cooking a dish with full dedication but failing to present it in an appetizing manner. Obviously, it is not going to appeal to the foodie. No matter how good it tastes.


The same goes for dissertation writing. Thus, no matter how good your content is. The first impression always matters. So, here that means formatting your dissertation with the right details.


So, keep that in your mind. Formatting is crucial. So, never underestimate it. Here is why:


Formatting Tips for Dissertation Writing

Now that we know how important formatting is. So, let us find out how we can do it.


Thus, here are some amazing tips for you to ace formatting your dissertations:


1. Read University's Formatting Guidelines

Well, every institute normally has some formatting guidelines that you need to follow.

So, the first thing that you need to do is read it carefully and make sure that you are formatting your dissertations accordingly. This might include details like:

Thus, read it carefully before starting out.


2. Choose a Clear and Simple Font

Now, it is time to pick up a font for your dissertation. But make sure that you are choosing a simple one and not some fancy one. As your font must be readable. The most preferred font styles include:

Many universities use the recommended size of 12 for the main text.


3. Line Spacing Makes a Difference

So, it is now turn for line spacing. Trust me, it makes a lot of difference by allowing your readers to read your work more easily.


Normally, double spacing is required for the main body. However, some parts of your dissertation, like footnotes and references, should be single-spaced. So, just check your guidelines.


4. Use Proper Margins

So, the standard margin used in dissertation writing is 1 inch (2.54 cm) on each side.

But it can vary depending on your university requirements.

5. Page Numbers Are a Must

Every page in your dissertation (except the title page) must have a page number. You can place it on:

Just ensure that your Table of Contents and chapters matches the page number correctly.


6. Add Headings and Subheadings

This is a must. You cannot just keep writing your content into long lengths. But break it down into headings and subheadings to make it easy to navigate for readers.


Use Bold Fonts and large sizes to highlight them. But make sure it is consistent throughout your dissertation.


7. Seek Assistance when Needed

If formatting seems hard. Then, you can just reach out to professional dissertation formatting services for assistance. They can guide you. I can even format your dissertations for you if needed.


8. Title Page and Abstract

The title page is the first impression of your dissertation. So, it must look neat and clean with the right information. It must include:

The abstract is right after the title page and must be covered in 250-300 words ideally.


9. Table of Contents

Now, you need to add a table of contents to your dissertation for your readers' ease.

Its really easy to generate. Just use automatic TOC in word by using heading styles. And Tada! you got it.


10. Use Correct Referencing

So, we all know what refencing means for our dissertations. Thus make sure that you are using the right style to add proper citations and references.


If you are not familiar with the style, just take help from German PhD thesis helper to do it for you.


11. Add Tables and Figures Properly

If you are using any tables, charts, or images in your dissertation. Make sure that you label them correctly, like Figure 1 or Fig.2.

So, if you have a table, put the title above, and for figures, put it below.


12. Proofread Formatting Separately

I know you must already be done with proofreading. However, it is important to proofread your formatting separately. So, look out for things like:

A small mistake can ruin your whole efforts. So, try to make it count.


13. Bonus Tip: Use Online Tools & Apps

Well, I haven't even given you the best tip yet.

So, I know how much time formatting needs. Thus, you better start working smarter now and use online tools and apps to save your time.


Yeah, there are various online tools and apps that can make formatting much easier for you. It will help you become a pro at formatting. Thus, use these apps and tools to save your time and work more efficiently.


Final Words

So, formatting your dissertation might not seem like a crucial or exciting part of dissertation writing. But trust me, it matters more than you think.


You can think of it as a final touch that brings your hard work together in clean and professional manner to leave a lasting impression on your professors.


So, follow these tips and give a professional touch to your dissertation with the right formatting. Just make sure that you are following the right guidelines. Best of Luck!