Writing an Economics Dissertation
Dissertation writing is one of the most daunting assignments for students regardless of their educational background and standing. While there is no way around it for PhD students, a lot of undergraduate courses also have dissertations as part of their coursework.
Not all economic courses have mandatory dissertations, but some of them allow students to opt for one and replace an exam module in exchange.
However, regardless of how you end up having to write an economic dissertation, the guide below will help you understand the basic requirements and formulate a plan to get through it.
Instructions
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Planning your dissertation
Before you even begin, you need to plan your dissertation with the following points in mind: -
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What interests you?
Are you interested in macroeconomics or micro? Do new developments excite you compared to dull historic economics? You need to identify your area of interest. -
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What are you comfortable with?
You also need to focus on your comfort zone and strengths. Are you adept at literature review and critical essay type writing? Are you one for theorizing new models or do stats, data and numbers appeal to you? -
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Do you have a supervisor?
Having an expert guide you in your dissertation is never bad, but there is no cause for despair if you don’t have one. Just consult your professor or instructor and ask beforehand the kind of assistance you should expect. -
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Choosing the right topic
This is one of the most important elements behind a successful dissertation. If the topic you choose has a narrow scope and does not appreciate your own strengths, you are going to have a tough time.
Typically institutions either give students a free hand in topic selection or present them with a list of approved topics to choose from. In either case, you should not make hasty choices and give proper time and consideration to your selection.
Your main concerns should be your own understanding of a certain topic, your background knowledge on it and the amount of fresh research you will need to conduct. Basically, you should pick a topic you are already familiar with so you don’t have to work more than necessary. -
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Literature review
When you get down to researching your dissertation you will need to read plenty of journal articles. If your dissertation is focused on reviewing the existing literature, this will mean that half your work will be done during the research stage.
A good approach would be to ask your supervisor or seniors for good reading recommendations so that your energy and efforts are well directed.
When you are reading the related literature make notes and try to understand the essence of the argument so that you can exhibit its understanding in your own dissertation. -
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Economic models and theories
You can either go with an existing model to evaluate it and suggest improvements or, if you have the time and patience, work on theorizing your own model.
In both cases, your literature review will be essential in supporting your arguments and proposals. If you go for the latter, you will probably need help from your supervisor and it would be a good idea to run your theory with him/her before committing and investing in it. -
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General tips for writing and economic dissertation
-Economics is an empirical study, so make sure you present facts, stats and examples.
-Adopt a formal writing style for your dissertation.
-Present a simple but precise conclusion in the end.
