A dissertation is a particular type of academic essay, often written by students studying at a higher level. If you are studying law then you may be required to write such a paper on the topic of criminal justice. If this is the case then you may be wondering how to approach the work. To give you a better understanding of how to complete your dissertation proposal, the following gives a selection of different advice.
Is a dissertation proposal always required?
The first thing to be aware of is that a dissertation proposal is not always required. Whilst most papers will need you to write this section, there are occasions when one will not be needed. As a result, you shall with check with your promoter or tutor beforehand.
Outline what your paper will cover
As part of the proposal you will need to give details about what areas of criminal justice you aim to discuss within your dissertation. You do not need going to go into too much detail; however, you need to include the most important points, so that the reader will understand what to expect. However, one thing to be aware of is that due to the lack of space that you have when writing the proposal, you need to write as clearly and precisely as possible.
Provide details of any questions that you will pose
You may be asking one central question, as well as other minor related questions. As part of your proposal you need to give details of any of these questions that you may wish to ask. Essentially, the reader should have a good understanding of what it is that you attempt to answer in your academic paper after having read your proposal.
Give an idea of what research methods you may use
Another essential part of the dissertation proposal writing process is to include what research methods you intend to use. When studying different subjects, there are a variety of different research methods available; with a topic such as criminal justice, this may include looking over relevant cases, as well as researching any statutes or other legal principles that have been established.
You may wish to discuss where you will carry out your research – such as which websites, publications, journals or other sources – as well as why these methods will be most appropriate for the paper that you are writing.