How to plan my project?

Dissertations are large and complex projects, so organisation and time management are crucial. Having a detailed research plan will help you to keep on schedule.

To create a research plan, work out how long you have to complete the project. Divide this period into weeks. For each week write down what you will be doing. To start, you will need to think about the main tasks that you are facing and how long they will take. These include:

You may want to use an organisational tool such as a Gantt chart which allows you to compare your progress against your goals for each task.

Be realistic about your research plan. For instance, it is important to allow time in the plan for other things that you will be doing (such as holidays, for example), and to leave enough time for revisions. Remember that you will encounter some problems along the way, so build in some leeway in the plan for this.

Once you have completed a draft research plan, discuss it with your supervisor. Together, work out a schedule of meetings where you can review your progress.

Useful links on planning a dissertation can be found here and here.