Topic outline

  • Step 1: Defining your topic, aims and scope

    This step may require a few iterations/discussions/meetings with your advisor and supervisor.  Nonetheless, it is important to define clearly the aims and scope of the project to ensure that it goes smoothly.  

    Before going any further, please go to the section "Materials - Writing tips from Ken Pinnington - Introduction" and read the document "Appendix 2 - What is the aim of your thesis".

    Then, find answers to the following questions:

    • What is the current situation and what is the problem that you will tackle in your thesis?
    • Why is this problem important for the company and/or society?
    Next, focus on your contribution:

    • How will you solve the problem or part of it?  Define the aims/goals/objectives of the project.  Avoid vague goals and try to be as specific as possible.  For example, avoid something like “Study the resistance of steel cables”.  Instead use: “Develop a finite element model to predict the strength of steel cables for small cranes.” 
    • What will be the methodology used?  Will you use analytical, numerical and/or experimental methods?  Will some parts (like experiments) be done, or have been done, by someone else?
    • Do you have all the tools needed? For example, software licenses, computer/desktop, access to a cluster for large simulations, measuring equipment and samples for experiments…
    • Who will support you?  Is your advisor working in the same field and/or has experience on this project? Are you part of a wider team working on this problem?
    • How often will you meet with your advisor?  and with your supervisor?

    Reflect on your personal circumstances:

    You can write your answers in a Word document or PowerPoint file and upload it your private section (the section that has your name on the left).  

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Step 2: Applying for the topic