Dissertations and final-year projects

Are you are working on a dissertation, final-year project, extended project, or thesis? Explore key resources on planning, researching, and writing-up your work.

Typing on a computer

How to write a research proposal

Write a persuasive proposal with a clear structure and style.
A person sorting out documents.

How to plan a dissertation or final year project

Design, plan and manage your research project.
Student in library

How to plan an effective information search

Develop a search strategy and select your search tools to quickly find the most relevant results.
A large panoramic shot of the interior of a library, with many bookshelves on multiple floors

How to search for wider reading

Use academic databases and specialist discovery tools for a research project or assessment.
Research student

How to identify your research methods

Explore research methods that match your research questions and objectives.
Inside a bookshop

How to write a literature review

Bring together research perspectives, including strengths, limitations and significance.
A girl at a computer typing on a keyboard

How to gain ethical approval

Consider if ethical approval is needed and when and how to apply.
Data science students in a lab at the University of Sheffield

How to manage your research data

Organise, store and preserve data created during a research project.

Further resources related to research projects

A hand writing into a notebook.

Academic writing

Plan and structure your writing and develop your writing style.
EEE student

Referencing, proofreading and formatting

Acknowledge the work of others, edit and format your work in an appropriate style.
Gripple workshop

Critical approaches to information

Improve your critical thinking by questioning and synthesising sources of information.

Skills development opportunities

Academic Skills (301)

Attend our  workshops, and 1:1 appointments for study skills, maths and statistics.

English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC)

Explore our Academic language, literacy and communication skills services including workshops, short courses and faculty specific resources.

University Library

Discover a range of information sources, access subject-specific support, and develop your skills in searching for information by exploring our tutorials, guides and workshops.

Resources, workshops and tutorials

Get help

Study Skills A to Z

Use our A to Z list of pages to quickly find the information you need.

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Contact us

Get in touch with us with any queries about research skills.

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