How To Write a General Discussion for a Thesis
Carol Nolan
Writing a general discussion for a thesis is an opportunity to synthesize and interpret the findings of your research. It allows you to reflect on the significance of your results, discuss their implications, and provide recommendations for future research. Here are some steps to help you write an effective general discussion:
Recapitulate the research question and objectives: Begin by restating the main research question and the objectives of your study. This will remind readers of the purpose of your research and provide context for your discussion.
Summarize the main findings: Briefly summarize the key findings of your study. Focus on the most important and relevant results that address your research question. Use clear and concise language to present the findings objectively.
Interpret the findings: Analyze and interpret your findings in light of existing literature. Discuss how your results align with or differ from previous studies. Identify any patterns, trends, or relationships that emerged from your data. Offer explanations for unexpected or contradictory results.
Discuss the implications: Consider the broader implications of your findings. Explain how they contribute to the existing knowledge in your field. Discuss the theoretical, practical, and policy implications of your research. Highlight the potential impact of your findings on the field or society.
Address limitations: Acknowledge the limitations of your study. Discuss any constraints or weaknesses that may have affected the validity or generalizability of your results. Be honest and transparent about the limitations, but also explain how they can be addressed in future research.
Suggest further research: Identify areas for further research that can build upon your findings. Propose new research questions or directions that can expand on the knowledge gaps identified in your study. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of pursuing these avenues.
Provide concluding remarks: Summarize the main points discussed in your general discussion. Emphasize the significance of your research and its contribution to the field. Avoid introducing new information or ideas in the conclusion.
Revise and edit: Review your general discussion for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure that your arguments are well-supported by evidence from your study and relevant literature. Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Remember, the general discussion is your opportunity to showcase your understanding of the research findings and their implications. It should demonstrate critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to synthesize information.
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Check our previous article: How To Write a Full Thesis