BUW ESE

A good thesis starts with a good timetable

Good time planning is the basis for a good BA / MA thesis or research project. We recommend that all students draw up a detailed timetable at the very beginning of the thesis phase. A timetable should be specific and realistic and include all the key milestones (e.g. time for finding a topic, literature research, reading the literature, formulating research hypotheses, developing a research design, acquiring a sample, conducting the study, analysing and entering data, time for writing and proofreading, etc.) as well as private appointments (e.g. birthdays, family celebrations, public holidays and time for relaxation and holidays) so that you can get through this phase in a healthy and relaxed manner. The schedule is the basis for the second or third consultation appointment. Even if you do not have an exact overview of all the important steps of a thesis at the very beginning, a timetable gives you an orientation and quickly helps you to expose planning errors and unrealistic planning. A timetable changes over time and becomes increasingly concrete and realistic. Further information on creating a solid schedule can be found here:

Peters, Jan H.; Dörfler, Tobias (2014): Final theses in psychology and the social sciences. Planning, carrying out and analysing. 1st ed. Hallbergmoos: Pearson Germany, pp. 57-70.

In principle, you can start your thesis at any point during your BA or MA programme. You will have the least stress when writing a BA/MA thesis if you contact your chosen supervisor around 12-18 months before your planned submission date.