Dissertation verb tenses: What Tenses Should I Use in My Dissertation Chapters?
Writing a dissertation involves careful attention to structure, content, and language. Among these considerations, verb tense plays a significant role in ensuring clarity and consistency. Choosing the correct tense for each chapter is essential because it reflects the type of information you’re presenting—be it established knowledge, completed research, or future implications. Here’s a chapter-by-chapter guide on the appropriate dissertation verb tenses to use.
1. Introduction
The introduction sets the stage for your research. It typically includes the research objectives, questions, and a brief overview of the study.
- Present tense: Use this tense when discussing the background, stating the research problem, and outlining objectives.
- Example: This study examines the effects of climate change on urban migration.
- Future tense (if applicable): Use it sparingly when describing what the dissertation will cover or accomplish.
- Example: This dissertation will explore the impact of X on Y.
2. Literature Review
The literature review summarizes and critiques past research relevant to your topic.
- Present tense: Use when discussing general truths or theories that are still applicable.
- Example: Smith (2018) argues that economic factors significantly influence migration.
- Past tense: Use when describing specific studies or experiments conducted in the past.
- Example: Johnson (2020) found a correlation between income levels and migration patterns.
3. Methodology
The methodology chapter explains how you conducted your research.
- Past tense: Use when describing the methods and procedures you employed.
- Example: The data were collected through semi-structured interviews.
- Present tense (optional): Use for universally accepted methods or justifications for your approach.
- Example: Qualitative research is suitable for exploring complex social phenomena.
4. Results
The results chapter presents your findings.
- Past tense: Use when reporting your findings.
- Example: The survey revealed that 60% of participants preferred digital resources.
- Present tense: Use when describing figures, tables, or ongoing observations within the text.
- Example: Table 1 shows the distribution of responses across age groups.
5. Discussion
The discussion chapter interprets your results and connects them to the broader context.
- Present tense: Use when making general statements, interpreting results, or linking findings to existing theories.
- Example: These results suggest that socioeconomic status is a significant factor in migration trends.
- Past tense: Use when referring to your specific results or the research process.
- Example: This study demonstrated a clear relationship between X and Y.
6. Conclusion
The conclusion summarizes your findings and discusses their implications.
- Present tense: Use for statements about the study’s significance and its contributions to the field.
- Example: This study highlights the importance of environmental factors in shaping urban policies.
- Future tense: Use for recommendations or potential future research directions.
- Example: Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of climate change on rural areas.
Additional Tips for Consistency
- Check your guidelines: Universities or disciplines may have specific preferences for verb tense. Always consult your dissertation handbook or supervisor.
- Be consistent within sections: Avoid switching tenses unnecessarily within a single paragraph or section.
- Edit carefully: Tense errors can disrupt the flow of your writing and confuse readers. Thoroughly proofread your work or seek feedback from peers or editors.
By using the appropriate tense for each chapter of your dissertation, you enhance the readability and professionalism of your writing. Understanding how tense aligns with the content of each section ensures that your arguments and findings are communicated clearly and effectively.
Posted by Glenn Stevens. Need help editing or proofreading your dissertation then why not (Contact) Glenn.
