How to write a bibliography

Whether you are tackling formal essay writing or an undergraduate dissertation, many students find it daunting the first time they are required to write a bibliography at the end of a piece of work. Fear not - not only is it much less complicated and scary than you might think, but we have compiled a list of the most important basic pointers on how to write a bibliography. Read on to get on your way to the best dissertation bibliography...

Review essay: the literature review

The literature review can be a key part of your dissertation structure. It is unlikely that you will have the time to read every word available on your topic, however in the literature review you should aim to demonstrate wide reading. The literature review will focus on authoritative works. You will not be discussing a popular, mass market text on the subject (unless that book has been written by an expert or led to an academic response). Evaluate each relevant book or article you discover to assess whether it is written for an academic audience or written by an academic.

Primary research for your Masters Dissertation

One major obstacle can be finding suitable interviewees. Instead of knocking on doors, use groups that are already in existence. Over 50s clubs, mother and toddler groups or community halls can all be possible sources of interviewees. Get in touch with the organizers and let them know you are a student rather than a professional researcher. People seem keen to help students, although they can be wary if they think they are speaking to a journalist, so be open and honest about your intentions.

Masters Dissertation help – the MA Handbook

Many colleges will provide you with an MA or Masters dissertation handbook which will cover all the basic tools and facilities you need to be aware of in order to complete your MA. What sort of information should you expect to receive?

The basics – There should be full information about who to contact within your subject department. This will range from email addresses and webpages to check through to “old school” methods of contact – for example, if the department has post trays for each postgraduate student.

Dissertation writing: Publish your dissertation

Publishing your dissertation as an article in an academic journal can look fabulous on your CV, particularly if you would like an academic career. If you have produced important material from your research than it can be a great help to others if you publish it. Your dissertation supervisor should be able to advise you on whether publication is appropriate for your dissertation writing.