1. Originality. All dissertations involve the investigation of original aims or ideas. For a 1st class grade, however, you must demonstrate considerable originality in various areas, including objectives, critical thinking and findings. Think ahead when formulating your research questions in order to avoid being limited to spent areas of research.

2. Content. Careful decisions concerning the title of your dissertation can make the difference between a rather dull piece of work which struggles to generate fresh ideas, and an interesting and engaging topic which fits with the existing literature in unexpected and stimulating ways. Markers are only human: captivate them and maintain their interest.

3. Data collection. In aiming for a 1st class grade, you will be well versed in the comparative benefits and drawbacks of different data collection methods. Clearly demonstrate this thorough understanding of methodology to leave the marker in no doubt of your reasons for selecting one method over another.

4. Conceptual framework. An absolute must for achieving a 1st class mark, your conceptual thinking will be impressive to say the least. Emphasise the relationships between ideas and your consummate ability to identify the salient issues in any body of literature. Relate an established conceptual framework to your own findings.

5. Structure and organisation. Do not be fooled into thinking that paragraphs, subheadings and chapter organisation is trivial next to the impressive analytical acuity evident in your text. Sound structure is a prerequisite for proper comprehension, without which your glowing insights will be sadly lost.

6. Quality of expression. Spelling, punctuation and grammar will naturally be flawless. Your command of subject-specific vocabulary and specialist terms must also be very strong. Make each paragraph, and each sentence, count. Ensure all points move on from the last in a coherent and logical development of thought.

7. Literature. Plainly speaking, it is impossible to write a 1st class dissertation without a wide and meaningful engagement with the relevant subject literature. At no point when reading your essay should the marker be in any doubt of your many hours in the library. Reference broad ranging but relevant texts.

8. Critical analysis. Every piece of literature cited in your dissertation should have been submitted to your merciless critical eye. Is it relevant? Have you thoroughly understood it? Have you considered its comparative significance for the question at hand? Have you identified the key issues and appropriated them to your own ends? If not, it should not be there.

9. Findings. Having so diligently considered the merits of your research questions, and so painstakingly assembled, analysed and contextualised the data, it would be a shame to undermine the whole thing by concluding with findings that fail to address your stated aims. Make your findings relevant, interesting and compellingly argued.

10. Academic conventions. The consistent use of an appropriate referencing system should, in terms of marks for your dissertation, be money in the bank. There are no excuses at this level for shoddily assembled bibliographies, appendices and footnotes. For a 1st class grade become a serious scholar.

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