Writing your Master’s thesis or dissertation is regarded as an examination and represents the most extensive academic work of your degree programme so far. The length typically ranges between 60 and 100 pages, although it can sometimes be shorter or longer depending on the subject requirements. To understand how this is managed in your field, consult the examination guidelines provided by your institute.
How long does it take to write a Master’s thesis?
The time required to write a Master’s thesis can vary. In many cases, a six-month time frame is allocated for working on the thesis topic, though this often excludes the time spent on topic selection and the period between submission and the oral examination.
Some universities or universities of applied sciences enforce strict guidelines and deadlines for completing the thesis. However, in certain cases, you may have unlimited time to finish your work. Proper planning and creating a solid schedule for your Master’s thesis are crucial to managing the process effectively.
Writing your Master’s thesis: step by step
Good planning is essential when writing your Master’s thesis. To help you understand the process, it can be broken down into seven steps:
- Planning
- Registration
- Preparatory work
- Writing process
- Submission
- Presentation/defense
- Grade
Step 1 | Planning your Master’s thesis
The first step is finding a topic. Some faculties assign topics, but most allow you to choose your own. Consider your career goals and personal interests. Working on something you’re passionate about is highly motivating.
Choosing a supervisor is equally important. They must be professionally qualified in your area of study and should ideally be someone you get along with personally. If possible, attend their lectures or seminars beforehand to gauge their expertise and teaching style. Supervisors often request an exposé to evaluate your thesis plan. This draft also serves as a roadmap for your writing process.
Additionally, decide whether to write your thesis in English or your native language, as both options have their own pros and cons.
Step 2 | Registering your Master’s thesis
Before you can begin writing, you must register your thesis with the examination office. Procedures vary by university, so check the requirements and necessary documents early on. Your topic must be approved by your supervisor and cannot be changed easily after registration.
Make sure you’re aware of all deadlines—missing these can cause delays and leave a poor impression.
Step 3 | Preparatory work
The next step is conducting a thorough literature review, which, depending on your research question, may also include interviews or other methods. Allocate plenty of time for this phase, as delays can occur when sourcing materials or scheduling interviews.
Organise your research systematically using tools like reference management software, which helps keep track of sources and citations. Structuring your findings early will make the actual writing process much smoother.
Step 4 | Writing your Master’s thesis
Once you’ve completed your research, it’s time to start writing. Use a Master’s thesis example for guidance and don’t let the fear of the blank page slow you down—just begin! Your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect, and you can start with any section, not necessarily the introduction.
If academic language is a challenge, consider using text modules to structure your thoughts. A focused and productive environment, such as a library or dedicated workspace, can help you stay on track. Creating a clear, actionable work plan, such as one based on the SMART method, will keep you motivated and ensure steady progress.
Step 5 | Submission of your Master’s thesis
After proofreading and formatting your thesis, it’s time to print and bind it. Even in the digital age, universities often require a physical copy. Use a PDF file for printing to avoid formatting issues.
Submit your thesis in person to the examination office to prevent any problems with delivery. Be mindful of deadlines, especially if they fall on holidays or weekends.
Step 6 | Presentation or defense (optional)
Some programs require a defense of your thesis, where you’ll present your findings to an examination committee and answer their questions. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise and discuss your work.
Practice your presentation beforehand to ensure you stay within the allotted time and prepare for potential questions. Remember, you know more about your topic than anyone else in the room!
Step 7 | Waiting for your grade
After submission, you’ll need to wait for your thesis to be graded. Deadlines for grading are often outlined in examination regulations but may be extended due to busy supervisors. If you’re in a hurry (e.g., for job applications or awards), a polite follow-up can sometimes expedite the process.
Once the grading is complete, it may take additional time for your university to issue your degree certificate.
Writing your Master’s thesis: What else to keep in mind
Your thesis can play a significant role in your professional career. However, it’s important not to approach it too rigidly—maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential. Socialising and taking time for yourself are not only allowed but are also great ways to combat writer’s block and boost motivation.
