Writing a discussion chapter in a dissertation? Rules to follow

Discussion is the most important chapter of a dissertation because it describes the whole research. It answers the central problem that is described in the research, explains findings and also open new ways for further exploration in the relevant field by providing suggestions and recommendations. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight the importance of present research in the light of existing research.

Significance of Discussion Chapter

Discussion chapter is significant due to many reasons; such as; it describes the critical thinking of the researcher, his approach and findings that can lead to the solution of many problems. It also explains the true purpose of a research. It highlights the research gap in a particular area and try to fill it with the help of findings. It also enhance the critical thinking of the reader by attracting their attention towards issues.

Rules for Writing a Dissertation

Discussion chapter describes that how the findings and all other theoretical knowledge are justifiable in the light of previous researches. Therefore this chapter should be written with special care and attention. In order to write down a best discussion chapter following rules should be followed:

·         The discussion chapter should link all the parts of a dissertation i.e. research questions, hypotheses, literature review, methodology and findings.

·         Avoid adding new information or results in the discussion chapter that are not included in the findings chapter. It tends to confusion for the readers and also weaken the stance of the researcher.

·         Avoid being subjective in a research paper. The best format for the discussion chapter is use of passive voice. Ambiguous terms should be avoided in order to avoid any distraction of the readers.

·         Try to follow the same sequence of experiments in the discussion chapter that was followed for the presentation of results in the findingschapter.

·         Avoid repetitions. For stating interpretation the use of subheadings is a preferable option.

·         The writer must be genuine in presenting his ideas. He should relate his research to the existing literature and explain the gap found. The reader must be convinced by describing that how this gap is justifiable and how it leads to his findings.

·         The content of discussion chapter should generalize the claim of the researcher.

·         The discussion chapter should be well organized. It should lead from general to specific. The key words should not be changed. For example if ‘hazard’ is key word than it should not be replaced with ‘endangered’

·         If the researcher experience some unexpected results. Then it should be analyzed. He should try to find out the reasons for these unexpected finding. The findings should be described, followed by the reasons of these unexpected findings.

·         The discussion chapter should also conclude a brief summary of limitations and problems experienced during research. It should also describe how it influence the findings.

·          Brief the readers with the significance of your findings with some further recommendations. This would convince the reader that the data is collected, examined and interpreted accurately.