How to Write a BA Thesis: A Practical Guide from Your First Ideas to Your Finished Paper

by Charles Lipson

The senior thesis is the capstone of a college education, but writing one can be a daunting prospect. Students need to choose their own topic and select the right adviser. Then they need to work steadily for several months as they research, write, and manage a major independent project. Now there's a mentor to help. How to Write a BA Thesis is a practical, friendly guide written by Charles Lipson, an experienced professor who has guided hundreds of students through the thesis-writing process.

This book offers step-by-step advice on how to turn a vague idea into a clearly defined proposal, then a draft paper, and, ultimately, a polished thesis. Lipson also tackles issues beyond the classroom-from good work habits to coping with personal problems that interfere with research and writing.

Filled with examples and easy-to-use highlighted tips, the book also includes handy time schedules that show when to begin various tasks and how much time to spend on each. Convenient checklists remind students which steps need special attention, and a detailed appendix, filled with examples, shows how to use the three main citation systems in the humanities and social MLA, APA, and Chicago.

How to Write a BA Thesis will help students work more comfortably and effectively-on their own and with their advisers. Its clear guidelines and sensible advice make it the perfect text for thesis workshops. Students and their advisers will refer again and again to this invaluable resource. From choosing a topic to preparing the final paper, How to Write a BA Thesis helps students turn a daunting prospect into a remarkable achievement.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing, Academic

402 pages, Paperback

Published May 15, 2005

Reviews

[Morgan Krause · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book I’ve finished quickly in years- Lipson’s guide to writing a college thesis provides the energization needed for me to complete my current bachelors thesis. A niche topic, Lipson is relatable to readers and provides advice that I had not been given before.

He suggests a mix of writing an outline and just prewriting, advice that has propelled me in the week since reading the suggestion. He also suggests writing one page a day, whilst combining writing, refining, and editing to allow a flexibility needed for a daydreamer like myself.

I am particularly grateful for his mention of certain disabilities and challenges that may overwhelm students, as these are taboo conversations generally not welcome at the table, in my experience.

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really, really a helpful book. The explanations are very clear and I feel that it quite completely covers many aspects of BA thesis writing (not just the technical writing aspects, but also the mental aspect & some very useful tips). I wish I found it earlier!

[WlauBlauization · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great overview, helps to go back to when you get stuck (you will get stuck).

[Dale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a big help with getting my thesis done and approved.

[Kirstin Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mr Lipson introduces on page 11 the idea that being to repetitive is unnecessary then proceeds to write a 437 page book repeating the same 4 helpful tips.

[Vampire-lk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great source to consider while writing up a thesis!!!!!!!!!

[Tammi Owens]

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[Mills College Library]

808.042 L7675 2005