Writing a dissertation paper can be overwhelming. One of the most intimidating parts of writing it is often figuring out how you should approach the statistics and data. Regardless of what your dissertation paper is about—contemporary cinema, migration flows, or something else entirely—the design of the research and the handling of your statistics/data will have a substantial effect on your overall work. So, here are a few tips that will help you with your paper.
1. Presenting Your Results
When it comes to presenting your results, you must take a close look at your research questions. Depending on your research questions, you may determine that you should opt for a literature review or you may decide that a case study is the best method for your paper. Keep in mind that you go with the quantitative approach, you will likely need to incorporate tables, charts, and graphs to present your statistics and data.
2. Making a Plan
For your dissertation statistics paper, planning is absolutely crucial. Based on the type of data that you are examining, you will need to carefully consider all the choices that you have available at your fingertips. For example, if you are using the quantitative approach, take into consideration the kind of statistical analysis that is most appropriate to use.
You will need to ensure that you fully understand the basis of the data selection process so that you are applying the proper tests to prove the significance of the results. Your research questions can help to inform how your data is presented and the statistical techniques that you are using.
3. Run a Pilot Test
It is always important that you run a pilot (sample) test. Don't wait until the last minute and only allow yourself time to run the full test. You need the time for a pilot test or small-scale analysis to weed out any problems and refine your tactics.
4. Talk to Your Supervisor
At any point in time while you are working on your dissertation and you are unsure of whether you are doing something right or you have a question, check in with your supervisor. He or she is there for that reason—to help! Don't wait until the day before or the day that your submission is due to ask for help, as you will find yourself in trouble. If you believe your methods are off, ask your supervisor to take a look.
5. Get Help from a Tutor
If you find yourself having problems with your dissertation, consider hiring a dissertation statistics tutor. There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you need it. This is an important part of your college degree, and you don't want to mess it up, so get the help you need!