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 sciences: 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.