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Words or Numerals – Using and Formatting Numbers

Posted by Rene Tetzner | Nov 9, 2021 | PhD Success | 0 |

Words or Numerals – Using and Formatting Numbers

6.4 Using and Formatting Numbers Appropriately

Every academic or scientific author who must include many numbers while reporting his or her research is faced with the challenge of using and formatting those numbers in an accurate, consistent and appropriate manner. Your department and/or discipline may very well have specific conventions and guidelines regarding the use of numbers that must be observed, and these may be quite specific, or you may have been provided with no guidelines at all for using numbers in a scholarly manner. Unfortunately, there is considerable inconsistency in the advice style guides offer regarding numbers, and even the way in which numbers are referred to while talking about their formatting can be contentious, with some guidance insisting that numbers as numerals rather than words should be called ‘figures,’ while others use ‘numerals’ instead (in this book I use ‘numerals’ to avoid confusion with ‘figures,’ which I use when referring to graphs, illustrations and the like). Style guides tend to assign a number of the variant practices associated with numbers to the conventions of either British or American English, and in some cases the link to one style or the other is clear, but there seems little consensus on some of these matters, and different style guides based in one country can vary in their advice as much as guides claiming to present the two different forms of English. Fortunately, there are also several patterns of usage that are maintained across guidelines, and a healthy share of common sense in using these as you aim for accuracy, consistency and clear communication across all parts of your thesis that include numbers will produce an effective result.

6.4.1 Words or Numerals?

One of the main concerns when using numbers in scholarly writing is whether they should be expressed as words or numerals. In most cases, a threshold value is set: below this value, words are used to express numbers, whereas above it, numerals are used. Unfortunately, there is no single threshold value that applies to every discipline and every thesis, and for very practical reasons. In the humanities and other nontechnical contexts, for instance, the value is often set at 100, whereas in more technical or scientific contexts where numbers tend to be used more extensively, the value is usually 10; for books on music, the value is often 12, and for online writing, numerals are used much more frequently than words, so all numbers may appear as numerals. In addition, such threshold values are only general rules and there are exceptions that apply regardless of the precise value used, as the following points make clear:

  • Large round numbers are usually expressed as words (‘four hundred’ and ‘three million’) or as a combination of words (or abbreviations) and numerals (‘3 million’ or ‘3m.’) even if they are over the threshold value, although this is rarer in the sciences.
  • Approximations as opposed to exact numbers are generally written as words even if they are over the threshold value: ‘I saw about fifty of them.’
  • For a series of quantities, numerals are usually used regardless of whether the numbers are above or below the set value: ‘4, 6, 8, 28, 42, 53, 79, 98, 109 and 127.’
  • When a sentence or, in some cases, a paragraph contains one or more numbers that are over the threshold value as well as numbers that are under it, it is best for both consistency and legibility to use numerals for all the numbers: ‘from 83 to 137’ instead of ‘from eighty-three to 137,’ and ‘between 6 and 13’ instead of ‘between six and 13.’
  • If two sets or categories of numbers are used together in a sentence, clarity and legibility are often improved by using words for one set or category and numerals for the other: ‘the Oxford manuscript consists of forty-four folios with 31 lines on each page, the Worcester manuscript of forty-one folios with 34 lines to a page and the York manuscript of only thirty-nine folios with 36 lines on each page.’
  • All numbers that appear at the beginning of a sentence should be written out as words: ‘Fourteen is the age of consent,’ not ‘14 is the age of consent.’ Alternatively, the sentence can be rephrased or rearranged to avoid placing the number at the beginning (The age of consent is 14), and if the number opening a sentence would be particularly cumbersome when spelled out (e.g., ‘412,724’), this should definitely be done.

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Numbers used for certain purposes tend to be expressed as numerals regardless of whether they are over the threshold value or not, including page numbers, section and chapter numbers, volume numbers of books and journals, issue numbers of journals, numbers of items in a list, Bible chapter and verse numbers (Genesis 2:4), appendix, table and figure numbers, numbers within tables and figures, numbers in an abstract (though this is not always the case by any means), act and scene numbers, line and column numbers, reference and cross-reference numbers, legal document numbers, numbers that are exact measures, numbers that appear before abbreviations (17 cm), numbers indicating percentages (‘50%,’ but if not exact they occasionally appear as words with ‘per cent’ or ‘percent,’ never with %), numbers recording the scores of tests and games, the numbers of points in scales (a 5-point scale), house, hotel, apartment and building numbers, road and highway numbers, numbers indicating years (‘1960,’ ‘2014’ etc., although they can be written out if necessary – at the beginning of a sentence, for instance) and days of the month, and union and lodge numbers.
  • When a number is part of an already hyphenated compound, a numeral should be used to avoid excessive hyphenation: ‘a 35-year-old man,’ not ‘a thirty-five-year-old man.’
  • While fractions, like whole numbers, can be written as either words or numerals, when whole numbers and fractions are combined, it is better to use numerals: ‘she walked 5¾ miles,’ not ‘she walked five and three-quarters miles.’

how to write numbers in a thesis

Ordinal numbers generally follow the same pattern as cardinal numbers, appearing as words when they are below the threshold value (‘second,’ ‘fifth,’ ‘eighth’ etc.) and as numerals with the appropriate suffix when they are above it (‘74th,’ ‘82nd’ and ‘143rd’). However, some styles will recommend that ordinal numbers be written out in situations where cardinal numbers would not be, or that they be written out on all occasions except in notes, references and quotations (in the last, the format used in the source should be observed). When compound numbers are written as words, they are hyphenated (‘thirty-two,’ ‘eighty-seventh’ etc.) and the same is true of fractions (‘one-quarter’ and ‘two-thirds’), although fractions are often left open and sometimes this is done to indicate a focus on the number or individual parts of a quantity (he gave one third of his inheritance to his sister and another third to his brother) rather than on the proportion or single quantity (he gave two-thirds of his inheritance away). When written out as words, numbers are pluralised in the same way as other words (‘eights and nines,’ ‘seventies’ etc.), although ‘dozen,’ ‘hundred,’ ‘thousand,’ ‘million,’ ‘billion’ and ‘trillion’ tend to remain singular (‘two thousand,’ ‘seven million’ etc.) unless they express indefinite quantities (‘dozens of rabbits’ and ‘thousands of black flies’). Numbers above one can take plural or singular verbs depending on the precise meaning: ‘there were only fourteen participants,’ but ‘fourteen participants is a small sample,’ though the latter could also be worded to reflect both the plural and the singular nature of the concept (fourteen participants result in a small sample).

how to write numbers in a thesis

6.4.2 Arabic Numerals

When numbers are expressed as Arabic numerals, the plurals are formed simply by adding an ‘s’ – no apostrophe is needed (‘1970s’ and ‘low temperatures in the 20s,’ not ‘1970’s’ and ‘low temperatures in the 20’s’); only if the numbers are discussed as entities in themselves might apostrophes be appropriate for clarity (we chose 8’s and 10’s). When numerals appear with abbreviated measures (‘94 mm,’ ‘7 kg’ and ‘30 °C’) there should usually be a space between the numeral and the abbreviation, and the abbreviation should not be pluralised (see Sections 6.3.5 and 6.3.6). When numerals appear with other letters, however, there is generally no space between the numerals and the letters: ‘pp.47ff’ and ‘Item 7a.’ In nontechnical writing, numerals of four (5,698) or five (89,703) digits generally contain a comma after the third digit counting from the right, but in some instances the comma is not used in four-digit numerals (5698); if this is the case, the comma should nonetheless be used in four-digit numerals that appear in any figures or tables (and especially in any columns of tables) that also contain numerals with five or more digits so that alignment is preserved. Often in technical and scientific writing, the commas are not used, but spaces are used instead (‘5 698’ and ‘89 703’), though the four-digit numeral can appear without the space; if so and four-digit numerals appear in figures or tables (again, especially in the columns of tables) along with numerals of five digits or more, the space will need to be added to preserve alignment (for more information on tables and figures, see Section 4.4.1).

The same principle applies to digits after the decimal point: after three digits counted from the left, a space is often used (‘1.479 6’ and ‘7.798 99’), but not always if there are only four digits after the decimal point (1.4796), and alignment should be preserved in tables and figures by adding the space to such four-digit numerals if numerals of five or more digits also appear. In some styles and/or disciplines, the number of digits that appear after the decimal point should be consistent across all numerals used in a particular context or table: if four digits is the maximum number of post-decimal digits in any numeral, all numerals should bear four digits after the decimal, and zeroes can be added to achieve this when necessary. This is by no means a uniform practice, however, so you may only want to apply it in your thesis if it is required by the guidelines you are following or conventional in your discipline. Finally, the decimal point, not the European decimal comma, is used in Arabic numerals in scholarly English prose (‘4.75’ for ‘four point seven five,’ not ‘4,75’). Generally speaking, decimal fractions should feature a zero before the decimal (0.683), especially if they are discussed in relation to quantities of 1.00 and more; if, however, the quantity never reaches 1.00 (as in probabilities and correlation coefficients), the initial zero can be omitted, and the same is the case in ballistics (a .22-calibre rifle).

Technical writing in a number of the sciences can present other formatting challenges and issues which I do not have time or space to cover here, but detailed advice can be found in a number of places. Chapter 13 of Butcher’s Copy-Editing (Butcher et al., 2006) deals with ‘Science and Mathematics Books,’ for instance, and features several sections focussing on numbers (Section 13.1.4 on equations, Section 13.2.5 on miscellaneous items and Section 13.3 on units), as well as separate discussions of astronomy, biology, chemistry, computing, geology and medicine; the chapter also includes an excellent list of references (pp.347–349) for further help while working in these disciplines. Chapter 14 of New Hart’s Rules (Ritter, 2005) focuses on ‘Science, Mathematics, and Computing’ with Section 14.1.3, for example, covering numerals and Section 14.1.4 dealing with units, while other sections provide advice on degrees, temperatures and so on; here, too, there are separate discussions of certain disciplines, including biology, medicine, chemistry, computing, mathematics and astronomy with helpful discussions of the complex formats and punctuation of numerals in these disciplines. Punctuation in the form of commas or spaces is not required at all, however, for numerals used for certain purposes, such as page, column and line numbers, house and hotel room numbers, and reference and library call or shelf numbers. The numerals used for years and eras generally do not feature punctuation either, except BP (Before Present) and long BC dates (for more information on the formats of dates, see Section 6.4.4).

Why PhD Success?

To Graduate Successfully

This article is part of a book called "PhD Success" which focuses on the writing process of a phd thesis, with its aim being to provide sound practices and principles for reporting and formatting in text the methods, results and discussion of even the most innovative and unique research in ways that are clear, correct, professional and persuasive.

how to write numbers in a thesis

The assumption of the book is that the doctoral candidate reading it is both eager to write and more than capable of doing so, but nonetheless requires information and guidance on exactly what he or she should be writing and how best to approach the task. The basic components of a doctoral thesis are outlined and described, as are the elements of complete and accurate scholarly references, and detailed descriptions of writing practices are clarified through the use of numerous examples.

how to write numbers in a thesis

The basic components of a doctoral thesis are outlined and described, as are the elements of complete and accurate scholarly references, and detailed descriptions of writing practices are clarified through the use of numerous examples. PhD Success provides guidance for students familiar with English and the procedures of English universities, but it also acknowledges that many theses in the English language are now written by candidates whose first language is not English, so it carefully explains the scholarly styles, conventions and standards expected of a successful doctoral thesis in the English language.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Individual chapters of this book address reflective and critical writing early in the thesis process; working successfully with thesis supervisors and benefiting from commentary and criticism; drafting and revising effective thesis chapters and developing an academic or scientific argument; writing and formatting a thesis in clear and correct scholarly English; citing, quoting and documenting sources thoroughly and accurately; and preparing for and excelling in thesis meetings and examinations. 

how to write numbers in a thesis

Completing a doctoral thesis successfully requires long and penetrating thought, intellectual rigour and creativity, original research and sound methods (whether established or innovative), precision in recording detail and a wide-ranging thoroughness, as much perseverance and mental toughness as insight and brilliance, and, no matter how many helpful writing guides are consulted, a great deal of hard work over a significant period of time. Writing a thesis can be an enjoyable as well as a challenging experience, however, and even if it is not always so, the personal and professional rewards of achieving such an enormous goal are considerable, as all doctoral candidates no doubt realise, and will last a great deal longer than any problems that may be encountered during the process.

how to write numbers in a thesis

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Rene Tetzner's blog posts dedicated to academic writing. Although the focus is on How To Write a Doctoral Thesis, many other important aspects of research-based writing, editing and publishing are addressed in helpful detail.

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The Essential – Preliminary Matter

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Writing academically: Numbers

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When using numbers in academic writing you need to decide if it’s more appropriate to use a numeral (e.g. 9) or to write the number in words (e.g. nine). It’s worth checking to see if your department has specific advice on this matter, because individual approaches do vary. In the absence of specific advice, here is some general guidance on the matter:

Basic numbers

  • Numbers  up to nine  should always be written in  words,  anything higher than nine can be written in numerals. Alternatively, some guides suggest that if you can write the number in two words or fewer then use words rather than numerals. If you are going to take this approach then you should include a hyphen when writing numbers with two words, e.g. twenty-seven.
  • For larger numbers, it is acceptable to use either numerals or words depending on context (e.g. a thousand people/1,000 people), but you should always use numerals in technical writing, e.g. 200,000 km. For less precise larger numbers, the written form is better (e.g. several thousand).

Measurements and decimals/fractions

  • Use numerals for units of measurement or time, e.g. 500 km, 10 minutes.
  • Always use numerals for decimals and fractions (e.g. 0.5 cm) unless the figures are vague (e.g. around half of the population).
  • Units of measurement that modify a noun should be hyphenated, e.g. a 3-year-old child.

Percentages

  • If you have expressed the number in words then follow the number by the word 'percent'. e.g. six percent.
  • If you have expressed the number as a numeral then follow the number with the symbol '%'. e.g. 24%.

Dates, money and time

  • Always use numerals for dates, e.g Monday 4 April, 2016.
  • Use numerals for money (e.g. His pocket money was exactly £1.00 per week) unless the amounts are vague (e.g. He earned well over a million last year).
  • Use numerals for indicating the precise time (e.g. 08:00), or words if the times indicated are vague (e.g. around eight o’clock). 

Combining numbers

  • If you need to combine two numbers that run together then use words for the shorter number and numerals for the longer number, e.g. a tower of 1000 ten-pence pieces. 

Starting sentences with numbers

  • Avoid starting a sentence with a numeral. Either write the number in words or rearrange your sentence. For example, “Three hundred and sixty-five days make one year” could become “There are 365 days in a year”. If you start a sentence with a year, write “The year” first e.g. “The year 1066 saw one of the most famous battles in English history”.
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Formatting Theses & Dissertations using Word 2010: Numbering

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Learn about making subsections and appendices easier to number

  • Customizing Your Numbers (different numbers in different places on the page on different pages)

Automatic Chapter and Subsection Numbering

Outline numbering in appendices, customizing your numbering, add different page numbers or number formats to different sections.

Let's say you want to use different page numbers or number formats and styles in different parts of your document. You could use page numbers such as i, ii, iii… for the introduction and table of contents and 1, 2, 3… for everything after. The trick is to divide the document into sections and to make sure those sections aren’t linked. Then, set the page numbering for  each  of those sections by following these steps.

Notes:  

If you're using Word Online, you can add page breaks but not section breaks. If you have the Word desktop application, use the  Open in Word  command to open the document. When you’re done and you save the document, it will continue to be stored where you opened it in Word Online. If you don’t have Word, you can  try  or  buy  it in the latest version of Office now.

Click at the very beginning of the first page where you want to start, stop, or change page numbering.

Choose  Layout  (or  Page Layout ) >  Breaks  >  Next Page .

The break options are shown on the Layout tab.

Tip:  You might find it helpful to see section breaks and other formatting marks as you type. On the  Home tab, in the  Paragraph  group, choose  Show/Hide  (¶) to turn on the display of formatting marks. Choose the button again to turn off the display.

On the page after the section break, double-click in the header (top of page) or footer (bottom of page) area where you want to display page numbers. This will open the  Design  tab under  Header & Footer Tools .

Click  Link to Previous  to deselect the button and disconnect your header or footer from the header or footer in the previous section.

The Link to Previous option is highlighted in Header & Footer Tools.

Note:  If  Link to Previous  is dimmed, it means there is no section break between the page you're on and the previous page. Make sure you've successfully added a section break (see step 2) and that you've opened the header for the appropriate section.

In the  Header & Footer  group, click  Page Number , pick a location, and then choose a style in the gallery.

In the Header and Footer group, choose Page Number, and then choose Current Position.

Note:  If your change only affects the first page of your section, make sure  Different First Page  is not selected. Double-click the header or footer area of the first page of the section, and look in the  Options group on the  Design  tab.

To choose a format or to control the starting number, in the  Header & Footer  group, choose  Page Number  >  Format Page Numbers  to open the  Page Number Format  dialog box.

The options in the Page Number Format dialog box are shown.

Do either or both of the following:

Click  Number format  to select the format for the numbering, such as a, b, c or i, ii, iii.

Under  Page numbering , choose  Start at  and type a number that you want to start the section with.

Tips:  

If you just want to change or delete the first page number of a section, double-click to open the header or footer on that page, and in the  Options  group on the  Design  tab, click  Different First Page . Then delete or format the first page number as you like.

You also can change the appearance of the page numbers. On the  Home  tab, choose  Font , and change, for example, the font style and family, and font size and color.

When you’re done, choose the  Close Header and Footer , or double-click anywhere outside the header or footer area to close it.

The Close Header and Footer option is highlighted on the Header and Footer Tools tab.

Format Page Number in Word 2010 and 2007 .

To Format the page numbering for different sections, follow these steps.  

  • Click between two parts of your document that you want to number differently.
  • on the  Page Layout Tab , Click  Breaks .
  • Click  Next Page ,  Even Page , or  Odd Page , and then click  OK .
  • Click in the first section of your document.
  • On the  Insert  Tab Click  Header  and then Click Ed it Header
  • Click in the header or footer where you want the page number
  • On the  Header & Footer Tools tab  Click  Page Number
  • Click The option that puts the page number where you would like
  • On the  Header & Footer Tolls tab  Click  Page Number
  • Click  Format Page numbers
  • In the  Number Format  box, click the format that you want for the numbers in this section.
  • Do one of the following:
  • If you want the page numbering for the first page in this section to start at a particular number other than the first number in the format series, click  Start at  under  Page numbering , and then enter the first number that you want to appear on the first page of the section.
  • If you want the page numbering to continue from the previous section, click Continue from previous section.
  • Click  OK
  • On the  Header and Footer  tools tab, click  Next  in the Navigation Group
  • Repeat steps 1 through 3 and 9 through 11 to change the page numbering for another section
  • On the  Header and Footer  tools tab, click  Close

Important Note: Not everyone needs this type of numbering; if your discipline doesn’t require it, skip this section!

Word can automatically number sections (Chapter 1, 1.1, 1.2, etc.) of your document and include the chapter number in the captions (Figure 1.2, 2.2, etc.).

  • Make sure each of your chapter titles are in the Heading 1 style, and then click on one of your chapter titles.
  • Click OK when you are finished.
  • If you typed in the text “Chapter #”, and now it is duplicating your efforts, delete the text you typed and leave the automatically generated chapter number.
  • To follow the automatically generated chapter number with the title of your chapter on a new line, click just before the text of your title, hold down the Shift key on the keyboard, and then press the Enter key.

Note: If you have any problems with word automatically adding outline numbering to parts of your front matter, simply delete it.  Your chapter numbers will reset to show the correct number of chapters.

Start Numbering on Page 2

How do i start page numbers on the second page of my word 2010 document.

Word 2010, by default, starts page numbers on the first page of a document. If the first page is a cover page, or a title page, then the second page of the document should be page 1.

  • Insert page numbers by clicking on the Insert tab and choosing Page Number in the Header & Footer tab. Then select the position of the numbering.
  • Because the new page numbers will be selected, the Design tab for Header & Footer Tools will appear. Under Options , select Different First Page . ( This will start page numbering page 2, but the second page will be labeled "2". This isn't what we wanted. There is an extra step to making this page say "1". )
  • While the Design tab for Header & Footer is still up, select Page Number in the Header & Footer group. Then choose Format Page Number .
  • The resulting window is shown to the right. Change the radial button at the bottom to Start at and type in 0 . Then click ok .

Follow the instructions at this link for roman numerals .

This was taken from the Just Tips webpage from the website for Mission Critical Training in Denver.

Customizing Your Numbers

If you want to change anything about the numbers – for example, you are using the 1.1, 1.2, etc. style but would like the word “Chapter” to display automatically in front of the Heading 1 number, you want to change Arabic numbers to Ordinal, or you want to change the spacing after the numbers, you can.

Click one of your headings, then go back to the Home Ribbon, and in the Paragraph Group click the Multilevel List icon (see screen shot above) and select Define New Multilevel List….   Click the More>> button, then select the relevant list level.

  • You can use the Number style for this level: pulldown menu to choose from a various styles, as seen in the screenshot (below the Enter formatting for number: box).
  • In the screenshot, with the Level on the left set at 1, we added the word “Chapter”. Moving to the second level, you can change the period in between the level and sublevel to a dash or anything you want in the Number format box.

You may also restart number for captions in your appendices or other separate areas of your dissertation.  You will need to change your outline numbering settings before inserting your captions.

We are going to do a variant of the steps above, but instead of defining new levels for your list, you will be editing the first level from this point forward. This should work, but sometimes Word acts up, and even though you’ve followed all the steps, it doesn’t take. If that happens, set up an appointment with the KNC and we’ll help you out.

  • Apply the Heading 1 style to the title of your Appendix.
  • On the Home Ribbon, go to the Paragraph Group , click the Multilevel List icon and select Define New Multilevel List….   Make sure the whole dialog box is showing by clicking on the More>> button (if it says <<Less instead, you are all set).
  • Under Enter formatting for new number :, replace “Chapter” with “Appendix.”
  • Choose the appropriate style, (such as A,B,C,… ) from the Number style for this level: pulldown menu.
  • Set the correct letter or number in the Start at: pulldown.
  • In the Apply changes to: pulldown, choose This point forward .
  • Click OK to close the dialog box.
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  • Next: Creating and Using Templates >>
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  • Academic essay overview
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Numbers In Academic Writing – APA Style Guidelines

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Numbers-in-academic-writing-Definition

Numbers are an imperative part of academic writing , serving as vital tools to represent quantitative data, statistical data, or measures in an accurate and precise manner. Numbers are used across various fields, including sciences, humanities, and business. However, adherence to specific rules is necessary in terms of using numbers effectively in academia, which vary depending on the style guide followed. This article will provide insights into how numbers are used appropriately.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

  • 1 Numbers in Academic Writing – In a Nutshell
  • 2 Definition: Numbers in academic writing
  • 3 Numbers in academic writing: Exceptions
  • 4 Numbers in academic writing: Percentages
  • 5 Numbers in academic writing: Statistical results
  • 6 Numbers in academic writing: Measurements
  • 7 Numbers in academic writing: Long numbers

Numbers in Academic Writing – In a Nutshell

  • Academic writing uses numbers in distinct ways depending on style guide.
  • Conventions apply to technical number writing and non-technical number writing.
  • Numbers are usually written out from one to nine, and numerals are used from 10.
  • Technical data and statistics should always appear as numerals for reference.

Definition: Numbers in academic writing

The APA Style is one of the most widely used academic writing styles and is largely adopted by the behavioral and social sciences. A number can be written both numerically or in words within this style.

Typically, a number from one to nine should be written out as words, while numbers from 10 and above should be written out numerically. This general rule also applies to ordinals (first, 10th). Some exceptions do apply, as found next in this article.

Other writing styles utilize different number rules. The Chicago style , for instance, requires numbers to be written out as words up to 100. The MLA style spells out all numbers that can be written within one or two words (three, one hundred, etc.).

Numbers in academic writing: Exceptions

Exceptions to the general rule above apply in the following cases:

1. All numbers should be represented numerically when they are detailing an exact unit of measurement.

  • The rock was chiseled 6 cm deep.

2. Write out numerals as words when they begin a sentence, except when dealing with specific years.

  • Eighteenth-century scientists advanced the practice of medicine
  • 1921 marked the discovery of insulin.

3. A number should be written out when dealing with fractions, set expressions, or other known numeric titles.

  • John Milton crafted the poem in 1626, also referred to as the Fifth of November poem.
  • According to sources, one-third of the English population perished from the Black Death.
  • Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four is set in an alternative world in the year 1984 .

Numbers in academic writing: Percentages

When dealing with percentages in the APA Style, use numerals followed by the percent sign % , instead of “percent” or the abbreviations, “pct.”, “pct,”, or “pc”.

  • The Spanish flu affected over 25% of the US population.

The same rule when beginning sentences with numerals applies to percentages, i.e., they should be written out as words when they start a sentence.

  • Twenty-five percent of the US population was affected.

Numbers in academic writing: Statistical results

Reporting statistics in APA and papers that deal with technical numerical language in qualitative research have their own rules.

Here, all data is written in numerals to remain consistent and easily digested. This applies to the main body, tables, and figures sections of a paper.

Other statistical conventions include:

  • Report the majority of statistics to two decimal places.
  • Report statistics that can’t exceed 1.0 to three decimal places.
  • For values that could exceed 1.0, use a leading zero. Those that can’t exceed 1.0 do not feature a leading zero.
  • Italicize statistical values that aren’t Greek letters. E.g. SD .
  • Spaces should be left before and after equal, more-than, and less-than signs.

Numbers in academic writing: Measurements

Always use numerals for units of measurement.

  • Ampules contain 100 mg in 2 ml .

Numerals should be used for precise ages, timescales, dates, score lines, points of scale, and monetary sums.

  • The final score was France 4 , and Croatia 2 .
  • The students were aged 18 to 21 years in the study.

Imprecise ages and generalizations are not numbered but written out.

  • She was roughly six years old based on his estimation.
  • The outcome will be approximately seven times .

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Numbers in academic writing: Long numbers

Longer numbers have their own set of rules. A period should be used to indicate a decimal point.

Commas are to be used to separate large figures every three digits after 1,000.

For sums exceeding 6 numerals, like 1 million and 1 billion, use a combination of numerals and written language.

  • HBO Max had 73.8 million subscribers in 2022.
  • This is a considerable growth from its 800,000 subscribers in 2015.

Should you write out numbers in academic writing?

As a general rule of thumb, numbers up to nine should be written out in the APA Style, while anything exceeding 10 should appear as numerals.

How are dates written in academic writing?

Dates are always written as numerals.

How are numbers expressed at the beginning of a sentence?

They are written out when they begin a sentence, except for dates and technical data.

Should I use the word "percent" or its symbol "%"?

The APA Style states that the symbol “%” should be used after numerals, while “percent” should be used for written-out figures.

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Microsoft Word for Dissertations

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Page Contents

Microsoft Word can automatically keep track of your chapter, section, and sub-section numbering for you. Using these numbering schemes will also allow your figure/diagram/table/equations to be automatically numbered, as well.

In this part of the Guide, you'll learn:

  • How to set Word to automatically number your Chapters and Sections
  • How to customize your number style ( Section 1.1 vs. Section 1.a or Section 01.01 )
  • How to automatically number Appendices

Automatic Chapter and Subsection Numbering

Important Note: Not everyone needs this type of numbering; if your discipline doesn’t require it, skip this section!

Word can automatically number sections (Chapter 1, 1.1, 1.2, etc.) of your document and include the chapter number in the captions (Figure 1.2, 2.2, etc.).

  • Make sure each of your chapter titles are in the Heading 1 style, and then click on one of your chapter titles.
  • Click OK when you are finished.
  • If you typed in the text “Chapter #”, and now it is duplicating your efforts, delete the text you typed and leave the automatically generated chapter number.
  • To follow the automatically generated chapter number with the title of your chapter on a new line, click just before the text of your title, hold down the Shift key on the keyboard, and then press the Enter key.

Note: If you have any problems with word automatically adding outline numbering to parts of your front matter, simply delete it.  Your chapter numbers will reset to show the correct number of chapters.

Removing the section numbering from our template

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Place your cursor in the title of your Chapter 1 (which is styled with the Heading 1 style)

how to write numbers in a thesis

In some cases, you may find that Word has added "Chapter X" before some of your Heading 1 sections that aren't chapters (like Acknowledgements or Bibliography). All you need to do is go to each of those sections, place your cursor after "Chapter X", and press Backspace to delete it.

Customizing Your Numbers

You have a lot of control over numbering. for example.

  • you can change the numbering scheme from  1.1, 1.2 , etc...  to   1.a, 1.b , etc...
  • you can change Arabic numbers (Chapter 1) to Ordinal (Chapter One)
  • you can put a colon or a tab after the numbers ("Chapter 1: ")

"The numbering scheme lives in the Heading 1"

It's easy to inadvertently create multiple numbering schemes in a document and not realize it.  So it's always best to start by placing your cursor in one of your chapter headings (Heading 1). That ensures that you're making changes to the active scheme.

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Use the Number style for this level: pulldown menu (A) to choose from various numeral or letter styles.
  • Under "Click level to modify" (B), in this screenshot we've selected level 1 (the Chapter level) and added the word “Chapter” and a space afterwards to the "Enter formatting for number" (C) field. 
  • Then you can modify the other levels (Level 2 would be for a section in a chapter and Level 3 for a sub-section, and of course Level 4 for a sub-sub-section). You can, for example, change the period in between the level and sub-level numbers to a dash or anything you want by making the change in the "Enter formatting for number" (C) field.
  • In the "Follow number with:" field (D), you may also see that a tab follows the number. We suggest you change that to a space. 

how to write numbers in a thesis

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Writing Numbers

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Although usage varies, most people spell out numbers that can be expressed in one or two words and use figures for numbers that are three or more words long. Note: If you are using a specific citation style, such as MLA or APA , consult the style manual for specific formatting instructions.

Here are some examples of specific situations:

Days and Years

Time of Day

Identification Numbers

Page and Division of Books and Plays

Decimals and Percentages

Large Round Numbers

Notes on Usage

Repeat numbers in commercial writing.

Use numerals in legal writing.

Numbers in series and statistics should be consistent.

Write out numbers beginning sentences.

Use a combination of figures and words for numbers when such a combination will keep your writing clear.

Library Subject Guides

4. writing up your research: thesis formatting (ms word).

  • Books on Thesis Writing
  • Thesis Formatting (MS Word)
  • Referencing
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Haere mai, tauti mai—welcome! These instructions are designed to be used with recent versions of MS Word. Please note there is no template or specific formatting guidelines for a thesis at UC. Please talk to your supervisor and take a look at theses in the UC Research Repository to see how they are usually formatted.

  • Where to start
  • Show/Hide Formatting
  • Heading Styles
  • Navigation Pane
  • Table of Contents
  • Numbered Headings
  • List of Figures/Tables
  • Page/Section Breaks, Page Numbering & Orientation

Word Thesis Formatting workshops run throughout the year.

Some useful documents.

  • Word Formatting Instructions PDF This PDF contains the same instructions that are available on this page.
  • Practice Thesis Document with No Formatting This pretend thesis file can be used to practise formatting. It is not a template for how to format a thesis . UC does not provide any guidelines on formatting a thesis.

Formatting in APA 7th Edition

For APA formatting advice see the official APA Style Blog's excellent Style and Grammar Guidelines . They cover most formatting topics with examples and sample papers, figures, and tables in Word documents you can download. Even more detail can be found in the Publication manual of the American Psychological Association that the Library has copies of.

Finding Examples

Look at examples and ask your supervisor.

The best guide on how to format your thesis is a combination of:

  • Looking at previous theses in your discipline. Search the UC Research Repository  for your subject or department, and browse by issue date to get the most recent.
  • Asking your supervisor for recommendations on specific formatting and details. 

General Recommendations

The following is an example only of preliminaries to the thesis that could be included.

  • Acknowledgements
  • List of Figures
  • List of Tables
  • Abbreviations
  • Toggle show Home ->Show/Hide formatting

how to write numbers in a thesis

Using styles for headings allows you to create an automatic table of contents.

  • Select major headings one at a time and choose Home ->Styles ‘Heading 1’

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Select subheadings and apply Home ->Styles ‘heading 2’ and ‘heading 3’
  • Modify a style by right clicking on it and choosing Modify in the styles pane at the top of the screen.

how to write numbers in a thesis

The Navigation Pain is useful for seeing the outline of your document as well as providing links to quickly go to any section of the document.

  • View->check Navigation Pane

how to write numbers in a thesis

In order to create an automatic table of contents heading styles must be used.

  • References -> Table of Contents -> Custom Table of Contents (no heading in table)

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Right click table of contents to ‘update field’ and choose ‘update entire table’

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Home->Multilevel list-> choose style with a number level for each heading level

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • To change the heading level 1 number to say ‘Chapter 1’ right click on heading level 1 in the styles area Heading 1->Modify .

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • In the modify screen click Format->Numbering.

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Then click ‘ Define New Number Format’.

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Then add the word ‘Chapter’ and a space before the ‘1’.

how to write numbers in a thesis

To create automatic lists of figures or tables you first have to give a caption to all your figures and tables.

  • Right click figure or table and select Insert Caption

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Choose Label type eg. Figure, Table etc
  • Choose position above or below
  • Give the table or figure a title in the top box
  • Go to the headings for List of Figures and List of tables and then click References->Insert Table of Figures -> select caption label type (Figure or Table)

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • On the following menu select caption label type (Figure or Table) and click OK

how to write numbers in a thesis

This can be used to have different page numbering styles of different sections of your document or to have certain pages landscape to display a large table or graph.

  • Insert a section break (next page) at the end of the title page ( Layout -> Breaks -> Next Page )

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Insert a section break at chapter 1 ( Layout -> Breaks -> Next Page )
  • Insert page breaks for all other ‘heading 1’ headings ( Layout -> Breaks -> Page )

Adding Page Numbers

  • Insert -> Page Number and choose a position on the page

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Double click on title page header or footer (top or bottom of the page) and tick ‘ Different First Page’ in the Design ribbon that appears

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Click in second page header or footer, right click on the page number and select ‘ format page numbers ’

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Select Roman numerals eg. ‘i, ii, iii, iv’ etc
  • Select start at ‘i’ (start at ‘1’)

how to write numbers in a thesis

  • Scroll to chapter 1 and change number style for this section back to ordinary numbers and start at 1

Change Page Orientation

  • Insert a section break before and after the pages you want to change to landscape orientation (See instructions above for inserting a section break)
  • Layout -> Orientation -> Landscape

NOTE:  A section break is usually only needed if page orientation or separate page numbers are required.

Workshops run throughout the year.
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Numbers in your thesis: Should you use words or numerals?

Even experienced writers find it tricky to decide how to handle numbers within the body of their thesis. To make matters worse, many style guides use very different formats. What is a student to do? This article provides tips that will help you handle this issue within your writing. These tips are based on the APA guidelines related to numbers.

The basic rules

Numbers can be written either as words (e.g., one hundred) or numerals (e.g., 100). The basic rule is to use words for numbers from zero through nine, and then numbers from 10 onwards. This is true for both cardinal numbers (e.g., two, 11) and ordinal numbers (e.g., second, 11 th ). However, there are some exceptions:

  • Use numerals for numbers from zero to nine that are followed by a precise unit of measurement or grouped together with a number that is ≥ 10.
The samples measured   cm in diameter. 
However, only   of the   were usable. 
These   samples were subjected to further testing.
  • Use words for any number that is used to start a sentence, with the exception of years.
 ink cartridges are sold every day.
 novels often feature complicated plot lines.
   saw record olive crops throughout the Mediterranean.
  • Use words for common fractions and set expressions.
According to the survey,   of the employees are dissatisfied.
Understanding the   is a critical first step.
The   is traditionally marked by a firework display.

Writing percentages

With percentages, the standard is to use numerals and “%” (not “percent”).

According to the report,   of the workforce is employed in the service sector. Only   currently work in agriculture.

The main exception is if you are using a percentage to begin a sentence. In this case, use words to express the entire percentage.

 of the patients reported that their symptoms improved after taking the experimental drug.

Reporting results that include numbers

If your thesis includes quantitative research, you probably have data to report. Statistics, mathematical functions, ratios, and percentages are all written using numerals. This is true regardless if they are included within a table or as part of the actual text. Keep the following guidelines in mind:

  • Report most statistics to two decimal places (such as  M  = 5.44).
  • Report statistics that could never exceed 1.0 to three decimal places (such as  p  < .001).
  • Report percentages and degrees of freedom as whole numbers (such as 73%).
  • Italicize values that are not Greek letters (such as  M ,  SD ,  p , and  F ).
  • Include spaces before and after =, >, and <.
The average IQ of the participants was relatively high (  = 137.33,  = 4.54).
The results of the second test were statistically significant,  (12) = 4.11,   < .05.

Writing numbers that are accompanied by measurements

If a number comes immediately before a unit of measurement, use numerals.

Each patient received a   dosage of the experimental drug.
The tallest participant was  .

Also use numerals for precise ages, times, dates, scores, points on a scale, and amounts of money.

The final score of   did not represent a decisive victory.
Children under   receive a   discount.
 Most girls start reading when they are   old. (“about” makes the number imprecise)

Writing long numbers

Longer numbers follow specific rules:

  • Use a period to indicate a decimal point.
  • Starting with 1,000, use commas to separate every three digits.
  • Starting with a million, use a combination of numerals and words.
The region has an average of   doctors for every   people.
Some predict that the number of users will reach   by 2020.

Consistency may not be obvious

One of the main reasons why writing numbers is complicated is that consistently applying the rules may lead to a text that actually seems very  in consistent. Consider the following paragraphs:

At about the age of  , the girl’s height was  m. This placed her in the   percentile, although her weight placed her in the top   of her class. By the time she was   years old, she was taller than  of the boys in her year.   years later, she was still ranked  .
 viewers watched the performance of Shakespeare’s   from the park, while another   watched from the surrounding buildings and  watched it on television. As  out of every   residents saw at least part of the play, this   event can definitely be considered a success.

These texts may look awkward because so many different number formats have been used, but don’t be deceived – the above guidelines have all been followed.

If you are not required to strictly follow a particular style (such as APA), you may have some flexibility to modify the guidelines presented in this article. Just be sure to apply any modifications you make throughout your entire document.

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How to write large numbers in a scientific thesis?

I know the rule of thumb is to write out numbers 1–10 in words but what if the number has a decimal (i.e 3.4 million)? And if I write it as 3.4 million don’t I have to write the other numbers, for consistency, as 1 million, 2 million and so on?

Dahlia 's user avatar

  • Use scientific notation : 3.4x10^6. –  user68958 Commented Sep 22, 2018 at 9:24
  • Are you using LaTeX? Use siunitx package, you can specify all the formatting details consistently. –  Oleg Lobachev Commented Sep 22, 2018 at 9:53
  • No I’m actually editing the thesis for another student but it’s the first time I’ve come across a thesis that uses large numbers –  Dahlia Commented Sep 23, 2018 at 6:29

If it's a measurement, or another number where precision is key, I'd prefer just numbers, possibly using powers of ten, or standard prefixes - e.g. a resistance of 3.4MΩ. Otherwise, I don't think there are any solid rules on this. Some do indeed suggest consistently writing numbers like "1 million", whereas others say "one million" for the round numbers.

Personally, I wouldn't worry too much about achieving consistency throughout an entire thesis. Focus instead on making the text flow well from one instant to the next. Maybe using words in the introduction, and numerals in later chapters would fit your thesis best? The style should be certainly be consistent within a sentence, and possibly a paragraph, to avoid confusion. However, unless you have to follow a really strict style guide no one really cares beyond that.

Anyon's user avatar

  • It’s with reference to currency and populations –  Dahlia Commented Sep 23, 2018 at 6:27

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how to write numbers in a thesis

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Dissertation layout and formatting

Published on October 21, 2015 by Koen Driessen . Revised on February 20, 2019.

The layout requirements for a dissertation are often determined by your supervisor or department. However, there are certain guidelines that are common to almost every program, such as including page numbers and a table of contents.

If you are writing a paper in the MLA citation style , you can use our  MLA format guide .

Table of contents

Font, font size, and line spacing, tables and figures, referencing, paragraph marks, headers and footers, page numbering, dissertation printing.

Use a clear and professional font. Some examples include Verdana, Times New Roman, and Calibri (which is the default font in Microsoft Word). Font size is best set to 10 or 11.

In scientific articles and theses, a line spacing of 1.15 or 1.5 is generally preferred, as it makes the document more readable and enables your supervisor to post comments between the lines of text.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

how to write numbers in a thesis

With tables, the number and title should be placed above; with figures and all other illustrations, the number and title should be placed below.

Microsoft Word has a feature that can help you to automatically place these numbers and titles in the correct position. Select the graphic, right-click, and choose “Insert Caption…” In the dialogue box that appears, specify whether it is a table or figure and enter a title. Once you click “Okay,” the number and the title will be generated in the right place.

Another advantage of using this Word feature to label your graphics is that you will later be able to generate lists of tables and figures with a push of a button.

Different heading styles are frequently used to help the reader differentiate between chapters, sections, and subsections of your dissertation. For instance, you may choose to bold all chapter headings but to italicize all lower-level headings.

Once you decide on the scheme you will use, it is important that you apply it consistently throughout your entire dissertation. Using the “Styles” feature of Microsoft Word can be very helpful in this regard. After you have created a heading, just highlight it and select a style (such as Heading 1 or Heading 2) from the home tool bar. Keeping a list may help you keep track of what style to use when.

Citing sources in a correct and appropriate manner is crucial in a dissertation, as failing to do so can make you guilty of plagiarism . It is important that these references follow certain standards.

The APA standard is most commonly used. After realizing how difficult it is to create correctly formatted citations manually, we developed the APA Citation Generator  to assist you. You can use this free and simple tool to easily generate citations that follow the official APA style.

We also recommend that you use a plagiarism scanner to check for unintended plagiarism.

Paragraph marks in Word

Using the “Show paragraph marks” feature can help you to avoid this scenario. To turn it on, click on the paragraph symbol in your home tool bar (as shown in the above illustration). A black paragraph symbol will then be shown after every paragraph and “hard return” in your document, which allows you to see how the layout is constructed.

This can be very helpful when you are trying to determine the cause of mysterious jumps and other problems.

Headers and footers can give your dissertation a very professional look. They also make it immediately clear to readers what document is before them.

A header or footer can be added by double-clicking respectively at the top or bottom of a page in your document. There are generally no firm rules about what you must include; the following are common choices:

  • The name/logo of your home educational institution
  • The name/logo of the company or organization where you completed a placement
  • The title of your dissertation (which may be shortened if necessary)
  • Page numbers

Page numbers are commonly placed in the lower right-hand corner of the page. They can easily be added by simply creating a footer. Bear in mind that a page number is usually not included on the title page of a dissertation.

  • To ensure that the page numbering doesn’t start on the cover page, but the numbering begins on page 1, place the cursor on the bottom of the page where you want to start with page numbering (if you want to start on page 2, click at the bottom of the first page).
  • Next go to “Page layout” and then “Breaks”. Next, choose the submenu “Next page”.
  • Switch to the side, where the numbering should begin (in this case, page 2). In the edit mode of the header or footer, choose “link to previous”, after that click on “Move to footer” and click on the “Link to previous” again.
  • Now, to add a page number, click on the “Insert” tab, then on the “Header and footer” group, and then click “Page number”. Now you can also choose where the page number should be (top of the page, bottom of the page or page margins) and you can choose a design.
  • Finally select the option “format page number” and enter the page numbers, in what page you want the numbering to begin. After you have pressed “ok”, the page number then begins with the number from the previously selected break.

A clear and well-presented title page is a nice finishing touch for your dissertation. Certain information should be included here by default. We have prepared a separate article on title pages that includes a handy checklist you can use to make sure you don’t forget anything.

Always make sure that everything in your dissertation is in the correct order and placed in the appropriate chapter. More information on how to put your document together can be found in our article on structure a dissertation .

If you are interested in seeing how other students have tackled preparing their theses, you may find it useful to check out these dissertation examples .

The last step is usually to prepare a hardcopy of your final document. There are many issues to think about, such as whether you will make it single- or double-sided.

Before you print, however, we recommend that you check one last time that your document meets all of the below requirements!

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Driessen, K. (2019, February 20). Dissertation layout and formatting. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/tips/dissertation-layout-and-formatting/

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Koen Driessen

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While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.  

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence) 

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.  

Arguable thesis with analytical claim 

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.  

Arguable thesis with normative claim 

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.  

Questions to ask about your thesis 

  • Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?  
  • Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?  
  • Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?  
  • Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?  
  • Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
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How to insert page numbers: apa 7th edition guidelines, published by steve tippins on january 17, 2022 january 17, 2022.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 02:56 am

There are straightforward guidelines for inserting page numbers according to APA 7th edition guidelines. To start with, here are the basics:

  • The numbers should be put in a header at the top right of the page.
  • They should be the same font and size as the rest of your paper.
  • Number the first page, with a 1. Thereafter, each of the subsequent pages will be numbered automatically.
  • Do not write “page” or “p.” or “pp.”

Here are step-by-step instructions for inserting APA page numbers, with screenshots to guide your way.

Inserting Numeral Page Numbers

Step 1: Open the “Header & Footer” tab in the header, click on Insert and select “Page Number.”

To insert page numbers, first click the page number button on the far right

Step 2: If you want to have a different first page and do not want number 1 to appear on this page, then click on “Different First Page.”

You may wish to click "different first page" depending on which page you want it the page numbers to start on

Step 3: From the drop-down list, choose “Top of Page.” Next, choose “Plain Number 3.”

click "top of page" for APA page numbers

Step 4: Click on “Close Header and Footer” in the ribbon.

Over 50% of doctoral candidates don’t finish their dissertations.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Inserting Roman Numeral Page Numbers

If you need to paginate front matter material, such as an abstract, acknowledgments, or table of contents, the process is a little different.

Step 1: Insert a section break between the front material and Chapter 1.

Step 2: In the “Layout” tab, click on the drop-down arrow beside “Breaks.”

Step 3: Click on “Next Page” in “Section Breaks.”

click the dropdown menu beside "breaks" and then click "next page" under the "section breaks" heading.

Step 4: Repeats steps 1 or 2 above. In the drop-down list, open “Format Page Numbers.”

click on "format page numbers"

Step 5: Select “Roman” in the “Page Number Format” part of the drop-down list.

Step 6: On the first page of Chapter 1, repeat the above process. This is when you begin to start numbering the pages of your Chapter 1 using numerals 1, 2, 3, etc. To paginate Chapter 1 as page 1, choose “Start at,” and then put in the number 1.

click on the dropdown menu on "number format" and then, at the bottom of the menu below "page numbering," select "start at" and choose the appropriate page

Note : For more information, refer to Section 2.18 of the APA Publication Manual , Seventh Edition.

For help with APA style and much more, check out our Dissertation Editing Services or book a free consultation .

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Guidelines for Chapter Numbering in a Thesis: How to Structure and Order Your Research

Writing a thesis requires meticulous planning and organization. one crucial aspect of presenting your research in a coherent manner is chapter numbering. properly structuring and ordering your thesis chapters will not only enhance the readability of your work but also demonstrate your research skills. in this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to effectively number your thesis chapters..

Guidelines for Chapter Numbering in a Thesis: How to Structure and Order Your Research

Why is Chapter Numbering Important in a Thesis?

Chapter numbering serves several purposes in a thesis:

  • It facilitates easy navigation for readers and reviewers.
  • It creates a logical flow and structure for your research.
  • It allows readers to locate specific information or sections within your thesis quickly.
  • It showcases your organizational skills and attention to detail.

General Guidelines for Numbering Thesis Chapters

Follow these guidelines to ensure clarity and consistency:

  • Start with numbering from Chapter 1: Begin your chapter numbering with Chapter 1 instead of Chapter 0. This signifies the start of your thesis.
  • Use Arabic numerals: Number your chapters using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) and avoid using Roman numerals (I, II, III) or alphabetical numbering.
  • Avoid duplicate numbering: Ensure that each chapter has a unique number. Do not assign the same number to multiple chapters.
  • Number your chapters in consecutive order: Follow a sequential order for chapter numbering. This helps readers understand the logical progression of your research.
  • Consider using decimal numbering: If your research requires a more nuanced breakdown, you can use decimal numbering (e.g., Chapter 2.1, Chapter 2.2). However, use this approach sparingly and only when necessary to avoid excessive complexity.

Special Cases: Preliminary and Appendices Chapters

While most thesis chapters follow a conventional numbering structure, there are a few exceptions to consider:

  • Preliminary chapters: The preliminary sections, such as the abstract, acknowledgments, and table of contents, should not be numbered. However, you can assign them lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, etc.) or use a separate style (e.g., Roman number format).
  • Appendices: Appendices are additional sections that provide supplementary information but are not an integral part of the main thesis. You can choose to number appendices as A, B, C or use alphanumeric combinations (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B.1).

Final Thoughts

Proper chapter numbering in your thesis is essential for maintaining clarity and ensuring a smooth reading experience for your audience. By following the guidelines provided in this blog post, you can structure and order your research effectively, leaving a positive impression on your readers and evaluators.

Remember, maintaining consistency and logical progression in your chapter numbering reinforces the professionalism and academic integrity of your thesis. So, take the time to plan and organize your chapters meticulously, and you will have a well-structured, cohesive thesis that effectively communicates your research findings.

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Answered By: Jeff Beuck Last Updated: Apr 03, 2020     Views: 1486634

See Also:  How do I add page numbers in Microsoft Word?

To use different page numbering schemes in different sections of your Word document, there are two tricks: 1) you must include a "Section Break - Next page" between each section of your document where the numbering will change, and 2) you must "unlink" each section's footer from the one before it.

To start, temporarily turn on the viewing of hidden formatting symbols by clicking the "Show/Hide" symbol on the "Home" tab in the "Paragraph" box -- this will enable you to see the Section Breaks between sections of your document.

how to write numbers in a thesis

One of the required page numbering changes for your thesis or dissertation is that you need to use Roman numerals (e.g., "i, ii, iii") for your introductory sections (Abstract, Table of Contents), and then switch to Arabic numerals (e.g., "1, 2, 3") and begin the page numbering at "1" at the start of Chapter I of your main text.

If you do not already have a "Section Break" between these two sections of your document, you will need to add one.  Place your cursor at the very end of the text in the first section (after your Table of Contents and any Lists of Tables and Figures), being careful NOT to place it in the footer where the page number is (if the text above becomes grayed out, you are in the footer – try clicking higher).

how to write numbers in a thesis

Add a "Section Break – Next Page" by selecting the "Page Layout" tab on the menu, clicking the arrow next to "Breaks", and selecting "Next Page" under Section Breaks.

how to write numbers in a thesis

After doing this, you should see a "Section Break (Next Page)" code inserted into your document.  This tells Word that the next page begins a new section which may have a different header or footer.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Go down to the next page below the section break (in this example, the first page of Chapter I), and click on the page number in the Footer.  If your cursor is in the Footer, you should see "Footer -Section [#]-" to the left, and "Same as Previous" on the right.

how to write numbers in a thesis

You should also see a new tab appear on the menu, labeled "Header & Footer Tools: Design".  Select this.  (Be careful not to confuse this with another tab labeled "Design" between the "Insert" and "Page Layout" tabs.)  In the "Navigation" section of this tab, you will see a highlighted button labeled "Link to Previous" which tells Word to link the footer in this section to the previous section and to continue its page numbering scheme.  Click the "Link to Previous" button to UNSELECT it.

how to write numbers in a thesis

After clicking this, the "Link to Previous" button should no longer be highlighted.  The "Same as Previous" box to the right of your footer should also disappear.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Confirm your cursor is still next to the page number in the Footer, then go back to the Header & Footer Tools – Design tab on the menu, and in the "Header & Footer" section, select Page Number > Format Page Numbers.

how to write numbers in a thesis

The "Page Number Format" window will appear.  Select the appropriate "Number format" for this section ("1, 2, 3," or "i, ii, iii", etc.), and tell Word whether to continue the page numbering from the previous section or to start at "1" or another number.  In this example, we want Section 2 (which begins at Chapter I and contains the main text of our thesis or dissertation) to use Arabic numerals and to start numbering this section from page 1.  Click "OK" to finish.

how to write numbers in a thesis

You will notice that the page numbering for the current section has now been corrected, and if you unlinked it properly from the previous sections, the numbering in those sections should remain as it was before.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Next, you will need to change the page number format to lower-case Roman numerals (i.e., "i, ii, iii, ...") for the section with your Abstract and Table of Contents.  Click your cursor on the footer of your Abstract or Table of Contents page.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Open the "Format Page Numbers" window by going to the Header & Footer Tools – Design tab on the menu, and in the "Header & Footer" section, select Page Number > Format Page Numbers.

Next to "Number format", select the "i, ii, iii, ..." option for lower-case Roman numerals, then click "OK".

how to write numbers in a thesis

The page numbering for the section with your Abstract and Table of Contents should change to lower-case Roman numerals.  As long as you correctly unlinked the following section from this one, the page numbering in the following section, the main body of your text, should remain Arabic numerals starting with 1.

how to write numbers in a thesis

You will also need to remove page numbers completely from the title page and other preliminary pages of your thesis or dissertation.  To do this, you will use the same method as above, but delete the page numbers from the first section of your document.

Place your cursor at the very end of the last page which will not be numbered (probably your approval page, dedication, or acknowledgment), being careful NOT to place it in the footer where the page number is (if the text above becomes grayed out, you are in the footer – try clicking higher).

how to write numbers in a thesis

After doing this, you should see a "Section Break (Next Page)" code inserted into your document on the page before your Abstract.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Go down to the next page below the section break (in this example, the Abstract), and click on the page number in the Footer.  If your cursor is in the Footer, you should see "Footer -Section [#]-" to the left, and "Same as Previous" on the right. Be sure you are not in Section 1 of your document.

how to write numbers in a thesis

On the main menu, select the "Header & Footer Tools: Design" tab, then in the "Navigation" section of this tab, click the "Link to Previous" button if it is highlighted to UNSELECT it and unlink this section from the section above.  This will allow you to modify the page number in the first section without affecting this or subsequent sections.

Return to your Title Page (or any page in Section 1 which will not be numbered) and click on the page number in the footer.  Click-and-drag your cursor over the page number to select it.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Click the "Delete" key on your keyboard to delete the page number from this section.  As long as you removed the "Link to Previous" connection from the next section, you should the page number disappear from the first section, but remain in the following sections.

how to write numbers in a thesis

If your paper includes additional sections (for example, if your Approval Page was added as a separate section from your Title page), you may have to experiment with linking and unlinking sections from each other -- unlink a section if its page numbering will be different from the one before it, but link together any sections where the page numbering will continue from the one before it.  It is generally a good idea to start with the last section of your document and work your way backwards.

When you are finished, don't forget that you can hide the formatting symbols to make it easier to view your text by turning off the "Show/Hide" symbol on the "Home" tab in the "Paragraph" box.

how to write numbers in a thesis

Footer Sections and page numbering can be very complex, especially if your document has multiple sections.  If you need additional assistance getting your page numbering correct, contact Jeff Beuck at 216-523-7486 to set up an appointment.

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  • Does anyone know how to do this with page numbers in the main body of the document rather than the header/footer? by John on Jun 19, 2020
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  • Can we also change the total number of pages? I tried using this and it does restart the page number but the total number of pages do not change. by Mayur on Jul 13, 2022
  • You have been super helpful, thank you. by Chichi on Jul 13, 2022
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  • Thanks, got to understand section break for different page number by Rashil Maharjan on Jan 08, 2023
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  • Thank you so much. I struggled with this numbering on my previous degree, now I know. I am already applying the knowledge gained on my current thesis. Many thanks indeed! by Edmore on Mar 30, 2023
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  • To the person who created this how-to guide, THANK YOU. This was perfect in every way. Thank you so much for making this available to us all. by supermegstar on Apr 23, 2023
  • This is great for section numbering, for which I've added to the bottom of the page. Now, is it possible to add an overall document page number to the top of the page? Essentially, have two different page numbering systems in the same document. by Abbi on Apr 26, 2023
  • Super helpful and saved so much time troubleshooting! I went through every step exactly and was able to finally get it! by Haley Cari on May 12, 2023
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  • it is indeed helpful to me. I was about to pay for it to be done for me. I was reluctant to give out my work to an external person to avoid data misplacement. Thank you a million. by Adeduntan on May 20, 2023
  • Thanks a lot. Best concise guide! by Stan on May 27, 2023
  • Finally, with these instructions, I did it. Thanks by Bernice-kay on May 28, 2023
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  • Amazing!! Thanks Jeff Beuck, this is very helpful. by Sine on Jun 07, 2023
  • thank you so much by Lillian on Jun 11, 2023
  • Starting a new format of paging after the preface was daunting. I tried for a long time to have it done until after got How to do pages differently in the previous section on Ask library. by Loding Joseph on Jun 12, 2023
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  • very helpful thankyou so much by Mrs G on Jun 29, 2023
  • Thank you so much for your online lessen. It is very easy to understand the way you presented. I used it at the time when I badly needed it. Nice and supportive material. by Eyob Getachew on Jul 02, 2023
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  • You, my man, are a lifesaver. Thank you so much for this. I needed this like yesterday and all other tutorials are just not working for me for some reason. Thank you and I hope you have a nice day or night wherever you are in the world. by Cw on Jul 11, 2023
  • Thank you 😊, was a relief indeed. Perfect and comprehensive instructions. by Nana Akomea on Jul 29, 2023
  • This was really helpful. Thank you so much by Divine Yancho on Aug 02, 2023
  • This saves me from materials I've searched for decates. I really appreciate. by Mohammed Amin on Aug 12, 2023
  • Thank you so much for the valuable tutorial! by Basil on Aug 16, 2023

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How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

In this citation guide, you will learn how to reference and cite an undergraduate thesis, master’s thesis, or doctoral dissertation. This guide will also review the differences between a thesis or dissertation that is published and one that has remained unpublished. The guidelines below come from the 7th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2020a), pages 333 and 334. Please note that the association is not affiliated with this guide.

Alternatively, you can visit EasyBib.com for helpful citation tools to cite your thesis or dissertation .

Guide Overview

Citing an unpublished thesis or dissertation, citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation: reference overview, what you need.

Since unpublished theses can usually only be sourced in print form from a university library, the correct citation structure includes the university name where the publisher element usually goes.

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution.

Ames, J. H., & Doughty, L. H. (1911). The proposed plans for the Iowa State College athletic field including the design of a reinforced concrete grandstand and wall [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.

In-text citation example:

  • Parenthetical :  (Ames & Doughty, 1911)
  • Narrative :  Ames & Doughty (1911)

If a thesis or dissertation has been published and is found on a database, then follow the structure below. It’s similar to the format for an unpublished dissertation/thesis, but with a few differences:

  • The institution is presented in brackets after the title
  • The archive or database name is included

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name.

Examples 1:

Knight, K. A. (2011). Media epidemics: Viral structures in literature and new media (Accession No. 2013420395) [Doctoral dissertation, University of California, Santa Barbara]. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing.

Example dissertation-thesis

Trotman, J.B. (2018). New insights into the biochemistry and cell biology of RNA recapping (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses & Dissertations Center.

In the example given above, the dissertation is presented with a Document Number (Document No.). Sometimes called a database number or publication number, this is the identifier that is used by the database’s indexing system. If the database you are using provides you with such a number, then include it directly after the work’s title in parentheses.

If you are interested in learning more about how to handle works that were accessed via academic research databases, see Section 9.3 of the Publication Manual.

In-text citation examples :

  • Parenthetical citation : (Trotman, 2018)
  • Narrative citation : Trotman (2018)

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year Published). Title in sentence case [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL

Kim, O. (2019). Soviet tableau: cinema and history under late socialism [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. https://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

Stiles, T. W. (2001). Doing science: Teachers’ authentic experiences at the Lone Star Dinosaur Field Institute [Master’s thesis, Texas A&M University]. OAKTrust. https://hdl.handle.net/1969.1/ETD-TAMU-2001-THESIS-S745

It is important to note that not every thesis or dissertation published online will be associated with a specific archive or collection. If the work is published on a private website, provide only the URL as the source element.

In-text citation examples:

  • Parenthetical citation : (Kim, 2019)
  • Narrative citation : Kim (2019)
  • Parenthetical citation : (Stiles, 2001)
  • Narrative citation : Stiles (2001)
Unpublished Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution Ames, J.H., & Doughty, L.H (1911). [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.
Published from a database Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name. Trotman, J.B. (2018). (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Thesis & Dissertations Center
Published online but not from a database Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL Kim, O. (2019). [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

dissertation and thesis Citations for APA 7

We hope that the information provided here will serve as an effective guide for your research. If you’re looking for even more citation info, visit EasyBib.com for a comprehensive collection of educational materials covering multiple source types.

If you’re citing a variety of different sources, consider taking the EasyBib citation generator for a spin. It can help you cite easily and offers citation forms for several different kinds of sources.

To start things off, let’s take a look at the different types of literature that are classified under Chapter 10.6 of the Publication Manual :

  • Undergraduate thesis
  • Master’s thesis
  • Doctoral dissertation

You will need to know which type you are citing. You’ll also need to know if it is published or unpublished .

When you decide to cite a dissertation or thesis, you’ll need to look for the following information to use in your citation:

  • Author’s last name, and first and middle initials
  • Year published
  • Title of thesis or dissertation
  • If it is unpublished
  • Publication or document number (if applicable; for published work)
  • Degree type (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral)
  • Thesis or dissertation
  • Name of institution awarding degree
  • DOI (https://doi.org/xxxxx) or URL (if applicable)

Since theses and dissertations are directly linked to educational degrees, it is necessary to list the name of the associated institution; i.e., the college, university, or school that is awarding the associated degree.

To get an idea of the proper form, take a look at the examples below. There are three outlined scenarios:

  • Unpublished thesis or dissertation
  • Published thesis or dissertation from a database
  • Thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database

American Psychological Association. (2020a). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

American Psychological Association. (2020b). Style-Grammar-Guidelines. https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/citations/basic-principles/parenthetical-versus-narrative

Published August 10, 2012. Updated March 24, 2020.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

APA Formatting Guide

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To cite a published thesis in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, publication year, title of the thesis, institute name, archive name, and URL (uniform resource locator). The templates for an in-text citation and reference list entry of a thesis, along with examples, are given below:

In-text citation template and example:

Use the author surname and the publication year in the in-text citation.

Author Surname (Publication Year)

Cartmel (2007)

Parenthetical:

(Author Surname, Publication Year)

(Cartmel, 2007)

Reference list entry template and example:

The title of the thesis is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose the thesis and the institute awarding the degree inside brackets following the publication year. Then add the name of the database followed by the URL.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the thesis [Master’s thesis, Institute Name]. Name of the Database. URL

Cartmel, J. (2007). Outside school hours care and schools [Master’s thesis, Queensland University of Technology]. EPrints. http://eprints.qut.edu.au/17810/1/Jennifer_Cartmel_Thesis.pdf

To cite an unpublished dissertation in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, year, title of the dissertation, and institute name. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of an online thesis, along with examples, are given below:

Author Surname (Year)

Averill (2009)

(Author Surname, Year)

(Averill, 2009)

The title of the dissertation is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose “Unpublished doctoral dissertation” inside brackets following the year. Then add the name of the institution awarding the degree.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the dissertation [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Name of the Institute.

Averill, R. (2009). Teacher–student relationships in diverse New Zealand year 10 mathematics classrooms: Teacher care [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Victoria University of Wellington.

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How to Master Your Thesis Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Student organizing thesis notes at a desk.

Creating a thesis outline can seem like a big job, but it's a crucial first step in organizing your thoughts and research. This guide will walk you through each step of making a clear and detailed thesis outline. By following these steps, you can make the writing process smoother and more manageable.

Key Takeaways

  • Pick a research topic that interests you to stay motivated throughout your thesis journey.
  • A well-structured outline acts as a roadmap, guiding you through your research and writing process.
  • Regularly update your outline as your research progresses to keep it aligned with your objectives.
  • Use index cards to organize and visualize your ideas before writing them down.
  • Seek feedback from advisors and peers to refine and improve your outline.

Choosing a Research Topic

Identifying your interests.

Start by thinking about what excites you. Pick a topic that you find fun and fulfilling. This will keep you motivated throughout your research. Make a list of subjects you enjoy and see how they can relate to your field of study. Is the topic interesting to you? This is a crucial question to ask yourself.

Evaluating the Scope of the Topic

Once you have a few ideas, check if they are too broad or too narrow. A good topic should be manageable within the time you have. Ask yourself if you can cover all aspects of the topic in your thesis. Does the research topic fit the assignment? This is an important consideration.

Aligning Your Outline with Research Objectives

Ensure that your chosen topic aligns with your research objectives. This will help you stay focused and organized throughout your research process. Make sure there is enough information on the topic , but not too much. This balance is key to a successful thesis.

Establishing a Foundation: Crafting a Thesis Outline

Purpose and importance of a structured outline.

When you start working on your thesis, a well- structured outline is your guide. It helps you organize your ideas and ensures that each part of your thesis is clear and aligned with your research goals. This framework is essential for keeping your arguments focused and making your research impactful.

By following a structured outline, you can manage your time and resources better. It acts as a support system for your research process , helping you tackle complex topics without losing sight of your objectives. Here are some key reasons why a structured outline is crucial:

  • It organizes your thoughts and research findings.
  • It helps to prevent deviation from your research scope.
  • It ensures that your thesis statement is prominently featured, guiding the direction of your study.

Key Components of a Thesis Outline

A strong thesis outline includes several key components. These elements help you structure your research and present your findings logically. Here are the main parts of a thesis outline:

  • Introduction : Introduces the topic and presents the thesis statement.
  • Literature Review : Surveys existing research and situates your work within the scholarly conversation.
  • Methodology : Outlines the research methods and justifies their use.
  • Results : Presents the findings of your research.
  • Discussion : Interprets the results and discusses their implications.

Creating a Detailed Outline with Index Cards

Using index cards can be a practical way to create a detailed thesis outline. Write down each major point or section on a separate card. This method allows you to easily rearrange and organize your ideas. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Write each main idea or section on an index card.
  • Include subpoints or details on separate cards and place them under the relevant main idea.
  • Arrange the cards in a logical order that flows well.
  • Review and revise the order as needed to ensure coherence and clarity.

This approach helps you visualize the structure of your thesis and makes it easier to make adjustments as your research progresses.

Mastering the Literature Review

Utilizing the literature navigator.

Starting your literature review can be overwhelming, but the Literature Navigator can help you manage the process. This tool is designed to save you time, access quality sources, and prevent plagiarism. Follow these steps to make the most of it:

  • Begin with a preliminary review using multidisciplinary databases like ProQuest.
  • Identify key references and trace their citations to understand the evolution of thought around your topic.
  • Refine your approach by reviewing background information and consulting with a librarian if necessary.
  • Prepare a detailed outline for your paper, laying the foundation for an in-depth review.

Remember, the process of finding, evaluating, and selecting literature is not linear. Use tools like the Search Planner to keep your research organized. By following these steps and utilizing the Literature Navigator, you can ensure that your literature review is thorough and methodically structured, reflecting a clear understanding of your research area.

Synthesizing Existing Research

Synthesizing research findings is a crucial step in your thesis journey. It involves merging individual pieces of information to form a coherent understanding of your research topic. State your conclusions clearly , ensuring they reflect a synthesis of the research problem, your questions, findings, and the relevant literature. This process not only shows your grasp of the topic but also how your work contributes to the field.

When preparing your synthesis, consider the following steps:

  • Review your initial literature search results .
  • Identify gaps and how they influence your study's approach.
  • Structure your discussion logically, prioritizing significant findings.
  • Interpret data cautiously, avoiding over-interpretation.

Identifying Gaps in the Literature

Identifying gaps in the literature is essential for positioning your research within the academic community. Start by reviewing the existing body of work to find areas that have not been explored or need further investigation. This can be done by:

  • Analyzing the scope and limitations of current studies.
  • Looking for inconsistencies or contradictions in the findings.
  • Noting any emerging trends or new areas of interest.

By pinpointing these gaps, you can justify the need for your research and highlight its potential impact. This step is crucial for demonstrating the originality and relevance of your thesis.

Navigating the Research Terrain: Formulating Research Questions

Colorful roadmap with research tools and symbols.

Clarifying Research Objectives

Before diving into your research, it's crucial to clarify your research objectives . These objectives will guide your study and ensure that you stay on track. Start by asking yourself what you aim to achieve with your research. Are you looking to explore a new area, fill a gap in existing literature, or test a specific hypothesis? By defining your objectives early on, you can create a clear roadmap for your research.

Developing Effective Research Questions

Once your objectives are clear, the next step is to develop effective research questions. These questions should be specific, measurable, and aligned with your research goals. Use the 5 W's and H Questions method to brainstorm potential questions:

  • What? Define the main focus of your research.
  • Why? Explain the significance of your study.
  • Who? Identify the population or sample you will study.
  • When? Determine the timeframe for your research.
  • Where? Specify the location or context of your study.
  • How? Describe the methods you will use to conduct your research.

Aligning Questions with Methodology

Finally, ensure that your research questions align with your chosen methodology. Whether you opt for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods, your questions should be designed to be answerable within the framework of your methodology. For example, if you're using qualitative methods, your questions might focus on understanding experiences or perceptions. If you're using quantitative methods, your questions might aim to measure variables or test relationships between them.

By following these steps, you can formulate research questions that are clear, focused, and aligned with your research objectives and methodology.

Detailing the Methodology

Choosing between qualitative and quantitative methods.

Selecting the right methodology is crucial for your thesis. You need to decide between qualitative and quantitative methods based on your research questions. Qualitative methods are ideal for exploring complex phenomena and understanding human behavior. They often involve interviews, focus groups, and case studies. On the other hand, quantitative methods are suitable for studies requiring statistical analysis and numerical data. Surveys, experiments, and secondary data analysis are common quantitative techniques. Consider the nature of your research and the type of data you need to collect.

Describing Data Collection Techniques

Once you've chosen your methodology, the next step is to describe your data collection techniques. For qualitative research, this might include conducting interviews or focus groups. For quantitative research, you might use surveys or experiments. Be sure to explain why you chose these techniques and how they align with your research objectives. It's also important to address any ethical considerations, especially if you're working with human participants.

Ensuring Reliability and Validity

Ensuring the reliability and validity of your data is essential for producing credible research. Reliability refers to the consistency of your measurements, while validity concerns the accuracy of your findings. To enhance reliability, use standardized procedures and tools. For validity, ensure your methods accurately capture the concepts you're studying. Address potential biases and limitations in your methodology section to provide a transparent and robust framework for your research.

Presenting Your Findings

Organizing data logically.

When presenting your findings, it's crucial to organize your data logically . This can be done by structuring your results around your research questions, hypotheses, or the overall framework of your study. Each major finding should be a subtopic within this section, making it easier for readers to follow and understand your results. Remember, the goal is to present a clear and concise synopsis of your findings , followed by an explanation of key points.

Using Visual Aids Effectively

Visual aids can significantly enhance the presentation of your findings. Utilize charts, graphs, and tables to illustrate your data clearly. These tools not only make your results more engaging but also help in highlighting important findings . Be brief and concise , focusing on the most relevant details. If possible, use visual aids to attract attention and indicate interesting aspects of your data.

Interpreting Results

Interpreting your results involves explaining what your findings mean in the context of your research. Discuss the implications of your results, how they compare with existing studies, and what they contribute to the field. This section should also address any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research. By providing a thorough interpretation, you help readers understand the significance of your work and its potential impact on the field.

Engaging in Critical Discussion

Students discussing around a table with books and laptops.

Analyzing Implications of Findings

When you analyze the implications of your findings, you need to step back and think critically . This means not just describing what you found, but also evaluating what these findings mean in the broader context of your field. It's essential to consider how your results align or contrast with existing studies . This will help you understand the significance of your work and its potential impact.

Comparing with Existing Studies

Comparing your findings with existing studies is a crucial part of critical discussion. This involves looking at how your results fit into the current body of knowledge. Are they consistent with what others have found, or do they challenge established theories? By doing this, you can highlight the unique contributions of your research and identify any gaps that still need to be addressed.

Addressing Limitations

No study is without limitations, and acknowledging these is a key aspect of critical discussion. Discuss the limitations of your research openly and honestly. This not only shows your understanding of the research process but also helps others to see the boundaries of your study. Consider how these limitations might have affected your results and what could be done in future research to overcome them.

Concluding with Impact

Summarizing key findings.

In this section, you need to restate the main points of your research. This is your chance to remind the reader of the journey they have taken through your thesis. Make sure to highlight the most significant findings and how they contribute to your field of study. This is not just a summary but a synthesis of your work, showing how all the pieces fit together.

Reflecting on Research Outcomes

Reflecting on your research outcomes involves discussing the broader implications of your findings. How do they fit into the existing body of knowledge? Do they support or contradict previous studies? This is where you can show the importance of your work and its potential impact on future research . Be honest about any limitations and suggest how future studies could build on your work.

Suggesting Areas for Future Study

No research is ever truly complete. In this section, propose areas where further research is needed. What questions remain unanswered? What new questions have arisen from your findings? This not only shows that you have a deep understanding of your topic but also helps to guide future researchers who may build on your work.

Mastering Time Management for Thesis Completion

Setting specific and measurable goals.

To effectively manage your time while working on your thesis, start by setting specific and measurable goals. Break your project into smaller, manageable tasks and set deadlines for each. This approach not only keeps you on track but also provides a sense of accomplishment as you progress. Establish a consistent writing routine and allocate dedicated time for your thesis.

Creating a Writing Schedule

Creating a writing schedule is essential for staying organized and ensuring steady progress. Use a calendar or project management tool to plan your tasks. Break down your thesis into sections and assign time slots for each. For example:

  • Week 1: Literature search and bullet point collation
  • Week 2: Creation of figures and initial writing
  • Week 3: Completion of writing
  • Week 4: Editing and feedback

This structured approach helps you stay focused and avoid last-minute rushes.

Balancing Writing with Other Responsibilities

Balancing your thesis work with other responsibilities can be challenging. To make things more manageable, break the project into smaller steps or stages . Prioritize your tasks and set realistic deadlines. Remember to be flexible but realistic , allowing time for unexpected circumstances. By knowing when your assignments are due and creating a schedule that works for you, you can better manage your time and reduce stress.

Incorporate regular breaks and self-care into your schedule to avoid burnout. Seek support from your advisor and peers to stay motivated and on track. By following these strategies, you can master time management and successfully complete your thesis.

Refining Your Thesis

Seeking feedback from advisors and peers.

Getting feedback is crucial for refining your thesis. Share your draft with your advisor and peers to gain different perspectives. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas that need improvement. Don't hesitate to ask specific questions to guide the feedback process.

Revising for Clarity and Coherence

Revising your thesis involves more than just correcting errors. Focus on improving the clarity and coherence of your arguments. Make sure each section flows logically into the next. Use tools like the Research Proposal Compass to help structure your revisions effectively.

Proofreading for Grammar and Style

Proofreading is the final step in refining your thesis. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and style. Reading your work aloud can help you catch errors you might miss when reading silently. Utilize resources like grammar checkers, but don't rely solely on them. Peer reviews can provide valuable feedback and new perspectives.

Preparing for Thesis Submission

Understanding submission guidelines.

Before you submit your thesis, it's crucial to understand the specific guidelines set by your university. These guidelines often include formatting requirements, submission deadlines, and any necessary documentation. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines early on can save you from last-minute stress. Make sure to check if there are any specific instructions for electronic or hard copy submissions.

Organizing Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents well in advance. This typically includes your thesis manuscript, any required forms, and supplementary materials like appendices or data sets. Use a checklist to ensure you have everything in order. Proper organization can streamline the submission process and help you avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Planning for Final Revisions

Before you submit, take the time to make any final revisions. This includes proofreading for grammar and style, as well as ensuring that all citations and references are correctly formatted. Consider seeking feedback from advisors or peers to catch any overlooked errors. Remember, a polished thesis reflects your hard work and attention to detail.

Getting ready to submit your thesis can be a stressful time. But don't worry, we've got your back! Our step-by-step Thesis Action Plan is designed to help you tackle every challenge with ease. From organizing your research to writing the final draft, our guides make the process simple and stress-free. Ready to make your thesis journey smoother?

Mastering your thesis outline is a crucial step in the journey of academic writing. A well-structured outline not only organizes your thoughts but also provides a clear roadmap for your research. By choosing a topic that excites you, creating a detailed plan, and remaining flexible to new insights, you can navigate the complexities of thesis writing with confidence. Remember, your outline is a living document that evolves with your research. Regularly revisiting and refining it will ensure that your thesis remains focused and coherent. With dedication and the right strategies, you can craft a compelling thesis that makes a meaningful contribution to your field of study.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i pick a research topic for my thesis.

Choose a topic that interests you and has plenty of resources. This will keep you motivated and make your research easier.

Why is a thesis outline important?

A well-structured outline helps organize your thoughts, keeps your research on track, and ensures you cover all necessary points.

What should be included in a thesis outline?

Your outline should include an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.

How can I effectively manage my time while writing a thesis?

Set specific, measurable goals and create a writing schedule. Break your work into smaller tasks and stick to deadlines.

What is the best way to conduct a literature review?

Start by gathering existing research on your topic. Summarize and analyze these sources to identify gaps your thesis can fill.

How do I develop strong research questions?

Ensure your research questions are clear, focused, and aligned with your research objectives. They should guide your study effectively.

What are some tips for revising my thesis?

Seek feedback from advisors and peers. Revise for clarity and coherence, and proofread for grammar and style errors.

What should I know about the thesis submission process?

Understand your university's submission guidelines, organize all required documents, and plan for final revisions to avoid last-minute stress.

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IMAGES

  1. How to Automatic Number Chapters and Sections in Thesis Microsoft Word

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  2. Thesis Numbering Format

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  3. Inserting page numbers to your thesis

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  4. How to create chapter-based figure and table numbers (Thesis/Dissertation Formatting)

    how to write numbers in a thesis

  5. Page Numbers (Thesis/Dissertation Formatting)

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  6. How do I number pages differently in the various sections of my thesis

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VIDEO

  1. "Transforming numbers into insights, one thesis at a time #ThesisWriting 🎓#statistryindia

  2. How to format a thesis cover page, section break, different numbers and automatic table of contents

  3. How to create sections and insert different page numbers in Word

  4. Numbering pages in MS Word

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COMMENTS

  1. APA Style Guidelines for Numbers

    Revised on July 23, 2023. Numbers can be written either as words (e.g., one hundred) or numerals (e.g., 100). In this article we follow the guidelines of APA Style, one of the most common style guides used in academic writing. In general, words should be used for numbers from zero through nine, and numerals should be used from 10 onwards.

  2. PDF Numbers in academic writing

    academic writing. You need to know and use the conventions for writing numbers correctly when you are writing and proofreading your work. 1. When to write numbers in words • Write in words one or two-word numbers, rounded numbers and ordinal numbers For general academic writing, you need to write these numbers in words: all numbers under one ...

  3. PDF Numbers in Academic Writing

    Use particular conventions if you are required to write numbers in words . a. To create a plural, add 's' or 'es' (e.g., twos, sixes). b. Use hyphens for fractions and if necessary to write a two-digit number in words such as at the beginning of a sentence (e.g., 94 = ninety-four; ⅜ = three-eighths).

  4. Words or Numerals

    Individual chapters of this book address reflective and critical writing early in the thesis process; working successfully with thesis supervisors and benefiting from commentary and criticism; drafting and revising effective thesis chapters and developing an academic or scientific argument; writing and formatting a thesis in clear and correct ...

  5. Numbers

    Numbers up to nine should always be written in words, anything higher than nine can be written in numerals. Alternatively, some guides suggest that if you can write the number in two words or fewer then use words rather than numerals. If you are going to take this approach then you should include a hyphen when writing numbers with two words, e ...

  6. Formatting Theses & Dissertations using Word 2010: Numbering

    Word 2010, by default, starts page numbers on the first page of a document. If the first page is a cover page, or a title page, then the second page of the document should be page 1. Insert page numbers by clicking on the Insert tab and choosing Page Number in the Header & Footer tab. Then select the position of the numbering.

  7. Numbers In Academic Writing

    The APA Style is one of the most widely used academic writing styles and is largely adopted by the behavioral and social sciences. A number can be written both numerically or in words within this style. Typically, a number from one to nine should be written out as words, while numbers from 10 and above should be written out numerically.

  8. Microsoft Word for Dissertations

    You can, for example, change the period in between the level and sub-level numbers to a dash or anything you want by making the change in the "Enter formatting for number" (C) field. In the "Follow number with:" field (D), you may also see that a tab follows the number. We suggest you change that to a space.

  9. PDF APA Style Dissertation Guidelines: Formatting Your Dissertation

    The romanette page number should be aligned to the upper right margin of the page with a running head aligned to the upper left margin. The running head should be a shorter version of the dissertation title and no longer than 50 characters in total. Required Signature Page Example. 1.

  10. Writing Numbers

    Repeat numbers in commercial writing. The bill will not exceed one hundred (100) dollars. Use numerals in legal writing. The cost of damage is $1,365.42. Numbers in series and statistics should be consistent. two apples, six oranges, and three bananas. NOT: two apples, 6 oranges, and 3 bananas. 115 feet by 90 feet (or) 115' x 90'.

  11. PDF Student Paper Setup Guide, APA Style 7th Edition

    Indent the first line of every paragraph of text 0.5 in. using the tab key or the paragraph-formatting function of your word-processing program. Page numbers: Put a page number in the top right corner of every page, including the title page or cover page, which is page 1. Student papers do not require a running head on any page.

  12. How to Write a Thesis Statement

    Step 2: Write your initial answer. After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process. The internet has had more of a positive than a negative effect on education.

  13. PDF How to Format Page Numbers in a Dissertation & Thesis

    Page number formats are in three separate parts. 1. Title page - The first page is the title page; it is only one page. There is no page number displayed. It counts as page "i". a. Click on the page. Select Insert > Footer > Banded [inserts page number in center of the Footer]. b. Select the page number in the Footer. c.

  14. Thesis

    Write the Thesis: Once you have analyzed the data, you need to write the thesis. The thesis should follow a specific structure that includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion, and references. ... [The table of contents lists the main sections of your thesis and their page numbers. It should include ...

  15. 4. Writing up your Research: Thesis Formatting (MS Word)

    Click in second page header or footer, right click on the page number and select 'format page numbers' Select Roman numerals eg. 'i, ii, iii, iv' etc; Select start at 'i' (start at '1') Scroll to chapter 1 and change number style for this section back to ordinary numbers and start at 1 . Change Page Orientation

  16. Numbers in your thesis: Should you use words or numerals?

    This article provides tips that will help you handle this issue within your writing. These tips are based on the APA guidelines related to numbers. The basic rules. Numbers can be written either as words (e.g., one hundred) or numerals (e.g., 100). The basic rule is to use words for numbers from zero through nine, and then numbers from 10 onwards.

  17. How to write large numbers in a scientific thesis?

    Some do indeed suggest consistently writing numbers like "1 million", whereas others say "one million" for the round numbers. Personally, I wouldn't worry too much about achieving consistency throughout an entire thesis. Focus instead on making the text flow well from one instant to the next. Maybe using words in the introduction, and numerals ...

  18. Dissertation layout and formatting

    The layout requirements for a dissertation are often determined by your supervisor or department. However, there are certain guidelines that are common to almost every program, such as including page numbers and a table of contents. If you are writing a paper in the MLA citation style, you can use our MLA format guide. Table of contents.

  19. Thesis

    Thesis. Your thesis is the central claim in your essay—your main insight or idea about your source or topic. Your thesis should appear early in an academic essay, followed by a logically constructed argument that supports this central claim. A strong thesis is arguable, which means a thoughtful reader could disagree with it and therefore ...

  20. How to Insert Page Numbers: APA 7th Edition Guidelines

    Inserting Numeral Page Numbers. Step 1: Open the "Header & Footer" tab in the header, click on Insert and select "Page Number.". Step 2: If you want to have a different first page and do not want number 1 to appear on this page, then click on "Different First Page.". Step 3: From the drop-down list, choose "Top of Page.".

  21. Guidelines for Chapter Numbering in a Thesis: How to ...

    Follow these guidelines to ensure clarity and consistency: Start with numbering from Chapter 1: Begin your chapter numbering with Chapter 1 instead of Chapter 0. This signifies the start of your thesis. Use Arabic numerals: Number your chapters using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) and avoid using Roman numerals (I, II, III) or alphabetical ...

  22. How do I number pages differently in the various sections of my thesis

    This will allow you to modify the page number in the first section without affecting this or subsequent sections. Return to your Title Page (or any page in Section 1 which will not be numbered) and click on the page number in the footer. Click-and-drag your cursor over the page number to select it.

  23. How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

    Citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database. If a thesis or dissertation has been published and is found on a database, then follow the structure below. It's similar to the format for an unpublished dissertation/thesis, but with a few differences: Structure: Author's last name, F. M. (Year published).

  24. How to Master Your Thesis Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Establish a consistent writing routine and allocate dedicated time for your thesis. Creating a Writing Schedule. Creating a writing schedule is essential for staying organized and ensuring steady progress. Use a calendar or project management tool to plan your tasks. Break down your thesis into sections and assign time slots for each. For example: