Once the research is over, the question of exactly how to write each chapter of a thesis or dissertation remains. This invaluable guide introduces first-time thesis writers to the process of writing up empirical research. To help students understand what content and structure are appropriate for the different parts of a thesis, John Bitchener presents a range of options, illustrating them with analyses of and commentary on sections from a real Masters thesis in Applied Linguistics. Highly practical, and relevant across a wide range of disciplines, this step-by-step handbook: * provides guidelines on the type of content typically presented in each section of an empirical thesis, as well as key linguistic and presentation features * explores options for organizing and structuring this material to ensure it is rhetorically and persuasively effective * offers analysed examples with follow up commentary on how each of these aspects have been considered by one successful thesis writer * includes useful answers to FAQs, further reading suggestions and additional activities for students to apply what they have learned.

John Bitchener is Professor of Applied Linguistics at AUT University, Auckland. He is President of the Applied Linguistics Association of New Zealand and Co-Editor of New Zealand Studies in Applied Linguistics. A recent recipient of a Fulbright Grant to the USA, his research interests include issues in academic genre and the efficacy of written corrective feedback for second language acquisition.