A Typical PhD Thesis Structure
Abstract
1. Introduction. Set the scene and problem statement. Introduce structure of thesis, state contributions (3-5).
2. Background. Demonstrate wider appreciation (context). Provide motivation. The problem statement and the motivation state how you want the PhD to be judged – as engineering, scientific method, theory, philosophy.
3. Related Work. Survey and critical assessment. Relation to own work.
4 – 6. Analysis, design, implementation and interpretation of results.
7. Critical assessment of own work. State hypothesis, and demonstrate precision, thoroughness, contribution, and comparison with closest rival.
8. Further Work
9. Summary Conclusions and Restate Contribution
Appendix
Bibliography
Note: Should have an odd number of chapters, between 5 and 9.
Via UCL