Download a Template for Proposals & Dissertations
The TSU dissertation template uses four heading levels, while the GSEP (Pepperdine) template uses three, as mandated by that school. These templates reflect the formatting requirements of these schools, including unconventional page numbering and margins for the TSU template. The generic template is based on fairly standard requirements, which are likely similar to your school's formatting guidelines. Formatting glitches may occur with transfer to your software, which may differ from the version of Microsoft Word that these were created on. Still, the formatting elements that do transfer could give you a head start, saving you hours of busywork. The table of contents is set to auto-update, and you can use the paintbrush tool to transfer the same format to new headings.
GSEP Dissertation Template APA7th (docx)
GSEP dissertation template APA7th.docxFPU Template (doc)
FPU template.docFinal Defense Presentation Template (ppt)
final defense presentation template.pptTSU Dissertation Template 2022 (docx)
TSU dissertation template 2022.docxDownloadable APA Rules Checklist - 7th (pdf)
The downloadable APA Edit Checklist has a clickable table of contents to help you quickly find the most-used rules.
APA_Edit_Checklist 7th.pdfDo-it-Yourself Editing Tips
One way of spotting errors that are easy to overlook is to read your document aloud to yourself or have someone else read your document aloud to you.
It may be helpful to have one or more friends or colleagues proofread your work.
Some students exchange documents and provide each other with valuable feedback, especially for seeing through the eyes of a reader unfamiliar with your topic, if that’s your intended audience.
Re-reading your document after a week or more has passed can give you a fresh perspective.
It may be helpful to review an APA checklist (above) as a way to review compliance with basic guidelines.
Academic writing and content editing using Microsoft Word
How do I create a table of contents that auto-updates in Microsoft Word for Mac?
How do I edit tables for APA style?
How do I edit tables for APA format?
How do I set decimal tabs in a table?
What are the best tips for editing references in APA format?
How do I edit dissertation references in APA style?
For additional video tutorials for APA editing, see my Youtube channel.
Podcast Episodes I Recommend
If you don't find it workable to access the podcasts thru these links, you can find these by using the titles in a search.
PHEC 010 Five Tips for a Successful Dissertation Journey from Public Health Epidemiology Careers https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/phec-010-five-tips-for-a-successful-dissertation-journey/id1279064696?i=1000393961196
Ep 136: Dr. Rebecca Thomas on Dissertation Writing from Research in Action | A podcast for faculty & higher education professionals on research design, methods, productivity & more https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/research-in-action-podcast-for-faculty-higher-education/id1101916802?i=1000423242282
Six Scholars Discuss the Dissertation to First Book Process from The Religious Studies Project https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-religious-studies-project/id495504655?i=1000418837920
Miscellaneous Recommendations
Time Management
It's a challenge for most dissertation students to keep on track with their timeline. This page offers schedules, tips, and a list of podcasts on time management.
Potential Study Topics
Most students have already decided on their dissertation topics, or they work on one that a favorite advisor is expert in. Many students find some benefits in using their workplace as an object of study, where they can access study participants by permission to invite co-workers. If you haven't yet decided on a topic, consider working on a direct social benefit topic. I offer a need-based and topic-based scholarship of half off the standard pricing for services for those choosing a project that furthers environmental or social causes. See the Grants & Research Funding page of this website for more information.