Clarity and alignment in research reports

I don't know about you but I seem to be reading Master and Ph.D. theses and dissertations that are not as precise, concise or crystal clear in what the research was all about.

Two theses I read recently needed to be aligned in terms of what was said in the abstract, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, and the rest. For example, in the abstract, the research was about x but in Chapter 1 it was about x1, a slightly different version of what was studied.

Please remember that it's all about being consistent in stating what the research is all about, not being creative about how it's said in different parts of the report.

Still, I look forward to reading other theses and dissertations. If at all, it's a clear indication that one usually has to go through a learning process while writing up a research report the first time. All the best to all of you first timers. There's still hope.

Help with writing

Have you heard of the book titled, The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr? It served me well when I was a student. I think it's a valuable reference for anyone who wants to improve their English writing skills and should serve you as a valuable companion when writing your thesis.

Check it out at:

http://www.bartleby.com/141/