All Blog Posts

Qualitative Research Basics: The 20,000-Foot View

Qualitative 101: The High-Level ProcessWhat You Need To Know - Before You Start Your Study 🔒By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | January 2025Navigating the qualitative research process can feel daunting if you're not sure where to start....

How To Choose The Right Qualitative Analysis Method

How To Choose Your Analysis MethodSelecting between thematic, content, narrative and discourse analysis.By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | January 2025Choosing the right qualitative analysis method is a crucial step in any qualitative...

Reflexivity & Triangulation In Qualitative Research

Explainer: Reflexivity & TriangulationTwo critical tools to help manage subjectivity in your research 📘By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | January 2025Qualitative research has a unique strength: its ability to explore the subjective,...

Trustworthiness In Qualitative Research

Trustworthiness In Qualitative ResearchCredibility, Transferability, Dependability & Confirmability - Explained Simply ✅By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | January 2025If you’re conducting qualitative research, you’ve probably come...

How To Choose A Tutor For Your Dissertation

How To Choose A Dissertation Tutor The Five Key Criteria You Need To ConsiderBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | October 2024 Choosing the right dissertation tutor can be the difference between constantly feeling overwhelmed by your...

Writing A Dissertation While Working: A How-To Guide

Writing A Dissertation Part-TimeHow to manage work, family and a research project - without losing your mindBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | October 2024Writing a dissertation is no easy task. Add a full-time job and family...

How To Review & Understand Academic Literature Quickly

How To Read Academic LiteratureFast-track your literature review process with these simple techniques.Podcast By Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) and Amy Murdock (PhD) | August 2023If you're working a literature review, this one is for you. Today, we're discussing how to work...

Dissertation Writing Services: Far Worse Than You Think

Thesis Writing Services & ToolsThe smart student's silver bullet - or too good to be true?Podcast by Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) and Amy Murdock (PhD) | August 2023If you've ever considered paying someone (or some AI-powered tool) to write your dissertation or thesis for...

Triangulation: The Ultimate Credibility Enhancer

Triangulation In Research: The BasicsData, methodology, investigator and theoretical triangulationBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025ubjectivity and bias are two sneaky culprits you need to...

The Harsh Truths Of Academic Research

The Harsh Truths Of Academic ResearchThree Things New Postgraduate Researchers Need To KnowBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025n this episode, Dr. Ethar Al-Saraf and Dr. Amy Murdock dive into the darker truths of...

Dissertation Paralysis: How To Get Unstuck

🎙️ How To Get Your Research UnstuckA Practical Guide To Dealing With Dissertation ParalysisBy: Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) and Amy Murdock (PhD) | July 2024it a sticking point in your dissertation or thesis? That's okay. In this episode of the Grad Coach...

Structured, Semi-Structured & Unstructured Interviews

Structured, Semi-Structured & UnstructuredThe "Big 3" Interview Approaches ExplainedBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025hen it comes to using interviews for qualitative data collection, there are...

Viva Voce Victory: How To Defend Your Thesis

🎙️ How To Ace Your Viva VoceThree Practical Tips To Help You Defend Your ThesisBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | July 2024he viva voce or thesis defence is an event that often leaves students feeling a little intimidated. And...

How To Break Through Writer’s Block

🎙️ How To Break Through Writer's BlockThree Straightforward Interventions That Actually WorkBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | June 2024riter's block is a common challenge for students. All too often, it can feel like there’s an...

How To Beat Perfectionism: 3 Practical Steps

🎙️ How To Beat PerfectionismThree Straightforward Actions You Can Take (Right Now)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | June 2024erfectionism often masquerades as a commitment to excellence - sounds good, right? The problem, however, is...

References vs Bibliography: What’s The Difference?

References, Bibliography & "Works Cited"A Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical Examples 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025hen writing a dissertation or thesis, you'll often hear...

Research Ethics 101: A Simple Explainer (With Examples)

What (Exactly) Are Research Ethics?The Key Ethical Considerations Explained Simply - With ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | May 2024esearch ethics are one of those “unsexy but essential” subjects that you need to...

Research Implications & Recommendations: A Simple Explainer

Implications & RecommendationsA Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + FREE TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | May 2024he research implications and recommendations are closely related but distinctly...

Acknowledgements 101: Five Examples For Your Inspiration

Examples: Thesis Acknowledgements5 Well-Structured Samples For Your Inspiration 🙌By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | May 2024he acknowledgements section of your thesis or dissertation is an opportunity to say thanks to...

Dissertation & Thesis Examples: Get Inspired Now

50+ Dissertation & Thesis Examples Real-world examples and samples from leading universities 📖By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025eed some inspiration for your study? You’ve come to the...

Research Limitations 101: What You Need To Know

What Are Research Limitations? A Plain-Language Explainer (With Practical Examples) 📖By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | May 2024esearch limitations are one of those things that students tend to avoid digging into, and...

In Vivo Coding 101: Full Explainer With Examples

In Vivo Coding 101 🖍️A Plain-Language Explainer (With Practical Examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | April 2024ualitative coding is a topic that often leaves students feeling a little confused - but it doesn’t...

All But Dissertation (ABD) Status – What You Need To Know

All But Dissertation (ABD) Status 😬A Plain-Language Explainer + Guide For Stuck StudentsBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025hen it comes to completing a PhD or doctoral degree, “all but dissertation” (or ABD) is all...

The Four Powerful Habits Of Successful Students

🎙️ The 4 HABITS of Successful Students(And how to develop them...)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025t Grad Coach, we've worked with thousands of students. Over the years, we've noticed a few simple but powerful...

Process Coding 101: Full Explainer With Examples

Process Coding 101 🖍️A Plain-Language Explainer (With Practical Examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | April 2024ualitative coding and analysis are areas that often leave students feeling a little confused - but...

Qualitative Coding 101: Inductive, Deductive & Hybrid Coding

Inductive, Deductive & Abductive CodingQualitative Coding Approaches Explained Simply (+ Examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | April 2024ualitative coding is a topic that often leaves students feeling a little...

3 STRUGGLES You’ll Face During Your Research Journey

The "Big 3" Dissertation StrugglesWhat They Are + How To Deal With Them 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025riting a dissertation or thesis is no small task - just ask any ABD. The academic research journey is one...

Considering A PhD? Here Are 3 Things You Should Know

Doing A PhD: Three Harsh RealitiesWhat They Are + How To Deal With Them 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025ndertaking a PhD or any doctoral-level program is no small task. In this episode of the Grad Coach Podcast,...

How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

How To Choose The Right TopicStep-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + Free Topic EvaluatorBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | April 2024hoosing the right research topic is likely the most important decision you'll make on...

Writing A Research Proposal: 4 Hacks To Fast-Track The Process

Research Proposal Writing Hacks4 Time-Saving Tips To Fast-Track Your ProposalBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025rafting a well-thought-out research proposal is essential for gaining approval and setting a clear path...

How To Write A Research Paper (Video Tutorial)

How To Write A Research PaperStep-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + FREE TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024or many students, crafting a strong research paper from scratch can feel like a daunting task...

Master Your Methodology: 4 Hacks To Fast-Track The Process

🎙️ PODCAST: Master The Methodology4 Tips To Ensure Your Methodology Is Perfectly On PointBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025ind yourself lost in a sea of complex terms and unsure where to begin? Fear not. In this...

How To Reference In Microsoft Word (Video Tutorial)

How To Reference In Microsoft WordStep-By-Step Video Tutorial With ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024n this video tutorial, you'll learn how to use Microsoft Word's referencing function for in-text...

Writing A Literature Review: 4 Time-Saving Hacks

🎙️PODCAST: Ace The Literature Review4 Time-Saving Tips To Fast-Track Your Literature ReviewBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) and Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Updated March 2025riting a literature review can be a daunting task for many students, but fear not! In...

Research Topics & Ideas: Automation & Robotics

Research Topic Ideas: Robotics 🦾50+ Robotics Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring robotics and/or automation-related topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology 📚50+ Sociology Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Sociology offers a unique lens to understand and analyse the complexities of society. Choosing the...

Research Topics & Ideas: Public Health & Epidemiology

Research Topic Ideas: Public Health 🏥50 Public Health-Related Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025If you're just starting out exploring public health and/or...

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience

Research Topic Ideas: Neuroscience 🧠50+ Neuroscience Research Ideas + Sample DissertationsBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring neuroscience-related topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Journalism

Research Topics & Ideas: Journalism 📢50 Journalism-Related Topic Ideas + Sample DissertationsBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring journalism-related topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Data Science & Analytics

Research Topic Ideas: Data Science 📊50 Data Science Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025f you're just starting out exploring data science-related topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Cybersecurity

Research Topic Ideas: Cybersecurity 🔐50+ Cybersecurity Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring cybersecurity-related topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Communication

Research Topic Ideas: Communication 💬50+ Communications-Related Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Struggling to find the right communication-related research topic for your dissertation or...

Research Topics & Ideas: Blockchain & Cryptocurrency

Research Topics & Ideas: Blockchain 🔗50+ Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring blockchain-related...

Research Topics & Ideas: Biotech & Genetic Engineering

Research Topics & Ideas: Biotech 🧬50+ Research Ideas In Biotechnology and Genetic EngineeringBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out exploring biotechnology-related topics for...

Research Topics & Ideas: AI & Machine Learning

Research Topic Ideas: AI & ML ⚙️50+ Research ideas in Artifical Intelligence and Machine LearningBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world, making it one of the most...

Acknowledgements 101: How To Write The Section

The Acknowledgements SectionHow to write the acknowledgements for your thesis or dissertationBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | January 2024riting the acknowledgements section of your thesis might seem straightforward, but...

Inferential Statistics 101: Simple Explainer (With Examples)

Quant 101: Inferential StatisticsA Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Review By: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | October 2023f you’re new to quantitative data analysis, one of the many terms you’re likely to...

Research Question 101: Everything You Need To Know

Research Question 101 📖Everything you need to know to write a high-quality research questionBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | October 2023f you’ve landed on this page, you’re probably asking yourself, “What is a research...

Research Question Examples: The Perfect Starting Point

Practical Examples: Research Questions 25+ Practical Examples & Ideas To Help You Get Started 🧑🏻‍🏫By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025well-crafted research question (or set of questions) sets the...

Research Topics & Ideas: Mental Health

Research Topic Ideas: Mental Health 🌱100+ Mental Health Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025If you're just starting out exploring mental health topics for your...

Research Topics & Ideas: Finance

Research Topics & Ideas: Finance 📈120+ Finance Research Topic Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025Choosing the right finance research topic can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it...

Descriptive Statistics 101: Simple Explainer (With Examples)

What Are Descriptive Statistics?Means, Medians, Modes & More - Explained SimplyBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | October 2023f you’re new to quantitative data analysis, one of the first terms you’re likely to hear being...

5 Signs You Need A Dissertation Helper

5 Signs You Need A Dissertation HelperHere's how you know it's really time get some support.By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | October 2023Writing a dissertation is no small task. It’s a demanding project that requires you to juggle...

AI Research Tools: Hype Or Help?

AI Research Tools: Hype Or Help?It's time for a balanced discussionBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Kerryn Warren (PhD), David Phair (PhD) | October 2023here’s a lot of talk about AI research tools at the moment. If the YouTubers, the bloggers...

Validity & Reliability: Explained Simply

Validity & Reliability In ResearchA Plain-Language Explanation (With Examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | September 2023alidity and reliability are two related but distinctly different concepts within research....

Literature Synthesis 101: How To Synthesise The Literature

How To "Synthesise" The LiteratureLiterature Synthesis Explained Simply - With ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | August 2023ne of the most common mistakes that students make when writing a literature...

The Essential Components of a Literature Review

3 Key Literature Review IngredientsA Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | July 2023riting a comprehensive but concise literature review is no simple task. There's a lot of...

MLA 9 Formatting: How To Format Your Paper For MLA

How To Format MLA 9th EditionA Simple, Step-by-Step Guide + Free TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | July 2023ormatting your paper in MLA style can feel like a pretty daunting task. In this post, we'll show you...

APA 7 Formatting: How To Set Up Your Student Paper

How To Format APA 7th EditionA Simple, Step-by-Step Guide + Free TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | June 2023ormatting your paper in APA 7th edition can feel like a pretty daunting task, and understandably so. In...

Research Proposal Essentials: 5 Critical Dos & Don’ts

Writing Your Research ProposalFive Things You Need To Keep Top Of Mind 💡By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | June 2023riting a high-quality research proposal that “sells” your study and wins the favour (and...

Research Philosophy & Research Paradigms

What Is Research Philosophy?Positivism, Interpretivism & Pragmatism - Explained SimplyBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | June 2023esearch philosophy is one of those things that students tend to either gloss over or...

Logos, Ethos & Pathos: The Rhetorical Triangle

What Are Logos, Pathos & Ethos?A Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | June 2023f you spend any amount of time exploring the wonderful world of philosophy, you’re bound to...

Research Methodology Example: Full Walkthrough

Research Methodology ExampleDetailed Walkthrough + Free Methodology Chapter TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (D.Tech) | May 2023f you're working on a dissertation or thesis and are looking for an example of a research...

Literature Review Example/Sample: Full Walkthrough

Literature Review Example/SampleA Detailed Walkthrough + Free Literature Review TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | October 2024 f you're working on a dissertation or thesis and are looking for an example of a...

How To Find A Research Gap: Step-By-Step Process

How To Find A Research Gap, QuicklyA step-by-step guide for new researchersBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | April 2023f you’ve got a dissertation, thesis or research project coming up, one of the first (and most...

Research Proposal Example/Sample: Full Walkthrough

Research Proposal Example/SampleA Step-By-Step Walkthrough + Free TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA). Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | April 2023f you're getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of...

Research Design 101: Qualitative & Quantitative

What (Exactly) Is Research Design?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) & Kerryn Warren (PhD) | April 2023avigating the world of research can be daunting,...

Research Constructs 101: What You Need To Know

What Are Research Constructs?Constructs, Validity & Reliability - Explained SimplyBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2023avigating the world of academic research can be overwhelming, especially if you’re...

The Research Problem & Problem Statement

The Research Problem & StatementWhat They Are & How To Write Them - With Examples 🎓By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2023f you’re new to academic research, you’re bound to encounter the concept of a...

Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework

Theoretical vs Conceptual FrameworkWhat They Are & How They’re Different - Explained Simply ✨By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2023If you’re new to academic research, sooner or later you’re bound to run...

Narrative Analysis Explained Simply (With Examples)

What (Exactly) Is Narrative Analysis?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📄By: Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD)| Expert Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2023f you’re new to research, the host of qualitative analysis methods...

Research Topics & Ideas: Politics

Research Topics: Political Science 🏛️100+ PolSci Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes...

Research Topics & Ideas: Environmental Sciences

Topics Ideas: Environmental Sciences 🌱100+ Environmental Science-Related Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Environmental science tackles some of the most pressing challenges of our time,...

Research Topics & Ideas: Healthcare

Research Topic Ideas: Healthcare 🩺100+ Healthcare Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025Healthcare is a dynamic field, offering endless opportunities for meaningful research. Choosing the right...

Research Topics & Ideas: Computer Science

Research Topic Ideas: CompSci & IT 💾50+ Computer Science Research Topic Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step...

Research Topics & Ideas: Business & Management

Research Topics & Ideas: Business 📈50+ Management Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Struggling to find the perfect research topic for your MBA dissertation or business research project?...

Research Topics & Ideas: Nursing

Research Topic Ideas: Nursing 🩺50+ Nursing Research Topic Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to...

Primary, Secondary & Tertiary Sources Explained

Primary, Secondary & Tertiary SourcesA Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | January 2023f you’re new to the wild world of research, you’re bound to encounter the...

Research Topics & Ideas: Marketing

Research Topics & Ideas: Marketing 🛒50+ Marketing Research Topic Ideas + Sample DissertationsBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step...

Research Topics & Ideas: Psychology

Research Topic Ideas: Psychology 🧠100+ Psychology Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025f you're starting out on the dissertation or thesis journey for your psychology...

Research Topics & Ideas: Education

Research Topic Ideas: Education 🎓170+ Education-Related Research Ideas + Sample StudiesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025Choosing the right topic is the first step to a successful dissertation, thesis, or research...

Variables 101: Independent, Dependent & Control Variables

What (Exactly) Are Research Variables?Independent, dependent and control variables and more - explained simply.By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | January 2023f you’re new to the world of research, especially...

Sampling Methods & Strategies 101: What You Need To Know

Sampling Methods & Strategies 101A Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical ExamplesBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | January 2023f you’re new to research, sooner or later you’re bound to wander into the...

How To Find A Research Gap (Literature Gap)

The Research Gap (Literature Gap)How To Find The Elusive Research Gap - With Practical Examples 📋By: Ethar Al-Saraf (PhD) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025f you're just starting out in research, chances are...

How To Avoid Bias In Your Research

Research Bias: The Hidden MonsterThe "Big 3" Biases You Need To Know AboutBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | September 2022f you're new to academic research, research bias (also sometimes called researcher bias) is...

Research Limitations vs Research Delimitations

Research Limitations & DelimitationsWhat they are - and how they're different (with examples) 🎓By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: David Phair (PhD) | September 2022f you're new to the world of research, you've probably heard the terms...

Thematic Analysis Basics: 5 Time-Saving Tips

Qual 101: Thematic Analysis BasicsSix Time-Saving Tips To Help You Ace Your Analysis 📚By: David Phair (PhD) & Amy Murdock (PhD) | September 2022hematic analysis is an effective method for researchers to derive meaning from large sets of...

Writing The Methodology Chapter: 5 Time-Saving Tips & Tricks

Writing Your Methodology ChapterFive Practical Hacks To Fast-Track The ProcessBy: David Phair (PhD) and Amy Murdock (PhD) | July 2022he methodology chapter is a crucial part of your dissertation or thesis – it’s where you provide context and...

Explainer: Content Review vs Language Editing

What's The Difference? Content Review vs Language Editing & Proofreadingpopular question we receive at Grad Coach is "what's the difference between the content review service and the editing and proofreading service?". Here, we'll explain what each...

Writing A Literature Review: 5 Time-Saving Tips & Tricks

Writing An A-Grade Literature ReviewFive Time-Saving Tips You Need To KnowBy: David Phair (PhD) and Amy Murdock (PhD) | May 2022ne of the fundamental chapters of any dissertation or thesis is the literature review. However, students often struggle...

Finding A Research Topic: 5 Time-Saving Tips

Finding A High-Quality Research TopicFive Things You Need To Know Before You Start 📚By: David Phair (PhD) & Amy Murdock (PhD) | May 2022t’s no easy task to take on the culminating project of your degree, the dreaded dissertation or thesis....

Survey Design 101: 5 Common Mistakes

Dissertation & Thesis Survey Design 1015 Common Mistakes To Avoid (+ Examples)By: David Phair (PhD) & Kerryn Warren (PhD) | April 2022urveys are a powerful way to collect data for your dissertation, thesis or research project. Done right, a...

Dissertation Introduction: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid

Writing Your Dissertation IntroductionSeven Common (But Costly) Mistakes You Need To AvoidBy: David Phair (PhD) and Alexandra Shaeffer (PhD) | March 2022our dissertation or thesis introduction chapter is critically important as it tells the reader...

The Dissertation Abstract: 5 Costly Mistakes To Avoid

Writing A Dissertation AbstractFive Innocent Errors That Will Quietly Destroy Your Abstract 🧨By: David Phair (PhD) & Peter Quella (PhD) | February 2022riting a quality abstract is important as the abstract tells the reader what to expect in...

How To Source A-Grade Resources For Your Literature Review

How To Find Literature - Fast 📚 Sourcing, Evaluating and Organising High-Quality Academic LiteratureBy: David Phair (PhD) and Peter Quella (PhD) | January 2022s we’ve discussed previously on our blog and YouTube channel, the first step of the...

How To Write The Methodology Chapter

How To Write The Methodology ChapterA Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025o, you’ve pinned down your research topic and undertaken a...

How To Write The Conclusion Chapter: 6 Steps + Examples

How To Write The Conclusion ChapterA Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025o, you’ve wrapped up your results and discussion chapters, and...

How To Write The Discussion Chapter: 6 Steps + Examples

How To Write The Discussion ChapterA Simple Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📋By: Jenna Crossley (PhD) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | August 2021f you’re reading this, chances are you’ve reached the discussion chapter of your thesis...

The Dissertation Results/Findings Chapter (Qualitative)

How To Write The Results ChapterFor QUALITATIVE Studies - Includes Free Template 📝By: Jenna Crossley (PhD). Expert Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | August 2021o, you’ve collected and analysed your qualitative data, and it’s time to write up...

How To Write The Results/Findings Chapter (Quantitative)

How To Write The Results SectionFor QUANTITATIVE Studies - Includes Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: Kerryn Warren (PhD) | July 2021o, you’ve completed your quantitative data analysis and it’s time to report on your...

How To Choose The Right Research Methodology

How To Choose Your MethodologyDeciding Between Qualitative, Quantitative & Mixed MethodsBy: Derek Jansen (MBA). Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2021ithout a doubt, one of the most common questions we receive at Grad Coach is...

What (Exactly) Is Discourse Analysis?

What (Exactly) Is Discourse Analysis?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples (+ Free Template) 📝By: Jenna Crosley (PhD). Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2021iscourse analysis is one of the most popular qualitative analysis...

Writing A Literature Review: 7 Common Mistakes To Avoid

Write Your Literature Review - RightSeven Deadly Literature Review Mistakes You Need To Avoid ☠️By: David Phair (PhD) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2021rafting a high-quality literature review is critical to earning marks and...

Writing A Research Proposal: 8 Common Mistakes To Avoid

Writing A Quality Research ProposalEight Common - But Costly - Mistakes To Avoid 🤦By: Derek Jansen (MBA) and David Phair (PhD) | Updated March 2025t Grad Coach, we review a lot of research proposals, including dissertation proposals and thesis...

Preparing For Your Dissertation Defence: 13 Key Questions

Dissertation Defense Preparation 10113 Viva Voce Questions You Need To Be Ready ForBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) & David Phair (PhD) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2021reparing for your dissertation or thesis defense (also called a "viva...

6 Reasons You Should NEVER Use a Dissertation Writing Service

6 Reasons Why Thesis Writing Services Are An Absolutely Terrible Idea.By: Derek Jansen (MBA). Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2021We get it. By the time you’ve reached the final stage of your degree program, the dissertation (or thesis) can seem like a...

What (Exactly) Is Thematic Analysis?

What (Exactly) Is Thematic Analysis?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025hematic analysis is one of the most popular qualitative...

Qualitative Content Analysis: Explained Simply (With Examples)

What Is Qualitative Content Analysis?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📄By: Jenna Crosley (PhD). Reviewed by: Dr Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | February 2021f you’re in the process of preparing for your dissertation, thesis or...

Saunders’ Research Onion – Explained Simply (With Examples)

Saunders’ (2019) Research OnionA Straightforward, Plain-Language Explainer - With Examples ✅By: David Phair (PhD) and Kerryn Warren (PhD) | January 2021f you’re learning about research skills and methodologies, you may have heard the term “research...

Qualitative Data Coding 101: Everything You Need To Know

Qualitative Data Coding 101How To Code Your Qualitative Data - The Smart WayBy: Jenna Crosley (PhD) | Reviewed by: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | December 2020s we've discussed previously, qualitative research makes use of non-numerical data - for example,...

How To Structure Your Literature Review Chapter

Structuring Your Literature ReviewOur Top 3 Tried & Trusted Structures + FREE TemplateBy: Amy Rommelspacher (PhD) | Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | November 2020 (Updated May 2023)riting the literature review chapter can seem pretty daunting...

Dissertation vs Thesis: What’s the difference?

Dissertation vs Thesis vs CapstoneA Plain-Language Explainer + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025t Grad Coach, we receive questions about dissertation and thesis writing on a...

What (Exactly) Is A Literature Review?

What (Exactly) Is A Literature Review?A Plain-Language Explainer + Free TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) & Kerryn Warren (PhD) | June 2020 (Updated May 2023)f you’re faced with writing a dissertation or thesis, chances are you’ve encountered the...

What (Exactly) Is A Dissertation Abstract?

The Dissertation/Thesis AbstractHow To Write A High-Impact Abstract - With ExamplesBy: Madeline Fink (MSc) Reviewed By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | June 2020So, you’ve (finally) finished your thesis or dissertation or thesis. Now it's time to write up...

What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?

What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | Updated March 2025hether you're nearing the end of your degree and your dissertation is on...

What Is a Longitudinal Study (Or Longitudinal Research)?

What Is A Longitudinal Study?A Plain-Language Explanation & Definition (With Examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025f you’re new to the world of research, or it’s your first time writing...

What Is A Cross-Sectional Study (Or Cross-Sectional Research)?

What Is A Cross-Sectional Study?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025f you’ve just started out on your dissertation, thesis or research...

What Is A Research Hypothesis (Or Scientific Hypothesis)?

What Is A Research Hypothesis?A Plain-Language Explainer - With Practical Examples ✨By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025If you’re new to the world of research, or it's your first time writing...

Grad Coach vs Your Supervisor: What’s The Difference?

Grad Coach Q&AHow is Grad Coach different from a university supervisor?very day, dozens of students around the world call us for assistance with their dissertations, theses and research projects. One question that comes up quite often is “how is...

How To Write Your Introduction Chapter (7 Simple Steps)

Writing Your Dissertation IntroductionA Simple Explainer With Examples + Free TemplateBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By Dr Eunice Rautenbach (D. Tech) | March 2020f you’re reading this, you’re probably at the daunting early phases of writing up...

How To Write A Literature Review (3-Step Process)

How To Write A Literature ReviewA Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025uality research is about building onto the existing work of...

How To Write A Research Proposal: 5 Straightforward Steps

How To Write A Research ProposalA Straightforward How-To Guide + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025riting up a strong research proposal for a dissertation or thesis is much...

What (Exactly) Is a Dissertation (Or Thesis)?

What (Exactly) Is A Dissertation?A Plain-Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025f you’ve landed on this article, chances are you’ve got a...

Decrypting “The Henley Way”

#HenleyMBA:The Elusive "Henley Way", Explained Simply.By: Derek Jansen | July 2018f you’re a Henley MBA student, you’ve probably heard about the need to do things “the Henley way”. Indeed, I’ve seen many assignments that demonstrate very thoughtful...

How To Write A High-Impact Executive Summary

How To Write An Executive SummaryA Straightforward How-To Guide - With Practical Examples 📝By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March 2018ou’ve probably heard the line, “you never get a second chance to make a...

The Henley MBA Exams: How To Prepare For The Big Day

How To Prepare For The Henley MBA Exams:A Step-By-Step Guide For Exam Success.By: Derek Jansen | January 2018he exams for the Henley MBA are tough – that’s for certain. They’re time-pressured, handwritten, count for a lot of marks and can test...

How To Reduce Word Count (Without Losing Precious Marks)

How To Reduce Your Word CountCutting The Fluff - Without Losing Precious MarksBy: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewers: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | December 2017f you follow some of the advice on this blog, chances are one of your biggest challenges is...

How To Write A Strong Analysis Chapter In Henley Assignments.

#HenleyMBA:How To Write A Strong Analysis ChapterBy: Derek Jansen | December 2017f the Henley MBA is about any one thing, it’s about learning to analyse well. Therefore, it's no surprise that the analysis chapter/section of most assignments is...

How To Write A Winning Introduction To A Henley MBA Assignment

#HenleyMBAHow To Write A Solid Assignment IntroductionBy: Derek Jansen | December 2017’ll kick off this post by making a bold assertion: The introduction chapter of your assignment is the single most important section in your entire assignment....

How To Use Zotero

How To Use Zotero + ConnectorA Plain-Language Step-By-Step Tutorial 📋By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | Updated March 2025f you're still struggling to manage references manually, this tutorial is for you....

#HenleyMBA: Why focus is your friend when writing assignments.

Henley MBA 101Why focus is your friend when writing assignmentss we've discussed before, a good Henley MBA assignment is one that focuses on a well-defined, relevant topic, identifies a clear, answerable research question and then proceeds to draw...

Henley MBA 101: How To Succeed In Your Henley MBA

The Henley MBA 101 SeriesEverything you need to know to ace your Henley MBAhether you're just starting out on your Henley MBA journey, or your already knee-deep in the Henley battle zone, we've crafted this series to help you understand exactly how...