In offering helpful tips and advice on matters ranging from library research and proper citations to document version control and managing what's on your computer screen as a deadline looms, Charles Lipson has written an invaluable comprehensive guide for students and faculty alike.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Useful nuts and bolts --More nuts and bolts -- Taking effective notes and avoiding plagiarism -- How to build a reading list -- Refining your topic, writing a proposal, and beginning research -- What is good thesis research -- Using case studies effectively -- Every thesis should have a thesis -- Planning and prewriting : how do they help your thesis? -- Writing your best -- Effective openings, smooth transitions, and strong closings -- Good editing makes good writing -- Presenting information visually -- Presenting your work to others -- Working efficiently -- Overcoming problems -- What to do if you get stuck -- Thesis schedule -- Tips and reminders -- Frequently asked questions -- What to do when you're all done -- Thesis defense and second readers : questions and answers -- A one-semester thesis.