The post-graduation final paper is a somewhat complicated step and is often the reason why many give up or postpone the course. Despite being scary, this final paper work can be done with ease if there is organization.
When the post-graduation phase begins, some people are already married, with children and a consolidated career. This means that sometimes it’s necessary to divide time among all these things – and also keep a healthy state of mind.
The post-graduation final paper can take up a large amount time and so, organization is a must. Thinking about this, Next selected five organizational tips for those who weren’t yet able to start this work. Check it out!
Choose the theme of the final paper
The first step is to choose the theme. The famous list of “pros and cons” enters here, at the beginning of the process to start the final paper. In this phase, where everything is still very embryonic, it is worth selecting your ideas for the theme and list them in a paper – or in a digital spreadsheet, if you prefer.
After being listed, review them and list the pros and cons. The intention is to know exactly what are the difficulties you can face in the process and everything that will involve research on this theme.
The idea here is not to follow the easiest path, it is also necessary to consider what will bring more personal satisfaction and what can be more useful in your career. At the end of this process, maybe you’ll have discarded some of the themes and it will be easier to decide among the ones that are left.
From there, start segmenting. In the final paper, it’s best that the subject addressed is not a generalist one. It is necessary to specify what exactly will be said within that niche. The more detailed, the better. Then, talk to your advisor to get the research organized and see what will need to be done throughout the work process.
Prioritize your final paper
Do you know the theme and the point of view you want to address in your final paper? Now it’s the time to prioritize. Choosing the subject often generates more excitement than actual work. Therefore, many people stop in the middle of this step and can’t put the idea on the paper.
You should organize your life outside the post-graduation in order to handle everything. Create a routine. If you have a family, make it clear for your spouse, children, parents or other relatives, that you’ll need to be absent for some time, you won’t be as available and you want their support.
Also advise your closest friends that you might need to decline some get togethers in the production period of your work. From then on, everyone will know that your absence is justified and hopefully the “weight” of not paying so much attention will be lifted from your shoulders.
Set deadlines
Having deadlines seems to be something annoying and tiresome. In fact, demands are not pleasurable things, however, they are often necessary. Despite being something common to corporate environments, it is important for you to set your own deadlines – especially when it comes to important personal projects, such as the post-graduation final paper.
Set the deadline for the start and end of the research that precedes the work, the elaboration of the pre textual elements, content and considerations. These dates can change during production, but, ideally, you’ll stick by them most of the time. One tip is to use apps to get this organized.
Of course, it’s no use to have deadlines you never meet. You need to have self-discipline. This way, you’ll probably be able to follow through with the initial goal and finish the final paper in time. In this period, it is also important to rely on the help of your advisor, who will help you through the difficulties.
Make lists
After choosing the theme, letting everyone know that you’ll be “off” for a while and setting deadlines, you need to list what will be done in each step. Here, the tip is to pick each item from the previous topic and create a checklist.
For example, if you stipulated that the theme research should be done in two weeks, pick up a pen and paper and write down everything that will need to be researched. Include the platforms that will be used and all details. With this, when the production time comes, it will be easy to identify the activities.
This step is optional, of course, but it helps a lot in dismissing that feeling of “what do I do now?”. It is an important guide, especially for those students who never had to write a final paper before, and it helps in not “getting stuck” in any step.
Overcome your fear and dive in!
If you’ve read and absorbed everything up until here, now is the time to “get down to business”. Follow your planning and dive in. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, your advisor will be there supporting you in this. It is necessary to overcome your fears and try.
Keep in mind that this phase is temporary and the post-graduation certificate will be worth all the time and effort invested. Afterwards, your routine will return to normal. Don’t get discouraged!
What do you think? Count on us throughout your post-graduation final paper elaboration process!
