Lucinda Becker is Professor of Pedagogy and award-winning lecturer and tutor at the University of Reading. She has dedicated her professional life to creating independent learners who are confident in themselves intellectually, professionally and personally.

Lucinda has written numerous study guides for students and works with undergraduates and postgraduates across the university. She is also a professional trainer and consultant, helping new graduates in engineering, science and law to become successful communicators and leaders.

As a Director for Teaching and Learning at her university, Lucinda has the chance to introduce innovation in teaching. In her most recent project, she has launched a Student Impact Network to support students who want to work in partnership with academics to facilitate excellent learning opportunities.

Introduction
Part I: Pondering
Why a Dissertation?
What Is Distinctive about a Dissertation?
What Are Research Questions?
What Makes a Good Dissertation?
When and Why Would I Write a Report?
What Is Distinctive about a Report?
Should I Be Asking Research Questions in a Report?
Part II: Preparing
Devising a Strategy
Gathering Material
Finding Your Voice
Part III: Planning
Are You a Natural Planner?
A Planning Strategy
Your First Step
Four Planning Methods
Part IV: Pausing
Negative Pauses
Necessary Pauses
Positive Pauses
Part V: Producing
Words
Phrases
Sentences
Paragraphs
Sections and Chapters
Part VI: Polishing
Increasing Impact
Checking your Document
Now Take Your Fingers off the Keyboard

Are you unsure what your report should look like or how you'll ever finish it in time?  Are you freaking out about starting on an extended piece of writing?

Help is here!  In this handy little book, you'll find expert guidance to enable you to produce a successful report or dissertation.  With a focus on developing an effective writing style and argument, this book shows you, step-by-step, how to plan and deliver a perfect piece of writing to gain top marks. 

Open up to find advice on:

• What makes dissertations and reports distinctive
• Organising your time and materials
• Finding the right planning method for you
• How to structure your writing successfully
• Writing good sentences, paragraphs, sections and chapters.

Read this book and you're on your way to writing a great report or dissertation!

The Student Success series are essential guides for students of all levels. From how to think critically and write great essays to planning your dream career, the Student Success series helps you study smarter and get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips and resources for study success!