Formulating the aim and objectives is one of the first and most important stages in preparing a dissertation. How precisely these elements are defined largely determines the structure and overall logic of the work. In this article we examine how to formulate the aim and objectives of a dissertation correctly and which difficulties it is advisable to avoid.
What are the aim and objectives of a dissertation?
The aim of a dissertation is the expected final result for which the research is carried out. It reflects the scholarly problem that is to be resolved and is, as a rule, formulated in the singular. The objectives represent a sequence of steps whose completion ensures that the stated aim is achieved. The consistency of the aim and objectives largely determines the internal logic of a dissertation.
How to formulate the aim of a dissertation
The aim should be formulated concisely and unambiguously, avoiding overly broad wording. It is usually expressed through a verbal noun or a verb in the infinitive – for example, "to develop", "to substantiate" or "to identify". A well-formulated aim, as a rule, has a number of features:
- correspondence to the topic and the research problem
- specificity and verifiability of the expected result
- a connection with the object and subject of the work
- attainability within the chosen methodology
How do the objectives differ from the aim of a dissertation?
If the aim reflects the final result, the objectives describe the path towards it. They represent logically connected stages, each of which contributes to achieving the overall aim. As a rule, between four and six objectives are formulated in a dissertation, and their number corresponds to the structure of the main part of the work. A typical sequence of objectives may be as follows:
- Examine the degree to which the topic has been studied and analyse the academic literature.
- Clarify the conceptual framework and theoretical foundations of the research.
- Develop a methodology for addressing the stated problem.
- Analyse the data obtained and interpret the results.
- Formulate conclusions and practical recommendations.
Requirements for formulating the aim and objectives of a dissertation
The aim and objectives should be consistent with the other elements of the research framework – the topic, object, subject and hypothesis of the study. They are also aligned with the academic speciality passport, which affects the assessment of how well the dissertation corresponds to its field. Specific requirements are established by the dissertation council and by the regulations governing the certification of academic personnel. In Kyrgyzstan these are determined by the Higher Attestation Commission, so it is advisable to clarify the current provisions before starting work.
What mistakes arise when setting the aim and objectives?
When formulating the aim and objectives, authors often make inaccuracies that later complicate the preparation and defence of the work. The most common include the following:
- setting an overly broad aim that does not match the scope of the research
- replacing the scholarly aim with a description of practical actions
- duplicating the aim in the wording of individual objectives
- a mismatch between the objectives and the structure of the main part of the dissertation
The proportionality of the aim and objectives deserves particular attention: if the objectives extend beyond the stated aim, the integrity of the work is reduced, which may affect its assessment.
A sound formulation of the aim and objectives is the basis for a consistent presentation of the material in a dissertation. A well-considered framing of these elements helps to build the structure of the work and to prepare well-argued conclusions. Agreeing the research framework in advance, as a rule, improves the quality of the study and makes its subsequent defence easier.
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