
Who is this guide for?
Students in natural science-based and research-intensive disciplines – such as healthcare sciences, biology, chemistry, paramedical science, dentistry, psychology, and related fields – where dissertations typically involve reviewing and synthesising primarily quantitative data from published studies, rather than conducting original laboratory experiments or primary research. This may also include projects that use mixed methods, but with a stronger emphasis on quantitative analysis.
Students writing a dissertation using a structured literature review approach This guide is ideal for those adopting a systematic and organised method to review and analyse existing research, often following frameworks like PRISMA, but not necessarily conducting a full systematic review or meta-analysis.
Undergraduate and postgraduate students in the sciences who are working primarily with secondary data (published research papers, articles, reports, etc.) to support their dissertation, especially those in fields where critical appraisal of evidence and analysing study outcomes is key.
Students who need a clear, step-by-step guide to conducting a comprehensive and well-structured dissertation in the natural or health sciences – including forming a research question, developing inclusion/exclusion criteria, analysing study data, and clearly presenting findings.
Inside, you’ll find:
🟧 How to choose a topic and conduct an effective literature search
🟧 What to do after searching – screening, selecting, and organising sources
🟧 PRISMA flow diagram and data extraction explained
🟧 Key steps before writing – referencing tips, word count guidance, and academic writing basics
🟧 A structured breakdown of every dissertation section – from abstract to conclusion
🟧 Layout guidance for each section to ensure clarity and coherence
🟧 Final touches – proofreading, refining, and perfecting your work
This guide is designed to provide step-by-step support for writing a secondary research dissertation. However, it does not guarantee specific grades, as academic success depends on various factors, including individual effort, critical analysis, adherence to university guidelines, and feedback from supervisors. Always refer to your institution’s requirements and seek academic support where needed.