How to write a BA thesis : a practical guide from your first ideas to your finished paper / Charles Lipson.

Getting started. How to read this book -- Introduction to the second edition -- Useful nuts and bolts -- More nuts and bolts -- Framing your topic. Taking effective notes and avoiding plagiarism -- How to build a reading list -- Refining your topic, writing a proposal, and beginning research -- Conducting your research. What is good thesis research -- Using case studies effectively -- Every thesis should have a thesis -- Writing your best. 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 your best. Working efficiently -- Overcoming problems -- What to do if you get stuck -- Scheduling and completing your thesis. Thesis schedule -- Tips and reminders -- Frequently asked questions -- What to do when you're all done -- Dealing with special requirements. Thesis defense and second readers: questions and answers -- A one-semester thesis -- Citing your sources and getting more advice. Appendix 1: Best sources for more help -- Appendix 2: Footnotes 101 -- Appendix 3: Advice for new faculty advisers.