minithesis

A minithesis is a research paper or report that is shorter than a full thesis or dissertation. It is typically undertaken by students at the undergraduate or master's level as a capstone project or a requirement for a specific degree program. The purpose of a minithesis is to allow students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, synthesize information, and present findings in an academic format.

The scope of a minithesis is generally more focused than that of a full thesis. It might involve a more limited research question, a smaller sample size, or a less extensive literature review. However, it still requires a clear methodology, analysis of data, and a well-supported conclusion. Students are expected to apply theoretical knowledge gained during their studies to a practical research problem.

The structure of a minithesis often mirrors that of a larger thesis, typically including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Some programs may also require an abstract and a bibliography. The length can vary significantly depending on the institution and program, but it is consistently shorter than a doctoral dissertation. Completing a minithesis is often seen as a stepping stone to more advanced research endeavors.