The importance of a strong theoretical framework for your thesis

The theoretical framework serves as the foundation of your thesis

The theoretical framework, also referred to as the theoretical framework, serves as the foundation of your research. It informs the readers of your thesis about the existing literature and sources, indicating what is already known and what areas require further exploration.

Writing this section can be quite challenging as it involves sifting through a multitude of literature and sources, and then condensing the information to extract only the relevant content for your topic and research. It necessitates the ability to step back, grasp the main points, and identify the underlying connections among all the collected information.

Why is the theoretical framework so important?

The theoretical framework is crucial for drafting and writing your research methodology. It involves presenting all pertinent concepts, definitions, models, and theories that pertain to your topic. The theoretical framework aids in addressing the descriptive sub-questions stated in your thesis. By incorporating various theories, models, and literary sources in your theoretical framework, you situate your research within the appropriate academic context. This not only enhances the credibility of your research but also provides guidance for your study. Using this foundation, you can, for instance, develop a conceptual model as well as interview and survey questions.

The first step: Literature research

The first step to establish the theoretical framework is collecting and studying relevant literature, such as scientific articles and books. It is important to consult both specific and broader sources. While gathering information, one must be careful to identify which sources are truly relevant to the research. Consequently, it is necessary to choose and make a selection of the literature that will be utilized.

Tips for successfully writing your theoretical framework

Many students have a desire to complete the theoretical framework quickly, resulting in them spending too little time on it. Alternatively, they may encounter difficulties due to the extensive information they have collected, finding it challenging to connect the dots and establish a common thread. Your theoretical framework, along with literature research, demands sufficient time. Therefore, it is essential to allocate enough time and plan accordingly to ensure everything is well organized.

Here are some tips to get you started:

• Start by identifying relevant search terms for your research question.
• Take note of the terms used in the literature and utilize them as new keywords.
• Combine different search terms in various ways and search for synonyms.
• Apply filters to find recent publications, as they are usually the most pertinent.
• Remember to accurately record your source references according to the guidelines of your course. Most courses follow the APA style for referencing, though other styles may also be used. Refer to your graduation manual for specific instructions for your course.

Feeling lost amidst all the sources?

The theoretical framework serves as the foundation of your thesis; however, it may be difficult to develop. If you encounter any difficulties, feel free to seek assistance from our experienced thesis coaches. We are more than happy to guide you on your academic journey!