First Steps in Research (FSR) is an Honours/Masters thesis writing support program that comprises four online sessions across each semester. The program is recommended for all those students engaged in their first major research project and thesis across all disciplines at UQ.
About the Program:
This program guides students through the various steps involved in writing their first research thesis of some length. The first session focuses on learning how to manage the research writing process: how to get started, develop a writing habit, manage writers block and monitor progress. The second session focuses on writing the literature review, with an emphasis on thinking and writing critically about the literature, and communicating the evidence-based need for, and potential value of, the research.
Following these first steps, the program goes on to outline and explain the key aspects of thesis planning, structuring, and writing. Finally, to help students’ produce their best work, the final session details various approaches to editing and proofreading.
Whilst attendance at all sessions is strongly encouraged - students are free to attend any number of the sessions they wish to.
If you need support with thesis writing, you can access individualized support through Book an Appointment.
Register for the First Steps in Research Program
Registration is now open using the links in the table below. If you have any questions regarding the program, please email student.services@uq.edu.au
Program Schedule (Online)
Sessions | Target Audience | Topic | Registration |
Week 1
| Early stages of the research project | Managing the research writing process Get yourself started, develop a writing habit, manage writers block and monitor your progress. | Register here |
Week 4
| Early stages of the research project | Writing the Literature Review Develop your capacity to critically read, review and write about the literature relevant to your research. Understand how to communicate the evidence-based need for, and potential value of, your research. | Register here |
Week 7
| Middle stages of the research project | Planning and drafting your thesis Learn how to structure a clear, cohesive thesis by attending to planning steps, PEEL, topic sentences, signposting and linking. | Register here |
Week 10
| Late stages of the research project | Refining your thesis through editing and proofreading Develop your capacity to revise, edit, and proofread your thesis documents. | Register here |
Using Zoom
The FSR program will be delivered online via Zoom for Semester 1, 2024. The UQ Library has a range of resources to assist you in setting up Zoom on your device. During the program, please adhere to the following rules:
Keep your microphone muted at all times, unless you have a comment or question for the host or another attendee.
Use the chat box function to communicate with the host or other attendees. You may also wish to share your writing with others using this function.
First Steps in Research Program
Contact the Student Services Learning Development Team if you have any questions about the First Steps in Research Program.