Here is a student guide to writing an effective doctoral dissertation or a master's thesis. This book disaggregates the elements of the dissertation and provides the student with a description, definition, and example of each dissertation element. The author presents multiple viewpoints that include both quantitative and qualitative approaches. When using this book, the student, based on departmental norms, will understand what belongs in the dissertation and thesis and where it belongs. The elements are presented in a traditional five-chapter format for ease of use and not for indicating a preferred format for the dissertation. There are over 100 examples of completed dissertations from well-known universities and colleges. This book allows the student to concentrate on what makes sense and what is important to completing his or her research.