Understanding the Differences: Rubric, Template, and University Guidelines

Tips & Tricks #3 - Ensuring Requirements are Met

We frequently receive rubrics from clients who believe they are submitting a formatting template or university guidelines. Understanding the distinctions between these three documents is crucial for ensuring your thesis meets all necessary standards. This post aims to clarify the differences and guide you on how to acquire the correct documents.

Rubric

A rubric is a tool used to assess the quality and content of your thesis. It outlines the criteria on which your work will be evaluated, such as clarity, coherence, originality, and adherence to research standards. While rubrics are essential for understanding how your work will be marked, they do not provide instructions on how to format your thesis.

Template

A template is a pre-formatted document that helps you structure your thesis according to specific formatting requirements. It includes preset margins, headings, fonts, and other style elements that ensure your document meets the standards set by your university. Using a template can save you time and ensure consistency in your formatting.

University Guidelines

University guidelines are detailed documents that outline the specific formatting and structural requirements for theses. These guidelines cover elements such as:

• Preliminary pages (title page, abstract, acknowledgments, etc.)
• Section titles and headings
• Margins and page numbers
• Font size and type
• Citation style

Guidelines ensure that your thesis adheres to the standards expected by your university, which can vary significantly between institutions.

How to Acquire a Formatting Template and University Guidelines

1. Contact Your Chair or Program Administrator: They are often the best source for obtaining the correct formatting template and guidelines. They can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate documents.
2. University Website: Many universities have a dedicated section on their website for thesis and dissertation guidelines. Check the graduate school or library section for downloadable templates and detailed guidelines.
3. Consult Peers: Fellow students who have recently completed their dissertations might have the necessary templates and guidelines and can offer valuable insights into the formatting process.

Why This Matters

Submitting the correct formatting template and university guidelines is essential for ensuring your thesis meets all required standards. Without these, you may face additional service fees for late instructions and potentially need to make extensive revisions.

If you’re ever unsure about the documents you need, don’t hesitate to reach out to your chair or program administrator. We’re here to help you navigate this process and ensure your dissertation meets all necessary requirements.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need further assistance!