how to make capstone research paper

How to Write a Capstone Project like an Expert

This guide describes all the steps needed to create a capstone project, including choosing a topic, structuring the paper, and writing in a scholarly manner.

A capstone project is a research assignment that many students must complete as part of their undergraduate or master’s degree. It differs from other types of final papers such as a thesis or dissertation because it has a practical nature. Capstone projects call for a student to review a certain problem, often specific to the writer’s interests or experience, and conduct research to evaluate or resolve the detected issues. The goal of such assignments is to involve students in their future professional sphere (Weaver 2). Moreover, capstone projects assess how students use critical thinking skills and the knowledge they have acquired during a course.

Choosing a Topic

It is clear that your selection must be connected to your sphere of education. For example, if you are a medical student, your capstone project will likely be focused on health-care interventions. For future biologists and chemists, chosen topics will reflect their field of expertise. Nevertheless, these assignments can be made more personal as follows:

• Search for a topic that interests you. Selecting a theme that does not spark your interest can negatively affect your attention and the quality of your writing. You may neither be able to concentrate on your paper nor conduct in-depth research. Think about your experience, both educational and professional. Has there been a problem or issue that you noticed and wanted to solve? This capstone project may be your chance to do that.
• Consider the format of the assignment. What does your instructor ask you to include in the project? Anticipate the composition of the future paper and the various components it should contain. Do you have to conduct research, and do the results have to be measurable? Adjust your topic to reflect the instructions. Since in most cases students have to confirm the topic with their advisors before writing, you will be able to get some help if you are struggling to find suitable subject matter.
• Take into account the project’s length. Depending on the number of requested pages, you may need to broaden or narrow your topic. Try to estimate how much space each part of the project will take up, and choose a research area that has enough information.
• Research existing literature on the topic. If your topic is too narrow or too recent, you may not find enough academic literature to support your research. In contrast, if the topic is too broad, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of available information.

Capstone projects usually follow a specific structure:

• Abstract. Although it is located at the beginning of the written project, the abstract should be written last. It is a summary of the entire study; you can approach it as soon as you are sure that every other part is complete. Do not confuse the abstract with the introduction of the paper—abstracts contain enough information to interest the reader in the entire project. Thus, they must capture the essence and relay main concepts, hypotheses, research methods, and findings.
• Introduction. In this section, you will acquaint your readers with the topic you have selected. Sometimes, an introduction is split into multiple smaller categories such as “Purpose of the Paper” or “Research Questions,” but they can be located in this part since they present the topic. Here, you should introduce the issue and connect it to your sphere of academic knowledge or course. In addition, you may discuss why this research problem is significant. Next, list the formulated research questions or hypotheses that will guide the investigation. State the objectives that you wish to achieve with the help of this project. Finally, if it is required, include a thesis that succinctly describes the aims and beliefs of the capstone project.
• Literature Review. A review of the existing literature is a vital component of any research endeavor. Here, you will search for academic and other reliable sources that are connected to your topic. These articles, books, trials, and studies will be used as a foundation for the research. Sources can contain pertinent findings, discuss well-examined methodologies, present new ideas, and confirm or refute earlier findings. Document the results of your search and analyze them; look for gaps in knowledge. What themes are not explored well or missing altogether? What should or can be researched in more detail? You can attempt to fill in these gaps with your findings.
• Methodology. In this section of the project, you will talk about how your research is to be conducted.
• First, describe your research design; it can be qualitative, quantitative, or mixed (a combination of the two). Each type also has many subcategories. Choose one, and explain why it works the best for your topic.
• Next, state your independent and dependent variables if needed for your selected design. Independent variables are what you choose to investigate (for example, different training programs for employees). Dependent variables are affected by independent ones (for example, employee performance after training).
• Describe the sample for your project. Who are the participants, and how many of them are involved? What are the inclusion and exclusion criteria for research?
• List the materials and tools you used in conducting research. Here, you can introduce questionnaires, online tests, and other media created for this project.
• Write about the process of conducting research, discussing all the major elements of the procedure. What were the participants asked to perform? How were the results collected?
• Discuss how you analyzed the results, listing measurements, tests, and calculations. Explain why you chose each method, and support your selections with previous research.
• Results. This is a significant part of the project, where you show the results of the conducted research. Refrain from making any assumptions or conclusions here—state the results without interpretation. You can use graphs, tables, and images to illustrate findings. Remember to present data that will answer all the research questions and hypotheses you introduced earlier. Check the findings’ validity and significance if required by the chosen research style.
• Discussion. Here, you should analyze the revealed results—be critical and attentive. Try to find patterns or show correlations in the findings. Talk about the context. What does previous academic literature tell you about this study? Does it contradict or align with your findings? Think about the importance and implications of your results. Does this study add something new to the sphere of knowledge? Do not forget to consider the limitations of your project—what could make the research more reliable? Finally, introduce some questions for future research and encourage additional investigation.
• Conclusion. Some papers include a conclusion in addition to the discussion. Restate all major information from the study here, presenting it concisely. Do not propose any new ideas or data in this part. The function of a conclusion is to wrap up the project and talk about all important judgments.

Writing Process

In addition to adhering to the structure described above, you should also remember to pay attention to your writing process. Do not be afraid of making drafts before writing the final version; they will help you structure your arguments and findings. After completing the paper, be sure to proofread it as mistakes and inconsistencies can make the written project difficult to read, confusing, or even incorrect. If you think you need someone else’s opinion, ask for it—turn to your instructor, writing center, or other knowledgeable persons that will help you revise the text if necessary. Check all tables and graphs, and make sure that a reader can understand them as well as you do.

Capstone projects give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge in practice. They are designed around a narrow topic that investigates a real problem, using a specific structure that is followed in the majority of cases: an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion are essential elements of every capstone project. These assignments use a scholarly voice and require in-depth knowledge of previous scholarly literature. Like all academic papers, they need to be substantiated with evidence and be clear and unbiased. Lastly, proofreading is an important part of scholarly writing as well. This paper shows the writer’s level of preparedness after completing a course. Follow the provided guidelines and remember to be attentive—these rules should help you complete a high-quality capstone project.

Weaver, K. F., et al. “The Benefits of Peer Review and a Multisemester Capstone Writing Series on Inquiry and Analysis Skills in an Undergraduate Thesis.” CBE—Life Sciences Education, vol. 15, no. ar51, 2016, 1-9.

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How to Write a Capstone Paper

March 21, 2024

Embarking on the journey to write a capstone paper can be a pinnacle achievement for students nearing the end of their academic programs. This comprehensive project showcases your cumulative knowledge and skills and prepares you for future scholarly or professional pursuits. In this guide, we will navigate the essential steps and strategies to craft a compelling capstone paper, from selecting a topic to formatting and citations. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to produce a well-researched and thoughtfully written paper that meets the highest standards of academic excellence.

What is a Capstone Paper?

A capstone paper is a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students. Unlike a standard research paper, a capstone paper involves identifying a unique problem, issue, or question in your field and conducting thorough research to address it. This process includes synthesizing theory and practice, applying critical thinking, and engaging in extensive analysis to contribute meaningful insights to the subject area. Understanding the purpose and scope of a capstone paper is crucial as you embark on this academic endeavor.

A capstone paper demands high dedication and intellectual rigor, as it requires you to explore a specific topic comprehensively and reflect on its broader implications within your field. The structure and content of a capstone paper vary significantly by discipline. Still, its core aim remains constant: to push you to think critically, conduct independent research, and articulate your findings coherently and persuasively. This comprehensive project encourages you to identify and tackle complex problems, propose innovative solutions, and contribute new perspectives or findings to your study area. Through this process, a capstone paper facilitates the transition from student to scholar, providing a platform to refine and demonstrate your research, analytical, and writing skills in preparation for future academic or professional pursuits.

Choosing a Topic and Formulating a Research Question

Selecting an engaging and viable topic is the first step in writing a capstone paper. Your topic should spark your interest and have sufficient depth and complexity to warrant extensive research. Begin by exploring current trends, issues, and gaps in your field. Once you’ve identified a potential area, narrow your focus to a specific research question. This question should be clear, concise, and answerable within the scope of your capstone project.

After determining your broad area of interest, delve deeper into the literature to refine your topic further. Engage with recent studies, expert opinions, and theoretical frameworks to understand the nuances of your chosen field. This preliminary research will help you identify a gap or a unique perspective that your capstone paper could explore. Consider discussing your ideas with faculty members, mentors, or peers to get feedback and additional insights.

Your research question should reflect a gap in the existing literature and align with your academic and professional interests, motivating you to write a capstone paper and pursue the research diligently. It’s also essential to consider the feasibility of your research question – can it be researched within the time and resources available to you? Once you have a solid research question, it becomes the foundation upon which your entire capstone paper is built, guiding your research, analysis, and conclusions.

Conducting Initial Research and Gathering Resources

Initial research is pivotal for grounding your capstone paper in a strong knowledge base. Start by gathering scholarly articles, books, and credible online resources related to your topic. This phase is about building a foundation, understanding the current discourse, and identifying where your research can contribute new insights. Organize your findings systematically to facilitate easy access and reference throughout the writing process.

Utilize academic databases such as Google Scholar to locate peer-reviewed articles that provide depth and authority to your research. Online and physical libraries are invaluable for accessing books and journals that may not be freely available online. Additionally, consider exploring specialized databases related to your field for more targeted resources. Keeping detailed notes on your sources, including authors, titles, publication dates, and key findings, will help you cite these sources accurately and synthesize the existing literature with your original research. To manage this wealth of information, software tools can be incredibly useful for organizing your references and creating a personal library of research materials. This initial phase of research is crucial for framing your project, ensuring that you’re not duplicating existing work, and setting a direction for your capstone paper that is both innovative and grounded in academic rigor.

Creating an Outline

An outline is your roadmap, providing a structured framework for your capstone paper. It should include:

• Introduction: Introduce your study’s topic, research question, and significance.
• Background Information: Offer context and key concepts related to your research.
• Methodology: Describe your research design and approach to data collection and analysis.
• Findings: Present the data or insights gathered through your research.
• Analysis and Discussion: Interpret your findings, discussing their implications and how they contribute to the field.
• Conclusions and Recommendations: Summarize your research and suggest practical or theoretical implications.

Your outline serves as a blueprint, ensuring your capstone paper is coherent, logically organized, and comprehensive. Start with a broad overview in the introduction, setting the stage for your research by highlighting its importance and the gap it seeks to fill. The background section should delve deeper into the literature, providing a solid academic foundation and justifying your research question.

To write a capstone paper, in the methodology section, detail your data collection and analysis strategies, offering transparency and allowing readers to gauge the reliability of your findings. This section should be precise, explaining the choices you made and how they align with your research objectives.

Plan to present your results clearly and systematically when outlining the findings section. Depending on your research, this may include quantitative data, qualitative insights, or a combination of both. Charts, graphs, and tables can effectively illustrate your points.

In the analysis and discussion segment, you interpret your data, drawing connections between your findings and existing knowledge. Discuss the significance of your results and how they impact the understanding of your research question.

Finally, your conclusions and recommendations should wrap up your research and propose directions for future study or practical applications of your findings. This section reinforces the value of your work and its contribution to the field.

By carefully structuring your outline, you ensure each section flows into the next, creating a cohesive and persuasive capstone paper that addresses your research question thoroughly and convincingly.

Writing the Introduction and Background Information

Begin your introduction with a compelling statement or question that captures the reader’s attention, drawing them into the importance of your research topic. Clearly state your research question and briefly outline the objectives of your study, making it clear why this research is both necessary and timely. Highlight any unique aspects of your study and its potential contributions to the field.

The background information should build on the groundwork laid by your introduction, delving deeper into the existing literature and theoretical frameworks relevant to your topic. This section is where you map out the academic terrain, showing how your research fits within and responds to ongoing debates or gaps in the field. It should provide a comprehensive overview of the key studies and theories that have shaped your research area, offering insights into the evolution of thought and identifying where your work will make its mark.

The introduction and background sections should inform and intrigue, creating a narrative that makes your capstone paper a compelling addition to the scholarly conversation. This is your opportunity to argue the value of your research and to persuade your readers that what follows is worth their attention.

Developing a Clear and Concise Methodology

The methodology section should detail the procedures and techniques for gathering and analyzing data. Be precise and transparent in your description to write a capstone paper, allowing readers to understand how you arrived at your findings.

In developing your methodology, start by outlining the research design, whether it be experimental, correlational, qualitative, quantitative, or a mixed-methods approach. Clarify your rationale for choosing this design, linking it to the research question and objectives. Describe the setting and context of your study, the population and sample selection, and the criteria for inclusion or exclusion. It’s essential to detail the data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or archival research, and justify these choices based on their suitability for addressing your research questions.

Moreover, explain the procedures for data collection in a step-by-step manner, ensuring that your study can be replicated. This includes discussing instruments or tools employed, such as questionnaires or software, and their validity and reliability.

Analyzing and Interpreting Your Findings

In analyzing and interpreting your findings, it’s crucial to approach your data with a critical eye, evaluating its implications within the context of your research question and the wider body of academic literature. Begin by summarizing the key results, then examine what these results mean in relation to your study’s objectives. Use your analytical framework to dissect the data, identifying how it supports, contradicts, or expands upon existing theories and research.

Quantitative studies may involve statistical analysis, highlighting significant correlations or differences and discussing their relevance. For qualitative research, thematic analysis or narrative interpretations will be key, focusing on how the themes you’ve identified contribute to understanding the research problem.

Drawing Conclusions and Making Recommendations

Drawing conclusions and making recommendations are critical aspects of any research project, and they play a pivotal role in the final stages of your capstone paper. To effectively conclude your paper, it is essential to summarize your findings and discuss their broader implications concisely. By doing so, you can offer your readers a clear understanding of the significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing body of knowledge in your field.

In addition to summarizing your findings, reflecting on the methodologies and approaches used in your study is crucial. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your research design and data analysis methods. Address any unexpected challenges or limitations encountered during the research process, as this transparency can help guide future researchers in similar endeavors.

Formatting and Citations

Formatting and citations are essential to academic writing, demonstrating your commitment to scholarly integrity and precision. Choosing the correct academic style guide, whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago, or any other specified by your program, is crucial to write a capstone paper and maintaining consistency and uniformity throughout your paper. By following the prescribed guidelines, you ensure that your document is visually cohesive and provides proper credit to your consulted sources.

Accurate and complete citations are paramount in academia. Each citation should include all necessary information for readers to locate the source you referenced. This typically includes the author(s)’ names, publication date, title, and publication information. Double-check your citations against the guidelines of your chosen style, and pay close attention to the punctuation, formatting, and capitalization rules to ensure correctness.

Writing a capstone paper is a significant academic endeavor that requires dedication, thorough research, and critical analysis. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to produce a paper that fulfills academic requirements and contributes valuable insights to your field. Remember, a successful capstone paper is the result of strategic planning, meticulous research, and thoughtful writing. Embrace this opportunity to showcase your academic prowess and make a meaningful contribution to your discipline.

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CAPSTONE PROJECT: Parts of a Capstone Project

• Parts of a Capstone Project
• Voice in the Capstone Project
• Analysis of Qualitative Data

What a Table of Contents Could Contain

I      Introduction        A     Statement Of Problem/Opportunity (Research Question)        B     Background, Context, And Significance Of Study        C     Project Researcher Identification II     Literature Review        A     Subheadings (Themes Discovered In Review)        B     Notice Of Gaps In Knowledge III    Methods        A     Subjects/Participants        B     Data Collection Approaches/Strategies              1     Advantage Of Strategy              2     Limitation Of Strategy              3     Potential Risk              4     Ethical Issues About Collection Upon The Subjects/Participants        C     Data Analysis Approaches And/Or Software (NOT The Results Themselves, Just How You Are Going To Analyze The Data – Coding Method, Analysis Of Interviews/Recordings, Mathematics And Stats Analysis) IV     Results, Findings, Interpretation, And Discussion V      Recommendations, Application, And Conclusion VI     Reference Pages

What Goes Into Each Section

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Capstone & Thesis Research

• Getting Started
• Thinking about your Project

Choosing a topic

Developing your thesis statement/research question, forming a research question, watch and learn with webster u. library online presentations:.

• Start Searching
• Literature Review This link opens in a new window
• Doing Primary Research
• Presentation Skills This link opens in a new window
• Specific Graduate Programs
• Writing and Citing
• Mendeley Citation Manager This link opens in a new window

Need help? Ask a librarian or chat

Ask A Librarian  for help finding sources, narrowing or expanding your topic, and more!​

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Choose a topic that you find interesting! Select something that will hold your interest for the nine weeks that you will work on this project. For a capstone or thesis topic consider:

• Issues that are relevant to your workplace, classroom experience, or career goals.
• A topic that has caught your eye in your textbook, a journal article, or an issue that you explored for previous classwork or projects and would like to pursue further.
• A topic should be manageable in scale. If a topic is too broad, you will have difficulty covering all of the necessary material. If the topic is too narrow, you may have difficulty finding material published on your topic and struggle to stretch the material to meet your project length requirement.
• If your assignment requires you to do primary research (surveys, interviews, empirical research study), allow time to complete the process.
• Be flexible. If your topic is too narrow or broad, you may still be able to incorporate the aspects of it that interest you. 
• Try to have a few options in mind, in case you find out that your first choice is not feasible after exploring available literature. 
• Always check to make sure that your topic meets your instructor's assignment guidelines. If in doubt, it is best to ask early in the process.

Many students start with a general topic and then narrow the focus. For example, you may be interested in social media and decide to examine its use by employees in the workplace. You could be even more specific, limiting your scope to a particular geographical location, a specific type of company, an age group, etc.

For most papers, you will want to write a thesis statement expressing the argument you want to make. The statement will guide you as you search for information. In this case, you may decide that you want to find research on the pros and cons of social media use in the workplace. A sample thesis statement is Do the benefits to companies whose employees use social media at work outweigh the negatives?  

If you plan to conduct actual research, you will need to establish a research question or questions that your study will attempt to answer. For example, we may ask Does the size of a company make a significant difference in the degree to which companies benefit from social media use among their employees?  To address this question, you could do a survey of various companies and compare the responses of large, medium and small companies.  Ideally this study would cover new ground and not exactly replicate previous studies. 

• Thesis Statement Guide from the Reeg Academic Resource Center SharePoint (requires login)

We find it helps many students to think strategically about their topic if they ask it in the form of a question. Here's how.:

• Think of a broad topic that interests you.  Human Resources is a popular area of research, so lets start there, and focus in on the area of training.
• We will then narrow that topic to orientating or onboarding.
• A sample research question on this topic may be "How does employee onboarding improve retention?"  This search can focus on a particular action taken by employers, which is onboarding, and a specific result, improving employee retention.
• If you plan to conduct original research, you could create a survey with original questions and submit it to a variety of companies and compare the responses.  Ideally your study would cover new ground and not exactly replicate previous studies. 

• Where do I Start?: Selecting a Topic and Beginning Your Research (Recorded on January 25, 2018. 17 minutes) You have a research assignment; now what do you do? We will guide you through selecting a topic, writing a thesis statement and research questions, selecting keywords and databases for preliminary research. Click here to watch specific parts of this video.
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Guide to the ALM Capstone Project

Customstyles.

• Course Catalog
• Research Methods

There are a number of ways to conduct research for your capstone topic, but everyone must start with the literature review in order to learn what has already been published on your topic. The literature review also helps you identify the different research methods used by scholars in the field that have already produced valid and reliable results.

Indeed, the literature review is the very first step and it is begun when you are crafting your capstone proposal. It is the only way to choose a topic and write your background and research methods section for the proposal. Of course, you'll continue to consult published work during the capstone course as well. Because this step is so important, we've created entire section on this topic (please see Literature Review , under Choosing a Topic).

Commonly used methods:

Case studies. Case studies are in-depth investigations of a single individual (noteworthy museum leader), a group (education department), or event (exhibit). Reading prior case studies is a must to inform your design. Reading case studies may also lead you to museum professionals who authored the published work. These experts could become research participants. Case study is a formal research method with a specific structure. For an introduction, visit Basics of Developing a Case Study from the Free Management Library.

Interviews . You may want to conduct interviews with experts in the field on a specific topic, such as, increasing diversity in musuem membership. Museum professionals have a wealth of information and are ordinarily happy to support beginning scholars. Your capstone reader and instructor can help make introductions through their own networks. Interviews are not simple tasks. You'll need to learn how to conduct interviews in such as way that avoids bias and elicits valid data that can be used for analysis. For an introduction, visit General Guidelines for Conducting Research Interviews from the Free Management Library.

Surveys . Conducting a survey is another way to gather research on your topic. Ordinarily, this method is chosen when you want to gather information from a large data set. Survey design is also not a straightforward task. For an introduction, visit the Harvard University Program on Survey Research.

Program evaluation . You may also consider in-depth and detailed evaluation of an aspect of a specific museum's operation, such as an exhibit or educational programs to understand if and how it met its intended goals. For an introduction, visit Evaluation Activities in Organization from the Free Management Library and Evaluations from the Institute of Museum and Library Resources.

• Choosing a Topic
• Precapstone Tutorial
• MUSE E-599 Past Capstone Titles
• Intellectual Property Rights
• Use of Human Subjects
• Frequently Asked Questions

AP Capstone Project: APA Format & Paper Organization

• APA Format & Paper Organization
• Quantitative Research
• How to Avoid Scientific Misconduct

Your Capstone Paper

Your capstone paper will fall into one of the following categories:

L iterature review :   A literature review is a critical summary of what the scientific literature says about your specific topic or question. This kind of paper demonstrates your familiarity with work in the field. If you chose to research a certain topic or concept in depth, you will most likely write a literature review.

Experimental Report:   If you conducted original research for your capstone or collected data based on observations , your paper will be an experimental report. You will still need to include a summary of the past and current research about your topic, but unlike a literature review, you will also include some analysis as well as your own data gathered from an experiment or observations. 

Everyone's capstone paper should contain the following elements: a title page, abstract, introduction, body, conclusion, and reference list.   Click on the link below to open and make a copy of the capstone paper template. If you have any questions, please come see Ms. Forfa (earlier is always better!)

Capstone Paper Editable Template

Other Helpful Resources:

• Help with In-Text Citations in APA Format
• APA Sample Paper This is useful, especially if you need help formatting your reference list!
• Citing & Referencing in APA Format
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• Capstone Resources
• Literature Searches

Parts of a Scientific & Scholarly Paper

Introduction.

• Tracking and Citing References
• Books on Effective Writing
• Where to Publish?
• Examples of Projects
• Resources by Topic Area

Different sections are needed in different types of scientific papers (lab reports, literature reviews, systematic reviews, methods papers, research papers, etc.). Projects that overlap with the social sciences or humanities may have different requirements. Generally, however, you'll need to include:

INTRODUCTION (Background)

METHODS SECTION (Materials and Methods)

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Master's Capstone Writing: Master's Capstone Writing

Introduction.

Many—although not all—master’s students complete their program with a capstone course. These capstone courses look different depending on the program and program learning outcomes. However, there are some common characteristics in these capstone courses, one of which is that it usually requires intensive writing throughout the course. Students need to use all of the skills they have learned thus far in this culmination of their degree, often writing and developing one final capstone throughout the entire capstone course.

With this in mind, we have collected Writing Center resources that will be particularly useful for master’s students writing their capstone. We also have listed resources that will be helpful for students in particular programs. Additionally, if you are looking for help on something specific that you don’t see here, be sure to reach out and ask. Questions can be directed to Ask OASIS .

If you’re a master’s student and you’re not sure you are in the right place, note that master’s program capstones can be called by many different names—capstone project, master’s project, capstone, final project, scholarly project, case study, treatise, and research project—although the resources we’ve identified here should be useful for all master’s capstones, no matter what they are called.

Getting Started

You will most likely be writing, developing, and revising your capstone from week to week throughout the entire capstone course. Thorough preparation is essential to set a foundation for the writing you’ll be doing. To help you take notes, organize your thoughts, and research, use these resources:

• Our Goal Setting pages offer suggestions about how to set and achieve your writing goals as you work on longer projects, like the master’s capstone.
• Our Prewriting pages include tips for critical reading, taking notes, organizing ideas, and outlining.
• The Prewriting Techniques: Taking the First Steps recorded webinar will also give you examples of how to lay the foundation for your writing.
• Episode 34, Taking Care of Yourself with Mindful Writing , and the follow-up Episode 35 will help you learn how to fit writing your capstone in with the rest of your life via mindful writing.
• Watch the recorded webinar Walden Assignment Prompts: Learn the Requirements to ensure you fully understand the expectations for your capstone, which will be outlined in the grading rubric, prompt, and other information in your course. Even if the final rubric for your capstone is posted in the last week of the course’s resources, we suggest you download it now to ensure you’re fulfilling the final expectations for your capstone as you develop it each week.

Also note that you may be asked to write one of the following kinds of documents as part of your capstone.

• Presentations webpages
• Annotated Bibliographies webpages ;  Annotated Bibliographies recorded webinar
• Literature Reviews pages ; Literature Review and Annotated Bibliography Basics recorded webinar
• Executive Summaries webpages

Of course, don’t forget to use the Library for help researching too!

Writing your first draft may seem overwhelming, but many capstone courses break down the process across multiple weeks in the capstone course. Remember to take it one step at a time and know that you will have time to revise once you’ve written a first draft. To help you with your writing, use these resources:

Developing Your Capstone

• Our Drafting pages will help you with essential components of your capstone, like an introduction, conclusion, and thesis statement.
• Our Paragraphs pages will show you how to develop your ideas into academic paragraphs, and you can see even more examples in the recorded webinar Using the MEAL Plan to Write and Revise Academic Paragraphs .
• Episode 26 of our WriteCast podcast, Wrestling with Writer’s Block , will help you overcome any writer’s block you’re experiencing.
• Our Paper Review service offers you the opportunity to receive individualized feedback throughout the drafting process on your writing progress and goals.

Using Sources in Your Capstone

• Our Paraphrase pages and the recorded webinar Paraphrasing Source Information will help you paraphrase sources successfully, since paraphrasing evidence is often preferred in master’s capstones.
• Our Synthesis pages can help show you how to synthesize in your capstone, since at this point in your program you’ll also be expected to synthesize rather than summarize sources.
• Our Citing Sources Properly pages will ensure you are citing your sources, including just the right amount of citations throughout your writing.

Because you’ll be working on your capstone over multiple weeks, you’ll be expected and have ample opportunity to revise. Revision helps clarify and strengthen your writing, so you’ll be spending just as much if not more time revising than you spent writing your first draft. Use the following resources to help you with revision strategies:

• Use our Revising pages to make sure that you revise both at the paragraph level and for overall organization and clarity. This might be a longer paper than you’ve written in the past, so you have to be careful that it is organized clearly and effectively.
• The 5 Rs of Revision , WriteCast podcast episode 14, will help you learn about revision strategies.
• The Improving Your Writing: Strategies for Revising, Proofing, and Using Feedback recorded webinar will demonstrate revision strategies for you and give you tips on using instructor feedback to revise.

Proofreading and Editing

Once you’re near the end of your course, you’ll need to polish, proof, and edit your capstone to ensure you are not only following APA and grammar rules but also  don’t have any typos or unclear phrasing. Use the following resources and strategies to help you proof and edit your capstone:

• Our Proofreading pages outline a few proofing strategies, like reading aloud, printing a hardcopy, using spell checkers, etc.
• Speaking of spell checkers, try using Grammarly to catch typos and spelling errors.
• Use our Common Reference List Entries page , comparing each of your reference entries to the corresponding example so you can make adjustments.

Use our Citation Variations page , comparing each of your citations to the corresponding example so you can make adjustments.

Paper Review Appointments

Keep in mind that you don’t have to set out drafting and revising your master’s capstone project alone. We are here to support your writing progress and overall skill development. In fact, students who make three or more paper review appointments per term are statistically more likely to see progress in academic success. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and to make multiple paper review appointments with our writing instructors. If you are interested, be sure to check our resources our paper review appointments and how to incorporate multiple appointments within your schedule . 

Program-Specific Capstone Tips

There are some other common tips and resources we can provide for master’s students’ capstones based on their program. If your program is in any of the following colleges, be sure to note these tips and resources too.

Capstones for College of Education and Human Sciences

Major assessments: For some students, portions of their capstone and capstone course may also be a major assessment. Our tips above apply in these cases too, but you may also find the recorded webinar Writing for the MAT, MSEd, EdD, & EdS Major Assessments helpful.

Capstones for College of Health Sciences and Public Policy

Literature reviews : Note that many programs in this college ask students to write a literature review . Sometimes these literature reviews focus more on summary or annotating sources than the synthesis -focused literature reviews we talk about in the Writing Center. In those cases, be sure to follow your instructor’s directions and preferences, as well as the expectations set in the capstone rubric.

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How to Write a Methodology Section for a Capstone Project

A capstone project is completed by a student who is very close to earning her degree. The project is generally very intensive and demanding, and in most fields, it can involve some type of research. You may need to write a research paper as part of your capstone project. Within the paper, you must include a methodology section. Knowing all you can about how to write each section of the research paper for your capstone project will make completing the entire project seem less daunting.

Label the methodology section of the research report for your capstone project as "Methods."

Include information about the materials you used to conduct your research in the methodology section. Materials can mean any instruments or equipment you used, any subjects being studied and any treatments that were administered as part of your research.

Explain how you used the materials listed. To complete your research, you most likely used or manipulated the materials in some way. A thorough explanation specific to your research needs to be provided.

Talk about what your research entailed, how you gathered information and how measurements were made, when relevant. All of these details about your research are vital to a complete methods section.

Mention the statistical methods or tests that you used to analyze the research and data that you collected using the previously described methods.

Check your work. After reading through your methods section, a person should be able to replicate your research exactly. Read the section carefully, making sure you did not leave out any information. Additionally, the language you use should be direct and to the point, with no extraneous words or phrases, and your sentence structure should include short, declarative sentences whenever possible.

Mike Johnson has been working as a writer since 2005, specializing in fitness, health, sports, recreational activities and relationship advice. He has also had short stories published in literary journals such as "First Class Magazine." Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science in education and history from Youngstown State University.

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Dec 6, 2023 8:15:00 AM | capstone Getting Published - Sharing Your Capstone Thesis Project

Learn how to get your capstone thesis project published to reputable journals and share your research findings with the academic community.

Completing your capstone thesis project is a significant milestone in your educational career. You’ve likely invested countless hours analyzing research, crafting your conclusions, and developed insights that will benefit your chosen field of study. So now, how do you share your work with a broader community? Publishing your capstone can be a rewarding experience that allows you to share your research findings with a wider audience and contribute to the academic community. 

ACHS Chief Academic Officer Dr. Tiffany Rodriguez shares these resources and steps to help you get started: 

Step One: Select a Suitable Journal or Publisher

The first step is to identify a journal or publisher that aligns with your subject matter and the focus of your capstone thesis. Here are a few reputable journals:

• International Journal of Professional Holistic Aromatherapy (IJPHA)
• Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine
• Journal of Evidence Based Integrative Medicine
• Journal of Integrative Medicine
• Journal of the American Herbalists Guild
• Journal of the Alliance of International Aromatherapists

You can reach out to the contacts in the links above and discuss their specific guidelines for submission. If you find other journals that may be a good fit for your content, you’ll want to do your research on their reputation and reach. 

How do you know if a journal or publisher is reputable? 

With new journals and publishers emerging all the time, it can be difficult to assess if they are reputable. However, there are a few tools you can use in your initial research to avoid publications that are known to be predatory. If you're concerned about potentially predatory journals, here's a helpful resource you can check out . It provides more information on this topic and can guide you in making informed decisions about where to publish your work. 

Be on the lookout for other red flags, such as:

• Email communications have typos or grammatical errors, demand payment, or come with frequency e.g. several times a day or week that does not align standard business communication
• Quick time to publish e.g. only a few weeks. Most journals will require peer review or a formal editorial review process that will take some time. You should never feel pressured.
• There is a fee. While there may be a cost involved in publishing, this should be investigated before any payments are made. Never share your bank or credit card details via email or submit via a website until you are 100% sure it is a legitimate publisher and service. 

Step Two: Review Submission Guidelines

Once you've chosen a journal or publisher, carefully review their submission guidelines. These guidelines will provide instructions on formatting, referencing, and the submission process. This will help you understand what to expect from the beginning - before you have submitted your paper or further engaged in the process. For instance, let's take a look at the submission guidelines provided by the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine .

Step Three: Submit Your Manuscript

This is typically an upload process. Ensure your capstone thesis is appropriately formatted before submitting; these requirements will be detailed in the submission guidelines and may include requirements for word count, font and type size, chart or graph specifications, and other guidelines such as the example above.

Step Four: Peer Review Process

Most academic journals subject submitted manuscripts to peer review. Be prepared to respond to reviewers' comments and make necessary revisions based on their recommendations.

Step Five: Celebrate Your Publication!

Once your work is published, it’s time to celebrate! If you’re an ACHS graduate, we want to help you share your success, so be sure to reach out to us at [email protected] and tell us about your publication, and all of your professional successes! 

You’ve published - now what?

Once you’ve published, and even before, there are several ways you can continue to share your capstone thesis and network to promote your expertise. Here are a few suggestions for next steps: 

• Distribute a local news press release - let your community know about your research and the products or services you have to offer. Download a template online here.
• Share with industry organizations that are aligned with your topic
• Offer to be a guest panelist or join a podcast to talk more about your work

Additional Resources

As a graduate, remember you have continued access to the ACHS library for any additional guidance and access to academic databases that can help you find scholarly journals or publishers. You can reach out to our librarian at [email protected] if you have any questions about journals. 

Written By: American College of Healthcare Sciences

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What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps

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A capstone project is a culminating academic project. It typically requires students to apply the skills they have gained during the course to a real-world problem. Capstone projects are common in undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education.

Interesting fact, the first documented capstone project was completed in 1937 by Edgar F. Batten, who proposed to build an airport. It was considered a novel idea at that time, but it led to the development of Cleveland Municipal Airport. Today, they have come a long way, allowing students to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. In this guide, we will define a capstone project and state its purpose in academics. We will also delve into its significance and provide an outline of how to do a capstone project. So, get ready for an exciting journey to become a capstone pro! Remember that you can always buy a capstone project from our academic gurus if you strive for maximum output.

What Is a Capstone Project: Definition

Capstone projects are vital in every school. Then, what is a capstone project ? Generally, it is research designed to showcase students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in specific fields of study. This task is challenging and time-consuming, but once completed, it is rewarding. Capstone project is interdisciplinary in nature and can be completed in various formats, such as a written report, research paper , term paper , or presentation. It often involves independent research and analysis by an individual college or university student or group. For example, you could be asked to explore one topic or social problem that interests you, do extensive research about it, assess findings, and propose a solution. Based on the definition of capstone project, it is a culminating academic experience that typically takes place at the end of students' college education. Other basics include:

• Use of academic knowledge Students apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their academic program to their papers.
• Collaboration with faculty members or industry professionals Students may work with faculty members or industry professionals to gain additional insight and guidance on their capstones.
• Presentation or defense Students may also be required to defend their capstone project in front of a panel of experts or live audience.
• Evaluation by committee A committee evaluates the student's paper to determine if they have met all academic requirements and project standards.

What Is the Capstone Project Purpose?

The main purpose of a capstone project is to assess your ability to integrate and apply knowledge acquired throughout your academic program. It gives you a chance to demonstrate mastery of a particular field of study, showcasing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Capstone project serves several key goals:

• Demonstrate student’s learning abilities As an educational strategy, capstone project can be used to show if the learner has acquired knowledge gained over the entire course.
• Improve students’ self-perception and confidence Typically, capstone projects allow students to take on new responsibilities and show commitment all through. Completing them boosts their self-esteem, self-awareness, as well as confidence.
• Boost career aspirations Since capstone projects involve working on real-world problems, students gain practical experience and prepare them for their future careers.
• Foster motivation and engagement Creativity involved in senior capstone projects, especially since students select them based on their personal interests, can motivate them to learn, engaging others in that process.

Importance of Capstone Projects

The importance of capstone projects cannot be overstated. They supplement your academic journey, providing opportunities for you to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge, build real-world experience, and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Writing capstone paper can serve several important reasons, including:

• Preparing for future careers By working on real-world issues and engaging in independent capstone research project, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills that are essential for successful careers.
• Encouraging innovation By providing you with an opportunity to tackle complex problems and come up with innovative solutions, capstone projects encourage creativity.
• Demonstrating mastery of a particular field By successfully completing a capstone project, you demonstrate mastery of a particular field, setting yourself apart from others in the academic program as well as enhancing your marketability in the job market.
• Building your CV Prospective employers want to know more than just your academic performance. What is the capstone project you undertook in school? Adding them to your CV will inform them of your additional skills you possess.
• Building a sense of accomplishment Completing capstone essays can be a significant accomplishment, giving you pride and satisfaction for your hard work.

Senior Capstone Project Structure

A capstone project structure plays a crucial role in helping you write a successful paper. It provides a clear, organized framework for the capstone project, helping you ensure that you include all necessary parts. It will also guide you in the right direction, helping you find the best approach to complete your paper. Before you begin writing a capstone project paper, it is important to carefully review all guidelines provided by your academic program to ensure that it meets all requirements and is structured clearly and effectively. Here is a general structure of senior capstone project:

• Abstract Brief summary of the capstone project, typically around 250-300 words. It provides a concise overview of background information, objectives, methodology, results, and conclusion. It is often the first section that readers view to better understand your study's purpose and findings.
• Introduction This section provides an overview of the paper and sets context for your study. It includes a background on the topic, a clear problem statement or issue being addressed, research questions, and objectives. It should also highlight how your paper will be structured.
• Literature Review It provides a comprehensive overview of relevant research on the topic, including an analysis of previous studies, gaps in literature, and theoretical framework that will guide your study. It is important to provide thorough and well-structured literature review to support your research questions.
• Methodology In this section, you outline research design types, data collection and analysis methods, and sampling procedures that will be used to address your research questions. It should also give detailed description of the research process, including rationale for methods chosen and procedures followed to ensure validity and reliability of data collected.
• Results Here you present your study findings, including statistical analyses, tables, graphs, and figures that illustrate the results. They should be presented in a well-organized manner, focusing on answering your research questions.
• Discussion This section provides an interpretation of results, connecting findings to literature and research questions, further discussing their implications. The discussion should give critical evaluation of results, considering the limitations for future research.
• Conclusion It summarizes the main study findings, providing recommendations for future research. This section should be a clear and concise summary of results, tying the findings to research questions and objectives.
• References This section provides a comprehensive list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Appendices If necessary, this section includes additional materials that support the main study findings, such as survey instruments, raw data, or transcripts of interviews.

Capstone Project Outline

A sample capstone project outline is a visual representation of the paper structure and organization. It acts as a roadmap for writing, helping ensure that the project stays on track. The purpose of the capstone project outline is to provide an overview of all main elements and order in which they will be presented. Here is a template example of an outline for a capstone project:

• Background of the topic
• Purpose of study
• Research questions
• Overview of paper structure
• Overview of relevant research
• Analysis of previous studies
• Gaps in literature
• Theoretical framework
• Research design
• Data collection and analysis methods
• Sampling procedures
• Rationale for methods chosen
• Procedures to ensure validity and reliability of data
• Presentation of study findings
• Statistical analyses
• Tables, graphs, and figures
• Focus on answering research questions
• Interpretation of results
• Connection of findings to literature and research questions
• Implications of findings
• Critical evaluation of results
• Study limitations
• Implications for future research
• Summary of main findings and conclusions
• Recommendations for future research
• Comprehensive list of all sources cited in paper
• Additional materials that support main study findings

How to Write a Capstone Project Paper?

A capstone project requires careful planning to show that you have a grasp of a particular discipline or subject. As such, it is important to understand the steps involved in the process and have a well-defined plan in place. The following subsections will guide you in writing a capstone project paper, from start to finish, giving you the roadmap to ensure a successful outcome. Each part is carefully detailed to help you understand what’s expected of you. Follow these steps to learn how to write a capstone paper:

1. Choose a Topic

Choosing a topic is an important step in writing a capstone project. It sets the foundation for your paper, determining how successful the final product will be. Always go for capstone project ideas that have not been extensively researched, allowing you to add new insights. Here are some steps to follow when choosing research topics :

• Identify area of interest Think about your interests, passions, and academic strengths. This will help you choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in or are well-suited to research.
• Consider the project scope Make sure the topic is manageable within a specified timeframe and resources available to you. In particular, it should be narrow enough to allow you to focus, but broad enough to provide enough material for a comprehensive analysis.
• Review the coursework Take a look at all courses you have taken so far and consider how they relate to your chosen topic. Remember the paper should be built on knowledge you have acquired throughout your academic journey.
• Consult your supervisor A capstone project advisor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on the topic. They can help you refine it, ensuring that it is relevant to the field of study.
• Research your topic Once you have a few potential topics, research each one to determine their feasibility, availability of resources, as well as scope of literature.
• Make a decision After you have conducted your research, choose one topic that you are most interested in and that you believe will be the most rewarding.

Choosing a topic that is relevant, manageable, and of personal interest to you will help you stay motivated throughout your capstone writing process.

2. Research Existing Literature

Conducting a thorough literature review is crucial in helping you understand the current state of knowledge on the topic, identifying gaps your capstone senior project can fill. Here's how to go about it:

• Start by brainstorming keywords or phrases related to the topic, using them to search databases, such as Google Scholar , JSTOR , and other relevant academic sources.
• Pay attention to relevant theories and studies as you research. This will help you get a sense of what has already been done, what questions remain unanswered, and what you can contribute to the field.
• Keep track of all sources, taking notes as you read. Organize them into categories, like creating an annotated bibliography that you can refer to later.
• Evaluate the quality of sources you found. Check if they are peer-reviewed or have been published in reputable academic journals.
• Synthesize the information you have gathered to identify themes or patterns. This will help you see the bigger picture and understand the research context.
• Use the synthesized information to refine the research question and hypothesis. Make sure that your research is original and adds to the existing body of knowledge.

By conducting a thorough literature review, you will write a capstone paper that is well-informed, grounded in latest research, and makes a meaningful contribution.

3. Define a Problem

Based on research, define the problem statement you aim to address in your capstone research paper. It should be well-defined and specific. The problem statement should be clear, concise, and align with the research question. It should also be justified, explaining why the problem is important, including how it relates to current literature. Here are some steps to follow when defining a problem for a capstone project:

• Review existing literature Conduct a thorough review of existing literature in your area of interest. This will help you identify any gaps in knowledge or areas that need further research.
• Identify the problem Based on literature review, identify a specific problem or issue that you would like to address. It should be relevant and of interest to you.
• Refine the problem Make it more specific and focused. Consider the project scope, available resources, and own abilities.
• Formulate a research question Based on the problem you have defined, formulate a research question that will guide your paper. It should be clear, concise, and answerable through research.
• Develop a hypothesis Develop a hypothesis that you will test through research. It should provide a potential answer to the research question.

Defining a problem is important because it provides focus and direction for research. A well-defined problem will ensure that your capstone project writing is of high quality.

4. Introduce Your Research Methods

This section should describe methods you will use to collect and analyze data, as well as the rationale behind your choice. They should be appropriate, accurate, and reliable for the capstone project. You should also explain any final capstone project limitations, including how you plan to address them. Here are some steps to follow when introducing graduate capstone research methods:

• Choose research methods that are appropriate for the research question and hypothesis. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of different methods, and select the ones that are most suitable.
• Provide a clear explanation of why you chose the methods you did. Explain how they will help you answer the research question and test your hypothesis.
• Give a detailed description of research methods, including how you will collect data and analyze it. Be specific about what steps you will take, tools you will use, and data you will collect.
• Consider any ethical issues that may arise from using those research methods. Explain how you will ensure that research is conducted in a responsible manner.
• Review previous research that has used similar methods, considering any lessons learned from that. Explain how you will apply these lessons to your own research.

Introducing research methods is important because it sets a foundation for your research. It will provide readers with a clear understanding of your methods, including rationale behind them.

5. Discuss Your Key Findings

This step involves presenting findings of the study and analyzing all data. When writing a capstone paper, provide a clear presentation of the results in addition to how they relate to the problem they aim to address. They should be presented in a logical, organized manner, and supported by evidence. In your capstone work, discuss their implications, including how they contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are some steps to follow when discussing key findings:

• Present results in a clear and concise manner. Use tables, graphs, and charts to help illustrate your findings.
• Interpret results based on your research question and hypothesis. Explain what the findings mean and why they are significant.
• Compare your results to those of previous research in similar fields. Explain how the results you got are similar or different from previous findings.
• Discuss research limitations and the strengths of methods used. Explain how they may impact the results.
• Discuss implications of the findings for your field of study or society as a whole. Explain how that research contributes to a broader understanding of the topic.
• Conclude your discussion of key findings by summarizing results and their significance. Highlight key takeaways while explaining why they are important.

6. Present a Capstone Project

In this final step, you should present your capstone project in a clear, organized manner, highlighting key findings and significance of research conducted. This should be a well-structured, well-written paper or oral presentation that showcases your knowledge of how to do a capstone project on a specific subject. Capstone in college or university should be written in an academic style, following the guidelines set by the institution. The paper should also include an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results section, discussion, and conclusion. For oral presentation, you may also be required to answer questions from the audience. So, it is important to be well-prepared and familiar with the paper content. It should effectively communicate your research findings to them. To make a successful presentation, here are a few suggestions:

• Plan your presentation carefully.
• Use visual aids, such as slides, charts, graphs, and images, to help you effectively communicate ideas or findings to the audience.
• Rehearse the presentation several times until you are confident and comfortable with its content and flow.
• Present only the most important information to avoid going into too much detail.
• Interact with the audience by asking questions or allowing for discussion.
• Be ready to answer questions from the audience, discussing your work in great detail.

Capstone Paper Format

A capstone project format can vary depending on the discipline or requirements set forth by your instructor or program. Most times, you may encounter the following common formats used in most capstone papers.

• APA paper format Mostly used in social sciences, education, and psychology. It contains a cover page, abstract, introduction, method, results, discussion, references, and appendices.
• MLA paper format Commonly used in humanities, such as literature and language. You must include in-text citations and the Works Cited page.
• Chicago format Often used in history, business, and other disciplines. It involves using either footnotes or in-text citations and a bibliography page.

Regardless of the chosen format, ensure that your capstone paper is well-organized, has proper grammar, and is easy to read.

Capstone Project Writing Tips

To ensure success in writing your capstone project, it is important to keep in mind some key practices. In this section, we will introduce you to common tips that can help you effectively plan, research, and write the paper. From choosing a suitable topic to proofreading the final draft, these tips on how to write a good capstone project will help you produce a successful paper that meets academic standards:

• Start early Give yourself enough time to research, write, and revise. Starting early will also give you enough time to address any obstacles that may arise when writing.
• Choose a suitable topic Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study.
• Research thoroughly Gather as much information as possible from reliable sources. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to gain a deep understanding.
• Outline your ideas Organize ideas to create an outline for the capstone project. This will help you stay focused, ensuring the paper has a clear structure.
• Write clearly and concisely Use clear, concise language to communicate ideas. Avoid using technical jargon unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Cite your sources Properly cite all sources you use in the capstone project to avoid plagiarism. Follow the required citation style specified.
• Revise Take time to proofread the work. Check for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, ensure that ideas are presented well.
• Seek feedback Ask a friend, mentor, or academic advisor to review your capstone assignment and provide feedback. This will help you identify any mistakes.

Bottom Line on Capstone Project

In this guide, you have learned what’s a capstone project definition, its benefits in education, purpose, and structure. Before you embark on writing your paper, make sure you fully understand the meaning of a capstone project paper and what it entails. This means taking the time to carefully research a topic, identify a clear problem to address, and develop a research plan that will help you find answers. Remember that the final product should be well-written, well-organized, and effectively communicate your key research findings. Once you begin to write your capstone, keep in mind the following tips:

• Strictly follow the instructor’s guidelines.
• Only pick reliable sources for your capstone paper.
• Pay attention to the layout, format, and structure.
• Plan your time for completing the project wisely.
• Always seek feedback to ensure you are going the right way.

Feel free to check out our capstone project writing services and see how else we can assist you with this program! Our writers can always get you well-written texts before the deadline!

FAQ About Capstone Projects

1. what is a capstone project in college.

A capstone project in college is the final piece of stone needed to complete a degree program. It often involves significant research proposal, presentation, or practical application of skills and knowledge acquired during their program. By definition, it is a requirement for graduation and may be evaluated for grades or other forms of academic recognition.

2. What is capstone project significance?

Capstone projects are significant because:

• They provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of a particular subject area.
• They allow students to apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their college degree in a real-world setting.
• They provide students with a sense of completion and achievement, helping them demonstrate the value of their college performance to potential employers or other stakeholders.

3. How long should a capstone paper be?

The length of a capstone project paper varies depending on set guidelines by the academic institution or instructor. On average, they can be between 20-25 pages long, sometimes 35, including any supporting materials, such as appendices or references. However, check specific requirements from your institution as they can cap the number of pages.

4. What is the difference between a capstone project and a thesis?

A capstone project and thesis are both academic works, but they carry significant differences between them. A thesis is typically longer, and more in-depth than a capstone project. It is often required for graduate students and is based on original research. Its focus is narrower and more specialized. A capstone project is often required for undergraduate students, mostly based on research or practical application. It is more interdisciplinary in nature, involving solving world problems.

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One of the hardest steps of research is to determine a focused research question. First, you need to narrow your topic to a manageable scope. You can find a list of pre-approved topics in Blackboard. However, these topics are still too broad - you need to narrow it down further. Deciding where to place your focus can be challenging. Two very helpful tools available to all Central Penn students are Gale's Topic Finder , and Credo's Mind Map .

Credo Mind Maps can help you see smaller subtopics of a larger topic. By clicking on a term in the mind map, the map will automatically reform to produce new possible subtopics for you to explore.

Gale's Topic Finder works similarly to Credo's Mind Map. Topics display in a wheel or tile format. By clicking on a term, you will see further subtopics to explore. A pane on the right side of the screen updates with each new topic to provide you with articles about that particular topic.

Finding a problem that no one has solved is hard - what do I do?

• Exploratory research - read books, e-books, Credo topic pages, and Opposing Viewpoints topic pages. Get a general idea about what people are saying about your topic. 
• In-depth research - find and read as many journal articles (in particular, research studies) about your topic as you can. You need to know what has already been published and addressed. 

For your Capstone assignment, you must identify a  problem , then present a viable  solution . The problem should evolve into a research question, then be presented as a "statement of the issue".  To locate a problem and in turn, determine your research question, you need to find a "gap in the literature" - a question that no one has answered yet. One of the best places to find these gaps is in the Discussion or Conclusion section of a research article. After researchers have analyzed the results of their study, they often are left with some unanswered questions (or items they could not definitively prove). They discuss these at the end of their published article. 

Key phrases to look for:

• "Further research should examine . . . "
• "An area of future research could focus on . . . "
• "Subsequent research is needed to understand . . . "

You can find these phrases by reading the Discussion or Conclusion section of research studies about your general topic.

Simple ways to narrow down a common research topic (will not work for every imaginable topic) into a focused research question:

• limit your research to the local geographical area
• limit your research to a specific time frame
• limit your research to a specific demographic

If you continue to have trouble narrowing down your topic into a research question, speak with your instructor or a librarian.

Use one of these databases to find published research studies:

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How to Write a Capstone Conclusion Chapter

• 21 June, 2023
• Accounting , BSN , Business , DNP , DPI , Economics , English , IT , Law , Medicine , MPA , MSN , Nursing , Philosophy , Psychology

Are you struggling to write a captivating capstone conclusion chapter? Don’t worry! Our experts are here to help you master the art of crafting an impressive conclusion. Learn how to write a capstone conclusion chapter that leaves a lasting impact. Get expert assistance at an affordable cost of just $20 per page. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your research project.

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Mastering the art of how to write a capstone conclusion chapter | expert guide.

Writing a capstone conclusion chapter is a crucial part of any academic research project. It provides an opportunity to summarize the key findings, interpret the results, address limitations, and propose areas for future research. In this article, we will guide you on how to write a compelling and effective capstone conclusion chapter that leaves a lasting impact.

Introduction to the Capstone Conclusion Chapter

The capstone conclusion chapter serves as the final section of your research paper, dissertation, or thesis. It serves the purpose of wrapping up your study and bringing together all the essential elements. It is where you synthesize the findings, draw conclusions, and reflect on the significance of your research.

Understanding the Purpose and Significance of the Conclusion Chapter

The conclusion chapter holds immense importance in the overall structure of your research work. It helps readers understand the implications of your study, highlights the contributions you have made to the field, and provides closure to your research journey. Therefore, it is vital to invest time and effort in crafting a well-written and impactful conclusion.

Structuring the Capstone Conclusion Chapter

To ensure clarity and coherence, it is essential to structure your capstone conclusion chapter properly. Let’s explore the key components that should be included:

Summarizing the Research Findings

Start by summarizing the main research findings concisely. This section should provide a high-level overview of the key results you obtained throughout your study. Consider the following subheadings: Restating the Research Objectives Remind the reader of the objectives you set out to achieve at the beginning of your research. Briefly restate them to create a connection between the objectives and the findings. Recapitulating the Research Methodology Provide a brief summary of the research methodology you employed. Mention the research design, data collection methods, and any relevant ethical considerations. Presenting the Main Results Highlight the most significant findings of your study. Emphasize the outcomes that align with your research objectives and contribute to the existing knowledge in the field.

Interpreting the Findings

Once you have summarized the findings, it is crucial to interpret their meaning and significance. Use the following subheadings to guide this section: Analyzing the Significance of the Results Delve into the implications and importance of your research findings. Explain how your results contribute to the current understanding of the subject matter. Discuss any unexpected or noteworthy outcomes. Discussing the Implications of the Findings Examine the broader implications of your research findings. How do they impact the field or the specific context of your study? Address any potential applications or areas that could benefit from further exploration.

Addressing Limitations and Future Research

No research study is without limitations. Acknowledge and address these limitations to ensure transparency and credibility. Use the following subheadings to structure this section: Identifying Limitations of the Study Discuss the constraints and challenges you encountered during your research. Be honest and transparent about any limitations that may affect the validity or generalizability of your findings. Proposing Areas for Future Research Highlight areas where further investigation is warranted. Suggest potential research directions that can build upon your study and address the gaps or limitations you identified.

Concluding Remarks

End your capstone conclusion chapter with a concise summary of the key points discussed throughout the chapter. Reinforce the significance of your research and its potential impact on the field. Leave the reader with a lasting impression of your study’s value.

Writing the Capstone Conclusion Chapter in a Conversational Style

To engage the reader and make your capstone conclusion chapter more accessible, adopt a conversational writing style. Avoid excessive jargon and complex language. Instead, use clear and concise sentences that effectively communicate your ideas. Remember, you want your readers to connect with your research, even if they are not experts in your field.

Incorporating Sales Tone and Engaging the Reader

To make your capstone conclusion chapter more persuasive and impactful, consider incorporating a sales tone. Use personal pronouns such as “we” to create a sense of collaboration with the reader. This approach helps to build rapport and establish a connection, making your conclusions more compelling.

Using Rhetorical Questions, Analogies, and Metaphors

Another effective technique to engage the reader is to incorporate rhetorical questions, analogies, and metaphors. Pose thought-provoking questions that encourage the reader to reflect on the implications of your research. Utilize vivid analogies and metaphors to enhance comprehension and create memorable images.

Writing a capstone conclusion chapter is an essential skill for any researcher. By following a structured approach and incorporating engaging writing techniques, you can create a conclusion chapter that effectively summarizes your findings, interprets their significance, and suggests future research directions. Remember to write in a conversational style, utilize a sales tone, and employ rhetorical devices to make your conclusions impactful and memorable.

How long should a capstone conclusion chapter be?

The length of a capstone conclusion chapter varies depending on the scope of your research. However, it is generally recommended to keep it concise, typically ranging from 5 to 10% of the total word count of your paper.

Can I introduce new information in the conclusion chapter?

The conclusion chapter should primarily focus on summarizing and interpreting the existing findings. While you can provide insights and propose areas for future research, it is not the place to introduce entirely new information or data.

Should I include personal opinions in the conclusion chapter?

The conclusion chapter should be based on your research findings and supported by evidence. While you can express your interpretations and discuss implications, it is important to ground your statements in the data you have collected.

How do I make my conclusion chapter impactful?

To make your conclusion chapter impactful, focus on emphasizing the significance of your findings, addressing limitations honestly, and proposing meaningful avenues for future research. Engaging writing techniques, such as rhetorical questions and analogies, can also help captivate the reader’s attention.

Can I restate the research objectives in the conclusion chapter?

Yes, restating the research objectives in the conclusion chapter helps remind the reader of the original intent of your study and establishes a connection between the objectives and the findings you have presented.

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Write down your thoughts and shred them to relieve anger, researchers say

Writing negative reactions on paper and shredding it or scrunching and throwing in the bin eliminates angry feelings, study finds

Since time immemorial humans have tried to devise anger management techniques.

In ancient Rome, the Stoic philosopher Seneca believed “my anger is likely to do me more harm than your wrong” and offered avoidance tips in his AD45 work De Ira (On Anger).

More modern methods include a workout on the gym punchbag or exercise bike. But the humble paper shredder may be a more effective – and accessible – way to decompress, according to research.

A study in Japan has found that writing down your reaction to a negative incident on a piece of paper and then shredding it, or scrunching it into a ball and throwing it in the bin, gets rid of anger.

“We expected that our method would suppress anger to some extent,” said Nobuyuki Kawai, lead researcher of the study at Nagoya University. “However, we were amazed that anger was eliminated almost entirely.”

The study, published in Scientific Reports on Nature , builds on research on the association between the written word and anger reduction as well as studies showing how interactions with physical objects can control a person’s mood. For instance, those wanting revenge on an ex-partner may burn letters or destroy gifts.

Researchers believe the shredder results may be related to the phenomenon of “backward magical contagion”, which is the belief that actions taken on an object associated with a person can affect the individuals themselves. In this case, getting rid of the negative physical entity, the piece of paper, causes the original emotion to also disappear.

This is a reversal of “magical contagion” or “celebrity contagion” – the belief that the “essence” of an individual can be transferred through their physical possessions.

Fifty student participants were asked to write brief opinions about an important social problem, such as whether smoking in public should be outlawed. Evaluators then deliberately scored the papers low on intelligence, interest, friendliness, logic, and rationality. For good measure, evaluators added insulting comments such as: “I cannot believe an educated person would think like this. I hope this person learns something while at the university.”

The wound-up participants then wrote down their angry thoughts on the negative feedback on a piece of paper. One group was told to either roll up the paper and throw it in a bin or keep it in a file on their desk. A second group was told to shred the paper, or put it in a plastic box.

Anger levels of the individuals who discarded their paper in the bin or shredded it returned to their initial state, while those who retained a hard copy of the paper experienced only a small decrease in their overall anger.

Researchers concluded that “the meaning (interpretation) of disposal plays a critical role” in reducing anger.

“This technique could be applied in the moment by writing down the source of anger as if taking a memo and then throwing it away,” said Kawai.

Along with its practical benefits, this discovery may shed light on the origins of the Japanese cultural tradition known as hakidashisara ( hakidashi sara refers to a dish or plate) at the Hiyoshi shrine in Kiyosu, just outside Nagoya. Hakidashisara is an annual festival where people smash small discs representing things that make them angry. The study’s findings may explain the feeling of relief that participants report after leaving the festival, the paper concluded.

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April 10, 2024

Katie Davis and co-PIs Jason Yip,  Alex Bowers, Vincent Cho, and Suleman Shahid were awarded a $75,000 grant from the Spencer Foundation for their project “Developing a Community-Based Model for Equitable AI Practices in Education Settings.” 

Katie Davis ’s book Technology’s Child: Digital Media’s Role in the Ages and Stages of Growing Up  was a  finalist for the  INDIES 2023 Book of the Year Award in the Science and Technology category.  

Aylin Caliskan  and co-collaborators Tessa Charlesworth, Kshitish Ghate, and Mahzarin Banaji published a paper titled  "Extracting intersectional stereotypes from embeddings: Developing and validating the Flexible Intersectional Stereotype Extraction procedure ” in PNAS Nexus . 

Aylin Caliskan  gave a keynote titled  “Transparency in AI Ethics” at AAAI Artificial Intelligence with Biased or Scarce Data (AIBSD) Workshop. 

Aylin Caliskan  gave a keynote titled “Bias and Fairness in Artificial Intelligence” at the “Seminal Presentation on Bias in AI and ML” at  Howard University Virtual Applied Data Science Training Institute (VADSTI) .  

Sandy Littletree  gave an invited lecture titled “Centering Relationality in Libraries, Archives, and Museums: A Conversation at Amherst College.” This talk was a part of a seminar series titled “Organizing for Relationality: Indigenous Knowledge in Academic Libraries, Archives, and Museums.” 

Katie Davis gave an invited talk titled “Generative AI and the Future of Learning: Preserving Agency, Promoting Equity” at the  Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) Pacific Regional Conference .  

Chirag Shah gave a few invited talks: 

• “AI for Information Access: How Do We Do It Responsibly?” at ASIS&T South Asia Chapter. 
• “The AI Frontier: Unveiling the Risks and Rewards” at Companis. 
• “Making LLMs More Reliable and Robust Through Auditing and Validation” at Amazon. 
• “AI Promises, Perils, and Potential Paths” at the Washington Appellate Courts. 
• “Are We Ready for What AI Could and Would Do?” at the Public Relations Society of America. 

Charles Bugre , PhD student, and his work was featured in an article titled  “Residents of Nabdam schooled on mobile money scams and misinformation” in Ghana News Agency and Modern Ghana. 

Chirag Shah was quoted in an article titled “Nvidia unveils text-to-3D AI research project” in TechTarget. 

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An AI app claims it can detect sexually transmitted infections. Doctors say it’s a disaster (LA Times)

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“Powered by patented HeHealth wizardry (think an AI so sharp you’d think it aced its SATs), our AI’s been battle-tested by over 40,000 users,” Calmara’s website reads, before noting that its accuracy ranges from 65% to 96%. “It’s great that they disclose that, but 65% is terrible,” said Dr. Sean Young , a UCI professor of emergency medicine, professor of informatics, and executive director of the University of California Institute for Prediction Technology. “From a public health perspective, if you’re giving people 65% accuracy, why even tell anyone anything? That’s potentially more harmful than beneficial.” … Young raised concerns that some people might use the app to make immediate decisions about their sexual health.

Read the full story in the Los Angeles Times .

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