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How to Do a Capstone Project: A Step-by-Step Approach

Starting your capstone project is a major milestone in your academic journey. This guide breaks down the process into clear, actionable steps, ensuring you have the confidence and tools to succeed at every stage.

From selecting a suitable topic to presenting and defending your project, this article covers everything you need to know to make your capstone project a rewarding experience.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the multifaceted nature and purpose of a capstone project within an academic curriculum and its real-world applications.
• Choose a topic that aligns with your interests, is feasible to research, and supports your career goals.
• Conduct a thorough literature review to gather relevant sources, analyze existing research, and identify gaps that your project can address.
• Design a robust research methodology, considering ethical aspects and appropriate data collection techniques.
• Effectively present and defend your capstone project by structuring your final report, preparing for the defense, and responding to feedback.

Understanding the Purpose of a Capstone Project

A capstone project is a culmination of your academic journey , designed to assess the cumulative knowledge and skills you have gained. It is an integral part of academics , often requiring an interdisciplinary approach to solve a problem or contribute to your field. This project not only tests your competencies but also prepares you for real-world challenges, making you a well-rounded graduate ready for the workforce.

Selecting a Suitable Topic

Selecting the perfect topic for your capstone project is a critical step toward academic success and aligning with your future career goals. Your chosen topic should align with your academic objectives and future career aspirations. The nature of an appropriate project topic is that it will contribute to academic growth while preparing you for challenges in the respective field.

Conducting a Comprehensive Literature Review

Conducting a thorough literature review is essential to building a strong foundation for your capstone project. It involves a systematic examination of existing research to build a foundation for your study. Invest time in writing a compelling literature review as it is supposed to pinpoint gaps or unanswered questions and hypotheses.

Designing the Research Methodology

When designing your research methodology, it is crucial to choose methods that align with your research question and objectives. Selecting the appropriate methods ensures that your data collection and analysis will be effective and relevant to your study. Consider the ethical implications of your chosen methods, ensuring that your research adheres to ethical standards and guidelines. Data collection techniques should be meticulously planned to gather accurate and comprehensive data. This involves deciding on the tools and procedures that will best capture the information you need.

Executing the Project Plan

Time management strategies.

Effective time management is crucial for the successful execution of your capstone project. Create a schedule that outlines all the tasks you need to complete, along with their deadlines. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you allocate sufficient time for each phase of the project. Utilize tools like Gantt charts or project management software to keep track of your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Collaborative Work

Collaboration can significantly enhance the quality of your capstone project. Engage with your peers, advisors, and other stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives and insights. Establish clear communication channels and set regular meetings to discuss progress and address any issues that arise. Remember, effective collaboration requires mutual respect and a willingness to compromise.

Monitoring Progress

Regularly monitoring your progress is essential to ensure that you stay on track. Set specific milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure your achievements. This will help you identify any deviations from your plan early on and take corrective actions. Additionally, keep a detailed record of your activities and outcomes to facilitate the final reporting and evaluation process.

Presenting and Defending Your Capstone Project

Presenting and defending your capstone project is a critical phase that showcases your hard work and understanding of the subject. Structuring the final report is essential to ensure clarity and coherence. Your report should include a title page, abstract, table of contents, introduction, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion, and references. Each section must be meticulously crafted to reflect your research journey and findings.

Preparing for the defense involves anticipating questions and practicing your presentation multiple times. You should be able to explain your project's objectives, methodology, and outcomes confidently. Additionally, consider presenting at student conferences to share vital data and evidence, which can help you gain feedback and improve your defense.

Responding to feedback is a crucial skill during your defense. Listen carefully to the questions and comments from your panel, and respond thoughtfully. This not only demonstrates your deep understanding of the project but also your ability to engage in academic discourse. Remember, the defense is not just about defending your work but also about showcasing your ability to think critically and adapt to new insights.

Reflecting on the Capstone Experience

Assessing personal growth.

Reflect on your college journey, apply lessons from thesis, prepare for future endeavors. Personal growth, self-awareness, and professional success emphasized.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on your capstone project allows you to identify the key lessons learned throughout the process. This reflection can help you understand what strategies worked well and what could be improved in future projects. Embrace these insights as they are invaluable for your academic and professional development.

Future Implications

Consider the future implications of your capstone project. How can the skills and knowledge you gained be applied in your career? Reflect on how this experience has prepared you for future challenges and opportunities. This reflection will help you to better navigate your professional path and achieve long-term success.

Reflecting on the Capstone Experience, it's clear that the journey is filled with challenges and triumphs. If you're a student feeling overwhelmed by your thesis, our step-by-step Thesis Action Plan is here to help. With proven methodologies and strategies, we guide you through every step, ensuring you overcome obstacles and achieve success. Don't let anxiety hold you back—visit our website to claim your special offer now and start your journey to a stress-free thesis experience.

In conclusion, undertaking a capstone project is a significant academic endeavor that requires meticulous planning, dedication, and a systematic approach. By following the step-by-step guidelines outlined in this article, students can navigate the complexities of their capstone projects with greater confidence and clarity. From selecting a compelling topic to conducting thorough research and presenting a well-structured final report, each phase of the process is crucial for achieving academic success. Remember, the journey of completing a capstone project not only enhances your research and analytical skills but also prepares you for future professional challenges. Embrace the process, seek guidance when needed, and strive for excellence in every step of your capstone project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a capstone project.

A capstone project is a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students. It involves in-depth research, analysis, and the application of knowledge gained during your academic tenure.

How do I choose a suitable topic for my capstone project?

Choosing a suitable topic involves identifying areas of interest, evaluating the feasibility of the topic, and ensuring it aligns with your career goals. It's important to select a topic that is both engaging and manageable within the given timeframe.

What are the key components of a comprehensive literature review?

A comprehensive literature review involves gathering relevant sources, analyzing existing research, and identifying research gaps. This helps in understanding the current state of knowledge on your topic and shaping your research questions.

What research methods are appropriate for a capstone project?

The choice of research methods depends on your project goals and the nature of your research questions. Common methods include qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method approaches. It's crucial to choose methods that are ethical and suitable for your data collection needs.

How can I effectively manage my time during the capstone project?

Effective time management strategies include creating a detailed project plan, setting realistic deadlines, prioritizing tasks, and regularly monitoring progress. Tools like project management software can also help in keeping track of milestones and deadlines.

What should I expect during the presentation and defense of my capstone project?

During the presentation and defense, you will need to structure your final report clearly, prepare to discuss your research findings, and respond to feedback from your committee or audience. Practice and preparation are key to a successful defense.

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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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• Last Updated: Apr 11, 2018 12:03 PM
• URL: https://shhs-southhadleyschools.libguides.com/apcapstone

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• Appendix 3: Sample Title Page for Au.D. Capstone Project

Au.D. Student Handbook

• Master's and Au.D. Degree Timelines
• Au.D. Curriculum and Advising
• Capstone Project
• Comprehensive Examination for the M.S.
• Comprehensive Examination for the Au.D.
• Academic Expectations
• Grievance and Appeals Procedures
• Academic Honesty & Integrity
• Professional Code of Ethics
• Student Resources
• Definition of an Audiologist
• Audiology Scope of Practice
• Professionalism in Audiology: Core Values
• Appendix 1: Au.D. Advising Form
• Appendix 2: Curriculum Maps
• Appendix 4: Au.D. Capstone Project Rubrics
• Appendix 5: Au.D. Possible Electives

Capstone Project Outline and How to Write One

Process of Creating an Outline

Choosing the Citation Style

How to Format a Capstone Project Outline?

Capstone project outline example.

Things to Avoid During Outline Writing

Why Do You Need a Capstone Project Outline?

Quick recap.

A capstone project is a final assignment that allows students to showcase the knowledge and skills they've gathered throughout their course. It typically involves research, problem-solving, and real-world application, all aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of a chosen topic. To pull it off, you'll need a well-structured capstone project outline. Without one, things can feel scattered. But with a clear roadmap, each section will flow naturally, helping you build toward strong, well-supported conclusions.

In this article, we'll break down how to create a clear and structured capstone project outline. From understanding the key sections you'll need to cover to tips on organizing your work, you'll find a practical guide to help you build a solid foundation for your project. And remember - PaperWriter is a reliable paper writing service that offers expert help with essays and capstone projects alike, so you're never on your own when it comes to finishing strong.

Overview of a Capstone Project Outline 

When putting together your capstone project outline, there are a few essential components to include that will help guide your work:

• Introduction: Start with a brief overview of your project. Here, you'll state the research question or problem you're addressing and explain why it matters. This sets the stage for your project and grabs the reader's attention.
• Objectives: Clearly outline the goals of your project. What are you hoping to achieve? List your objectives in a concise way that aligns with the main purpose of your research.
• Literature Review: Include a section that summarizes the key theories, concepts, and previous research related to your topic. This shows you understand the broader context and background of your subject.
• Methodology: Detail the methods you plan to use to gather and analyze data. This could include how you'll collect information, which tools or techniques you'll apply, and the reasoning behind these choices.
• Results and Analysis: Here, you'll outline how you plan to present and interpret your findings. Mention the tools or models you'll use to break down the data and make sense of it.
• Discussion: This section is where you'll think critically about your findings. How do they relate to your objectives? Discuss their implications and potential impact while also considering limitations and alternative viewpoints.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points of your project. Highlight the significance of your research and suggest future directions or recommendations based on your findings.
• References: Make sure to include a list of all sources you've used in your outline. Keep it organized and stick to a consistent citation style like APA or MLA.

This outline is a flexible framework designed to keep you on track. Adjust it as needed based on your project's requirements and any advice from your advisor. Alternatively, you can always use our capstone project help .

The Process of Creating a Capstone Project Outline

Now that you know what to include in your outline, let's understand how to write a capstone project outline. Laying out your thoughts step by step will not only make the writing smoother but also ensure that your project stays organized and on track.

Remember, you can always go for an option to buy a capstone project from our expert team.

Step 1: Grasp The Writing Assignment

Before you jump into outlining, it's essential to fully understand what your capstone project requires. This might seem straightforward, but missing key details could set you back later on. Start by carefully reviewing the assignment guidelines provided by your instructor or advisor. Make sure you're clear on the scope of the project, the specific objectives, and any required elements like research methods or presentation formats.

By fully grasping the assignment early on, you'll save time and avoid confusion, ensuring your outline—and eventual project—meets all expectations.

Step 2: Identify The Main Parts

Once you understand the assignment, it's time to break your capstone project outline into its main parts. Typically, these sections include:

• Introduction
• Literature review
• Methodology

Think of these parts as the backbone of your project. Each section serves a specific purpose, whether it's setting up your research question, presenting your findings, or discussing the implications of your work. Laying them out in your outline will give your project a clear direction.

Step 3: Create Clear Section Titles

Now that you've identified the main parts of your capstone project, it's time to create clear, straightforward section titles. These titles should give a quick overview of what each part of your project covers, making it easier for both you and your reader to follow along.

For example, instead of just labeling a section "Introduction," you could be more specific with something like "Introduction: Defining the Research Problem." This way, your section titles act as mini-roadmaps, guiding the reader through your work while keeping your outline organized and purposeful.

Step 4: Divide Each Part Into Smaller Segments

With your main sections and titles in place, it's time to break each part into smaller, more manageable segments. This step helps you organize your thoughts and ensure you cover every necessary detail.

For instance, under the "Methodology" section, you might have segments like "Data Collection Methods," "Analysis Techniques," and "Ethical Considerations." These smaller segments allow you to address each aspect of your project in-depth and keep your outline detailed and focused.

Dividing each part into smaller segments also makes it easier to tackle the writing process step by step, ensuring that nothing important is overlooked.

Step 5: Add Short Descriptions Or Key Ideas

Next, fill in each segment with short descriptions or key ideas. This is where you outline the main points or arguments you plan to include in each section. For example, under "Results and Analysis," you might jot down the types of data you'll present, the analysis techniques you'll use, and any preliminary insights you expect to uncover.

These brief notes help you stay on track and ensure that each part of your project is well-defined. They also serve as reminders of what you need to cover, making the writing process smoother and more organized.

Step 6: Think About The Sequence And Structure

With all your sections and ideas outlined, the next step is to think about the sequence and structure. Arrange your sections in a logical order that flows smoothly from one to the next. For instance, you should present your literature review before diving into your methodology so your methods are grounded in existing research.

Consider how each part of your outline builds on the previous one. This ensures that your project is cohesive and that your arguments and findings are presented in a clear, organized manner. A well-structured outline will guide your writing process and help your readers follow your logic from start to finish.

Step 7: Review Your Work Again

Once you've put together your outline, take a step back and review it thoroughly. Check for clarity and coherence—make sure each section logically follows from the previous one and that all your key ideas are included. Look for any gaps or areas that might need more detail.

Also, verify that your outline aligns with the assignment guidelines and project requirements. A fresh look can help you spot errors or areas for improvement that you might have missed earlier. This final review ensures that your outline is solid and ready to guide your capstone project effectively.

Step 8: Complete And Stick To The Outline

With your capstone project outline refined and reviewed, it's time to put it into action. Start writing your capstone project based on the structure you've created. Use your outline as a roadmap to stay focused and organized throughout the writing process.

Make sure to stick to the outline as closely as possible. It's designed to keep your project on track, so deviating too much can lead to confusion or disorganization. However, be flexible and ready to adjust if necessary, especially if you uncover new insights or receive feedback.

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Choosing the Citation Style for an Outline for Capstone Project

Now, let's move on to choosing the citation style for your capstone project outline. Proper citation is crucial for academic work, and different styles have specific guidelines.

Here's a quick overview of the three common citation styles for creating a capstone project outline:

APA (American Psychological Association):

• In-text Citations: Use the author's last name and publication year, like this: (Montgomery, 2022).
• Reference Page: Include full details of each source, such as the author's name, publication date, title, and publication information.

MLA (Modern Language Association):

• In-text Citations: Include the author's last name and page number, for example (Kozlov 88).
• Works Cited Page: List all sources with details like the author's name, title of the work, publication info, and medium.

Chicago Manual of Style:

• Footnote: 1. Clara Montgomery, The Dynamics of Social Change (New York: Beacon Press, 2022), 45.
• Bibliography: Montgomery, Clara. The Dynamics of Social Change . New York: Beacon Press, 2022.
• Author-Date System: Use parenthetical in-text citations and a reference list. (Montgomery 2022, 45)

Consistency is key when applying your chosen citation style throughout your capstone project outline. Make sure your in-text citations and reference sections follow the specific rules of the style you select. Always check the latest edition of the style guide for accurate formatting.

Next up is formatting your capstone project outline. Proper formatting ensures that your work looks professional and meets academic standards. Here's a straightforward guide to help you format your outline effectively:

Here's an example of an outline for a capstone project to give you a clear idea of how to structure your own. This example will help you see how to apply the guidelines we've discussed and tailor them to fit your specific project.

For topic inspirations, check out our list of senior capstone project ideas .

Things to Avoid During Capstone Project Outline Writing

Now that you know how to format your capstone project outline, let's talk about what to avoid during the writing process. Steering clear of common pitfalls will help keep your outline clear and effective.

Here are some key things to avoid:

• Overloading with Details: Keep your outline focused and concise. Avoid adding too many details or lengthy explanations that can clutter the structure.
• Ignoring Guidelines: Make sure you follow any specific formatting or content guidelines provided by your institution. Ignoring these can lead to unnecessary revisions.
• Being Vague: Avoid vague statements. Clearly define each section and use specific points to guide your writing.
• Inconsistency: Maintain consistency in formatting, terminology, and citation style throughout your outline. This ensures a professional and cohesive document.
• Skipping Reviews: Don't overlook the importance of reviewing your outline. Regular checks help catch errors and refine your structure.

Now, let's explore why having a capstone project outline is essential:

• Provides Structure: An outline gives your project a clear structure, helping you organize your ideas and sections logically.
• Keeps You Focused: It helps you stay on track and ensures you cover all necessary aspects of your project without straying off topic.
• Saves Time: By planning ahead, you streamline the writing process, making it more efficient and manageable.
• Identifies Gaps Early: A capstone outline allows you to spot gaps in your research or arguments before you start writing the full project.
• Facilitates Revisions: It makes it easier to adjust and revise your work since you can see the overall framework and make changes as needed.

Here's a quick recap of what we covered about creating a capstone project outline:

• Table of Contents
• Literature Review
• Data Analysis
• Recommendations

If you're still having trouble with your capstone project outline, PaperWriter can help. They offer support with any type of essay and can assist with specific parts of your outline if needed. Their expertise can make a big difference in getting your project on track.

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Graduate Capstone Style Guide: Occupational Therapy

• Introduction
• Formatting Your Manuscript
• Formatting for Accessibility This link opens in a new window
• Copyright and Use of Images
• Intellectual Property
• Using Human Research Subjects
• Depositing Your Manuscript
• Go to Dominican Scholar
• Upcoming Webinars This link opens in a new window

Word Processing Applications

Microsoft word.

All students and faculty have access to Microsoft Word (along with the complete Office suite) through Office 365 in the Okta dashboard. Download and install Office onto your computer, you will need to use the desktop version.

Google Docs

If you opt to use Google Docs to write the bulk of your manuscript, you will at some point need to download it as a MS Word document and finish the formatting in Word. It’s recommended that you wait until you are finished with writing your manuscript.

Introduction to Formatting

Master’s theses, capstone projects, and culminating projects.

Because a manuscript or project is usually an objective, unbiased investigation based upon the author's scholarly work, it should be written in a formal scholarly manner appropriate to academic publications.  It is important to be consistent in matters of style, punctuation, headings, the use of capitalization, and the placement of figures and tables and their corresponding captions. The presentation of data should be clear and clutter-free, utilizing a legible font and size.

IMPORTANT! The Guidelines take precedence over other style guides or department handbooks and example theses provided to you by your instructor. If there seems to be a serious conflict, check with the Library and have your manuscript advisors do the same.

Manuscript front matter, margin, pagination, and document structure requirements are specified throughout this guide, and must be observed as stated, no matter what other guidelines dictate. Remaining format issues are governed by standard publication manuals and/or standards of publication in your discipline.

Required Order of Manuscript Pages

Theses with multiple sections, for occupational therapy and biological sciences majors.

Some manuscripts may be made up of several distinct, yet related, sections. For example:

• A proposal in one section followed by an article for publication in the next section
• Two separate articles but on related topics

In these cases there will be modifications:

• If you need multiple abstracts (in the case of multiple articles) use one Abstract page but with subheadings for each abstract
• Each section will have a standalone title page (see the expample document below)
• Figure and table numbers will carry through the manuscript (ex. if the last figure in Section I is Figure 20 then the first figure of Section II will be Figure 21)
• There will be one set of references for the entire manuscript
• There will be one set of appendices for the entire manuscript
• Example of Manuscript with Multiple Sections

Formatting of Your Manuscript

• General Formatting
• Copyright Statement
• Abstract and Acknowledgements
• Table of Contents
• List of Tables
• List of Figures
• Body of your Paper
• Bibliography

Page Size and Margins

• The entire document is letter sized (8.5" x 11")
• Portrait orientation
• 1-inch margin on all sides (top, bottom, right, and left)
• Choose a font that is clear and business-like; avoid unusual or difficult to read fonts.  We recommend using standard fonts like Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial.
• Use 12 point font size. 

Line Spacing

• Use double-spacing throughout your manuscript.
• Blockquotes and bibliographies may be single-spaced

Page Numbers

• Page numbers appear at the  top right corner  of each page
• Step by Step: Basic Set up of your paper in Google Docs
• Step by Step: Basic set up of your paper in MS Word Learn how to set up the basics for your manuscript including, paper size, margins, font style, font size, line spacing, and paragraph indentations.
• Step by Step: Page Number Basics in MS Word In this tutorial you'll learn how to:(1) insert page numbers and (2) start your page numbering on page 2.
• Step by Step: Advanced Page Numbers in MS Word

Running Heads

• Do not use running heads in the final version of your manuscript
• Left aligned
• Indent the first line of each paragraph 0.5”
• When dividing paragraphs across pages, at least two lines of text should appear at the bottom of the page and at least two lines of text on the next page.

Block quotes

• For quotations longer than 40 words in length (block quotes)
• inset 0.5” from the left margin
• Step by Step: Formatting blockquotes in Google Docs

Major Headings

• Sections starting with a Major heading (Heading 1) should begin on a new page. Do not place a major heading in the middle of the page.

Subheadings

• Subheadings within a chapter do not begin on a new page unless the preceding page is filled. 
• Subheadings at the bottom of a page require at least two lines of text following the heading, otherwise the heading should be pushed to the next page.
• Step by Step: Heading Styles in Google Docs
• Step by Step: Heading Styles in MS Word

Tables and Figures

• Table and Figures should be referred to in the text of the document (e.g See Figure 1). If there is no reference or discussion of the table or figure don't include it.
• Tables and figures should follow their first reference in the text within a page or two. If more clarity is provided by placing tables and figures in an appendix, this style is also acceptable.
• All tables and figures in your paper must include a caption located either above or below the table or figure. Be consistent in placement.
• Table and figure captions should appear in consecutive numerical order (e.g. Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3...) and in the order in which the tables and figures appear in the text
• Tables and figures must fit within the margins of your paper.
• All tables and figures, even if there is only one, must be listed in a List of Tables and/or a List of Figures located on separate pages following the Table of Contents. The List of Tables and the List of Figures should include a Table/Figure number along with descriptive text (usually a portion of the caption) and the page number on which it occurs.
• Diagrams, drawings, graphs, charts, maps, photographs, or any other type of illustrations should be referred to in the manuscript as a Figure .
• Figures may not appear on the title page or other introductory pages.
• Figures should use word wrapping that is inline with the text.
• Figures should include Alt Text
• Tables are used for presenting sets of data. Tables should not be used to format text or images.
• The first row of a table should be a header row that describes the information presented in each column
• Each element of data in your table should be in it's own cell. One piece of data per table cell
• Do not use screenshots of tables from other sources in your work. If you have an image of a table from another source, recreate the table natively in your document using your word processor

Large Tables and Figures

• Large tables or figures can be placed on the page in landscape orientation
• The top and bottom margins should be the same as on a regular page
• Step by Step: Flipping a page into landscape orientation in Google Docs

Special Formatting

• Title is bold-faced
• Text is centered on the page

Additional Information

The title page has 3 sections:

• appears at the top of the page and has 3 lines (1 st  line) Title (2 nd  line) by (3 rd  line) author name(s)
• centered vertically and horizontally on the page 
• Use the following statement: A culminating [thesis or capstone project] submitted to the faculty of Dominican University of California in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of [degree name] in [major]
• has 3 lines (NOTE: do not include the numbers):
• Dominican University of California
• San Rafael, CA
• Your graduation year (e.g. 2022)
• Step by Step: Formatting Your Title Page in Google Docs
• Step by Step: Formatting your Title Page in MS Word

You automatically own the copyright to your work and no one may legally copy any part of it without your permission.   You also may choose to use a Creative Commons copyright to give readers more flexibility with what they can do with your manuscript or sections of your manuscript.  If you have questions about copyright options please contact The Scholarly Communications Librarian

• The copyright statement appears centered and at the top of the page
• Use the following statement, replacing the brackets with the appropriate information Copyright © [author's name] [year of publication]. All rights reserved.

The Abstract states the purpose, design, and results of the research or a description of your project;

Acknowledgements

An acknowledgments page includes a short paragraph acknowledging those people who helped and supported you through the manuscript process. People have included instructors, advisors, parents, siblings, significant others, pets, etc.

Length of Abstract and Acknowledgements Pages

Both the Abstract and Acknowledgments are double-spacedd and should be short and concise and not to exceed 1 page.

Your manuscript must include a Table of Contents listing all major headings that appear including the Abstract, Acknowledgements, List of Tables, and List of Figures.

Page numbers listed in the table of contents correspond with the material presented in your manuscript. If you are asked to make revisions within your manuscript, make sure to check that the page numbers listed in the Table of Contents, List of Tables, and List of Figures are still correct.  Any headings, subheadings, or captions listed in the front matter must match exactly with those that appear within the manuscript.

• Step by Step: Table of Contents in Google Docs
• If you have any tables in your manuscript you must include a List of Tables on it's own page after the Table of Contents
• The List of Tables includes each table (even if there is only one) listed sequentially as they appear in your paper
• Each item in the List includes the table number and a short description (usually the whole or a portion of the table caption) and the page number on which the table appears.
• Step by Step: Creating a List of Tables or List of Figures in Google Docs
• Step by Step: Creating Captions for Tables and Figures in MS Word
• Step by Step: Creating a List of Tables or List of Figures in MS Word
• The List of Figures includes each figure (even if there is only one) listed sequentially as they appear in your paper.
• Each item in the List of Figures includes the figure number and a short description (usually the whole or a portion of the table caption) and the page number on which it appears.

The body of your thesis is the main portion of your manuscript. Follow the general formatting as described under the General Formatting tab

IMPORTANT!  The Guidelines take precedence over other style guides or department handbooks and example theses provided to you by your instructor. If there seems to be a serious conflict, check with the Library and have your manuscript advisors do the same.

• The References, Works Cited, or Bibliography heading is a major heading and the formatting should be the same as other major headings in the manuscript
• Use most appropriate citation style for your discipline (APA, Chicago, or MLA). Include hanging indents if that is indicated for your style
• If you are using a citation tool, such as RefWorks, it is the author's responsibility to make sure that citations are correct including fixing typos and capitalization when needed.

Online Tools

An online citation manager to organize your research and create bibliographies to help you avoid plagiarism. RefWorks can format in 900+ styles including APA, MLA, Chicago, AMA. Learn more about using RefWorks and what it can do for you .

To use RefWorks you will need to first create an account

• Follow the link to the RefWorks landing page
•   Look for and select the link at the bottom of the login box titled Create Account
• Use your Dominican email
• Create a password and follow any other instructions

Once you've created an account you can log in and start using RefWorks

• An appendix should be introduced with a cover page bearing only the title of the appendix centered and 1" from the top of the page. 
• The content of the appendix begins on the next page with the standard margins.
• Table and figures in appendices should be captioned and continue the numbering sequence used in the text
• If you applied for an IRB number include your IRB acceptance letter as your last appendix
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• URL: https://libguides.dominican.edu/occupational-therapy-capstone-style-guide

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• Faculty of Education

Sample Capstone Title Page

Education documents.

• Culminating Activities

Capstone Title

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