The dissertation is a central component of the MRes or Integrated PhD. Writing your dissertation is your chance to research a topic of your choosing with the guidance of an experienced researcher. At 22,000 words, the dissertation represents a substantial piece of writing and is the equivalent of three academic journal articles of the type you will have read during your programme. It therefore requires careful planning and research, and considerable determination to stick to a carefully worked out timetable. If you are integrated PhD student you may choose to continue this area of Research into the second and third years of your PhD.