Turn Your Dissertation From a First Class into an Upper First Class

Improving Your Dissertation: Go From a First Class to an Upper First Class

The Importance of Originality for an Upper First Class Dissertation

To go from a First Class to Upper First Class dissertation, the critical word is originality. At this level, everything else should be second nature. At this point, you need to demonstrate how your thinking adds to the body of knowledge in your field. That’s what an Upper First Class dissertation always does.

Research with Innovation

An Upper First Class dissertation, above all, is built on wide-ranging research. But you should approach your topic with the aim of discovering something new. Consider these two critical questions:

• What has not been explored before?
• How can further research develop a significant contribution to your topic?

Areas identified for future research in your dissertation may become the basis for further study, so incorporate this into your structure from the outset. Typically, an Upper First Class requires a mark over 80%.

Critical Approach to Research

When preparing your dissertation to go from a first grade to upper first grade, consider the following:

• Consult primary sources and established experts.
• Look for what has been omitted as well as what has been said.
• Ask yourself:
  • What is this expert saying?
  • Does this expert cover the topic comprehensively?
  • Are there areas of interest to me that are absent?
  • Can my research develop this further?
  • Has anyone else covered the thinking I believe to be original?

Cohesion and Precision

Your argument must be fluid and cohesive, with no errors in presentation or structure. Proof-reading is essential. Do not sacrifice logical coherence for originality—ensure your basic argument is sound before expanding your research and writing.

Final Touches for Turning a First Grade into an Upper First Grade

Innovative thought, a well-argued central discussion, and a comprehensive bibliography are essential. Do not leave your conclusion or bibliography until the last minute – that is First Class dissertation mettle. Give them the importance they deserve to leave your assessor with the impression of an Upper First Class piece of work—precisely what you want to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turning a First Class Dissertation into an Upper First Class

What distinguishes an Upper First Class dissertation from a standard First?

• Originality at its Core: An Upper First Class dissertation demonstrates a truly original contribution to the field, offering new perspectives, theories, or methodologies.
• Exceptional Critical Insight: The analysis goes beyond critique, showing sophisticated engagement and a deep understanding of complex issues. 
• Innovative Research: The work often explores under-researched areas or applies established ideas in novel ways. 
• Impeccable Structure and Presentation: The dissertation is flawlessly organised, with seamless transitions and professional presentation throughout.

How can I make my dissertation more original?

• Identify Gaps: Focus on areas that have not been fully explored or questions that remain unanswered in your field.
• Develop Unique Arguments: Present interpretations or arguments that challenge existing thinking or offer a fresh angle.
• Integrate Interdisciplinary Approaches: Draw on methods or theories from other disciplines to enrich your analysis.

What level of research is expected for an Upper First?

• Extensive and Selective Reading: Go beyond the core texts, engaging with the latest research and lesser-known sources.
• Primary Source Engagement: Use original documents, data, or case studies where possible.
• Critical Evaluation: Assess the strengths and limitations of all sources, not just summarising but interrogating their relevance.

How important is methodology at this level?

• Justified and Innovative: Your methodology must be rigorously justified and, where possible, show innovation or adaptation to suit your research aims.
• Transparency: Clearly explain your research design, data collection, and analysis processes.

What role does critical reflection play?

• Self-awareness: Reflect on your own assumptions and the limitations of your research.
• Contribution to the Field: Consider how your findings advance knowledge or open avenues for further study.

How do I ensure my argument is cohesive and compelling?

• Logical Progression: Each section should build on the last, leading the reader through a clear, persuasive argument. 
• Signposting: Use clear signposts and summaries to guide the reader.
• Synthesis: Draw together diverse strands of evidence to create a unified, impactful conclusion.

What are common pitfalls to avoid in turning a First Class into an Upper First Class?

• Overly Descriptive Writing: Avoid simply recounting what others have said; focus on your own critical voice. 
• Neglecting Proofreading: Even minor errors can detract from the professionalism of your work. 
• Weak Conclusions: Ensure your conclusion synthesises your findings and highlights their broader significance.

How can I demonstrate impact and future potential?

• Suggest Further Research: Identify new questions or areas for investigation arising from your work. 
• Discuss Practical Implications: Explain how your findings might influence practice, policy, or further academic work.

Focusing on originality, critical depth, and flawless execution is key to elevating a First Class dissertation to an Upper First Class standard.

Other Guides in this Series

• How to Turn a Dissertation from a 2:2 into a 2:1
• How to Turn a Dissertation from a 2:1 into a First Class
• How to Turn a Dissertation from a First Class into an Upper First Class

References for Improving Your Dissertation From First Grade to Upper First Grade

• Chowdhury, N. (2025) How to Write a First-Class Dissertation in the UK. LinkedIn. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-write-first-class-dissertation-theuk-nasif-chowdhury-nlffc [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Ivory Research (n.d.) 5 Ways To Improve Your Dissertation from a 2:2 (C) to a 2:1 (B) Grade. Available at: https://www.ivoryresearch.com/library/other-articles/5-ways-to-improve-your-dissertation/ [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Ivory Research (n.d.) How to Improve Your Dissertation From a 2:1 (B) to a 1st (A) Grade. Available at: https://www.ivoryresearch.com/library/dissertation-articles/improving-your-dissertation-a-grade/ [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Royal Holloway, University of London (n.d.) Dissertation – Marking Criteria. Available at: https://intranet.royalholloway.ac.uk/mathematics/informationforcurrentstudents/msc/dissertation-markingcriteria.aspx [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• University of Cambridge (n.d.) Marking Criteria Optional Dissertation (HML). Available at: https://www.mmll.cam.ac.uk/files/hml_dissertation_marking_criteria.pdf [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• University of West London (n.d.) Tips for completing your dissertation. Available at: https://www.uwl.ac.uk/current-students/support-students/study-support/how-to-prepare-for-your-assessments [Accessed 9 July 2025].