After completing your coursework, comprehensive exams, and other prerequisites, you reach the “ABD” (All But Dissertation) stage. At this juncture, you’ve fulfilled all requirements except for the dissertation.

Before embarking on the writing phase, it’s crucial to establish your committee and draft your prospectus or proposal. Typically, your committee comprises your advisor and several faculty members, either from your department or from related disciplines if your research is interdisciplinary. Throughout the dissertation process, your committee will offer guidance and evaluate your dissertation defense, ultimately determining whether you earn your PhD.

Your prospectus serves as a formal document presented to your committee, often orally during a defense. It delineates your research aims and objectives while illustrating the relevance of your topic. Successfully passing your prospectus defense signals the commencement of your research and writing journey.