How to Write an IGNOU Synopsis

A synopsis is a crucial part of your dissertation submission for an IGNOU program. It summarizes the research work you have undertaken and highlights the key points of your dissertation. Writing an effective synopsis requires precision and clarity. Follow these steps to craft a compelling IGNOU synopsis that complements your dissertation.

Understand the Synopsis Requirements

Carefully read your program guidebook to know the regulations for the synopsis format, word limit, and submission process. Synopses are typically 1000-1500 words for postgraduate programs and around 500 words for undergraduate programs. 

The synopsis must be written after dissertation work is completed. It should be submitted before the final dissertation submission deadline.

Follow the Proper Format

The synopsis needs to follow IGNOU's recommended format:

- Title page with your name, enrollment number, program name, and submission date
- Table of Contents 
- Introduction 
- Aims and Objectives 
- Research Methodology
- Review of Literature 
- Scope of the Study
- Findings and Discussion 
- Conclusion
- References

Adhere to the given sequence of sections. Do not miss out on any recommended components.

Draft an Impactful Introduction  

The introduction sets the stage for what is to come in the synopsis. Include these key details:

- Background of the topic and context of the problem addressed
- Rationale for choosing the research area
- Relevance and significance of the study 

Keep the tone formal. Clearly state the focus area and motivations for your dissertation work.

State the Aims and Objectives 

This section should clearly list the: 

- Primary aim and purpose of the dissertation
- Specific objectives of the research

The objectives describe the particular issues, questions, or goals your dissertation sought to address. Link these directly to the aims stated.

Explain the Research Methodology 

Give a concise account of your research methodology and process. Include:

- Research design - Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods 
- Instruments - Surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.
- Sampling technique and sample size
- Data analysis methods
- Any limitations of the methodology

Do not provide very intricate details, just the key aspects. The emphasis should be on how the methods facilitated the research.

Summarize the Literature Review

The literature review in your Mcom project identified and analyzed existing research related to your topic. The synopsis should briefly highlight:

- The major theories, models, and studies reviewed
- Main findings from previous research 
- How your study fills research gaps

Show how your dissertation contributes new knowledge to the subject area.

Explain the Scope of Study  

This section should clearly define the parameters within which the research was conducted. Specifically mention:

- Geographical area or location of data collection 
- Study sample and participants
- Time period for the research  
- Any other boundary conditions 

This provides clarity on the focus and coverage of the investigation.

Discuss the Major Findings

Present a summary of the significant results and findings that emerged from your dissertation research. Mention:

- Patterns and trends observed in collected data
- Notable relationships between variables  
- New observations and discoveries
- Interesting insights related to the topic

Only include the most important highlights and outcomes here.

Provide a Strong Conclusion 

The conclusion should reflect on how the aims were achieved and key recommendations from the research. Highlight:

- Whether the dissertation succeeded in the goals stated initially
- Major contributions and implications of the findings
- Limitations of the study
- Recommendations for policy or practice  

End with thoughts on potential future research directions related to the topic. Keep the conclusion short but impactful.

Presenting the Data Analysis

The data analysis section should provide a concise summary of how the data collected was analyzed and interpreted to arrive at the research findings. Specify the quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis techniques that were utilized to examine the data obtained through your research methodology.

For quantitative data, mention the statistical tools and tests used for analysis. For example, if surveys were conducted, describe the use of statistical software to calculate frequencies, descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, regression analysis, ANOVA, t-tests, etc. Discuss the reasoning behind using certain tests and techniques to analyze the quantitative data gathered. 

For qualitative data such as from interviews, focus groups, or observation, describe the approach used to code, categorize, and identify themes and patterns. Mention the use of tools like NVivo, grounded theory, thematic networks analysis, etc. along with justification for using those particular methods. Discuss how the qualitative data analysis enabled drawing interpretations aligned to the research objectives.

The data analysis section should convince the reader that appropriate and scientifically sound techniques were utilized to systematically analyze the collected data and derive meaningful insights that shaped the major findings of the dissertation. Keep it concise yet informative within the word limit.

Include Correct References  

Any sources cited in the synopsis must be included in the references list. Follow IGNOU's recommended citation style consistently. Cross-check that all in-text citations match with the reference list.

Proofread the completed synopsis carefully before submission. Stick within the prescribed word limit and avoid plagiarism. Write in a clear, concise manner that conveys the essence of your dissertation research. Submit the synopsis and dissertation together by the due date. With attention to detail and IGNOU's guidelines, your synopsis can effectively summarize your academic work.