Writing a thesis (Part 2) - Preparation

To reach this point of writing a thesis, you would definitely have done your modules of research methods, statistics, and the respective psychological areas.  You would have also practiced writing literature reviews and psychological reports.  Without the above knowledge and practice, it would be relatively difficult to write a full thesis.

Here are a list of the other academic things you may consider to prepare for this major task in your psychological journey:
1.  Know how to use a research database
This is something that you should already have known how to do and have access to.  If you do not have access to a research database, this is the very first thing you should do.  Learning to use is not difficult;  Question is "are you getting the most out of it?"  Otherwise ask your lecturers / supervisors / librarians.

2.  Having a good method or system for compiling your research articles
You are not only handling or researching 10 to 15 articles as per your precious essay papers or reports.  This time, it would be for 50 to 100 articles, hence a reliable system is essential.

3.  Learn Endnote or be really good at APA style referencing and citations
References and citations are must-haves, and in psychological thesis, you need to have them in APA style.  Are you totally sure that your APA referencing skills are impeccable??  Otherwise, try to get Endnote and learn to use the program well.

4.  Using SPSS or Excel (for those doing quantitative research)
Through whichever method you use to analyse your data, make sure you know how to use those programs.  SPSS would be the preferred method; however getting a personal version may burn a hole in your pockets.

Some preparation for you to work better and more efficiently:
1.  Having good time management
As mentioned in Part 1, having good time management is important, as time is not one of the things you will have a lot with the large amount of reading and writing, which may affect your time for sleep, food, and social interaction.  So make sure you plan out your time properly, and always make sure to take a break when  you need it.

2.  Understand your studying / working arrangements 
Are you a morning / night person?  Do you prefer reading via soft / hard copy?  Do you require distractions / total silence to work efficiently?  What is your optimal or maximum concentration time span?
Having a good understanding of your studying arrangements will help in writing your thesis more efficiently.

3.  A good support network
With all those stress that you would be getting, it is always good to have a good support network, someone to talk to or give you a hug when needed, someone to have coffee with, someone to grumble about stuff with you.

With this preparation tips, good luck to those who are going to write a thesis!