Specialized Project / Thesis Roadmap

A comprehensive guide for your capstone project, from proposal to final defense.

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Phase Timeline (Estimated) Main Tasks Deliverables/Results Key Notes
1. Proposal & Research Week 1 - 3
  • Define problem, scope, and objectives.
  • Conduct extensive literature review.
  • Formulate methodology and research questions.
  • Write and defend the project proposal.
  • Approved Project Proposal.
  • Annotated bibliography.
 A strong foundation and clear research gap are critical for success.
2. System Design Week 4 - 5
  • Detailed system architecture design.
  • Database schema and data model design.
  • Algorithm and logic design.
  • Create UI/UX wireframes and mockups.
  • System Design Document (SDD).
  • Detailed diagrams (UML, ERD).
 The design must be robust, scalable, and directly address the research objectives.
3. Development & Testing Week 6 - 11
  • Iterative development of modules (sprints).
  • Implement core algorithms and features.
  • Conduct unit and integration testing continuously.
  • Gather experimental data if applicable.
  • Functional software prototype.
  • Test cases and results.
  • Raw data from experiments.
 Maintain clean, well-documented code. Regular check-ins with supervisor are vital.
4. Evaluation & Analysis Week 12 - 13
  • Analyze collected data and results.
  • Evaluate the system against initial requirements.
  • Compare results with existing works.
  • Refine the system based on evaluation findings.
  • Data analysis report.
  • Performance evaluation metrics.
 Be objective in your analysis. Discuss both strengths and limitations of your work.
5. Thesis & Defense Week 14 - 15
  • Write the complete thesis document (Chapters 1-5).
  • Get feedback and revise drafts.
  • Prepare presentation slides for final defense.
  • Practice the defense presentation and Q&A.
  • Final thesis document.
  • Defense presentation slides.
  • Complete project submission package.
 Start writing early. The thesis is as important as the product itself.

Important General Notes

1. Proactively Communicate with Supervisor

Don't wait for your supervisor to ask. Proactively report progress, discuss challenges, and ask for advice. This shows you are responsible and invested in the project.

2. Time Management

Break down tasks and set deadlines for each small part. Use tools like Trello or Notion to track progress. Avoid procrastination.

3. Use Git

Get into the habit of using Git/GitHub from the beginning. It not only helps you manage code and revert to old versions when needed but is also a crucial skill for your future career.

4. Keep Detailed Notes

Create a work log file to record what you've done, problems you've encountered, and how you solved them. This will be a valuable resource when writing the final report.