what to include in a dissertation appendix

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Thesis and Dissertation Appendicies – What to Include

• By DiscoverPhDs
• August 12, 2020

An appendix is a section at the end of a dissertation that contains supplementary information. An appendix may contain figures, tables, raw data, and other additional information that supports the arguments of your dissertation but do not belong in the main body.

It can be either a long appendix or split into several smaller appendices. Each appendix should have its own title and identification letters, and the numbering for any tables or figures in them should be reset at the beginning of each new appendix.

Purpose of an Appendix

When writing the main body of your dissertation, it is important to keep it short and concise in order to convey your arguments effectively.

Given the amount of research you would have done, you will probably have a lot of additional information that you would like to share with your audience.

This is where appendices come in. Any information that doesn’t support your main arguments or isn’t directly relevant to the topic of your dissertation should be placed in an appendix.

This will help you organise your paper, as only information that adds weight to your arguments will be included; it will also help improve your flow by minimising unnecessary interruptions.

Note, however, that your main body must be detailed enough that it can be understood without your appendices. If a reader has to flip between pages to make sense of what they are reading, they are unlikely to understand it.

For this reason, appendices should only be used for supporting background material and not for any content that doesn’t fit into your word count, such as the second half of your literature review .

What to Include in a Dissertation Appendix

A dissertation appendix can be used for the following supplementary information:

Research Results

There are various ways in which research results can be presented, such as in tables or diagrams.

Although all of your results will be useful to some extent, you won’t be able to include them all in the main body of your dissertation. Consequently, only those that are crucial to answering your research question should be included.

Your other less significant findings should be placed in your appendix, including raw data, proof of control measures, and other supplemental material.

Details of Questionnaires and Interviews

You can choose to include the details of any surveys and interviews you have conducted. This can include:

• An interview transcript,
• A copy of any survey questions,
• Questionnaire results.

Although the results of your surveys, questionnaires or interviews should be presented and discussed in your main text, it is useful to include their full form in the appendix of a dissertation to give credibility to your study.

Tables, Figures and Illustrations

If your dissertation contains a large number of tables, figures and illustrative material, it may be helpful to insert the less important ones in your appendix. For example, if you have four related datasets, you could present all the data and trend lines (made identifiable by different colours) on a single chart with a further breakdown for each dataset in your appendix.

Letters and Correspondence

If you have letters or correspondence, either between yourself and other researchers or places where you sought permission to reuse copyrighted material, they should be included here. This will help ensure that your dissertation doesn’t become suspected of plagiarism.

List of Abbreviations

Most researchers will provide a list of abbreviations at the beginning of their dissertation, but if not, it would be wise to add them as an appendix.

This is because not all of your readers will have the same background as you and therefore may have difficulty understanding the abbreviations and technical terms you use.

Note: Some researchers refer to this as a ‘glossary’, especially if it is provided as an appendix section. For all intended purposes, this is the same as a list of abbreviations.

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How to Format a Dissertation Appendix

In regards to format, you can include one lengthy appendix or structure it into several smaller appendices.

Although the choice is yours, it is usually better to opt for several different appendices as it allows you to organise your supplementary information into different categories based on what they are.

The following guidelines should be observed when preparing your dissertation appendices section:

• Each appendix should start on a new page and be given a unique title and identifying letter, such as “Appendix A – Raw Data”. This allows you to more easily refer to appendix headings in the text of your main body should you need to.
• Each appendix should have its own page numbering system, comprising the appendix identification letter and the corresponding page number. The appendix identification letter should be reset for each appendix, but the page number should remain continuous. For example, if ‘Appendix A’ has three pages and ‘Appendix B’ two pages, the page numbers should be A-1, A-2, A-3, B-4, B-5.
• The numbering of tables and figures should be reset at the beginning of each new appendix. For example, if ‘Appendix A’ contains two tables and ‘Appendix B’ one table, the table number within Appendix B should be ‘Table 1’ and not ‘Table 3’.
• If you have multiple appendices instead of a single longer one, insert a ‘List of Appendices’ in the same way as your contents page.
• Use the same formatting (font size, font type, spacing, margins, etc.) as the rest of your report.

Example of Appendices

Below is an example of what a thesis or dissertation appendix could look like.

Referring to an Appendix In-Text

You must refer to each appendix in the main body of your dissertation at least once to justify its inclusion; otherwise, the question arises as to whether they are really needed.

You can refer to an appendix in one of three ways:

1. Refer to a specific figure or table within a sentence, for example: “As shown in Table 2 of Appendix A, there is little correlation between X and Y”.

2. Refer to a specific figure or table in parentheses, for example: “The results (refer to Table 2 of Appendix A) show that there is little correlation between X and Y”.

3. Refer to an entire appendix, for example: “The output data can be found in Appendix A”.

Appendices vs Appendixes

Both terms are correct, so it is up to you which one you prefer. However, it is worth noting that ‘appendices’ are used more frequently in the science and research community, so we recommend using the former in academic writing if you have no preferences.

Where Does an Appendix Go?

For a dissertation, your appendices should be inserted after your reference list.

Some people like to put their appendices in a standalone document to separate it from the rest of their report, but we only recommend this at the request of your dissertation supervisor, as this isn’t common practice.

Note : Your university may have its own requirements or formatting suggestions for writing your dissertation or thesis appendix. As such, make sure you check with your supervisor or department before you work on your appendices. This will especially be the case for any students working on a thesis.

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Dissertation Appendix – Components, Format & Examples

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An appendix is an integral part of every dissertation paper, serving as supplementary material that enhances and supports the research study. However, only a few people understand what the section is, where it must be placed, and why it must be included in a dissertation . Therefore, while not typically central to the dissertation’s argument, the appendix adds valuable context and transparency to the academic work. This post will cover everything there is to know about a dissertation appendix, from its definition and purpose to the components and format.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 Dissertation Appendix – In a Nutshell
• 2 Definition: Dissertation appendix
• 3 Purpose of a dissertation appendix
• 4 Dissertation appendix: Components
• 5 Dissertation appendix: Format
• 6 Referring to a dissertation appendix
• 7 Dissertation Appendix: Checklist

Dissertation Appendix – In a Nutshell

• An appendix is not part of the main body of the dissertation, but is still relevant to it.
• A dissertation appendix encapsulates all explanations that cannot be included in the main body of the dissertation.
• Appendices must be well-structured, and their components systemically organized to serve their purpose correctly.

Definition: Dissertation appendix

A dissertation appendix (plural –appendices) is an index at the end of a dissertation that provides additional information related to the dissertation paper. The section helps academic writers present background information related to the dissertation, but doesn’t directly answer the research question. These can include tables, illustrations and other graphics.

Purpose of a dissertation appendix

The primary purpose of a dissertation appendix is to help keep your dissertation paper organized and within the required word limit. It contains any additional information that isn’t directly relevant to the research topic.

Typically, texts that strengthen your arguments appear in your dissertation paper’s main body. However, there is additional information that isn’t directly beneficial to your research but might be helpful to your readers. That is where a dissertation appendix comes in.

Although they provide additional information, your audience should be able to understand the contents of your dissertation paper even without looking at the dissertation appendix. So, ensure you include all important texts in the main body.

Dissertation appendix: Components

A dissertation appendix can include different types of information, such as:

Research results can be presented in various ways, including tables and figures. However, not all of these findings need to appear in the main body of your dissertation. Only results that are essential in answering the research topic should be included in the paper. Additional results (less significant findings), such as raw data and supplemental analyses, should go into the dissertation appendix.

Further information

Besides supplementary results, additional information related to surveys and interviews can be included in a dissertation appendix. These can include types of interviews, interview transcripts, survey questions, and details of questionnaires. Although these details are not critical to answering your research question, including them in the dissertation appendix gives credibility to your research.

Copies of relevant forms 

It is essential to include a list of abbreviations and acronyms and a glossary in the appendix if your dissertation paper contains many words that your audience might not recognize. This helps enhance readability and minimize confusion for readers. Your list of abbreviations and acronyms, and glossary should appear after the table of contents section.

Figures, tables, graphics

You can also include tables, figures, illustrations, and other graphics in the dissertation appendix if your research contains a lot of them. The appendix is the appropriate platform to include less important ones. Use tables and figures that support your research question but cannot be included in the main body.

Dissertation appendix: Format

There is no restriction to how you can format your dissertation appendix. You can opt to have one long appendix if you don’t feel the need to break it into smaller sections with different components. However, it might be a good idea to separate the components (such as interview transcripts and supplementary results) into various appendices to enhance readability.

If you choose to have multiple appendices in your dissertation, always start each appendix on a new page. Additionally, ensure you assign each page a number or letter. For instance, you can use ‘Appendix 2 – Interview Transcripts.’ Giving a unique identifier (number and title of each element) to each appendix makes it easier for the reader to navigate through the information and for you to refer to it in the main dissertation body.

When numbering tables and figures in multiple appendices, you should reset the numbering as you move to the next appendix (next page). For instance, if your ‘Appendix 1 –Raw Data’ has two tables and ‘Appendix 2 – Interview Transcripts’ has one table, the table in ‘Appendix 2’ should be ‘Table 1’ and not ‘Table 3’ .

Referring to a dissertation appendix

It is crucial to refer to each dissertation appendix at least once when crafting the dissertation’s main body. That helps justify the inclusion of appendices in your study.

There are two primary ways you can refer to a dissertation appendix in the main body:

• Refer to an entire appendix

“The interview transcripts can be found in Appendix 1 –Interview Transcripts”.

• Refer to an appendix component

There are two ways you can refer to an appendix component:

• Refer to specific figures or tables in brackets (parenthetical reference). For example, “The results (refer to Table 1 Appendix 3) indicate a slight decline in the number of new infections”.
• Include the reference in a sentence within the main body (descriptive reference). For example, “As shown in Table 1 of Appendix 3, there is a slight decline in the number of new infections” .

If your paper has one long dissertation appendix, it is good practice to refer to its components in uppercase, but it is not mandatory. However, it is important to maintain consistency throughout your entire paper, the same way you capitalize your headings and titles in academic work.

Although you are free to choose what case to use, you should always use lower-case when referring to appendices in general.

“The appendices at the end of this paper contain additional information about the area of research.”

Dissertation Appendix: Checklist

• Each dissertation appendix starts on a fresh page
• My appendices contain relevant information, but they are not essential in answering my research question
• I have referred to each of my appendices at least once in the main body
• The content of my appendices (tables and figures) are clearly labelled
• My appendices are easy to understand and refer to

What is a dissertation appendix?

A dissertation appendix is a section of your dissertation that you use to provide additional data related to your main study but is not essential to answering the primary research question.

What should I include in my appendix?

Your appendix should contain additional information relevant to the dissertation but not directly important to answering your main questions. These can include supplementary results, tables, interview questions and transcripts.

Do I need an appendix in my dissertation?

If you have a lot of additional information, it is important to have an appendix in your dissertation. Appendices help provide readers with details that support your research without breaking the flow of the main body.

Can my dissertation paper have multiple appendices?

Yes. Your dissertation paper can have more than one appendix. Ensure you properly label each appendix (Appendix A or Appendix 1) if your paper has multiple appendices.

Is it appendices or appendixes?

Appendices and appendixes are both correct plurals for the term appendix. However, many scholars prefer using ‘appendices’ over ‘appendixes.’

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Appendix(es) (optional).

Refer to either the Sample (Straight Numbering) or Sample (Decimal Numbering) pages as you read through this section. Note: For the Appendices, you should use the same numbering style you chose for the Main Text.

The appendix is a section that is placed at the end of the thesis and may contain material such as tables, figures, maps, photographs, raw data, computer programs, musical examples, interview questions, sample questionnaires, CDs, and many other types of material.

• An appendix is considered a chapter equivalent and the appendix title should be formatted like a chapter title.
• Multiple appendices should be numbered A, B, C, and so on. Each appendix should be treated as a separate chapter equivalent and will therefore start on a new page.
• Page numbers used in the appendix must continue from the main text.
• As a best practice, include your IRB approval letter (if applicable) in an appendix.
• Do not include a curriculum vitae or author's biography in your thesis; the Graduate College no longer accepts these sections.

As part of the thesis, any appendix materials must be reviewed and approved by the director of research and committee.

The thesis or dissertation itself should be understandable without the supplemental appendix materials.

As part of the ETD submission, students may upload supplemental electronic files as part of their thesis or dissertation. These files are considered appendix items, and an appendix page must be included as part of the thesis and should be numbered accordingly. This page should include an appendix title, such as “Appendix A: Interview Transcriptions,” and a brief description of the material along with the name of the file in which the material is contained.

Guide for Dissertation Appendix in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Table of contents, what is a dissertation appendix.

An appendix is an index at the end of a dissertation or thesis that gives additional information about the dissertation. The purpose of an appendix is to include information that directly answers your main question or is not important to understand your answer. New information can be used as items included in the appendices. The information should be relevant but not crucial to your dissertation argument. The role of an appendix is to explain certain terms and words used in the dissertation and provide data that is relevant to the dissertation but not as important as points that are directly involved in the main body of the dissertation.

An appendix is an important part of a dissertation . It comes after the conclusion. No main point should go in the appendix. Everything except the main points can be included in a dissertation appendix. It should be secondary knowledge provided to the reader in order to make them more aware of the subject addressed in the dissertation. All ‘relational information’ can be included in the appendices.

Appendices are usually long. The information provided comes under distinct headings. The reader chooses to read whatever seems beneficial to their understanding of the topic of the dissertation and leaves the rest.

Items to be Included in Appendices

1. meanings of words or phrases.

In the case of abbreviations used throughout the dissertation, it would help to create a glossary at the beginning or end of your dissertation. A glossary can be included in the appendix. Readers would refer to it to know the full form of an abbreviation or the contextual meaning of a word.

2. Forms of usage

While discussing different words used in a similar context, be sure to mention them in the appendix. Also, the same word used in a different context should be included in the dissertation appendix.

• Context behind a research methodology, question, or subject of study, objects used, etc

You can state your purpose for using particular data points. This context should not be highly important to your research question, though.

• Context behind a research methodology, question, subject of study, objects used, etc
• Information about an area of research

This can include the modes of transport you used to visit a particular region to collect information or data, the problems you faced while collecting data in that region, the exact location, geography and ethnography of that region, etc.

• Additional results and surveys

This will help the readers see what you have based your research on. Be careful not to include the main results, but only those not directly connected to your dissertation findings. They need to be extra ones you collected or made while working on your dissertation.

• Tables, diagrams, and graphs

Use as many tables and graphs as possible that support your dissertation question but cannot be included in the main body. Show the reader how much data you have collected as part of your dissertation.

• Dates, time, places

All skeptical readers who want to dig into the date, place, and time of your research can refer to the appendix, where they will find your systematic archive of days, months, and places of data collection. It is part of explaining the context behind an event or data point.

• Any other connected information

Your dissertation cannot be complete without further information that is connected to your main points in certain ways. It can be absorbed, along with its ambiguous nature, in the dissertation appendix. You can state your purpose for using particular data points. This context should not be highly important to your research question, though.

Tips to Help Write an Dissertation Appendix

• Go through your dissertation and mark phrases or words

Before you start writing an dissertation appendix at the end of your research paper or dissertation, read your dissertation from introduction to conclusion and make a list of all the words and phrases that need an explanation. At the same time, note the points that need to be explained more with the help of diagrams, tables, graphs, etc. The additional explanations, tables, graphs, etc can be in the appendix.

• Use a dictionary

Despite your knowledge of a word or a phrase and its usage, please refer to a dictionary as you prepare a glossary. The appropriate meaning is important to be given in an appendix to avoid miscommunications of any sort. Give the usage of the word along with the meaning.

• State what the table, diagram, or survey is in reference to

The additional survey, table, or diagram that is included in the appendix needs to specify its connection to the point made in the main body of the dissertation . It should be in reference to the main body of the dissertation. Page numbers need to be stated accordingly, along with the title or the respective point of reference in the main body (survey, diagram, table, or data). This will help the reader refer to these diagrams in relation to the information given in the main body of your dissertation.

• Try to include the date and time of data collection

If the date and time of collecting data for your dissertation are not directly relevant to your findings or do not affect the collected data in a certain way, you can include them in the dissertation appendices. In this way, you need not bombard your reader with unnecessary information and yet include it in your dissertation.

• Do not worry about giving TMI (Too Much Information)

The purpose of an appendix is to give extra information to a reader. There is no way the information or data you provide in your dissertation appendix will overwhelm the reader because of its size. Appendices are supposed to be long and tedious. It is up to the reader to go over the information in the appendices.

• Look at a few examples

Each book, dissertation, research paper, and academic article has an appendix or several appendices at the end. It would help you to go through a few appendices before you start writing your own dissertation appendix. Examples may provide you with an idea of the structure and format of an appendix and the components that may be included in it. Many of these examples are available online.

• Referring to an appendix

As you prepare an appendix, add a few notes in the main body of your dissertation referring to the appendix. Refer to particular points or elements at a time. Do not just say, ‘Refer to the appendix given at the end of the dissertation’. Instead, use something like, ‘Refer to point number 4 of Appendix 2 to get more information about table 2.3’.

Guidelines for Formatting of an Appendix

• Create multiple appendices if you need

To give information in a logical order and avoid confusion on the part of the reader, it is better to divide this information into various appendices, starting with Appendix 1, Appendix 2, and so on. The first appendix can be a glossary; the second one can have tables, graphs, or diagrams; and the third can include information about the institutes or papers referred to.

• Write point-wise

While creating an appendix, each new word, phrase, or element should be a separate point. Number each point properly. It would be easier to find the required table or word if it is a separate point.

• The contents explained should be in the order of their appearance in the dissertation

The order of words and phrases should be maintained in the appendix. You cannot put one above the other when their order of occurrence is the opposite. Haphazard content is very off-putting. If a word occurs on the 3 rd page of a dissertation and another on the 4 th , the one on the 3 rd should be explained before the one on the 4 th .

• Have a minimum of two columns to divide elements and their explanation

As you prepare an appendix, write the words or phrases in one column and their explanation in the next column. This would make your appendix neat and tidy. A word and its explanation should be on the same horizontal line to make the appendix systematic.

• Title and label the tables and graphs

All tables and graphs need to be assigned a title that clarifies their contents. They also need to be labeled so that they are beneficial to the reader. They need to make their position in the dissertation clear.

• Put these appendices in the right order

Order is very important in making dissertation appendices proper and appealing. Do not go all over the place with your appendices. Try to put them in a rational order with proper spacing between two appendices. Start each appendix on a new page.

To Conclude

An appendix, though not part of the main body of a dissertation, is relevant to it. All explanations that cannot be included in the main body of the dissertation can be found in the appendix. The role of an appendix is to show minor details that are part of the dissertation process.

However, appendices need to be well structured, and the items included in the appendices need to be systematically organized. There is no point in losing sight of the purpose of a dissertation appendix. Refer to your appendices wherever needed in the main body. In order to be able to refer to it, structure your appendix well. Do not ignore it just because it comes at the end of your dissertation.

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Dissertation Advice: How to Use the Appendix

3-minute read

• 5th June 2017

Unlike the human appendix, the appendices at the end of your dissertation are very valuable… OK, we know that research has shown that the human appendix is useful. But we needed a snappy opening line and we’ll be damned if we let scientific evidence get in our way!

Anyway, our point is that you can often get extra marks on an academic paper by using the appendices effectively. In this blog post, we explain how.

What to Put in the Appendix

An appendix is where extra information goes. What you include, and how many appendices you need, will depend on what you’re writing about. Common examples include:

• Raw test data
• Technical figures, graphs and tables
• Maps, charts and illustrations
• Letters and emails
• Sample questionnaires and surveys
• Interview transcripts

These are all things you might want to reference in your main essay without including them in full. For example, even if you quote an interview in the results and discussion section of an essay, you would not usually include the full transcript. Instead, you would write:

Participant 4 claimed to experience ‘dizziness and nausea’ (see Appendix B).

This points the reader to the appendix if they want to see where the quote came from.

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How to Format Appendices

The correct way to format appendices will depend on your university, so make sure to check your style guide . But in general, the following rules should be followed:

• Place appendices at the end of your document after the reference list
• Divide appendices by topic (e.g. separate sections for test results, illustrations and transcripts)
• Start each appendix on a new page and label it with a letter or number, along with a title clarifying content (Appendix A: Instrument Diagrams, Appendix B: Test Results, etc.)
• List appendices in the table of contents at the beginning of your document

Doing these things will make it easier for your reader to find information in the appendices.

Appendices and the Word Count

Appendices are not usually included in the word count for your paper. This means you can cut non-essential information from the main chapters and add it to an appendix without worrying about exceeding the word limit.

But be warned! This is not an excuse to cut vital information from your work. You must included all important data in your main essay. If you put essential information in the appendices, it could count against you when your work is marked.

Some universities include appendices in the word count, though, so there are better ways to ensure that your work doesn’t end up too wordy!

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Appendices within Manuscript

Appendices may be included as part of the manuscript. These typically appear after the Bibliography or References section. 

• List the Appendices in the Table of Contents
• Do not restart page numbering for your Appendices. For example, if the last page of your Bibliography is 195, your first Appendix page number should be 196. 

Appendices as Supplemental Files

Electronic or audiovisual data may be included as Supplemental Files in an ETD submission. Your committee should agree that the information contained in the supplemental files is of such a character that a medium other than text is necessary.

When uploading your manuscript to ProQuest, there is a place to upload Supplemental Files separate from the main PDF upload (see screen capture below). 

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How to Write a Research Paper Appendix

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Writing a research paper isn’t just a work of mere writing. Writing the perfect research paper takes a lot of research, analysis, framing, formatting, and much more. Correctly writing one of the most essential and academically popular segments of a research paper, the appendix, is one such effort that goes into a dissertation.  In this blog , we will discuss with you the functions of an appendix in-depth and give you some tried and tested tips to craft the perfect appendix section of a research paper! Let’s dive in! 

What is an Appendix?

The appendix on a research paper is a supplementary segment at the end of a dissertation or the research paper. This section isn’t considered a part of the main body text of the dissertation, but it is an important part of doing research. Appendices often feature raw data in the form of tables, figures, maps, diagrams and statistics and thus contribute to the credibility of the research and make it a perfect research paper . 

Using academic resources, books, and research tools can help frame an appendix better. Appendices are essential since they provide extra support to your research and make the dissertation seem more transparent regarding data. 

However, the appendix section of a research paper should only be supplementary; thus, you cannot depend on it to help the reader understand the main text. Your dissertation text should be detailed enough to be understandable without appendices, and they should only be placed to support your arguments presented in the research report. 

How to Write an Appendix for a Research Paper

Writing the perfect research paper appendix can be overwhelming if it’s your first time doing so. However, drafting the appendix section of a research paper can be quite fun if you know the basics and understand how exactly you should go about it. Here are our 5 tips on how to write the perfect appendix for your dissertation: 

Step 1: Organize the Appendix

With all the raw data, stats, and information, an appendix on a research paper can be difficult to go through and understand if they’re drafted disorganizedly. So, while writing your research paper appendix, make sure you are not just ramming all information into it but organising it well so the reader can utilise it. Structure it well, for it can very well come across as a reflection of your daily choices.

Step 2: Consider Accessibility

A research paper appendix can include non-textual information like tables, diagrams, graphs, images, illustrations, etc. If you’re adding such visual data elements to your appendices, ensure the material is clear and readable so the reader can comprehend the data. You should also ensure you are labelling these elements well and adding brief descriptions to each figure. 

Step 3: Review for Relevance

It is easy to lose track of the relevance of your data while preparing appendices since you have to work with many different types of data simultaneously. However, you have to remember that the goal is not to stuff your appendices with data. Rather, craft a precise, careful research paper appendix that can give your reader relevant and additional data that supports your research.

Step 4: Proofread and Revise

When it comes to dissertation writing, typos, grammatical errors, and spelling mistakes can cost you way more than just miscommunication. These seemingly harmless errors can make your work look casual and unprofessional, bringing in questions about the credibility of your work. It is a similar case when it comes to writing an appendix for a research paper. 

Step 5: Seek Guidance

It is important to remember that seeking guidance when you feel stuck is pretty normal, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about it. You may feel lost while writing an appendix for a research paper, and it is the perfect time to seek guidance from your peers, advisor or even dissertation committee members. 

How to Format an Appendix

Ensuring proper formatting is crucial for the seamless integration of the research paper appendix into the main body. Follow the guidelines below for a sharp-looking appendix:

Consistency with the Main Body

Formatting elements, fonts, font sizes and margins should have uniformity. Consistent and professional appearance gives your research paper a neat look.

Organisation and Structure

Use headings and subheadings to categorise your data logically. You can also use a well-structured numbering system to facilitate easy navigation.

Descriptive Elements

Introduce each content with short descriptions and paragraphs. Giving additional context makes the information more accessible and interpretable.

Consistent Formatting Style

Use a formatting style that goes well with the rest of your dissertation, along with font styles, sizes, and other formatting guidelines instructed by your academic institution.

Visual Accessibility

Any non-textual elements, such as tables, graphs, or images, should be clear and readable. Label these visual elements and add alternative texts for inclusivity in the digital appendix.

Where does the appendix go in your dissertation? 

Although the appendix section of a research paper is an essential part of your dissertation, it is not to be included in the main body of the dissertation. As a compilation of supplementary material and raw data, your research paper appendix should go at the end of the dissertation, typically inserted after the reference lists. Some even present appendices as separate supplementary documents, mostly done in specially requested cases. 

The format of the research paper appendix should be similar to the rest of your report for consistency. It should thus be drafted and formatted in the same style as the dissertation in terms of fonts, margins, and font sizes.

What to include in your appendix 

While drafting your research paper appendix, remember that it needs to be as precise as possible. Thus, there cannot be unnecessary information in it. Typically, appendices include raw data that supports your research and is referenced in the dissertation you have prepared. Here are some of the elements that you should include in your appendix: 

• Research results 
• Transcribed interviews 
• Survey/questionnaire details 
• Table and figures 
• Co-respondence 
• List of abbreviations used 
• Calculations and formulas 

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Referring appendix in-text 

Only adding your appendix to the research paper at the end of the dissertation would not make sense if there are no references to them in the main text. To justify its existence and inclusion in the research report, you should reference the appendix at least once in the whole report. A neatly labelled and properly referred research paper appendix can make your dissertation look more professional and supported. 

How to refer to an appendix

Referring to the research paper appendix within the main text is important in highlighting its relevance. Use these five methods for referencing:

In-text references

Specific references embedded in your sentences contextually shape your information. For example, "In Table 2 of Appendix B, the commonality between subjects A and B is illustrated.

Parenthetical references

You can use parentheses for concise references without disrupting the main text's flow. For instance, "The result [refer to Appendix C, Fig. 2] is not consistent with the previous findings."

Referring to the entire appendix

Refer to the entire research paper appendix in your text when appropriate. For example, "The data supporting this conclusion can be found in Appendix B."

Clarity and labelling

References should be clear and well-labelled. Proper labelling ensures easy identification of referenced material within the appendix, polishing your research paper professionally.

Cross-referencing

Cross-referencing helps you establish connections between the main text and the appendix. Phrases like "As discussed in Appendix A" guide readers to supporting material.

Crafting the perfect appendix section of a research paper involves meticulous attention to detail and adherence to formatting and referencing guidelines. As an integral part of your dissertation, the appendix contributes significantly to the transparency, credibility, and overall professionalism of your research. By following the comprehensive guidelines provided in this guide, you can ensure that your appendix not only complements your main text but also serves as a valuable resource for readers seeking additional insights. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do i write in a research paper appendix, why is an appendix important for a dissertation, where is the appendix placed in the research paper, is writing a research paper appendix difficult, what are the basic guidelines for writing an appendix.

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Graduate College Formatting Guide

• Page Numbers (Microsoft Word)
• Page Numbers (Google Docs)
• Page Breaks and Section Breaks
• Headings, Subheadings, and Table of Contents (Microsoft Word)
• Headings, Subheadings, and Table of Contents (Google Docs)
• Inserting Tables and Figures
• Comments and Track Changes
• References, Bibliography, Works Cited
• Landscape Pages & Special Materials

Using Appendices

Some theses/dissertations need space for extra materials relevant to the work but not appropriate in the main body of text, such as IRB approvals. For these, appendices are useful.* Appendices should go after your references/works cited list, should be formatted as Heading 1, and as such should appear in your Table of Contents. Any Tables or Figures that appear in an appendix should also appear in its respective list. Finally, when referring to an appendix within the body of the work, please refer to them as "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc. 

*Note: the following example screenshots will have the "Show/hide formatting marks" option toggled on. To see how to enable/disable this feature, see Landscape Pages & Special Materials.

To add an appendix, first create a new page after your references list (to do so, see Page Breaks and Section Breaks). Type Appendix A at the top and set it to Heading 1. 

Most students prefer to title their appendices, though this step is optional. 

You can repeat this process as many times as necessary to include all of your extra materials. 

Updating the Table of Contents for Appendices

If you've already inserted a Table of Contents in your document, appendices won't appear immediately in this table once they're added. To show your changes, right click anywhere inside of your Table of Contents and click Update Field

You might receive a pop-up asking if you want to update the entire table or just the page numbers. Select Update entire table. 

Any added appendices should now appear in your Table of Contents. 

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What is a Hypothesis in a Dissertation? Characteristics and Types

• Dissertation

An appendix is vital to a dissertation, showcasing your completed work. It should be crafted with the same care as other research sections. This guide provides precise instructions for proper preparation.

What is an Appendix in a Dissertation?

Appendices are sections in dissertations that contain nonstandard data. The goal is to improve the quality of work and make it more reliable and evident. You should use this section to show your readers how competent you are and how deep the topic is. A table, an image, a map, and documents related to your research are contained in this section.

These pages are usually found at the end of a dissertation. The volume of appendices is not considered when calculating the total work size. Without attachments, your main text should be 70 pages if your research requires 70 pages. Uncover the secrets to effectively incorporating appendices into your dissertation with our step-by-step guide on how to write the appendix of a dissertation.

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Why is an appendix important for research.

The role of an appendix in a paper must be understood before learning what it is. The most common appendix format is APA, but that is not always necessary. The format of appendices differs slightly from that of the body of the text.

Appendices in APA papers contain information that would not fit in the body of the essay, such as detailed or complex information. To avoid overwhelming the readers with information, that section was created. It helps you keep your essay focused on the topic instead of explaining everything.

Any large materials not included in the work text are placed in the appendix. All information provided here is for informational and reference purposes only. Consider a situation in which research conclusions are in disagreement. After that, you can clarify the situation with detailed data from the appendices.

Example: Several conclusions of the defense commission were questioned by members of the commission. Afterwards, you can illustrate how the application form is constructed and how the answers are analyzed. Due to their large volume, these documents do not make sense to include in work text. Nonetheless, this part is extremely helpful in proving that the process is correct.

• It is important to include appendices to dissertations as they provide more information on the topic.
• The words in a research paper are maintained by this method.
• It is important to provide background information about your topic or subject in the appendix section.
• Content flow is prevented from being disrupted by it.
• Research reports can be made clearer and more concise by including the appendix.

What is Included in an Appendix?

There are several kinds of supplementary information that can be added to an appendix in a dissertation:

Research Results

The results of the research can be presented in a number of ways, including tables and diagrams. The main body of your dissertation will not be able to include all your results, even though they are useful to some extent. It is, therefore, critical that only those facts are included to answer your research question.

The appendix should include raw data, proof of control measures, and other supplemental materials that are less significant.

Details of Questionnaires and Interviews

If you have conducted surveys or interviews, you can include their details. The following can be included:

• Transcripts of interviews,
• If there are any survey questions, a copy of them,
• Results of the questionnaire.

In the appendix of the dissertation, you can include the full form of your surveys, questionnaires, and interviews, even though their results should be presented and discussed in your main text.

Tables, Figures, and Illustrations

It may be helpful to include the less important tables, figures, and illustrative materials in your appendix if your dissertation contains a large number of them. It is possible to present data and trend lines (each identified by a different color) from four related datasets on a single chart and to provide further breakdowns for each dataset in the appendix.

Correspondence and Letters

This section should include any correspondence you have, whether it is between yourself and other researchers or the places where you sought permission to re-use copyrighted material. In this way, you can prevent plagiarism accusations against your dissertation.

List of Abbreviations

An appendix with abbreviations should be included in most dissertations; if not, it would be wise to include one at the beginning.

Your readers may not have the same background as you, so abbreviations and technical terms may be difficult to understand for them.

FYI: Researchers sometimes refer to this as a glossary, especially if it is included as an appendix. There is no difference between this and a list of abbreviations for all intents and purposes.

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What is the Method of Formatting an Appendix?

There is no need to break up your appendix into different components if you prefer to have one long appendix in your dissertation.

However, you might consider separating questionnaire responses, findings, key phrases, and key terms into appendices to make it easier for your readers to understand the information.

You should include multiple appendices within your document, each with its own title and number, like " Appendix 7-Survey questions ". By doing so, the reader and researcher can see every section of the appendix clearly.

For each element directly linked to an appendix in the main body, it is also recommended to include the number and title so that the reader knows what you are referring to.

Number each appendix separately, as well as tables and figures. Thus, the first table or figure in a new appendix would be called Table 1 or Figure 1.

Referring to the Appendix in the Main Body

Your dissertation's main body should include an indication of all appendices at least once. Be sure to indicate the appendix number within the text of the main body (called descriptive reference) to highlight it for readers.

Researchers are not required to capitalize it since that is up to their own discretion. A specific illustration or table can also be mentioned within the appendix (for example, a graph or table).

Example 1: Whenever you are talking about an entire appendix

Appendix 1 shows the results of the focus-group interview...

Detailed information about how the sample population was gathered can be found in Appendix 2.

Example 2: In the case of an appendix component

According to these findings (see Appendix 1, Table 2)...

There are several factors that lead to an increase in sales, as shown in Table 2 in Appendix 1.

When referring to an Appendix, using uppercase would be a good idea. Nevertheless, you may choose to use lower-case, for example, 'The appendices at the end of the document contain relevant information regarding the questionnaire responses.'

What is the Process of Writing an Appendix?

Below is the detailed process with useful tips to keep in mind:

Step 1: Collecting Data

Collect and include raw data in your paper's appendix to support findings and engage your reader effectively. Include relevant information discussed in your paper, sample calculations, specialized details, and cited factual data for enhanced clarity. Include graphs, charts, or images to support your argument.

 As well as text, the appendix should include images, maps, drawings, diagrams, and graphs. Visuals should only be included in your paper if they are supporting your findings. If you create graphs or charts yourself or obtain them from another source, you may include them. If you include a visual that is not your own, be sure to cite it properly.

Document your research instruments in the appendix, like video cameras or tape recorders. Explaining their use in data collection aids reader understanding.

Example: If you want to record the interviews and surveys, you may include the following statement in the appendix: " Interviews and surveys were conducted privately and recorded."

Include interview and survey transcripts in your appendix, featuring questions and answers. Save hand-completed surveys or digital copies. Add relevant correspondence with subjects, like emails, letters, and notes.

Step 2: Formatting the Appendix

Give a title to the appendix. It is important to title the appendix at the top of the page clearly. You can use the same font and size for your chapter headings as you used in your paper or essay, for example, "Appendix." Use all capital letters, such as "APPENDIX," or sentence case, such as "Appendix."

Organize your appendices alphabetically or numerically if you have more than one. The appendices should be labeled "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc., if you are using letters. You should title your appendices "Appendix 1," "Appendix 2," etc., if you are using numbers.

You should begin each appendix on a new page if you have more than one. By doing so, the reader will not be confused about where one appendix ends and another begins. The appendix should be arranged in a particular order. According to where the content appears in the text, you should order the content in the appendix. Making the appendix more user-friendly and accessible will make it more user-friendly.

The raw data in your appendix should be placed first if it is referred to in your paper's first line. The interview questions should appear at the end of your appendix if you mention them at the end of your paper.

List references before the appendix, per the professor's instructions. Include an appendix in the table of contents, numbering them consistently with your paper, typically starting from the last page of the main text (e.g., page 27). Maintain formatting consistency throughout.

Step 3: Clarify and Cohere the Appendix

Appendices do not have a standard number of pages or words, but they should not be long-winded. Ensure all the information in the appendix or appendices pertains to the text. If there is information that doesn't relate to the text or illuminates it in some way, remove it. Your paper may appear unprofessional and cluttered if you have an overly long appendix.

You may find it useful if you have a mentor or peer who can read the appendix. You should ask them if all the information included in the paper is relevant, and you should remove any information they feel is unnecessary.

Make sure that your work is error-free. Ensure there are no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors in the appendix. Try to review the appendix on your own and use spell check on your computer. Be sure to read the appendix backward so that any spelling errors can be identified. Professionalism is important when it comes to the appendix.

If you note an appendix in your text, you might write: "I feel my research was conclusive (see Appendix A for interview notes)," or "My research produced the same results in both cases."

Where Do You Place Your Appendices?

In most cases, appendices are placed after the main body and after the references. Separate appendices can also be included with the paper as part of a separate document.

A Quick Checklist to Follow:

Even though glossaries can be included in appendices, they are not appendices. An appendix should contain all information that can be found in the main document.

• The material related to your research topic can be supplementary or indirectly related. The matter to be included in the appendix should be decided by you.
• It should be started on a new page.
• Divide the material into sections based on the type of material you used, such as graphs, charts, interviews, etc. Appendices should then be made and numbered appropriately with titles.
• The title and sub-title of each appendix should be included.
• You need to make sure that the section is clearly formatted and easy to trace since it will be referred to at least once in the main body.

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What is the Difference Between Appendixes and Appendices?

Are you wondering whether to use appendixes or appendices? The two may seem to be correct to you. Is one more common than the other? We will explain it quickly!

Over the past few decades, American English has taken the following views:

"Appendixes" used to be regarded as a supplementary component of the body, incorrectly representing the plural of "Appendix." The accurate plural form is "Appendices."

Unfortunately, many people chose the wrong variant by mistake. So, with English being constantly evolving, it began to spread out quickly. In academic and public documents, this variant began to appear. As of today, both words are accepted as correct by modern dictionaries. In recent years, "appendices" have become more popular.

If you are interested in other publications in your field, we recommend you look them up. Take a look at the words they are using.

What are Some Tips for Writing an Appendix for a Dissertation?

Below are some to keep in mind when writing the perfect appendix:

Check Out a Few Examples

An appendix or several appendices are attached to every book, dissertation, research paper, or academic article. It would be helpful if you reviewed a few appendices before writing your own. It may be helpful to use examples to better understand the structure and format of an appendix and the components that might be included. It is easy to find many examples of this kind online.

When Referring to an Appendix

If you prepare an appendix, include a few notes referring to it in your dissertation's main body. One element or point at a time should be referred to. It is not enough to say, "Refer to the appendix at the end of this thesis." Instead, use something like 'Refer to Appendix 2, point 4, to learn more about table 2.3.

Divide Elements and Their Explanations into at Least Two Columns

An appendix should be prepared with a column for the words or phrases and a column for their explanations. Organizing your appendix this way would make it neat and tidy. To make the appendix systematic, each word should be accompanied by its explanation.

Make Sure the Tables and Graphs are Titled and Labeled

A title should be assigned to each table and graph, which clarifies their contents. Also, do the labels. The reader should also be able to understand what they mean by the labels. There must be a clear statement of their position in their dissertation.

Place These Appendices in the Correct Order

Making dissertation appendices aesthetically pleasing and proper requires proper order. Appendices should not be scattered all over the place. Appoint proper spacing between two appendices, and arrange them rationally. New pages should be added to each appendix.

Data Collection Dates and Times should Be Included

Data collection dates and times can be included in the appendices of your dissertation if they are not directly relevant to your findings or do not influence them. This way, you can provide your reader with the information he or she needs without overwhelming them.

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How Do You Incorporate an Interview into a Dissertation? | Tips

Published on November 5, 2014 by Bas Swaen . Revised on December 19, 2022.

You have performed qualitative research for your dissertation by  conducting interviews that you now want to include: how do you do that? Chances are that this was never explained to you and you don’t know what is expected. That’s why in this article we describe how interviews can be included in, for instance, the  discussion section of your dissertation and how they can be referenced.

Table of contents

Including interviews in your dissertation, referring to interviews, quoting from interviews, mentioning the name of the interviewee.

To present interviews in a dissertation, you first need to transcribe your interviews . You can use transcription software for this. You can then add the written interviews to the appendix. If you have many or long interviews that make the appendix extremely long, the appendix (after consultation with the supervisor) can be submitted as a separate document. What matters is that you can demonstrate that the interviews have actually taken place.

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When you have added the interviews to the appendix, you can then paraphrase  to them in your dissertation. Paraphrasing is done as follows:

It became clear from an interview with Y that … (Appendix 1).

Sometimes you are not allowed to add the transcription of an interview to the appendix. In this case it is not possible to refer to this interview. According to the APA Style it is possible to refer to it like this:

APA interview citation MLA interview citation

If you literally copy the words of the interviewee, then you need to quote . Finding interesting quotes is easier if you know how to get usable information out of the person during the interview. That’s why you should conduct the interviews in a professional manner.

Don’t just blindly note the name of the person you’re interviewing, but ask yourself two questions:

• Are you allowed to mention the name?  This is the first question you should ask yourself before you include the interviewee’s name in a dissertation . Determine, in consultation with the interviewee, whether the name should be anonymized (and get informed consent). Sometimes, in fact, the interviewee doesn’t want that. This may be the case when you have interviewed, for example, an employee and the employee does not want his or her boss to be able to read the answers because this could disturb their working relationship. Another situation where this can occur is, for example, when the interview contains very personal questions.
• Does it add anything to mention the name?  The second factor to consider is whether it is relevant to mention the name. Does it add anything to your research? When the interviewee is an unknown person you have approached on the street, the name of this person is not very important. But if you have interviewed the CEO of a large organization, then it can be very relevant to mention their name. In this second case, add a short introduction so that the reader of the dissertation knows immediately who this person is.

Thus, you may mention the name if you have permission from the interviewee to do so and if it is relevant to the research. If you don’t have permission to use the name or if you don’t want to mention the name, you can then choose to use a description. For example: “Employee 1”.

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Swaen, B. (2022, December 19). How Do You Incorporate an Interview into a Dissertation? | Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/how-do-you-incorporate-an-interview-into-a-dissertation/

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Appendix, Appendices, List of Appendices

If you only have one appendix in your thesis, adding that is pretty straightforward. It is mostly treated like another chapter, except "Chapter" is changed to "Appendix". When you have more than one appendix, it gets more complicated and you have to add a List of Appendices in the front matter part of the thesis. The video tutorial demonstrates how to add a single appendix, how to format multiple appendices, and how to add the List of Appendices to the front of the thesis.

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What is Appendix in the Dissertation?

Published by Alvin Nicolas at August 12th, 2021 , Revised On June 13, 2023

“Appendix or appendices (plural) is/are used to provide additional data related to your dissertation research project.”

An appendix section in  dissertation  helps you to provide background data related to your topic; present  tables, illustrations, and figures  that are not directly relevant to your research questions in order to avoid disrupting the flow of the text; to make sure that your dissertation paper’s word count does not go beyond the limit. This article explains what is an appendix in the dissertation.

The Purpose of an Appendix

The main body of the dissertation paper generally contains text that adds weight to your arguments. However, some information that is not directly relevant to the topic of research but might be useful to your audience could be provided under the appendices section.

Any additional information that does not directly support your in-text arguments goes into appendices. This helps to keep your paper organised and within the word limit. It is important to make sure that your readers can understand the contents of your dissertation paper without having to look at the appendices. Any information that is important should be mentioned in the main body.

Items Included in Appendices in Dissertation

An appendix, which is also known as a postscript, includes the following:

Research findings can be presented in several ways. Findings including tables, illustrations and figures that are directly relevant to your research questions or  research problem  are included in the main body.

However, there are certain text,  tables and figures —such as supplemental analyses—that really need to be shown and cannot be ignored, but (due to less significance) can’t be included in the main body as it can disturb the flow of the text.

Such tables and figures are then included in the appendix section. The appendix includes more of the illustrations and  findings as a result of data analysis  that doesn’t directly address the research question but are essential to be shown.

Also Read:   How to Write Dissertation Acknowledgements

Surveys/Interviews

Appendices are helpful in mentioning extra information related to surveys , interviews or focus groups. You can clearly mention how respondents responded to underpin your findings.

Include Abbreviations Section

If you have utilised a lot of abbreviations or jargon, it might be difficult for lay-person to understand those terms. You can include the  abbreviations  section or a  glossary  section in the appendix, which are sometimes positioned at the start of the dissertation.

Tables, Figures and/or Graphs

Your dissertation may include a lot of tables, figures and/or graphs due to the  nature of research . The appendix is the appropriate platform to include all this information, including illustrations.

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Appendix Format

You can carry on with just one long appendix (if you don’t want to break it into different components and want it to be the only appendix in your dissertation).

On the other hand, you might want to have separate sections in appendices such as questionnaire responses, findings, key phrases and key terms; it would be easier to figure out the information provided in appendices.

If you decide to include multiple sections within your appendices, each appendix should start on a new page with a clearly assigned title and number, for instance, ‘Appendix 7. Survey questions’ . It allows for each section of the appendix to be clearly visible to the reader and researcher.

It is also recommended to mention the number and title against each element that is directly linked to the appendix so that the reader will be able to know what you are referring to in the main body.

While numbering tables and figures, make sure that you re-start the numbering for each appendix. This means that each table and figure in a new appendix would be titled Table 1 or Figure 1.

Referring to the Appendix in the Main Body of the Dissertation

It is recommended to indicate all appendices at least once in the main body of your dissertation. Make sure that you mention the appendix number (enclosed in brackets, called parenthetical reference ) or within text in the main body (called descriptive reference ) as highlights for the readers.

It is not mandatory to capitalise it as that typically depends on the researcher’s will. You can also refer to certain elements within the appendix (which can be a specific illustration or table).

Example #1. When you are referring to an entire appendix

The focus-group interview (see Appendix 1) shows that… Appendix 2 describes how we gathered data from the sample population….

Example #2. While you are referring to an appendix component

These findings (see Appendix 1, Table 2) show that… Table 2 in Appendix 1 describes the factors which result in the increase in sales.

It would be a good practice to mention Appendix in upper-case, especially when referring to a specific component. However, this is not compulsory and you can choose to use lower-case, i.e., ‘The appendices provided at the end of the documents contain relevant content about the questionnaire responses.’

Here are some more appendix examples for you .

Which is More Appropriate: Appendices or Appendixes?

Both of these words (spellings) are true in their sense and can be used, but appendices is more appropriate according to APA style. However, it is important to ensure consistency throughout the thesis document. Don’t use alternative words in different  sections of the dissertation .

Where to Include Appendices?

The general idea in this regard is to include appendices after the main body, i.e., the reference section. If you opt for this option, you need to continue with the same page number format. You can also submit appendices as a separate document with your dissertation project.

You should write down appendices (including titles and page numbers) in the table of contents.

Even if you are still unsure about what an appendix in a dissertation is, our writers can help with this chapter of your paper. All you have to do is complete our online order form , select the dissertation part/chapter as the required service type, attach your dissertation draft, and let us know your deadline. We guarantee that the writer we will assign to your order will have the expertise and qualification to create the appendices to your exact requirements.

FAQs About Appendices in Dissertation

What should i not include in a dissertation appendix.

Don’t include any irrelevant and/or vague information. It will only distract your readers from understanding your study’s overall purpose, significance, etc.

What can I include in an appendix?

You can include in it things like figures and/tables that are too lengthy to be included within the dissertation ; maps, photographs, raw data like participant score lists, computer programs like SPSS, musical examples like audios etc., interview questions and/or sample questionnaires, etc.

Can I include web URLs in an appendix?

Not really, although you can include PDF documents or weblinks to such documents within your dissertation appendix.

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Home » Appendices – Writing Guide, Types and Examples

Appendices – Writing Guide, Types and Examples

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Definition:

Appendices refer to supplementary materials or documents that are attached to the end of a Book, Report , Research Paper , Thesis or other written work. These materials can include charts, graphs, tables, images, or other data that support the main content of the work.

Types of Appendices

Types of appendices that can be used depending on the content and purpose of the document. These types of Appendices are as follows:

Statistical Appendices

Statistical appendices are used to present raw data or statistical analysis that is relevant to the main text but would be too bulky to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include tables, graphs, charts, or other types of visual aids that help to illustrate the data.

Technical Appendices

Technical appendices are used to provide detailed technical information that is relevant to the main text but would be too complex or lengthy to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include equations, formulas, diagrams, or other technical details that are important for understanding the subject matter.

Bibliographical Appendices

Bibliographical appendices are used to provide additional references or sources that are relevant to the main text but were not cited in the main body of the document. These appendices may include lists of books, articles, or other resources that the author consulted in the course of their research.

Historical Appendices

Historical appendices are used to provide background information or historical context that is relevant to the main text but would be too lengthy or distracting to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include timelines, maps, biographical sketches, or other historical details that help to contextualize the subject matter.

Supplemental Appendices

Supplemental appendices are used to provide additional material that is relevant to the main text but does not fit into any of the other categories. These appendices may include interviews, surveys, case studies, or other types of supplemental material that help to further illustrate the subject matter.

Applications of Appendices

Some applications of appendices are:

• Providing detailed data and statistics: Appendices are often used to include detailed data and statistics that support the findings presented in the main body of the document. For example, in a research paper, an appendix might include raw data tables or graphs that were used to support the study’s conclusions.
• Including technical details: Appendices can be used to include technical details that may be of interest to a specialized audience. For example, in a technical report, an appendix might include detailed calculations or equations that were used to develop the report’s recommendations.
• Presenting supplementary information: Appendices can be used to present supplementary information that is related to the main content but doesn’t fit well within the main body of the document. For example, in a business proposal, an appendix might include a list of references or a glossary of terms.
• Providing supporting documentation: Appendices can be used to provide supporting documentation that is required by the document’s audience. For example, in a legal document, an appendix might include copies of contracts or agreements that were referenced in the main body of the document.
• Including multimedia materials : Appendices can be used to include multimedia materials that supplement the main content. For example, in a book, an appendix might include photographs, maps, or illustrations that help to clarify the text.

Importance of Appendices

Appendices are important components of research papers, reports, Thesis, and other academic papers. They are supplementary materials that provide additional information and data that support the main text. Here are some reasons why appendices are important:

• Additional Information : Appendices provide additional information that is too detailed or too lengthy to include in the main text. This information includes raw data, graphs, tables, and charts that support the research findings.
• Clarity and Conciseness : Appendices help to maintain the clarity and conciseness of the main text. By placing detailed information and data in appendices, writers can avoid cluttering the main text with lengthy descriptions and technical details.
• Transparency : Appendices increase the transparency of research by providing readers with access to the data and information used in the research process. This transparency increases the credibility of the research and allows readers to verify the findings.
• Accessibility : Appendices make it easier for readers to access the data and information that supports the research. This is particularly important in cases where readers want to replicate the research or use the data for their own research.
• Compliance : Appendices can be used to comply with specific requirements of the research project or institution. For example, some institutions may require researchers to include certain types of data or information in the appendices.

Appendices Structure

Here is an outline of a typical structure for an appendix:

I. Introduction

• A. Explanation of the purpose of the appendix
• B. Brief overview of the contents

II. Main Body

• A. Section headings or subheadings for different types of content
• B. Detailed descriptions, tables, charts, graphs, or images that support the main content
• C. Labels and captions for each item to help readers navigate and understand the content

III. Conclusion

• A. Summary of the key points covered in the appendix
• B. Suggestions for further reading or resources

IV. Appendices

• A. List of all the appendices included in the document
• B. Table of contents for the appendices

V. References

• A. List of all the sources cited in the appendix
• B. Proper citation format for each source

Example of Appendices

here’s an example of what appendices might look like for a survey:

Appendix A:

Survey Questionnaire

This section contains a copy of the survey questionnaire used for the study.

• What is your age?
• What is your gender?
• What is your highest level of education?
• How often do you use social media?
• Which social media platforms do you use most frequently?
• How much time do you typically spend on social media each day?
• Do you feel that social media has had a positive or negative impact on your life?
• Have you ever experienced cyberbullying or harassment on social media?
• Have you ever been influenced by social media to make a purchase or try a new product?
• In your opinion, what are the biggest advantages and disadvantages of social media?

Appendix B:

Participant Demographics

This section includes a table with demographic information about the survey participants, such as age, gender, and education level.

Age Gender Education Level

• 20 Female Bachelor’s Degree
• 32 Male Master’s Degree
• 45 Female High School Diploma
• 28 Non-binary Associate’s Degree

Appendix C:

Statistical Analysis

This section provides details about the statistical analysis performed on the survey data, including tables or graphs that illustrate the results of the analysis.

Table 1: Frequency of Social Media Platforms

Use Platform Frequency

• Facebook 35%
• Instagram 28%
• Twitter 15%
• Snapchat 12%

Figure 1: Impact of Social Media on Life Satisfaction

Appendix D:

Survey Results

This section presents the raw data collected from the survey, such as participant responses to each question.

Question 1: What is your age?

Question 2: What is your gender?

And so on for each question in the survey.

How to Write Appendices

Here are the steps to follow to write appendices:

• Determine what information to include: Before you start writing your appendices, decide what information you want to include. This may include tables, figures, graphs, charts, photographs, or other types of data that support the main content of your paper.
• Organize the material: Once you have decided what to include, organize the material in a logical manner that follows the sequence of the main content. Use clear headings and subheadings to make it easy for readers to navigate through the appendices.
• Label the appendices: Label each appendix with a capital letter (e.g., “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” etc.) and provide a brief descriptive title that summarizes the content.
• F ormat the appendices: Follow the same formatting style as the rest of your paper or report. Use the same font, margins, and spacing to maintain consistency.
• Provide detailed explanations: Make sure to provide detailed explanations of any data, charts, graphs, or other information included in the appendices so that readers can understand the significance of the material.
• Cross-reference the appendices: In the main text, cross-reference the appendices where appropriate by referring to the appendix letter and title (e.g., “see Appendix A for more information”).
• Review and revise: Review and revise the appendices just as you would any other part of your paper or report to ensure that the information is accurate, clear, and relevant.

When to Write Appendices

Appendices are typically included in a document when additional information needs to be provided that is not essential to the main text, but still useful for readers who want to delve deeper into a topic. Here are some common situations where you might want to include appendices:

• Supporting data: If you have a lot of data that you want to include in your document, but it would make the main text too lengthy or confusing, you can include it in an appendix. This is especially useful for academic papers or reports.
• Additional examples: I f you want to include additional examples or case studies to support your argument or research, but they are not essential to the main text, you can include them in an appendix.
• Technical details: I f your document contains technical information that may be difficult for some readers to understand, you can include detailed explanations or diagrams in an appendix.
• Background information : If you want to provide background information on a topic that is not directly related to the main text, but may be helpful for readers, you can include it in an appendix.

Purpose of Appendices

The purposes of appendices include:

• Providing additional details: Appendices can be used to provide additional information that is too detailed or bulky to include in the main body of the document. For example, technical specifications, data tables, or lengthy survey results.
• Supporting evidence: Appendices can be used to provide supporting evidence for the arguments or claims made in the main body of the document. This can include supplementary graphs, charts, or other visual aids that help to clarify or support the text.
• Including legal documents: Appendices can be used to include legal documents that are referred to in the main body of the document, such as contracts, leases, or patent applications.
• Providing additional context: Appendices can be used to provide additional context or background information that is relevant to the main body of the document. For example, historical or cultural information, or a glossary of technical terms.
• Facilitating replication: In research papers, appendices are used to provide detailed information about the research methodology, raw data, or analysis procedures to facilitate replication of the study.

Advantages of Appendices

Some Advantages of Appendices are as follows:

• Saving Space: Including lengthy or detailed information in the main text of a document can make it appear cluttered and overwhelming. By placing this information in an appendix, it can be included without taking up valuable space in the main text.
• Convenience: Appendices can be used to provide supplementary information that is not essential to the main argument or discussion but may be of interest to some readers. By including this information in an appendix, readers can choose to read it or skip it, depending on their needs and interests.
• Organization: Appendices can be used to organize and present complex information in a clear and logical manner. This can make it easier for readers to understand and follow the main argument or discussion of the document.
• Compliance : In some cases, appendices may be required to comply with specific document formatting or regulatory requirements. For example, research papers may require appendices to provide detailed information on research methodology, data analysis, or technical procedures.

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Creating Captions for Appendix Figures & Tables

Tables and Figures in the Appendix are captioned with the “Insert Caption…” tool, just like tables and figures in the body, but you'll use (or create) a new caption label for each of them. These “Appendix Figure/Table” items won’t populate the existing List of Figures, because you can’t combine two different caption labels in one list. So, after captioning your Appendix Figures and Tables with those new caption labels, you’ll insert another List directly after the current List, and set that second List to pull in corresponding captions. 

** Note: this only works if you've set up Heading 7 to style each of your Appendix titles. See the Appendices section of this Guide for more info. **

Here's the process for adding an Appendix Figure caption   (the steps are similar for creating an Appendix Table caption) :

• Select the item you want to caption and click the "Insert Caption..." button in the References tab
• In the window that appears, pop open the "Labels" menu, and select "Appendix Figure".  

• Click the "New Label" button, and enter "Appendix Figure". Then click OK
• With the "Appendix Figure" label selected, click the "Numbering: Format..." button
• Set "Chapter starts with style:" to Heading 7 (This is our Appendix number/letter)
• Enter your caption and confirm whether you want it sit above or below the item

Adding Appendix Captions to the List of Figures/Captions

(note: the following instructions work for situations where your Appendices are at the end of your document. If you have an Appendix section at the end of each chapter, then take a look at our solution for "integrating supplemental figures and tables" in the List of Figures/Tables. The solution is similar for appendix figures and tables.

And don't be shy about setting up a consultation if you run into trouble, as appendices — especially with tables and figures — are often a troublespot.)

To add this to your List of Figures, we add a second list of (appendix) figures just below your existing list of figures:

• Scroll to your existing List of Figures

• Place your cursor directly below the last item in your List of Figures.
• From the References tab (and next to the Insert Caption..  button), click the Insert Table of Figures  button.
• In the window that appears, select "Appendix Figure" from the "Caption label:" list.

This will add a second list of figures below your original one, but this one will be populated with Appendix Figures.  Remember that you now have two fields to update as you make changes -- the list of figures and the list of appendix figures.

You might notice that there's a paragraph character between the two fields. If you delete that, the formatting of your Appendix Figures list will be thrown off. Instead, our recommendation is to carefully select JUST that one paragraph character, and set the font size for it to something very small, like 2 point. This will tuck the Appendix Figures up closer to the Figures. 

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Dissertation Appendix: What It Is and How To Write It Properly?

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What Is an Appendix in Dissertation?

Purpose of dissertation appendix, where to put appendix in dissertation, what to include in a dissertation appendix, how to format an appendix in dissertation, tips on how to write appendix in dissertation, how does hiring an expert can help you with your dissertation.

Students pursuing their higher studies in colleges and universities have often been allotted the task of writing dissertations as an integral part of their academic curriculum. Despite the excellent academic interest, many students get baffled as soon as they think of getting involved in lengthy writing tasks.

Are you someone who needs to submit a dissertation soon? Are you aware of how important it is to draft a firm dissertation appendix to make the whole dissertation outstanding? This blog is going to offer insights about creating such appendixes with ease .

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In simple words, an appendix in dissertation is an index that comes at the end. It provides additional and relevant information related to your dissertation paper. With the help of the appendix section, you can share the background data like illustrations, tables and figures related to your topic.

The contents of your appendix for dissertation are never directly relevant to the main theme or research questions. Still, they are important to make the reader understand the context without disrupting the flow of the text.

This is why many students prefer to take the help of a dissertation outline generator which is one of the most used writing tools of modern times. But do you know the purpose of the dissertation appendix ? If not, read the next section.

Due to the restriction on word limit, it is important to keep your dissertation short and crisp. Sticking to the word count prescribed by your dissertation guidelines is equally important.

But given the amount of research you have done to decide the body of your dissertation or dissertation structure , it is hard to resist the urge to put together everything right on the paper. This is where the "purpose of including an appendix" comes in.

Any information that is not directly related to or supports the main arguments and is not relevant to the dissertation topic should be included in an appendix.

Dissertation appendices (plural of the 'appendix') help you to prepare a well-organized paper as you include only the information that puts more value to your arguments without mentioning anything excessive. It also helps you maintain the main text's flow by eliminating unnecessary interruptions.

Please note that the main body of your dissertation should be written in such a way that it can be understood without your dissertation appendix. We mean to say that the readers must not feel the urge to flip between the main text and appendix to make sense of what they are reading.

We maintain a pool of subject matter experts who are extremely skilled at providing students with dissertation writing services at affordable costs. You can hire them for your next dissertation project. We guarantee 100% satisfaction with our service level and quality. So, now move ahead and learn where to insert the dissertation appendix .

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With everything discussed till now, you must have understood that the appendix is not a component of the main text. Then where to include the appendix? We are going to share here the general idea about where to put appendix in dissertation .

The thumb rule in this regard is to place appendices after the main body i.e. after your reference section. If you are following this common practice, you must continue with the same page number sequence.

Many prefer to include their appendices on a standalone page to separate it from the main write-up. But this is not a common practice and we will suggest you have a word with your supervisor about where to put your appendix for dissertation.

Your university or college may have its own set of requirements and formatting rules for writing the appendices. Always make sure you go through those writing as well as formatting guidelines before start drafting your dissertation. This will save you from doing unnecessary editing neither on the main text nor the dissertation appendices. Therefore, the upcoming section will tell you what to or should not include in the dissertation appendix .

It is impossible to prepare the right type of appendix unless and until you are aware of the components of it. By component, we are trying to indicate what an appendix should consist of.

Depending on the type of research or dissertation paper you are generating, there might be some differences in terms of the appendix components. Below is what to include in a dissertation appendix to offer additional information.

1. Research Results:

There are various means of presenting the research results in your dissertation. You can present those results in tables, diagrams, figures and illustrations. Such information/data can be included in your dissertation appendix segment .

2. Surveys & Interviews:

You can include the details and findings of any survey or interview that you have performed to support/strengthen your argument under the appendix tab. These could be anything like an interview transcript, questionnaire, results etc.

3. Tables, Graphs, Illustrations & Figures:

The appendix of dissertation can also include some tables, illustrations, figures and graphs which are not directly related to your topic but quite helpful in explaining the main text more lucidly.

4. Abbreviations & Acronyms:

If you have used many abbreviations and acronyms in your dissertation paper which are not very common and may be troublesome for a layperson to understand, you must include an abbreviations/glossary section in the appendix of dissertation.

5. Letters & Correspondence:

When you have letters or correspondence between you and other researchers or places where you seek permission to use copyrighted materials, you have to include them in the appendix. Including letters and correspondence in your dissertation appendix actually saves you from the suspicion of plagiarism or unauthorized use of classified materials.

If you are still not very confident about writing your dissertation and looking for someone to help you out in this matter, we are happy to offer our assistance. All you have to do is to let us know about the dissertation requirement, and our dissertation help will present you with an excellent piece well before the deadline in the correct format.

After you are done with the writing part, it is time to follow the formatting instructions that come with your dissertation guidelines. The first-timers particularly find it quite challenging. If your question is how to format appendix in dissertation, you have got the answer right below.

• You are free to add either one lengthy appendix or divide the same into several smaller appendices to your dissertation. It is usually best to go for including several small appendices in dissertation.
• Start every appendix on a new page and start it with an appropriate title and identifying letter/number. For example, you can choose an appendix title like "Appendix A - Research Data" or "Appendix 5 - Survey Questions".
• All appendices dissertation must follow the page numbering system. Each appendix should have an identification letter/number and the corresponding page number.
• You have to reset the identification letter/number for every appendix in dissertation , but the page number should be continuous. For example, if "Appendix A" has four pages and "Appendix B" has two pages, the page number will be A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, B-5 and B-6.
• The numbering of figures and tables also follows a similar pattern to what we mentioned in the last paragraph. For example, if "Appendix A" has one table and "Appendix B" consists of two tables, then the numbering should be like "Table-1" in "Appendix A". For "Appendix B", it will be "Table-2" and "Table-3".
• If your paper needs many appendices dissertation to be included, then we will recommend you insert a "List of Appendices" in the table of contents page.
• Always use the same page formatting style (font type, font size, margins, spacing, heading etc.) for the whole write-up.

Formatting the appendices in dissertation must be done with care because a single mistake can ruin the scope for a reader to understand the whole piece. In case you are having difficulties following all those writing guidelines, there is nothing to worry about. You can simply choose to buy dissertation from professional academic writers via an online platform. If you want to try, follow the tips given below.

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Many students don't like to write long dissertations. Even if they finish the writing part under some academic compulsion, most of them prefer to spend their time and effort on preparing an appendix dissertation.

We are sharing some tips here so that you can design a perfect appendix for your well-researched dissertation without wasting much time.

• Go through your dissertation and mark/highlight the portions that need an explanation. Also, note down what needs to be explained. This is the first step to simplify the million-dollar question, " How to write appendix in dissertation?"
• Always take the help of a dictionary to prepare the glossary. Your glossary should contain the appropriate meanings of the words to avoid any misconception.
• You need to specify the connection of additional table, diagram, survey or data to the point you mentioned in the main body of your dissertation. The dissertation appendix without explanation is useless.
• It would be better if you could include the date and time of data collection in the appendix, not in the main body of the dissertation. Thus, you can deliver something extra to the reader without disturbing his/her flow of reading.
• Keep your urge to add more and more information under control. This will only lead to bulky appendices in research papers or dissertations. Don't make readers lose their interest with an unnecessarily long list of appendices.
• Look for a few dissertation examples with appendices from academic articles, dissertation papers, books, and research works before you write your own. This is the most practical way to have an idea about what is an appendix in a dissertation and how to write one .
• Leave a few notes in the main text of your dissertation referring to the appendix/appendices. Please be polite and specific while instructing the reader to go to any particular appendix.

So, these are a few important tips that you can apply will writing a dissertation appendix . Still, if it is troubling you, then take help from our dissertation writers.

Writing your dissertation can be really hectic and exhausting. In addition to this, students also need to prepare additional sections like the dissertation appendix. Thus, the burden of writing academic papers can be shifted by taking professional help.

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How to Write an Appendix: Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

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While composing your work, you may stumble upon a question on how to write an appendix.

An appendix is a supplemental section of a research paper that provides additional information, data, or materials to support the main content. The appendix is usually placed at the end of the document and is numbered with letters or numbers, such as "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc. The purpose of an appendix is to provide readers with supplementary details that are not included in the main text but are relevant to the topic.

Once you decide on writing appendices, you should collect additional information and format your text as required. Here, we will talk about how you can work with appendices. We will also show some nuances of their preparation process using a real example. Is the deadline around the corner? Consider using professional research paper help from expert scholars.

What Is an Appendix: Definition

Experienced researchers know what an appendix in a paper is. But aspiring authors often have problems with this section of the work. First of all, you should understand that appendices are an additional section of a dissertation or any other scientific paper that includes additional information. Main points are not placed in an appendix meanwhile at the end of your work it can expand on some context or clarify author’s position on a particular issue. Also, an appendix is ​​often placed after the citation page of a work. It is indicated with the help of references in a main text.

What Is the Purpose of an Appendix

Quite often, authors don’t understand the purpose of an appendix. This usually looks like a table and is not included in a main text. Remember that content of your dissertation should be concise and clear. It is also undesirable if you deviate from your theme so as not to confuse readers. Therefore, you can provide a reference, which will lead a reader to an appendix of a thesis. Typically, the purpose of an appendix is to extra information that is usually not included in the text's body. It expresses author's point of view, and provides additional information. It may not address the immediate topic of your dissertation or expand on current research. As a reminder, your work should be clear even without studying an appendix. So make sure you don't put important details there.

What Can You Include in an Appendix

An appendix in a paper is a supplement to a main text, not a replacement. You can put different elements there. It is better if you separate appendices, highlighting one element in each of them. Don’t forget about separate references in your text. Otherwise it will be difficult for a reader to understand your information better. Thus, the following information can be added:

• diagrams with illustrative figures;
• abbreviations ;
• interviews;
• statistics, and much more.

There are no restrictions on content added to your dissertation's appendices. Theoretically, you can attach absolutely any information that is relevant to your topic. Thus, possibilities for evidence base are almost unlimited. All you need to do is add tables or any other information.

How to Write an Appendix: Full Guide

If you already have experience working on dissertations and other scientific texts, you will not wonder how to make an appendix. However, it is still important that you get some advice on how to properly structure an appendices section. This will help add information that may be redundant in the main part of your paper. We offer 4 simple steps to create an informative and readable appendix block.

Step 1. Make an Appendix: Include Your Data

When creating an appendix, include extra data in their raw form. That is, you might not have used some details in your main paper. But you want a reader to know more information. For example, it can be calculations, some results of which are mentioned in your main text. Or maybe, you can add some statistics that clearly demonstrate your research paper conclusion . You can also include facts from other scientific sources that support your position. One thing is important — information should complement your text but not contradict it.

Step 2. Include Visual Supporting Documents in an Appendix 

When you are writing an appendix, you can’t avoid visual additions that clearly demonstrate an information and save an author from lengthy descriptions in the text. Should you need to support your conclusions drawn in the scientific text, these can be used:

Don’t forget: you should quote and indicate the authorship of graphics used in your work. If you took it from any third-party sources, of course. Thus, a reader will be able to find additional data that explains the content of your text. It is good if you personally put results of your research in a graphic form. To do this, you can use Office programs, graphic editors and other programs available to PC users.

Step 3. Describe the Instruments of Your Research in Your Appendices

It is good if your appendix in the research paper has a section for indicating tools that were used during the preparation of your dissertation writing . This way, your reader will understand how you collected information and do it themselves. For example, it could be a dictaphone or tape recorder on which an interview with your expert was recorded. Or you might have used a video camera for recording facts and interviews. In such case, it is advisable to indicate these instruments in your appendix. Specialized equipment for measuring, calculating and making graphics should also be added at the beginning of the appendix. This way, you will demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Research units don’t require extra tools, so make sure they are listed. You can do it even in a short format.

Step 4. Include an Interview and Transcripts in an Appendix

When conducting interviews and surveys for collecting information, make an appendix with photocopies of handwritten materials or electronic copies of digital surveys. Their order is not important. The main thing is that your research text contains references. This will allow you to quickly study the sources. You should not only show that the source contains important data but also explain it. So, even additional content, including questions and answers, needs to be listed. But if you originally had a readable format, you don’t need to do this. In addition to interviews, also add screenshots or photos of correspondences used for surveys. For example, you can refer to a significant researcher with whom you exchanged letters. Or maybe you studied subject, together with this researcher, and they gave some comments on a particular issue. Do not know how to write a discussion section of a research paper ? Do not worry, we have the whole article dedicated to this topic.

Formatting an Appendix: Main Rules

Formatting of appendices is required in any case. First of all, provide correct citations. APA, MLA, and Chicago are the most commonly used standards. Although, you should clarify what formatting requirements your institution has. Correct formatting includes:

• Appendix title. Write it at the top of the content page, indicate its title, using letters or numbers for ordering.
• Sorted by mention. Don’t add appendices randomly, it is better to do it in chronological order. That is, as information from it is given in main text.
• Location after bibliography. This is a general requirement that cannot always be met. For example, if your professor wants the appendices to be put before the bibliography, this will have to be done.
• Page numbers. All dissertation pages should be numbered, even if they are blank. This will make the appendix block the part of main text.

Also, review your appendix before approval. Make sure that its content is clear, error-free, and correctly quoted.

Appendix Example

To do the job successfully, it is recommended to have an example of an appendix at hand. Without it, there are usually problems with a choice of font and mentions that appear in main text. We will show you what the appendix itself looks like at the end of the dissertation using a short interview as an example.

We have one more blog in case you wonder what is an abstract in a paper  or need some examples and writing tips.

How to Make an Appendix: Final Thoughts

Thus, we talked about how to write an appendix. It allows you to include additional details, while avoiding writing them in the body of your text. To do this, one can use graphics, transcriptions of conversations, tables and statistics — anything that complements your research. Be sure to clarify formatting requirements of your university. Arrange appendices in an order in which they appear in your text. Try to use your own materials and not take other people's work. In case of unique findings, they can be used in your work.

Please contact us if you have any difficulties preparing an academic work! Our professional paper writers guarantee high quality and loyal prices. Just choose a writer to your liking, send your requirements and you're good to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Appendix Writing

1. how do you add an appendix to an essay.

The inclusion of appendix to an essay is the same as to any other paper. You need to provide references in your text of an essay itself, as well as submit attachments after a bibliography. Don't forget to specify name of an appendix for easy navigation.

2. Do I add references to the appendix?

Yes, this is not only recommended but must be done. In this case the appendix will allow your reader to check the reliability of sources you used. Moreover, if you took any information from third-party sources, this protect you from plagiarism charges.

4. How do you create an appendix in Word?

It is not difficult to prepare an appendix in Word, because this Office program contains all the necessary tools. To get started, choose the same font, font size and indentation that were used in the main text, so as not to visually break away from it. We also recommend that you apply title formatting with built-in Word tools. Place the appendix titles at the top in the center of a page. In this case it will be much easier to navigate the paper.

3. What is an appendix in a report example?

You can include a wide range of information into an appendix in a report. It is better to opt for descriptive formats, though. For example, it can be graphical or mathematical research results, statistics of a certain phenomenon, and questionnaires filled in by other people.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

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• Writing Tips

The Appendix (How to Use One in an Essay)

• 2-minute read
• 30th March 2017

The appendices in an essay are not typically essential, but they can play an important supporting role. Not everyone knows how to use an appendix in academic writing , though, so we’ve prepared this handy guide.

What Is an Appendix?

An appendix (plural: appendices ) is a section at the end of a book or essay containing details that aren’t essential to your work, but which could provide useful context or background material.

In the main body of your essay, you should indicate when you’re referring to an appendix by citing it in parentheses. For example:

The interviews show that most people like ice cream (see Appendix C).

What Should Go in the Appendices?

Appendices can include many things depending on your topic. Common examples of information added to an appendix include:

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• Raw data from tests
• Technical figures, graphs or tables
• Maps, charts or images
• Letters or emails used in research
• Sample questionnaires or surveys
• Full interview transcripts

What these have in common is that you might need to refer to them in an essay without going into too much detail. For example, you might summarise the results of a test in the ‘Results’ section of a dissertation, then include the full data in appendices to ensure clarity.

How to Format Appendices

Exactly how to format appendices can vary between universities, so you should always check your style guide. Generally, though, appendices should:

• Appear at the end of your document, often after the reference list
• Be divided into sections depending on topic (e.g. separate sections for questionnaire results and interview transcripts)
• Have each appendix section start on a new page
• Be labelled with a letter or number, along with a title clarifying content (Appendix A: Instrument Diagrams, Appendix B: Test Results, etc.)
• Appear in the table of contents at the beginning of your document

Are Appendices Included in the Word Count?

Appendices are not usually included in the word count for an essay. Consequently, you can focus on key information in your work and place extra data in an appendix without worrying about the word count.

However, you should always check your style guide on this. And remember that if you rely on something in your main essay, it needs to be included there: you can’t just shuffle it into the appendices to reduce the word count !

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