Turn Your Dissertation From a 2:1 into a First Class

How to Turn Your Dissertation from a 2:1 to a First Class

The Rarity and Value of a First Class Degree

The difficulty with improving your dissertation from a 2:1 to a First Class is less about merit, and more about exclusivity. That’s because universities strictly limit the number of First Class degrees to preserve their value. Achieving a First Class dissertation requires not just harder work, but a very specific approach.

Analysing the Marking Scheme

By the time you write your dissertation, you should be familiar with the marking scheme. Now, examine it more closely to identify what separates a 2:1 from a First. While a First is technically any mark over 70%, in practice, you are competing with your peers, and universities may limit the number of Firsts awarded. To be in consideration for a First Class, aim to stand out and reach closer to 80%.

Beyond the Basics for Turning a 2:1 Into a First Class Dissertation

At this level, it is assumed you can:

• Write well.
• Reference appropriately and correctly.
• Provide a convincing conclusion.
• Argue coherently.

To achieve a First, focus on:

• Demonstrating research abilities beyond the obvious.
• Finding originality in familiar topics.
• Displaying wide reading and an innovative approach to interpretation and application of research.
• Being both critical and original in your thinking.

You may need to allow your personal perspective to enter your work, moving beyond the objectivity usually encouraged in academic writing. Present a balanced argument, well-supported by evidence, but also develop unique nuances that set your work apart.

What a First Class Dissertation Requires

To obtain a First, you must show:

• A scholarly approach.
• An individualistic, grounded, and viable methodology.
• Evidence of innovation and independent thinking.

Even in familiar fields, originality is possible. If you can develop an original line of thought, support it with strong argument and comprehensive research, a First Class dissertation is within your reach.

Frequently Asked Questions: Turning a 2:1 Dissertation into a First Class

What are the main differences between a 2:1 and a First Class dissertation?

• Originality and Innovation: A First Class dissertation demonstrates creative, independent thinking and often presents a unique perspective or original research plan.
• Critical Analysis: There is a higher degree of critical engagement with sources and theory, showing an ability to go beyond common knowledge and synthesise new arguments.
• Complexity of Argument: First Class work involves complex, coherent arguments that integrate multiple strands of thought, rather than simply summarising existing literature.
• Depth of Research: Use of obscure or less common source material, including primary sources and lesser-known secondary sources, is typical in First Class dissertations.
• Polish and Presentation: The writing is clear, error-free, and well-structured, often refined through multiple drafts.

How can I make my dissertation more original?

• Develop a Unique Research Question: Choose a topic or angle that excites you and allows for genuine analysis and debate.
• Go Beyond the Obvious: Seek out lesser-used sources, archives, or data sets and incorporate them into your research.
• Offer New Insights: Present your own interpretations, challenge existing viewpoints, and aim to fill gaps in the literature.

What practical steps can I take to improve my dissertation from a 2:1 to a First?

• Start Early: Begin researching and planning as soon as possible to allow time for deeper exploration and multiple drafts.
• Read Widely: Go beyond the reading list—use academic databases, journals, and bibliographies to find a wide range of sources.
• Engage Critically: Analyse and critique all sources, not just describe them. Consider strengths, weaknesses, and how they relate to your argument.
• Seek Feedback: Share drafts with your supervisor or peers and incorporate their suggestions.
• Refine Your Work: Edit and proofread thoroughly to ensure clarity, coherence, and correct referencing.

How important is the literature review for a First Class dissertation?

• Foundation for Your Argument: A strong literature review not only summarises but also critiques existing research, identifies gaps, and sets the stage for your own contribution.
• Demonstrates Expertise: It shows you are well-versed in your field and can position your research within the broader academic conversation.

Should I include tables, figures, or appendices?

• Yes, Where Relevant: Including well-organised tables, figures, or appendices can strengthen your argument and provide clear evidence for your claims. Place these in appendices for easy reference.

What are common mistakes that keep a dissertation at a 2:1?

• Lack of Originality: Relying solely on well-trodden arguments or sources without offering new insights.
• Descriptive Rather Than Analytical: Summarising rather than critically engaging with material.
• Insufficient Drafting: Submitting a first or second draft without thorough revision and proofreading.
• Weak Structure: Arguments that lack clarity or logical progression.

How can I demonstrate critical thinking that can improve a dissertation from 2:1 into First Class?

• Synthesise Ideas: Combine theories or perspectives to create a nuanced argument.
• Challenge Assumptions: Question established viewpoints and support your critiques with evidence.
• Anticipate Counterarguments: Address potential criticisms of your argument within your dissertation.

Other Guides in this Series

• How to Turn a Dissertation from a 2:2 into a 2:1
• How to Turn a Dissertation from a 2:1 into a First Class
• How to Turn a Dissertation from a First Class into an Upper First Class

References for Improving Your Dissertation From 2:1 Into First Class

• Chowdhury, N. (2025) How to Write a First-Class Dissertation in the UK. LinkedIn. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-write-first-class-dissertation-theuk-nasif-chowdhury-nlffc [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Ivory Research (n.d.) 5 Ways To Improve Your Dissertation from a 2:2 (C) to a 2:1 (B) Grade. Available at: https://www.ivoryresearch.com/library/other-articles/5-ways-to-improve-your-dissertation/ [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Ivory Research (n.d.) How to Improve Your Dissertation From a 2:1 (B) to a 1st (A) Grade. Available at: https://www.ivoryresearch.com/library/dissertation-articles/improving-your-dissertation-a-grade/ [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• Royal Holloway, University of London (n.d.) Dissertation – Marking Criteria. Available at: https://intranet.royalholloway.ac.uk/mathematics/informationforcurrentstudents/msc/dissertation-markingcriteria.aspx [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• University of Cambridge (n.d.) Marking Criteria Optional Dissertation (HML). Available at: https://www.mmll.cam.ac.uk/files/hml_dissertation_marking_criteria.pdf [Accessed 9 July 2025].
• University of West London (n.d.) Tips for completing your dissertation. Available at: https://www.uwl.ac.uk/current-students/support-students/study-support/how-to-prepare-for-your-assessments [Accessed 9 July 2025].