Dissertations: finding your topic

Try these tips to help you find and refine your dissertation topic.

Where’s the conflict?
Identifying opposing elements in your work can help to reveal themes.
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Image credit: Kona Macphee / RLF
woman in libraryFree reading
Reading a book that’s not on your reading list can trigger fresh ideas, provide a welcome break and reduce stress.
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Image credit: Klimkin / Pixabay
Creative insight
Freewriting can help you to come up with new ideas and resolve problems.
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The elevator pitch
Try the elevator pitch exercise with another student in a video chat to help you to refine your ideas.
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Image credit: Liz Allen
The story of your research
Use this list of questions to help you to shape the research for your dissertation.
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students talkingBack to basics
If you’re unsure about your dissertation idea and tempted to change it, first, see if you can salvage it.
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The vast improvement in performance of our students, particularly as regards oral presentation skills, is due, in no small part, to the focussed attention provided by you and Esther Selsdon in those intensive sessions that you delivered so effectively.

MA course leader

The practical work and activities clearly illustrated the issues with good writing.

Departmental Administrator in a Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

I plan to use the proposed diagram for concepts and to engage my reader when writing my dissertation.

MA English Literature student

Fantastically insightful. Great tips for writing.

Doctoral student

The activities were very helpful and enjoyable and gave me a better understanding of using signposting words.

Second year English Literature undergraduate

Great course, very useful!

Social Science doctoral student

The [Concept to Content] workshop really gives good suggestions on appropriate writing in dissertations and writing in general.

MA English Literature student

It has been a pleasure to work with Doug. His approach is highly professional. He demonstrates the democratic learning principles of collaboration, inclusion and participation, and these are overt in the way he works. I would highly recommend him and would have no hesitation in working with him again.

Head of Division of Nursing

This retreat has been pretty life changing for me in terms of opening my eyes to my own potential as a writer both in academia and outside. I’ve been challenged by so much of what you’ve said to be a better writer. And you’ve been so affirming and encouraging as well. At this stage of my PhD where things have got so intense and crazy, this retreat has been an oasis and an antidote to the chaos.

3rd year PhD participant

The service helped me to understand the idea of structuring within a paragraph and how simple changes in sentence arrangement could make it more fluid and meaningful. I'm sure it aided me in achieving 80 percent in my lit review.

Undergraduate

A wonderful and insightful workshop.

Undergraduate student

Anne has the unique ability to bring out the ‘story’ behind the science, turning empirical descriptions into beautiful prose that is both exciting and scientifically sound.

Professor of Toxicology and Environmental Health

The workshop concentrated on topics that at this stage of my dissertation matter to me. The topic itself is overwhelming, so helping me to break it down helped me to feel the project is manageable.

Masters student

... the one-to-one was brilliant. I feel really energised about reworking the rejected paper.

Research staff member, School of Art

James made every effort to accommodate everyone’s needs and desires. This was one of the most interesting, informative and engaging workshops I’ve been to and I would attend another one if the opportunity arises.

Doctoral student

Really useful, well explained, good examples and course lead was lovely!

PhD Student (history)

The group sessions were really effective.

Social Science doctoral student

It was really great! I would definitely recommend – so happy to have attended.

Doctoral researcher

… the workshop was interesting and educational, gave good examples and offered opportunities for practice and development.

Administrator and Academic Skills Tutor

It was a great experience … it pushed me out of my comfort zone and I learnt that writing is primary for me.

Second year Modern Languages undergraduate

You have been invaluable in my academic development.

Third year undergraduate

This workshop encouraged me to think of writing in a different way when at work… and in particular the focus on editing was useful.

Administrative staff member

The session made me think about words, clarity of meaning and flow of argument. It succeeded, not just with me; the students were engaged throughout. Gerry has a very relaxed, informal style, authoritative and reassuring.

Programme Director in Genetics

I feel completely enlightened about how I want to present my work in future. I feel more confident in my writing and I understand how best to write for my audience.

Science doctoral student

‘The workshop was both fun and incredibly useful. . . one of the best structured and most useful workshops/trainings that I have ever attended. . .

Doctoral student in the arts

What a brilliant session on Friday. The last hour of the session was extremely useful and is beginning to make a significant difference to my data analysis. My friends could not believe the difference. Thank you.

Psychology postgraduate

Working with Anne on my grant proposal has been a really positive and constructive experience and taught me a great deal about how to explain complex concepts in a simple but still rigorous manner. The final submission was so beautiful to read that one of the referees made a point of commenting on it.

Group Leader/Senior Lecturer in Bioscience

Really great session, thank you. I wish I knew you existed before now!

Doctoral student in Health Science

I’m very glad I signed up!

English Literature undergraduate

This workshop has surpassed my expectations. I can't thank you enough!

First year doctoral student in social sciences

Most useful workshop on my course so far!

Masters in Management student

Very interactive, imaginative activities.

Programme Director, School of Education

For me, I found being shown how to think about science writing in the same way as creative writing a bit of an eye opener. It was great to learn some of the basic ‘rules’ and things to think about in order for a good piece of writing to flow well.

Life Sciences Lecturer

What a truly fantastic experience. I really cannot enthuse about it enough. The combination of Max and Trevor as facilitators – so different and yet superbly complementary – was simply perfect. I feel privileged to have attended and I will ensure that my institution is made aware of what a brilliant opportunity this is for all academic staff.

Life Sciences Researcher

The workshop was great – couldn’t have been better. The tutor was very patient and engaging.

Taught Masters student

I have personally witnessed how your workshops have transformed the way university teachers viewed their teaching.

Academic Staff Developer at a top ten, research-intensive UK university

Working with Anna changed my perception of how to write in a way which was clear, concise and accessible to a range of audiences. This helped in making me a confident writer. The group aspect of the training worked really well, as sharing projects and ideas helped to look at a particularly difficult project from a new perspective.

Marketing and Communications Assistant

The presentation was interesting and relevant. What was most beneficial? All of the content – learnt something new throughout.

Education undergraduate

Chris has been very helpful in giving me great advice to improve my writing skills. I would recommend this to anyone out there.

Undergraduate

This workshop has been a turning point for me.

Social Science doctoral student

Really useful and positive seminar. I liked the way our needs were assessed and discussed.

Education undergraduate

Vibrant, stimulating and hilarious classes.

Postgraduate student in Creative Writing

I thought [the Concept to Content workshop] was great.

MA English Literature student

Practical examples, great discussions, facilitator engaged the audience well.

Doctoral student

A good, effective workshop that’s helped me understand essay writing better.

Undergraduate student

This course invited us to think about how to do it, not just tell us what to do…

Doctoral student in the Arts

These weekends have made me remember that I do actually like writing essays … massively beneficial.

Second year Modern Languages undergraduate

The report writing workshop was both fun and insightful and gave us clear actions to take in future.

Economics Analyst

This was a highly beneficial couple of days. Opened my eyes to a new way of writing and rehearsing my ideas without being bogged down with accuracy.

Arts and humanities doctoral student

I really enjoyed the workshop and found it informative and interesting.

English Literature undergraduate

Really, really helpful and great advice. I feel a lot more confident about writing my dissertation now.

Third year Politics undergraduate

Students found the intervention extremely engaging and helpful. Many wanted even more and would like another workshop in the future.

English Literature Lecturer

I learned and understood more after each session. I would recommend that every college or university runs a program like this.

First year Social Work undergraduate

I feel I’ve learnt more about university essay writing over the course of two weekends than I have during my two years at university.

Second year Modern Languages undergraduate

Alicia was very proactive, making sure everything was on track. … I had a one-to-one appointment with a student who attended Alicia’s workshop … The student said the workshop was ‘wonderful’ and helped her overcome her blocks.

Senior learning advisor

Loved this workshop!

Doctoral student

It was a really useful and interactive workshop. I enjoyed it.

Master’s law student

Really helpful – encouraged openness and made the environment feel very safe.

Doctoral student

I enjoyed the afternoon and feel a little less daunted!

PhD student

The workshop was very well-prepared with many interesting, student-centred and interactive activities. Many participants expressed their enjoyment and praise for the workshop. These acknowledgments were unprompted and unsolicited. BIG thank you. Well done. Greatly appreciated.

Learning Development staff member

Great handouts – clear and informative.

Taught Masters student

I’d like another session as it has really helped me and I would like to attend more.

Education undergraduate

Sanjida is very good at contextualising and explaining why thinking from different perspectives is so important and effective.

Professor of Science and Engineering

Good and clear structure to the workshop. Activities effective.

Biomedical research student

Very interesting session with excellent facilitators.

HE Human Resources staff member

I thought this was a fantastic workshop, and thoroughly enjoyable and constructive from start to finish. I really appreciated Jennifer's insights and getting feedback from her ... By the end, I was desperate to get back to writing my book and was viewing the project with fresh eyes and enthusiasm.

Lecturer in History

This is probably the most in-depth training and input I’ve ever received on (academic) writing! What a privilege, great opportunity. Brilliantly held and led by Heather.

Arts and humanities doctoral student

It was fun… I think that made everyone relaxed and interact more.

Office Administrator, School of Medicine

This workshop was very interesting and useful to me. It was an excellent experience.

Doctoral student in Health Science

Dr Joss has transformed my attitude to writing my thesis.

Humanities doctoral student

Great workshop – reminded us of the basics while giving us helpful suggestions for different approaches to tackling essay writing.

Undergraduate student

Helena was an inspiring, supportive and encouraging tutor. I found the tutorial really beneficial, and I felt a sense of permission to write.

Arts doctoral student

All of the exercises have been very helpful.

MA student

When I ran a workshop with these students they were full of praise and admiration for the work you and Cath Senker carried out . . . it would be truly rewarding to our students if you could return again next year to assist the next cohort of MA students.

International Support Co-ordinator (Postgraduate)

Very interactive without forcing participants to contribute, it felt natural to speak during discussions, even for someone who is usually quite nervous.

Biomedical research student

What a truly fantastic experience. I really cannot enthuse about it enough. The combination of Max and Trevor as facilitators – so different and yet superbly complementary – was simply perfect. I feel privileged to have attended and I will ensure that my institution is made aware of what a brilliant opportunity this is for all academic staff.

Life Sciences Researcher

It was interesting and fun and increased my confidence in writing.

Adult education student attending one-day writing workshop at university

The most useful formal training I’ve done while doing my PhD. . . Lydia is a lovely and warm facilitator with an immense amount of knowledge. Above all, she’s helped to demystify the writing process for me. . .

Doctoral student

Enhanced my thinking [and] built my self-confidence.

Social Sciences doctoral student

Katie Grant was an amazing 'writing instructor', very seasoned and experienced with a great way of teaching techniques.

Doctoral student, arts and humanities

It made me think about my own dissertation topic and helped me in structuring it.

MA English Literature student

I thoroughly enjoyed it, and loved the weekly assignments and the feedback in class.

Postgraduate student in Creative Writing

...please keep in touch with any new projects – the students clearly loved your work!

Grammar School Assistant Head Teacher

Cath's sessions are of a very high standard with a great balance between theoretical input and practical application. ... Her workshops are mainly aimed at undergraduate students and we continuously receive excellent feedback for her sessions.

Academic Study Skills Development Coordinator

The course leader was very good at stimulating the group to participate and interact.

Doctoral student

After my one-to-one session with Anne, I feel like I have the tools and tips to become more confident in my writing – I am now optimistic I can develop a healthy relationship to writing.

Yr3 Social Science PhD student

...a thoroughly positive experience...

Grammar School Assistant Head Teacher

Thank you so much for the sessions – they went down an absolute treat!

Head of Programme, University English Department

Jen was brilliant. The best workshop I have taken part in since starting university. Extremely beneficial.

2nd year Sociology undergraduate

[The tutor] was great. Very knowledgeable, patient, active and helpful.

Social Sciences doctoral student

I don’t think it could have been improved.

Office Administrator, School of Medicine

Once again, participants spoke very highly of your sessions: “Brilliant!”

Professor of English

Thank you so much for the help and advice you have shared with me recently. You gave me confidence in my writing.

Undergraduate student

I wanted to say thank you for delivering this workshop which has been greatly appreciated both by the students and the course directors. I think this is something we’d be keen to do again in the future.

Head of Graduate School

Critical reflection on what I do for a living is so incredibly rare to come by. ... Now I know what to look for and I have a set of tools to use ... The generosity and authenticity of Tina and Marina were crucial in finding a part of me I thought was long gone.

Associate Professor, International Relations

Excellent. Really informative. This really helped me to think in a very different way about academic discourse, which can often be regarded as rather homogenous and ‘fixed’. This will impact on how I can help non-native speaker students develop a better understanding of voice and narrative structure in academic writing.

Assistant Language Co-ordinator, English for Academic Purposes

The activities were approachable, effective and easy to engage with. There was a good, non-judgmental atmosphere.

Social science researcher

Very interesting and interactive, a lively session!

Doctoral student in Health Science

The staff found the training enjoyable and helpful for both their professional and personal lives.

Team Leader in a Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

It is clear the students found the workshop very helpful. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and the students felt it will improve their writing and outcomes for their dissertation. One of my personal tutees … has reported that she found the session really useful and [it] has made her feel less anxious about the dissertation.

Senior Lecturer and Master’s degree coordinator

I very much enjoyed the course. It was good to share ideas with colleagues, but, above all, to learn from Helena's suggestions and experiences.

Early career academic, Arts and Humanities

The format chosen was very entertaining and gave us useful guidelines in relation to the editing practice. . . completely satisfying.

Doctoral student in the arts

The best and most interesting course I have done at the university so far.

Biomedical Science doctoral student

Excellent session, really useful and covered a lot in a short time.

Professor of Science and Engineering

The workshop was pitched perfectly. Jennifer understood the peculiar challenges of academic writing and gave good advice on how to meet them. I enjoyed the group work too — tasks were useful in facilitating discussion and it was good to talk to colleagues about writing practices.

Professor of British History

The easy discussion manner helped to make the subject less daunting…Everything was very enjoyable and on point.

Doctoral student

I have attended a few writing workshops. This is by far the best. I know it will help me edit my thesis more effectively.

Social Sciences doctoral student

[I] will think back to this afternoon when I am blocked! So many great ideas. It was really useful.

Reader in Media in Education

Has strongly influenced my PhD.

Social Sciences doctoral student

The best – and the best-received – of all the hundred events we have put on here.

Executive Director, US Historical Museum

I’ve gained a new perspective on the writing process.

Science and Engineering doctoral student

Very successful, the exercises were interesting and different from the usual course style.

Doctoral student

An impressive session by any standards. Delivered with confidence and assurance, clearly well planned, prepared and structured, designed to engage and involve the students.

Associate Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing

This was an incredibly useful week – I got to think much more explicitly about the writing process. It has given me a whole set of tools for teaching and mentoring writing, but probably of most use is the chance to consider my own writing. I have discovered all sorts of things I do in my writing (some good, some bad) that I didn't realise I was doing.

Reader in Theoretical Astrophysics

Thank you so much, Heather. This has been really fantastic and incredibly helpful and unblocking!

Arts doctoral student

Inspirational, informative and thought-provoking.

Postgraduate student in Creative Writing

This was an incredibly helpful workshop!

Third year English Literature undergraduate

The two facilitators were great. Trevor and Max had very different styles that complemented each other very well. ... I really enjoyed the week and gained a lot – confidence and skills and tools for my own writing, and hopefully much better ways of teaching and mentoring others in writing. Highly recommended for writers of all levels and confidence.

Reader in Theoretical Astrophysics

The activities were really helpful. They got me thinking in different ways.

Doctoral student

I learned a lot from reading examples of diverse types of writing and rewriting them.

Doctoral student

The super informative discussion on the "editing" process really inspired me to re-imagine and re-configure the writing practice.

Doctoral student in the arts

The interactive group discussions were very relevant to my learning needs. Excellent input and course content given by a very knowledgeable tutor.

Adult nursing doctoral student

The consideration and design put into the creation of this session is obvious. Using the workshop to reflect on our own practice outside of my discipline has been enlightening and extremely enjoyable. Thank you.

Lecturer in Education

I would welcome the opportunity to work with you again, as I found your focus on clear objectives, your strong engagement with the students and your detailed approach to subject-specific learning has made an invaluable contribution to the confidence of my students as well as to the effectiveness of our learning environment as a whole.

MA course leader

The ‘taught’ content was carefully blended with the practical exercises, so that the practice led the theory, rather than the other way round. … Marina and Tina were helpful, insightful and concise, without being overly critical or judgmental … every moment has been suffused with creativity. Thank you for waking me up.

Senior Lecturer in Film Studies

The sessions was excellent … All the activities were thought provoking and [offered] something that it is original and that most academics do not experience … Several participants noted that thinking comparatively about genres of ‘creative writing’ as against highly structured academic context helped them to analyse what they do as academics, particularly in relation to engaging the reader.

Reader in Social Research

Our facilitator was incredibly friendly, professional and very knowledgeable. A simply wonderful workshop, thank you.

2nd year Social Science undergraduate

Gained knowledge on applying narrative structures to my essays.

Undergraduate student

I have thoroughly enjoyed both days of this workshop! It has given me a multitude of ways to connect with my own writing, and approach the different stages in lots of new and exciting creative ways.

Arts and humanities doctoral student

Would love more workshops like this.

MA student

The workshop gave me the opportunity to meet and hear other people’s vulnerabilities in relation to research. It allowed distance for thoughts and ideas to emerge. It made me think about my research and re-enthused me.

Arts researcher

Chris helped me pinpoint the problem areas of my writing that I could not see myself.

Postgraduate researcher

I found the work looking at structure and paragraphs really helpful, considering ways to both outline (the macro) and attend to detail in content …Thank you for a very constructive and helpful workshop.

Doctoral student

The two facilitators were great. Trevor and Max had very different styles that complemented each other very well. ... I really enjoyed the week and gained a lot – confidence and skills and tools for my own writing, and hopefully much better ways of teaching and mentoring others in writing. Highly recommended for writers of all levels and confidence.

Reader in Theoretical Astrophysics

Everyone who was involved felt they were able to participate in the training.

Team Leader in a Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

The day was brilliant and the first time I have ever done anything like this.

Adult education student attending one-day writing workshop at university

The workshop consisted of a variety of useful strategies and allowed essential time to consider personal projects. Anna’s guidance enabled me to successfully convert from an academic, to a journalistic style of writing and has resulted in three publications in a magazine relating to my professional practice. Anna’s relaxed and reassuring but constructive approach instilled confidence and enabled actual outputs.

Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy

I really enjoyed the course. Helena was a really convivial group leader — inclusive, engaging and interesting to listen to.

Arts and Humanities doctoral student

Absolutely brilliant workshop. Very helpful!

Second year English Literature undergraduate

The mix of ... presentations, group discussions and practical exercises was very beneficial for me to apply new knowledge to my own situation. Anna’s wide experience of writing and editing was demonstrated by her depth of understanding and ability to tailor her teaching to the needs of her students.

Senior Lecturer in Research Methods

Thank you for a fabulous morning of fun learning yesterday.

Professor of Science and Engineering

Ann identified key areas of essay writing which people often struggle with, and worked through them with useful and thought-provoking activities.

English Literature undergraduate

I felt I gained a lot of perspective on my writing and thesis. I also managed to battle the issues that I’ve had with writing for as long as I’ve been in academia (and actually found out they are easily defeated!)

Science doctoral student

I was encouraged to reflect upon my writing in a more critical fashion and given some useful practical tips too.

Masters in Social Science student

Katie Grant was an amazing 'writing instructor', very seasoned and experienced with a great way of teaching techniques.

Doctoral researcher, arts and humanities

Appropriate content…Enjoyed the session – lively, engaging.

Doctoral researcher

Most of all I am confident about giving any presentation in the research area that I am interested in.

Doctoral student

In just one session, Lydia was able to identify my main issues with academic writing and suggested really useful tools.

Doctoral student

This was the best inkpath session I have had to date, really informative and I have left the session less anxious about writing the impact statement!

PhD student: (medical research)

This is the most useful Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities workshop I've been to (I'm a 3rd year student)

Doctoral student, arts and humanities

I am more confident about writing now.

MA student

I found it very interesting and feel it has equipped me with very relevant skills.

Registry Office Administrative Services

Of course it’s a given that you need the proper space and time to write – but without focus on content and narrative craft we’d be churning out the same turgid stuff, just more efficiently. ... The week vastly exceeded my expectations and I think will have a profound effect on my writing.

Research Fellow

I found a narrative voice I didn’t know I had, and changed my research question very radically as a result. The exercises reinforced the message, and it was very inspiring seeing other participants blossoming … into fiendishly writing all afternoon and evening, they were so energized. … The breadth of creativity was quite fantastic.

Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology

Helpful, clear, constructive, thought-provoking, and it already pushed me to be more reflective about my writing practice.

Doctoral student, arts and humanities

I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.

English Literature undergraduate

The ‘taught’ content was carefully blended with the practical exercises, so that the practice led the theory, rather than the other way round. … Marina and Tina were helpful, insightful and concise, without being overly critical or judgmental … every moment has been suffused with creativity. Thank you for waking me up.

Senior Lecturer in Film Studies

Thanks for a wonderful workshop – really fascinating and lots of top tips and genuinely helpful. The students really enjoyed it and found it hugely helpful for their next assignments.

Module Leader, MA Museums and Galleries in Education

This workshop has been extremely helpful and relevant to my work in its current stage.

Doctoral student in History

Very informative. Really enjoyed the session and it will definitely be useful in writing my dissertation.

3rd year Applied Social Science undergraduate

I have benefited so much from this retreat ... The training sessions covered various writing styles from publishing a book to applying for research grants to writing journal papers.

Postdoctorate in Energy Security and Environmental Protection

Everything was great.

Master’s law student

Really enjoyed this workshop.

Adult education student attending one-day writing workshop at university

Reviewing good writing practice/style was very helpful as I have been engaged in very dry primary research and have 'lost my voice' to some extent as a result.

Doctoral student

The course was excellently executed. It was relaxed and convivial, yet we were undertaking learning that was substantial and worthwhile.

Team Leader in a Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences

Really good informative and engaging workshop.

Biomedical research student

[The workshop] was broad enough that it applied to everyone. It was great!

Social Sciences doctoral student

The three hours [Write Powerfully workshop] passed very quickly. Can I please be included in further workshops?

Team Leader, School of Nursing & Midwifery

Really good structure, excellent advice on how to go about writing for a non-specialist audience and what to consider when starting.

Professor of Science and Engineering

The facilitator had an easy style. He engaged well with the participants and was able to translate his knowledge well.

Doctoral student in Health Science

Very informal and professional at the same time.

Departmental Administrator in a School of Art

Although we have excellent student support services within the university, this course offered something to all the students who attended, whether they have specific learning needs or not. I saw their confidence grow as the course progressed.

Senior Lecturer in Social Work

I am impressed by your skills, the methodologies you introduce to the process of learning and generous spirit of inclusivity that you employ to connect with the students.

International Support Co-ordinator (Postgraduate)

Pitched exactly right… a real pleasure to attend.

University Tutor in Creative Writing

I wanted to… let you know how much I feel I have benefited from this course… The one-to-one session was particularly useful in formulating my argument and helping to add clarity to my work.

Social Science doctoral student

Thank you, Heather, for an enlightening two days. I will use what I have learned for years to come.

Arts and humanities doctoral student

Thank you again for the workshop. I really feel I have profited from it and also enjoyed it a lot! It not only has made me think about my own writing more critically and effectively but will also help me working with undergraduates and marking their essays.

History doctoral candidate

The trainer engaged with each individual, listening to and answering each individual’s problems and questions.

MA student

Many thanks, great to see such positive feedback from the students.

Lecturer, University English Department

All useful and relevant.

HE Human Resources staff member

I feel much more confident in my output, and more enthusiastic about sitting down and getting started.

Yr1 Humanities PhD student

It’s difficult to think of any lesson this week that hasn’t been profoundly transformative. … I know already that our discussions on the joy and possibilities of writing have made me see my thesis as a living, rather than a dead, thing.

PhD Student on a recent writing retreat
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