how to write a thesis for philosophy

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Tackling the Philosophy Essay: A Student Guide

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This short book, written by recent Cambridge PhD students, is designed to introduce students to the process of writing an essay in philosophy. Containing many annotated examples , this guide demonstrates some of the Do's and Don'ts of essay writing, with particular attention paid to the early stages of the writing process (including the creation thesis statements and essay outlines).  This book may also be useful to instructors looking for teaching-related resources.

Tackling the Philosophy Essay  (select one of the following formats):

• Mobi (for Kindle) 
• Epub (for all other eReaders) 

Guide To Grammar

To view information relating to the presentation of extended essays, dissertations and general paper (all parts) see Undergraduate Exams .

Tackling the Philosophy Essay  is licensed under a  Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License . You are free to download, copy, reuse, distribute and adapt this work as long as it is for non-commercial purposes, is also under the same licence, and attributes the original work to the authors. If in doubt, or if you wish to collaborate or address any issues found, please feel free to email the authors at  [email protected]

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The Writing Place

Resources – how to write a philosophy paper, introduction to the topic.

The most common introductory level philosophy papers involve making an original argument (“Do you believe that free will exists?”) or thinking critically about another philosopher’s argument (“Do you agree with Hobbes’ argument about free will?”). This short checklist will help you construct a paper for these two types of assignments.

The Basics of a Philosophy Paper

1. introduction and thesis.

There is not a need for a grand or lofty introduction in a philosophy paper. Introductory paragraphs should be short and concise. In the thesis, state what you will be arguing and how you will make your argument.

2. Define Terms

It is important to define words that you use in your argument that may be unclear to your reader. While it may seem like words like “morality” and “free will” have an obvious definition, you need to make clear to your audience what those words mean in the context of your paper. A generally useful rule is to pretend that your reader does not know anything about your course or the subject of philosophy and define any words or concepts that such a reader may find ambiguous.

In a philosophy paper, you need to give reasons to support the argument you made in your thesis. This should constitute the largest portion of your paper. It is also important here to name preexisting conditions (premises) that must exist in order for the argument to be true. You can use real-world examples and the ideas of other philosophers to generate reasons why your argument is true. Remember to use simple and clear language and treat your readers as if they are not experts in philosophy.

4. Objections and Responses to Objections

Unlike other types of persuasive essays, in a many philosophy papers you should anticipate criticisms of your argument and respond to those criticisms. If you can refute objections to your argument, your paper will be stronger. While you do not have to address every potential counterargument, you should try to cover the most salient problems.

5. Conclusion

Like the introduction, you should be simple and concise. In the final paragraph you should review and summarize what your paper has established. The conclusion should tell readers why your argument is relevant. It answers the question, “Why do I care?”

General Tips

• Do not overstate or over generalize your ideas.
• Do not try to argue for both sides of an issue. Be clear about where you stand or your reader will be confused.
• Be specific. Do not try to tackle a huge issue, but rather, aim to discuss something small that can be done justice in just a few pages.
• Be wary of using religious or legal grounds for your argument.

A Quick Practice Exercise...

Practice: what is wrong with this paragraph.

This paragraph contains 5 major errors that you should try to avoid in a philosophy paper. Can you find them all?

“In his argument from design, Paley uses the example of a watch that he finds upon a road that has dozens of pieces that work together to make the clock function.  He asserts that this watch is too perfect of a creation not to have a creator and that it would be obvious to conclude that the timepiece must have a maker. Similarly, the Bible proves that God must exist because he made the world beautiful in seven days.  Paley notes, “There cannot be design without a designer; contrivance, without a contriver; order, without choice; arrangement without anything capable of arranging” (Paley 49). This reasoning is strong because it is apparent that beings found in nature have a complex design.  For example, the iris, retina, lens and ocular muscles of the eye all work together to produce sight in the human eye and without any one of these mechanisms, one would be blind.  For all of these tiny pieces that are required for a functioning eye to have randomly come together seems impossible. Therefore, it is logical that there had to be a designer who created a world in which DNA replicates and dozens of small parts create a functioning human or animal.  By simply viewing the natural world, it is highly plausible to see that Paley’s theory is correct.”

1.  “Similarly, the Bible proves that God must exist because he had the power to make the flood happen in Noah’s Ark.”  Arguments based off religious texts, such as the Bible, are generally frowned upon and only weaken an essay.

2. The writer does not define what he means by “God.” Is God a benevolent overseer of the earth? Or is God a vengeful figure? Although it may seem as though everyone knows who God is, in reality, people have different perspective and the writer needs to define God’s character for the reader.

3.  “For all of these tiny pieces that are required for a functioning eye to have randomly come together seems impossible.”  The phrase “ seems impossible ” is weak and unclear. In a philosophy paper, you should take a strong stance and avoid words that weaken your argument like “probably” or “seem.” Additionally, the phrase “ highly plausible ” appears at the end of the paragraph, which is also a phrase that weakens the argument.

4. The writer gives not premises for Paley’s argument to be true. A stronger paper would name the preexisting conditions that must exist in order for the argument to stand.

5. The “real world” example of the human eye is not the best. The writer neglects strong counterarguments such as evolution and the existence of blindness in humans. A good philosophy paper would be more careful when considering real world examples.

Developed by Ann Bruton

Adapted from:

Harvard University’s Short Guide to Philosophical Writing

Kenneth Seeskin’s “How to Write a Philosophy Paper,” Northwestern University

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Philosophy writing guide.

I. Thesis Argument II.  Argument, Reasoning and Logic III.  Counterargument IV.  Defining Terms V. The Basic Structure VI. Arguing Specific Philosophies VII.  Appendix

I. Thesis Argument

The key to a good philosophy paper is good argument. Of course, a good argument is important in all disciplines, but it is especially important in a philosophy paper.  General arguments for philosophy papers include:

• Criticizing a philosopher's argument.
• Defending an argument against someone else's criticism.
• Giving new reasons to support a philosopher's argument.
• Discussing criticisms of a philosopher's argument in terms of strengths and weaknesses.
• Discussing the consequences of an argument, if it were true.
• Revising an argument after stating an objection.

Before you begin writing the paper, think thoroughly through your ideas when you are forming your argument. Keep in mind, however, that the aim of philosophy is often to make problems, rather than solve them.  Philosophy papers must have a clear thesis with a narrow, manageable focus. For example, instead of writing about "free will," choose an aspect of free will that interests you.

Your thesis should be arguable. If you assert a thesis against which no one could reasonably argue, then you need a new thesis!

Finally, do not base your thesis on a tautology or on empirical facts.

II. Argument, Reasoning and Logic

to convince rational readers of your position, you must have valid and sound arguments and employ deductive reasoning to support your thesis:

• In general arguments consist of premises and a conclusion. A premise is evidence from which a conclusion is drawn, and that conclusion may in turn be a premise for another conclusion! Writers should be careful not to state conclusions without justifying them with premises.
• An argument is valid if its conclusion follows from its premises and invalid if its conclusion does not follow.
• An argument is sound if it is valid and all its premises are in fact true; arguments which are either invalid or have a t least one false premise are unsound.
• An argument uses deductive reasoning when a specific case follows from a general rule. An argument use inductive reasoning when a generalization is made from a specific case. Writers should use deductive, and not inductive, reasoning to prove their points.

Arguments must be based on rationality and not emotion. Do not use claims you cannot support. Do not use inflammatory language.

Make sure that your initial claims are not controversial, but something that every rational person would agree on.

Logic is essential to philosophy. If you are unsure about your use of logic, consult An Introduction to Logic by Cochi et al.

III. Counterargument

You should treat your reader as someone with an opposing viewpoint. In this regard, you should predict and respond to potential criticisms by presenting and subsequently refuting counterarguments to your thesis. The counterarguments should be stated credibly, and the refutation should be firm but not unreasonable or extreme.

IV. Defining Terms

Clear definitions are important in philosophy papers because it is impossible to assess an argument if the terms of the argument are vague or ambiguous. Often, the writer may wish to use an entire paragraph to define an important term she/he is about to use.

V. The Basic Structure

The introduction . Think of your introduction as a concise guide to your paper; briefly map out the structure of your paper and explain how your arguments combine to support your thesis.

• Your first sentence should be focused and down to earth (avoid lines that are fluffy and/or grandiose). Douglas Portmore of the College of Charleston gives this example: "We will be concerned with both the moral status of abortion, which for our purposes we may define as the act which a woman performs in voluntary terminating, or allowing another person to terminate, her pregnancy, and the legal status which is appropriate for this act." Do not use an opening sentence such as, "Abortion is the single more important topic on the minds of Americans today."
• State your thesis.
• Define any terms you will use in the body of your paper.

Body paragraphs . Your body paragraphs should have clear main ideas/topic sentences and details to support those ideas. Remain true to the logic and structure of argument you set forth in your introduction.

• Make sure the reader knows what you have proven so far and what you'll prove next. Use connective words and phrases: because, given this argument, nevertheless, and on the other hand.
• Examples and analogies are often useful for illuminating an argument that is otherwise very abstract and complicated, but they are never critical to the argument. That is, your clear definitions and comprehensive explication of an argument should be a freestanding defense of your thesis. Examples and analogies, however, might help the reader gain a clearer picture of your argument.
• When using analogies, keep in mind the relevance and the number of analogous and dissimilar characteristics.
• Use quotes sparingly and only if you plan to discuss the way they support your argument. Keep citations brief! Check with your professor to find out what form of citation she prefers.
• Philosophy papers should mostly make use of primary sources (e.g. philosophical texts); make sure secondary sources do not dominate your paper.
• Aim for clarity in order to ensure that your audience understands what you're saying. Be precise in both argument and word choice; use simple language and syntax. Do not strive for unnecessary complexity and avoid excessive academic jargon. Refrain from using imprecise synonyms or metaphors.

Conclusion . If you have unanswerable questions when you've finished the body of your paper, include them in your conclusion. Try to respond to them, and explain what makes them difficult to solve. Remember that ending philosophy papers with questions is not wrong.

Don't claim more than you have shown; avoid making grandiose statements about "all" things based merely on a few examples.

VI. Arguing Specific Philosophies

Most philosophy papers do not argue both directly and independently for one philosophical position or another. Rather, they engage the work of various philosophers in arguments over those positions. Here are some sample essay questions:

• Does Plato have a good argument for the immorality of the soul?
• Wolff and Hobbes have competing views on the legitimacy of government. Which one is better?

Two tasks should be immediately obvious. First, the writer should restate the argument of the philosopher(s) being discussed. Second, she should evaluate that argument in terms of its premises, conclusions, validity, soundness, and reasoning. In addition, the writer may wish to speculate as to how a philosopher would or should argue with respect to a certain point, given his previously stated premises and/or conclusion.

What the writer should not do is prefer one philosopher or argument over another without providing solid logical evidence to support that preference. This evidence will rarely be in the form of statistics, public opinion, historical fact, anecdotes or testimonials. If evidence is a quote from a philosopher, the quote should be explained in terms of the argumentation it employs.

VII. Appendix

For further information on writing philosophy papers, consult the following sources:

• Consult any of the books in McCabe whose call numbers are between B2 and BF. These are philosophy reference guides, which contain important information about writing philosophy. Avoid the introductory philosophy books, which are in the B2l section; these primarily contain philosophical texts and have little information about writing in the discipline.
• Two of the best resources in the philosophy reference section are The Philosopher's Guide by Richard DeGeorge, which contains a list of Philosophical writing guides, and Philosophical Writing by A. P. Martinich, a book devoted to writing philosophy papers. Check out Appendix A, which is dedicated to last minute paper writing (it's also a quick summary of the entire book).
• http://www.philsophypages.com  Philosophy Pages by Garth Kemerling contains a dictionary of philosophical terms, a student study guide, and many other helpful resources.
• http://www.jimpryor.net/teaching/guidelines/writing.html  James Pryor, a previous Associate Philosophy Professor at Princeton, assembled this site. It is an informative resource and contains useful information about potential topics for philosophy papers, how to use quotes, how to organize a philosophy paper, and lots of other important topics.
• http://www.public.asu.edu/~dportmor/tips.pdf  This site contains important tips on arguing for your position, arguing against a claim, criticizing an argument, and when it is necessary to define your terms.  Written by Douglas Portmore of The College of Charleston.
• Ask your philosophy professor what texts or web sites s/he recommends.

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Writing Studio

Writing philosophy papers.

In an effort to make our handouts more accessible, we have begun converting our PDF handouts to web pages. Download this page as a PDF: Writing a Philosophy Paper Return to Writing Studio Handouts

Most  philosophy paper s  present an argument for  a thesis.  Some times the thesis is normative (e.g.,  animals should have rights;  we can establish clear conditions for when  patients should have access to lethal doses of medicine ) . Sometimes they are technical (e.g.,  the  mind is nothing but the brain;  to be is to be perceived) . A nd  sometimes, if not  usually ,   they focus on interpreting philosophers  (e.g.,  Anslem’s  ontological argument is sound proof for God’s existence ;  Hume’s sentimental theory of taste  better accounts for the value of art in our lives than  Plato’s claim that there is a Form of Beauty).   

Elements to Consider as You Write a Philosophy Papers  

Clear definitions and consistent use of terms.

You will be well-served to give definitions of key terms, often the terms in the prompt or thesis statement. Also, what seem like easy synonyms in regular language often have significantly different meanings in philosophy (e.g. ethics or morality; person or human being). Consistency and accuracy are much more important than creativity or variety.

Roadmap and Signposts

Philosophers often use the first person, especially   when announcing their argument . The structure of the paper is often methodical as well, so numbering new claims and  correctly  using words that distinguish premises ( e.g.  because, for,  given that, etc . )  and conclusions ( e.g. therefore, accordingly, it follows, etc . ) is common.  Beware of the use of the first person that avoids giving reasons (e.g. in my opinion).

Examples, Test Cases, or Thought Experiments

As abstract as much philosophy is, giving clear examples and applications of an argument (or doing so to prove someone else is wrong) is worthwhile  and efficient  when done carefully .

Effective Quotes, Paraphrases, and Summaries

The prompt should help establish how much quoting is expected and whether  you can summarize the arguments and positions of others. When it is a question of interpretation, the text is the evidence  and  your argument is the entirety of the essay. But even when  prompted to  evaluate a position,  first  you should  spend serious time explaining the position carefully, showing that  you have read and comprehended complex texts. In those cases, your own evaluation regularly does not appear until the last paragraph or two.  But be aware of overuse of quotations that  give the  impression that  you  ha ve little to say or do not understand enough to paraphrase. See “ Effective Quotes, Paraphrases, and Summaries .”

Response to Objections

No philosophy paper is complete without it; although, objections can be entertained in subtle ways throughout the argument rather than saving a whole section to do so. One can defend  a thesis by showing that arguments against it are unconvincing rather than, or in addition to, offering plausible reasons to support it.  Don’t hesitate  to be explicit here . See “ They Say, I Say .”

C onsider Avoiding the Following as You Write a Philosophy Paper    

Mere summary.

Don’t only explain another position without critical engagement. The exception here occurs if the prompt specifically  state s otherwise (e.g. an  argument reconstruction or  entirely  exege tical essay).

Dictionary Definitions

Dictionaries merely record how words are, and have been, used; they do not make good philosophical authorities. You  should supply  your  own definitions for key words or us e  meanings from course reading s . One  exception  occurs when one c onsciously us es the dictionary definition for contrast or context.

Overstatement

Supporting  “ all ”  or  “ none, ”   “ always ”  or  “ never, ”   statement s  is   rather difficult. Philosophy papers thrive on effectively defending modest and narrow claims ,  qualifying claims, and  even admitting the limits of one’s own position. This holds for intro ductions  too – who cares about the dawn of time?

Common Argumentative Fallacies

See “ Identifying Illogical Arguments .”

Last revised: 04/2012 | Adapted for web delivery: 07/2021

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How to Write a Philosophy Paper

• Develop a Thesis
• Formulate an Argument
• Structure & Outline
• Grammar & Style

Forming an Argument

Writing a Paper in Philosophy Part 3 - Forming an Argument

What is an Argument?

Arguments consist of one or more  premises and a  conclusion. "

Image source: Hartmann Schedel. Publius Ovidius Naso and Plato. Public domain. Wikimedia Commons.

Source:  Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy .

• Argument Good background information on argument; includes links to information on different types of arguments. Dictionary of World Philosophy.
• Inductive Argument Defines inductive arguments. Dictionary of World Philosophy.
• Deductive Argument Defines and describes a deduction, or the deductive method. Dictionary of World Philosophy.

Is Your Argument Valid?

Make sure there are no sharks in your roof: argue with validity and soundness.  Learn how to do that in the article below.

Image source:  SG Bailey.  Public domain.  Wikimedia Commons.

• Validity and Soundness Article on logic that covers validity and soundness. Dictionary of World Philosophy.
• << Previous: Develop a Thesis
• Next: Structure & Outline >>
• Last Updated: Jan 22, 2024 10:48 AM
• URL: https://libguides.lvc.edu/philosophypaper

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Whether you're thinking about pursuing an advanced degree in education or are already in such a program, one thing you will need to be prepared for...

Writing a winning thesis or dissertation: guidance for an education graduate student.

Posted on July 31, 2024 on Graduate School , Seahawk Nation

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Whether you’re thinking about pursuing an advanced degree in education or are already in such a program, one thing you will need to be prepared for is writing a thesis or dissertation. In most graduate-level education programs, a thesis or dissertation is the culmination of years of challenging work, serving as your own independent research that marks the final step before earning your graduate degree.

If writing a dissertation or thesis sounds like a daunting task, it does not have to be. With a little preparation and some best practices in mind, you can approach writing a thesis or dissertation with confidence.

Understanding the Thesis and Dissertation Process

Before writing a thesis or dissertation, it’s important to understand their general scope and purpose, along with some key differences between a thesis and a dissertation. After all, while there are some similarities between the two, a dissertation and a thesis are not the same thing.

Defining the Scope and Purpose

The primary purpose of a thesis or dissertation in an education graduate program is for students to demonstrate what they have learned in their respective programs while applying their own research, theory, analysis and synthesis. Ultimately, the author of a thesis or dissertation should successfully contribute something new to the existing topic. In dissertations specifically, students may also be required to articulate, discuss and defend their research orally in front of professors or other faculty members. This oral defense is not required for a master’s thesis.

Differences Between Thesis and Dissertation

When it comes to writing a thesis or a dissertation, the terms “dissertation” and “thesis” are sometimes used interchangeably. That said, it is crucial to understand that these are two different things. Generally, a dissertation is primarily focused on filling a gap in existing literature or extending upon current research regarding a specific topic. The goal is to analyze literature to the point of saturation and determine where there is a need for further research. In a dissertation, a doctoral student will then explain where the problem exists given current research and develop a research study to explore or evaluate the problem, thus filling the gap and contributing meaningfully to the field.

On the other hand, a thesis is more of a presentation of information that’s already out there with no obligation to conduct additional research.

Choosing the Right Topic

One of the most important aspects of drafting a great thesis or dissertation begins with choosing the right topic. Here, it is paramount to select a topic that not only interests you but is relevant to your future professional goals and aspirations. After all, there’s a good chance you may use your thesis or dissertation as a basis for future work or further research.

Considering Current Research Trends

In selecting a topic, you will also want to consider current research trends in your field. What is trending in the realm of education and what could you contribute to existing research? There are research gaps or questions that remain unanswered about certain educational topics that could be addressed through your research.

Research and Proposal Development

In most graduate programs, you will need to write and present a research proposal before you can really get started on your thesis or dissertation. Most research proposals are reviewed and approved by a professor or other faculty.

Conducting a Literature Review

A literature review is to discover the research available on your research topic. This review should detail each source you plan to use in your own research with plenty of detail. More specifically, a literature review is a comprehensive summary of the current literature on a given topic that demonstrates the need for additional research to be conducted. Literature reviews comprise a major portion of a proposal, including a summary of each source as it relates to the need for additional research.

Finding Reliable Sources

Quality is vital when it comes to selecting literature for your research or literature review. Ideally, your literature review should include plenty of recent and reputable sources that come from academic journals, books, articles and even other dissertations.

Developing a Research Proposal

Once you have a better understanding for what is already out there, you can craft a research proposal that discusses your specific research topic, the current problem, the purpose behind your research, the methodology you plan to use and the relevant literature that further defends a need for your topic to be investigated.

Methodology Selection

An important part of your research proposal will be your methodology selection, which will explain exactly how you plan to go about your research. For example, will your research be qualitative, quantitative or a mix of both and why? How will the methodology you choose answer your research questions?

Writing and Structuring Your Thesis or Dissertation

After your research proposal is approved, you will have the green light to begin working on your thesis or dissertation. You will receive feedback or thesis guidance from the faculty member who reviewed your proposal. It is important to reflect on the feedback and make revisions as needed.

Creating an Outline

One of the most helpful things you can do as you get started with your dissertation or thesis is to create an outline. This allows you to develop the most critical aspects of your final project that include your thesis, your main points and other key details to ensure that they flow logically.

For reference, an outline for a dissertation will typically include the following:

• Introduction of existing research
• Review of literature
• Conceptual framework
• Methodology
• Results or findings
• Interpretations, conclusions or recommendations for future research

Structuring Arguments

In creating an outline, include designated sections for each of your main points with specific research, statistics, or other data to support it. This will ensure that your arguments are made clearly and that your thought process is clear.

Writing Tips and Strategies

Even if writing is not necessarily your strong suit, you will need to be able to put together a cohesive document for your thesis or dissertation. There are some basic strategies worth keeping in mind to help you get started.

First, it can be helpful to write your introduction and conclusion paragraphs last once you have completed all your research. While it might seem counterintuitive to do it this way, it can help set the tone for the rest of your writing. Likewise, this strategy ensures that you include your main points while preparing your readers for the information to come.

Additionally, meet with your advisor or faculty sponsor regularly to gain valuable feedback and keep your project on track.

Data Collection and Analysis

Whether you are writing a thesis or dissertation, you will need to do a fair amount of your own qualitative or quantitative research. It’s important to understand the various data collection methods available to you, plus the best practices for analyzing and interpreting data.

Choosing Data Collection Methods

There are two main types of data collection:

• Quantitative data  - Refers to hard data that is numerical in nature, such as statistics and percentages.
• Qualitative data  - Refers to information that is non-numerical, such as interviews and focus groups.
• Mixed methods – Refer to a combination of both quantitative and qualitative data.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Once you have all the data you need to write your thesis or dissertation, the challenging part is often analyzing and interpreting the data to apply to your own research. The most important thing to keep in mind when looking at hard data is how it relates back to your research and specific research questions.

When working with quantitative data, it can also be helpful to look for specific trends and correlations that you can share in your research.

Reviewing and Editing Your Work

Once you have completed the first draft of your thesis or dissertation, the process of reviewing, revising and editing your work before submission is important to ensure that the document is free of errors and that it effectively communicates your main points to the reader.

Peer Review and Feedback

One of the best ways to improve upon the first draft of your dissertation or thesis is through peer review and feedback. By having others read your draft and provide feedback, you can gain some valuable insights into how your arguments are being interpreted. Even if the person you ask to read your draft is not familiar with the subject matter, they can still provide useful feedback on the organization of the information, structure and grammar/spelling.

Proofreading and Final Edits

It may take several rounds of revisions before your dissertation or thesis is approved. Even when you feel like the entire thing is ready to submit, it is important to complete another round of proofreading and editing to be sure that the entire document is polished and in the best shape possible. This includes not just running a basic spell check but taking the time to read your paper word for word.

Formatting Guidelines

In most education programs, you will be instructed to use the  American Psychological Association (APA) style when writing and formatting your thesis or dissertation. It is important to follow all formatting guidelines here, especially as they relate to citations or references.

Preparing for the Defense

In many doctorate programs and some graduate programs, students will also be expected to defend their dissertations in front of other scholars, usually professors or other faculty from the department. This process can be daunting, even for those who know their research well and have crafted thoughtful dissertations.

Crafting Your Presentation

In preparing for a dissertation defense, it is imperative to craft a presentation that covers the basics of your dissertation topic, how you researched it and what your findings were. Following your presentation, you can expect to be asked questions by those in attendance about your topic and other aspects of your research.

Practicing Your Defense

The best way to prepare for a dissertation defense is to practice as much as possible. This way, you will be prepared for the kinds of questions that may be asked, and you will feel a little more confident when completing your defense.

Mock Sessions

Mock defense sessions can be especially helpful for practicing your presentation and answering questions from a real crowd. Do not hesitate to ask your fellow students or even some trusted professors to practice with you to provide feedback or ask questions.

Handling Questions

One of the most difficult aspects of defending a dissertation is often answering questions from the audience. One important tip to keep in mind here is to prepare some answers in advance to some of the questions you think might be asked during your dissertation defense. This way, you will be completely prepared to knock these out of the park.

Ready to Pursue an Advanced Degree?

As you can see, there is a lot that goes into writing a dissertation or thesis as part of your graduate education program. With this dissertation guidance in mind, you will be prepared to craft and even defend your thesis or dissertation with success.

Still looking for the right graduate education program to suit your interests and professional goals? Keiser University is proud to offer a number of advanced degrees in education, including our  Master of Science in Education, Teaching and Learning  program. If you’re interested in earning your doctorate degree, we also offer a  Doctor of Education  and a  Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership .

Learn more about any of the graduate programs offered at Keiser University by  contacting a graduate admissions counselor today, or get started with your online application  for enrollment.

Jessica Kircher

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Write a Teaching Philosophy Statement: Examples and Guide

As a writer, I constantly look for ways to improve, and I found that connecting with other writers and building a community around collective growth is the best approach. In this community, we share our ideas and methods on effective writing, which helps everyone grow. Similarly, educators need to explain how they teach, especially when convincing an organization to hire them. They do this by telling their values, strategies, and effectiveness through a teaching philosophy statement. I understand that writing one is not easy, so here are some tips on how you can write an effective teaching philosophy statement.

Definition and Functions of a Teaching Philosophy Statement

Let me break down what a teaching philosophy is, its purpose and significance for teachers, and why it should be well-written. A teaching philosophy is a reflective statement that outlines a teacher's beliefs, values, and approaches to education. It serves as a guide for their teaching practices, helping to define their goals and methods in the classroom. A well-crafted teaching philosophy is crucial because it not only communicates the teacher's commitment and passion for education but also provides a clear framework for their instructional strategies, fostering a more effective and impactful learning environment.

What is Teaching Philosophy?

In short, a teaching philosophy is a reflective narrative that explains an educator's beliefs and approaches to teaching and learning. It details how they teach and provides justifications for their chosen methods.

What are the Purpose and Functions of a Teaching Philosophy Statement?

A teaching philosophy statement serves several critical functions:

Self-Reflection and Purpose: It demonstrates that the educator has thoughtfully considered their teaching practices and the underlying principles guiding them.

Communication of Goals: It articulates the educator's teaching objectives and how they translate these goals into classroom activities.

Integration: It connects and aligns the various elements of a teaching portfolio, providing a coherent narrative.

The primary purposes of a teaching philosophy statement include:

Application Requirement: Often required when applying for academic positions, it communicates the educator's teaching values, beliefs, and goals.

Quality Criteria: It establishes standards for evaluating the educator's teaching effectiveness.

Evidence of Effectiveness: It provides concrete evidence of the educator's success in teaching, through methods like peer reviews, student feedback, and teaching evaluations.

Key Components

A comprehensive teaching philosophy statement typically includes:

Educational Purpose and Learning Goals: Outlining the primary objectives for student learning.

Teaching Methods: Describing the strategies and techniques used to facilitate learning.

Assessment Methods: Detailing how student learning and teaching effectiveness are evaluated.

Additional Elements: May include a list of courses taught, sample syllabi, teaching evaluations, and letters of recommendation.

Teaching Values and Goals

Educators should clearly state their views on the ultimate goals of education, which may include:

Mastery of content

Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Promotion of self-directed and experiential learning

Encouragement of engaged citizenship and teamwork

Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness

Effective teaching can be demonstrated through various forms of evidence, such as:

Peer reviews and observations

Student comments and ratings

Detailed portfolios and syllabi

Documentation of teaching activities and innovations

How to Write a Teaching Philosophy Statement (with Examples)

Understanding the purpose of a teaching philosophy statement is crucial before you start writing one, as this is what sets you apart from other applicants. Remember, when applying for a teaching position, you and your competitors are all likely qualified for the job. The final factor that could land you the position? A well-crafted teaching statement.

In this tutorial, we'll be using WPS AI to help us write an effective teaching philosophy statement. This AI tool will assist us in generating ideas and refining our thoughts throughout the process.

Let's explore how to write a teaching philosophy statement, along with a few teaching philosophy examples for professors.

Beginning/Introduction

As we begin writing our teaching statement, it's important to start with your personal experiences as a student. This approach provides a solid foundation for your philosophy. Here's how you can structure this part of your statement:

Reflect on your student experiences:

Think about your time at university or divinity school

Consider what methods and approaches resonated with you

Recall teachers who inspired you and why

Connect your past to your present:

Explain how these experiences shaped your teaching philosophy

Highlight the lessons you learned that you now apply in your own teaching

Align with your target institution:

Research the school or university you're applying to

Identify their values and teaching approach

Show how your philosophy aligns with their educational goals

Focus on relevance:

Ensure there's congruence between your experience and the position you're applying for

Avoid dwelling on experiences that don't directly relate to the role

Remember, the goal is to create a cohesive narrative that links your past experiences as a student to your current teaching philosophy and the institution you're applying to. This approach demonstrates self-reflection, growth, and intentionality in your teaching methods.

Keeping all these points in mind, let's write a draft introduction for your teaching philosophy.

Once you have prepared the draft, you can ask WPS AI to refine your introduction. It can help you refine it, shorten it, or make it a little longer. Let's look at the process of asking WPS AI to enhance our teaching philosophy.

Step 1: Use your mouse to select the draft you have written in WPS Writer.

Step 2: Once the text is selected, a hover menu will appear. Click on the "WPS AI" icon.

Step 3: A list of WPS AI options will appear. Click on "Improve Writing" to request WPS AI to work on your draft and improve any shortcomings.

Step 4: The improved version will be displayed in a small WPS AI window. To use the improved version, simply click on "Replace", or if you wish to make it better, click on "Rewrite”.

For the body of your teaching statement, it's important to list your ideologies. Describe what you think makes learning more effective and what strategies or steps you incorporate into your teaching techniques. Remember, teaching is not only about conveying concepts and hoping students will excel. It's about creating a classroom environment, equipping your students with the right skills and mindset to excel in the future, and much more. Let's ask WPS AI for more help on this.

Step 1: In WPS Writer, type "@AI" and press Enter to activate WPS AI assistant.

Step 2: Enter your prompt, e.g., "Generate ideas for a Teaching Philosophy Statement".

Step 3: WPS AI will suggest ideas; select those that resonate with your teaching style. Avoid overpromising; include ideas that genuinely define your approach.

Bonus: Provide a detailed prompt including your teaching ideas and techniques to help WPS AI generate ideas that align best with your philosophy.

Wrapping up your teaching philosophy statement effectively is crucial. It's your final chance to leave a lasting impression. Here's how to craft a strong conclusion:

Summarize your key philosophies

Reaffirm your passion for teaching

Connect your approach to the institution's goals

Look towards future growth and contributions

Now let's talk about writing a draft. After creating your draft, we can use WPS AI to help shorten it. In the WPS AI options, simply click on the "Make Shorter" option, and WPS AI will help you reduce the length of your conclusion.

General Guidelines:

Be mindful of the following guidelines while writing your teaching philosophy statement. They will help make it impactful and authentic:

Keep it concise:

Aim for 1-2 pages for hiring purposes; tenure-level statements may be longer. Ensure every sentence adds value and clarity to your philosophy.

Use a narrative, first-person approach:

Make it personal and reflective. Describe your experiences and beliefs in your own voice to convey authenticity.

Avoid jargon:

Use clear, accessible language. This ensures that readers from different backgrounds can understand your philosophy without being put off by technical terms.

Be sincere and unique:

Avoid clichés and demonstrate genuine passion for teaching. Highlight what makes your teaching style distinctive and effective.

Revise regularly:

Reflect on and update your teaching philosophy over time. As your experiences and insights grow, so should your teaching statement.

Avoid plagiarism:

Ensure that your teaching philosophy is entirely your own work. Plagiarizing others' statements undermines your integrity and can severely damage your professional reputation. Use your own experiences and reflections to craft your statement, and if you do reference others' ideas or quotes, be sure to cite them appropriately.

More Examples of Teaching Philosophy

I have written a sample Teaching Philosophy Statement to help you understand better what goes into a teaching philosophy statement.followed a structured approach to ensure it reflects my beliefs and practices accurately. I started by reflecting on my teaching experiences and identifying the core values that guide my approach to education. I considered the impact I aim to have on my students and how my teaching methods contribute to their learning. Additionally, I reviewed feedback from students and colleagues to identify strengths and areas for improvement in my teaching practices. By synthesizing these insights, I created a comprehensive and authentic statement that encapsulates my teaching philosophy.

Teaching Philosophy Statement Sample

1.Search Specific Details of Your Targeted University

When writing your teaching philosophy, learning more about the targeted university is always a great resource to write a more effective philosophy. You can be more specific, targeting the requirements of the university of choice, and hence increasing your chances.

A simple search on Google will help you gain information on the university of your choice. However, if you want to take it a step further, simply use AIPal for more in-depth research. AIPal is an excellent research assistant in the form of a Google Chrome extension. It helps refine Google searches by picking out only the right links related to your research.

And what's even better is its translation feature! With the help of AIPal, teachers can easily translate English to other languages, whether it be a phrase, paragraph, or even an entire webpage. With the help of AIPal, you can easily translate the content with more accuracy. Not only is AIPal integrated with the best translation services like Google Translate and Bing Translate, but it is also coupled with AI, making the translations more accurate.

2.Using WPS PDF Extension for Teaching Philosophy Examples

If you're going through teaching samples, chances are most of them are available as PDFs. With the native Chrome PDF viewer, highlighting or editing these PDFs might not be possible. To get more out of your research, the WPS PDF Extension can be used to annotate and highlight teaching philosophy samples. This way, when you sit down to write your own, you have your notes and important points from the samples highlighted.

3.Using WPS AI to Perfect Your Statement

WPS Office is known for its premium office suite services, but it also offers a powerful AI tool that can help perfect your teaching philosophy statement. Here’s how you can leverage WPS AI to enhance your statement:

Grammar and Spelling Check:

With WPS AI, you can ensure your statement is free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. The AI-powered checker meticulously reviews your document, identifying and correcting any issues to enhance the professionalism and accuracy of your writing.

Clarity and Conciseness:

WPS AI helps simplify complex sentences and eliminate redundancy, making your main points clear and impactful. By refining your language and reducing unnecessary words, the tool ensures your teaching philosophy is easy to understand and resonates with your audience.

Content Enhancement:

WPS AI offers suggestions for additional details or examples to strengthen your points. It analyzes your content and recommends ways to elaborate on your ideas, providing concrete examples and evidence that support your teaching philosophy and demonstrate your effectiveness as an educator.

1. Can I change the teaching philosophy?

Yes. Educators should foresee that their approach to teaching will shift over the years as they gain more experience and develop professionally and personally. This perspective encompasses their aims, techniques, and assessments. It usually includes illustrations of how teachers conduct their classes and is tailored to the specific subject they teach.

2. How do I provide evidence of teaching effectiveness?

Here are several methods to demonstrate effectiveness in teaching:

Peer Evaluation: Receive feedback from colleagues or supervisors on teaching methods and effectiveness.

Student Feedback: Gather comments and input from students about their learning experiences and your teaching approach.

Performance Ratings: Ratings or evaluations from students assessing your teaching performance.

Teaching Portfolio: Compile a collection of documents and evidence that showcases teaching philosophy, achievements, and examples of student work.

Craft Your Teaching Future

When you are becoming a new teacher, you especially need a catalytic element in your life to kickstart your career in full swing. In that case, a teaching philosophy statement can greatly assist you. In this guide, you will not only learn how to write the perfect teaching philosophy statement but also see a complete sample. Additionally, discover how WPS AI can assist you in creating a statement that is beyond perfect. So, download WPS Office today to make your life simpler and give your career this essential boost.

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