Editing a bachelor’s or master’s thesis: what is permitted and how do I prepare?

Clarify your own institution’s rules in writing

The cited Göttingen guidance recommends a final language check in its departmental context. Do not use such examples as permission from another university. If uncertain, ask your supervisor or examination office about permitted scope beforehand.

Also check whether and how assistance must be declared. Current departmental guidance may require particular declarations. Keep the answer applicable to your programme and the agreed service description.

Read more: University of Göttingen: departmental thesis and proofreading guidance · University of Göttingen: departmental guidance and declaration of assistance

Separate language work from your own research contribution

Proofreading focuses on language errors. Editing may also address readability and wording within the agreed and permitted limits. Passages with unclear meaning should be raised as questions.

The review invents no findings, supplies no missing research and writes no subject-specific argument for you. Specify excluded passages or interventions expressly; it does not promise a better grade.

Read more: in a language: editing scope and limits

Prepare the final version and a traceable return

Provide a substantially completed file with language, scope, deadline and approved instructions. Identify quotations, specialist terms, tables and any confidential appendices requiring particular handling.

Expressly request traceable suggested changes and comments. Allow time for your own review, questions, references and final submission. An edited file should not be submitted without your review.