Thesis

Thesis Printing & Binding Checklist

Don't let formatting errors delay your graduation. Use this guide to ensure your manuscript is 100% ready for the press.

The physical binding process requires specific spacing. Check these settings in Word/Docs before exporting.

[ ] Check the Gutter Margin: Have you added an extra 0.5 to 1.0 inch to the left margin (or "inner" margin if mirrored)? This ensures text doesn't get swallowed by the binding curve.
[ ] Verify Page Size: Is your document set to the correct paper size (usually A4 or Letter/8.5x11") required by your university?
[ ] Check Page Numbers:
- [ ] Do preliminary pages (abstract, acknowledgments) use Roman numerals (i, ii, iii)?
- [ ] Does the main text start at Arabic numeral 1?
- [ ] Are page numbers centered or positioned away from the binding edge?
[ ] Image Quality: Are all charts, graphs, and photos at high resolution (300 DPI)? (Blurry images on screen look even worse in print!)

Every department is different. Double-check your student handbook.

[ ] Cover Color: What is the specific color required for your degree? (e.g., Maroon for SEAIT, Yellow for SAB, Green for STEH, Pink for SHANS).
[ ] Spine Text: Does your university require text on the spine? usually:
- [ ] Your Surname
- [ ] Degree Title (e.g., "PhD", "MA")
- [ ] Year of Submission
[ ] Front Cover Text: Is the gold/silver foil stamping layout correct (Title, Name, Submission Statement)?
[ ] Signatures: Do you need to insert a scanned approval sheet with signatures, or will you sign the physical copies later?

Printers need a stable file to ensure nothing moves around.

[ ] Export as PDF: Never send a Word document (.doc) for final printing. Formatting shifts between computers. Always save as PDF.
[ ] Single Pages Only: Export as "Single Pages," not "Spreads" (2 pages side-by-side). The printer software handles the layout; they need individual pages.
[ ] Embed Fonts: If you used special fonts for headers or data, ensure they are embedded in the PDF so they print correctly.
[ ] Blank Pages: Did you insert blank pages where necessary so that new chapters always start on the right-hand side? (If printing double-sided).

[ ] The 100% Zoom Test: Open your PDF and zoom in to 100%. Scroll through every page. If it looks wrong on your screen, it will look wrong on paper.
[ ] Typos in the Title: Check your cover title one last time. (It happens more often than you think!)