The most important part of a thesis outline is the identification of the PROBLEM to be analysed, how this will be discussed and how the student will attempt to resolve the issue. During this phase, it is also essential to clearly present the methodological issues underlying the research that you have already begun and which will be successfully completed within the stipulated time frame. The main goal of this stage is to allow the designated person to assess the viability of the project, identifying any problems of the theme chosen or issues regarding the practical achievement of objectives set out at an early stage, thus, permitting timely correction of such problems, while overcoming difficulties and making necessary adjustments, focussing on the ultimate goal of producing a dissertation that meets the standards required for the PhD in law within the stipulated time frame.
In addition to essential elements, like any written document, a thesis outline should contain the name of the author and the date it is submitted. In relation to the problem, it should indicate the reason for such a choice, justifying its originality, outline the «state of the art», with the main bibliographical references and other sources to be used, as well as a kind of «initial research». It should include an outline index, i.e. the thesis plan; and the hypothetical conclusions that may be drawn and that are expected to arise in an obviously interrogative fashion.
As the PhD students have already had the opportunity to present their individual research strategy in the application previously submitted to the Scientific Council, they should demonstrate the development of that strategy, making the necessary adjustments; and they should make reference to their current situation or the necessary conditions to proceed with the project: are they in a position to work on the project full-time? If not, how do they intend to complete the project? Leaves of absence? The need to find funding? How are they going to solve such problems?
This should cover between 20-25 pages, font size 12, lines separated by a line and a half, excluding bibliography or any other attachments.
Do not forget the non-plagiarism statement including in the Regulation. Important reference documents:
-    How to prepare a dissertation. A five-point guide;
-    Style guide for theses and dissertations and other work submitted to the FDUNL.
Finally, students must take into account their supervisor’s advice when preparing their thesis outline. As explained above, PhD students should already have a supervisor.