Printing and Binding a Thesis:
The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide
See also: Assignment Finishing Touches
After many months you have finally completed your thesis. You have put everything into making sure it is perfect. Now all you have to do is complete the printing and binding of your thesis before you can finally submit it.
When it comes to printing and binding, students scarcely are experts in the field and therefore always have the same questions:
- How do I print and bind my thesis?
- Where can I print and bind my thesis?
We want to help you find the right answers to these questions. Therefore, this is a step-by-step guide to printing and binding your thesis to make it a success.
What Should I Consider when Printing my Thesis?
When printing your thesis, you have to consider a few things beforehand:
Black and white or colour?
When printing your thesis, remember that colour is always more expensive than black and white. Printing in colour definitely looks impressive. However, if you have too much colour some people may take your thesis less seriously than they might otherwise. If printing in colour is not essential, you are better sticking with black and white.
Which kind of paper?
When you visit a copyshop, they usually print your thesis on 80 g/m2 paper. However, this paper type is quite thin. Plus, the print on the paper's reverse side will often shine through which never looks good. Look for a shop with printing options that include 100 g/m2 paper. Some may even offer this as a default which can save you lots of money.
Where do I get the best prices?
The price of printing your thesis is determined by the combination of your paper weight, the use of black and white or colour ink, and the number of pages. Visit various shops and ask for quotes for the same specifications. X pages in colour printed on 100 g/m2 paper. Then compare the prices and see if you can find external customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.
Tip: If you order online, try to find a provider with free shipping.
What Should I Consider when Binding my Thesis?
"How" to bind a thesis is something most students do not know. First of all, they usually do not know which binding to use.
The answer to this question depends on the type of thesis being submitted. Research papers tend to be very long and detailed while regular term papers are shorter and completed faster. Regular term papers are worth a small fraction of a grade while a Bachelor's thesis, Master's thesis or a research paper make a massive impact.
Simply put, when printing and binding your dissertation you need a superior binding if the paper is worth more. A leather-bound paper is appropriate for a Master's thesis while a spiral-bound paper will do for a regular term project.
Most colleges and universities will have specific binding requirements for you to adhere to. Before you print and bind your thesis, check what guidelines have been provided by your institution.
Which Bindings are Available?
When printing your thesis, it is much easier to bind it correctly if you know what your options are first.
Leather Book Binding Leather book binding is the highest quality way to bind your thesis. It looks sophisticated and is sturdy. Some companies can offer extra details when you choose to bind in leather, such as customised embossing or corner protectors for an extra level of sophistication. A leather-bound paper is recommended if you are printing a:
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Thermal Binding Thermal binding is the most versatile type. The finished product has a transparent cover which clearly displays your thesis' title. It is completed with a leather-like back cover which comes in a variety of colours. A thermal-bound paper is recommended if you have a:
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Softcover Binding your paper with a softcover is going to make it stand out from the rest. The softcover lets you design the cover in any way you wish. You are completely free in placing logos, pictures text or colour on the cover. However, bear in mind that just because you can do anything you want does not mean that you should. Remember that, above all else, your final paper needs to look professional once the entire process is complete. A softcover is recommended if you are printing:
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Spiral Binding Spiral binding is the sleekest and simplest way of binding your paper. It is similar to the thermal binding method in that it also has a transparent front cover and a coloured back cover. However, there is no glue involved in spiral binding your paper. The spirals that hold your paper together can either be plastic or metal. Spiral binding your paper is recommended if you have a:
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Where can I have my Thesis Printed and Bound?
We have done the research on your behalf so that choosing where to go when printing and binding your thesis is easy. You want to find the best service quality possible so that you end up with the highest-quality product.
We recommend that you use online printing services. This way, you can place your order from your own home or your institute's library which saves a lot of time when compared to searching for a printing shop on foot.
Further Reading from Skills You Need
The Skills You Need Guide for Students
Develop the skills you need to make the most of your time as a student.
Our eBooks are ideal for students at all stages of education, school, college and university. They are full of easy-to-follow practical information that will help you to learn more effectively and get better grades.
Making sure Nothing goes Wrong
By the time your thesis is complete, you will have spent a lot of time and energy on it. With our tips, you have everything you need to choose the right printing options and then the right style of binding. All of our advice is relevant whether you are visiting copyshops or you are looking at online companies.
However, if you want to save on time and want high-quality printing followed by excellent binding with no stress at affordable prices, then we wholeheartedly recommend an online printing service.
Now that you have everything you need, we would like to wish you all the best with your thesis!
About the Author
Maxime Werner is Business Development Manager at BachelorPrint.
BachelorPrint is your first address for printing and binding your dissertation & co. They offer excellent bindings, a perfect service and free express delivery worldwide.