ABSTRACT
As I began researching my doctoral dissertation, I forgot the cardinal rule. This rule is well understood by all of those who have had the pleasure of laboring to complete this last academic hurdle. The rule? “The purpose of the dissertation is to fi nish the dissertation.” This cautions would-be doctoral students from following those dark and warm rabbit holes fi lled with interesting details. It is an admonishment to stay focused on the goal and the central task of completing “the work.”
