ABSTRACT
Dissertations are normally required to be bound in one form or another prior to submission for examination, and in due course to be bound in a prescribed format after being accepted. Some degree-awarding institutions allow dissertations to be submitted in a 'semi-permanent' binding, which could range from a glued spine form within a soft cover, to a loose-leaf form (provided they are securely held together such as in a spring-back binder). Bindings should be of a fixed type so that pages cannot be removed or replaced. The front and back boards need to be of sufficient thickness to support the weight of the dissertation when it is standing upright. Dissertations may be required to be covered in cloth or linen which should be of a colour and quality approved by the institution.
