Essentials for writing a dissertation

- an interesting topic which you continue to narrow down until the week before submission date
and which ends up being nothing like what you had planned to write about

- a parent or other loving relative willing to listen while you talk at them

- a knowledgeable flatmate to quiz about how to reference properly

- a supply of box sets - motivate yourself and reward your hard work by watching an episode (or 3) in the evenings (we heartily recommend "The West Wing")

- a library buddy

- CHOCOLATE

- the ability to cut out 2500 words in 2 days (and a kind next door neighbour to read it through and make sure it still makes sense)

- a good selection of music (which should include Casting Crowns and Take That)

- a flatmate who'll make you copious amounts of tea

- a clear route to the bathroom

- prayer

One last point: it is inadvisable to have flatmates serenade you on two guitars with 2 different songs while you're trying to write your final sentence.