Common Errors to Avoid When Submitting IGNOU Synopsis
Sending your research synopsis to IGNOU is a critical step in your academic journey. Many students make preventable errors that can delay their approval or lead to rejection of their synopsis. This guide will help you recognize and avoid these common mistakes.
1. Incorrect Structure
One of the most common reasons for return is not following IGNOU's required format:
- Omitting essential sections like introduction, objectives, or methodology
- Improper font style or IGNOU Synopsis Format size (should be Times New Roman 12pt)
- Wrong line spacing (should be 1.5 spaced)
- Irregular page margins (should be 2.5 cm all around)
- Absence of page numbers
2. Copied Content
Plagiarism is strictly prohibited in IGNOU submissions:
- Reproducing content from other sources without adequate citation
- Paraphrasing existing content without attribution
- Submitting another student's work as your own
- Neglecting to run your synopsis through plagiarism check software
3. Unclear Research Objectives
Your aims must be clear and achievable:
- Overly general objectives that cannot be accomplished
- Ambiguous wording that makes comprehension difficult
- Excessive objectives (should be limited to 3-5 key points)
- Objectives that don't align with your research questions
4. Weak Methodology
A weak methodology section often leads to return:
- Lack of detailed study procedures
- Impractical data collection methods
- Missing explanation of sampling techniques
- Neglect to mention tools for information processing
- Lack of justification for selected methods
5. Going Beyond Page Count
IGNOU has specific length requirements:
- Sending a synopsis that's overlength (typically should be 6-8 pages)
- Adding unnecessary details that does not contribute
- Lengthy excerpts that could be paraphrased
- Repetitive content in various sections
6. Grammatical Errors
Poor language quality can harm your submission:
- Spelling errors throughout the document
- Wrong sentence structure
- Weak sentence construction
- Inconsistent verb forms
- Excessively complicated language
7. Missing Citations
Proper referencing is crucial:
- Failure to reference sources used
- Inconsistent referencing style (should follow APA format)
- Incomplete bibliography
- Wrong formatting of references
- Dependence on outdated sources
8. Late Submission
Rushing your synopsis leads to errors:
- Failing to leave enough time for proofreading
- Missing the submission deadline
- Technical problems during final hour submissions
- No time to get guide feedback
- Inadequate time to make improvements
9. Disregarding Feedback
Not considering important advice:
- Ignoring supervisor's comments
- Failing to update based on peer suggestions
- Making the same mistakes from earlier drafts
- Disputing with evaluators instead of correcting your work
10. Improper Upload Method
Technical mistakes in the submission process:
- Incorrect document type (should be DOCX)
- Oversized file that exceeds size limits
- Incomplete submission of necessary documents
- Failure to get or save receipt of submission
- Sending to incorrect study center
Common Questions
Q: What should I do if my synopsis gets rejected?
A: IGNOU Research Proposal Carefully examine the feedback, implement all necessary corrections, and send again within the specified timeframe.
Q: How can I check for plagiarism before submission?
A: Use free plagiarism checkers like Quillbot and ensure your similarity score is below 15%.
Q: Can I submit a handwritten synopsis?
A: No, IGNOU requires only typed synopses in specified digital format.
Final Thoughts
Steering clear of these common errors will significantly increase your chances of getting your IGNOU synopsis approved on the first attempt. Remember to begin well in advance, follow all instructions carefully, edit completely, and ask for help when needed. With proper preparation and care to specifics, you can submit a well-prepared synopsis that exceeds IGNOU Synopsis Support's expectations.