Working with Your Chair and Committee

Build a productive, professional partnership from the first meeting to the final defense

Your chair and committee are your most important partners in the final stage of your degree. A strong working relationship makes feedback clearer, timelines smoother, and the defense far less stressful. This guide shows you how to set it up well and keep it healthy.

Inside this guide:

• Who Does What
• Choosing a Chair
• Setting Expectations at the First Meeting
• Submitting Drafts the Right Way
• Understanding and Using Feedback
• Communication Templates
• When Things Get Difficult
• Professionalism Checklist
• Worksheet: First Meeting Agenda
• Worksheet: Feedback Response Log

Who it's for: Dissertation & capstone writers.

Format: Instant PDF download · 8 pages · US Letter, printable, with fill-in worksheets.

Free resource. Free for personal and classroom use with credit.