ETD Timeline Tool
Plan backward, move forward: Use the ETD Timeline Tool to turn university deadlines into a clear path to your defense and graduation.

What is the ETD Timeline Tool?
Creating a timeline for approaching your thesis or dissertation can be an overwhelming task. You need to plan for all components of the writing process and plan an oral defense presentation. You also need to make sure to consider how your timeline meets the university deadlines in order to graduate within a particular semester. If you are unsure of where to start with this process, this timeline tool is designed to help!
Through the Communication Skills Program we have developed a Google Sheet timeline tool that allows you to create a visualization timeline based on upcoming NC State’s Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) deadlines. By inputting your anticipated defense date into your own copy of this Google Sheet, you can then approach making goals through the concept of “planning backwards.”
The video below walks you through how to utilize this tool when planning your thesis or dissertation, while also reviewing common questions or concerns.
Helpful Video Index
0:00 – Intro to ETD Tool
2:40 – How to access the ETD Tool and helpful information
4:23 – Getting Started
12:45 – Monthly Timeline Overview
14:29 – Weekly Timeline Overview
16:54 – Daily Timeline Overview
18:48 – The Thesis/Dissertation Visualization Summary
How do I access the ETD Timeline Tool?
You can access your own copy of this Google Sheet by visiting go.ncsu.edu/etdtimeline or by clicking the button below to get started.
Got questions? Reach out to us at [email protected].