Key points at a glance
- Identify the exact edition.
- Record number and issuing body.
- Check the clause behind the claim.
Identify the standard edition
Standards change. Record the issuing organisation, full identifier, edition year and title, including a part or amendment where relevant. Merely writing “according to ISO” does not identify the text readers need.
Fit details to your citation style
Example: For ISO 690:2021, record ISO as the issuing body, identifier and year, full title and the source for the edition used. Your department’s style decides their order in the reference list.
Support only what you have read
A free catalogue record confirms existence and bibliographic details, not the wording of a paywalled clause. To claim a technical requirement, consult the actual standard text, possibly through your university library.
Distinguish standard from obligation
A standard may describe a method without automatically becoming a legal duty or university requirement. Say whether you use it as a method, reference or mandatory rule. Follow the applicable institutional and legal context.
Final submission context
Formal details can feel like a separate writing task, but they matter just as much for a printed submission. Anything missing, misplaced or inconsistently formatted in the document will also appear in the bound copy.
Use this guide together with your cover page, table of contents, page numbers, source notes and appendices. Prepare the final PDF for printing and binding only after the complete file has been checked.
Practical check before PDF export
- Do headings, chapter structure and page numbers match?
- Are sources, figures and tables included completely?
- Are required elements such as declarations, appendices or the cover page included where required?
- Did you open and check the final PDF after exporting it?
Checklist
- Identifier and year checked.
- Body and title recorded.
- Clause personally read.
- Claim of obligation checked.
Common mistakes
- Writing only “ISO”.
- Treating a catalogue abstract as the full standard.
- Equating a standard with law.
Prepare the finished thesis for submission
Once the content and university requirements are checked, review your PDF and the available printing and binding options.
Review printing optionsRelated content
Explore related guidance on thesis structure, sources, formatting and final submission.
Frequently asked questions
Should the year appear with the number?
It often identifies the edition; use the details of the version read.
May I copy the standard freely?
Respect usage rights and quote only within permitted limits.
Is the ISO catalogue enough?
For bibliographic facts, yes; read the standard for its requirements.