Free academic tools

TFG topic viability matrix

Score seven conditions before committing months of work. The tool identifies what to resolve before presenting the topic to your supervisor.

Assess your proposal

Score every criterion from 1 to 5 using evidence you have today, not what you hope to obtain later.

60/100
Adjustments needed

Viability diagnosis

The topic may work, but first strengthen the lowest-scoring criteria and reduce uncertain dependencies.

Three priorities to improve

  • Fit with your degree and rubric: Connect the question to explicit competencies and criteria in your handbook.
  • Sufficient academic sources: Run an exploratory search and confirm there are enough relevant sources.
  • Real access to data or materials: Request access or design an alternative using data that is genuinely available.

The score supports a discussion with your supervisor; it does not replace academic or ethics approval.

Academic criteria

What makes this matrix different

Many guides only recommend choosing an interesting topic. Viability also depends on data, method, time, permissions and whether the objectives can actually be answered.

  • It separates personal interest from academic and operational viability.
  • It exposes risks before the final structure is written.
  • It produces concrete priorities for the next supervisor meeting.
FAQ

Questions about this tool

Is an original topic always viable?

No. It may be interesting and still depend on inaccessible data, delayed permissions or an impossible method within the deadline.

What score do I need before presenting the topic?

There is no official score. The result identifies risks; final approval belongs to the supervisor and your institution.

Can I use the matrix after starting?

Yes. It can reveal why the project is blocked and whether scope, data access or methodology should be adjusted.

Does the result reveal a blockage?

Send us your handbook, current progress and deadline so we can assess a realistic plan.

Request an assessment