What is a TAC Meeting?

A TAC meeting, short for "Thesis Advisory Committee Meeting," is a crucial checkpoint in a graduate student’s academic journey, especially for those pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. Its primary purpose is to provide guidance, feedback and evaluation of the student's progress on their thesis or dissertation project.

The purpose of a thesis committee

Composed of experienced professors and experts in the student's field of study, a thesis committee guides students in refining their research objectives and methodology, ensuring the research aligns with academic standards.

They also evaluate the student's progress, research quality and the feasibility of their project. The feedback given during TAC meetings can help students refine their work.

Because of its formality and the level of preparation required, TAC meetings also hold students accountable for their research timeline and ensure they remain on track to meet their academic goals.

What happens at a TAC meeting?

TAC meetings begin with a progress presentation. The student presents their research progress, findings and any challenges encountered. This presentation often includes data analysis, literature review updates and proposed changes to the research plan.

Committee members then offer constructive feedback, suggestions for improvement and potential solutions to research challenges. Once the feedback round is complete, the committee and student establish clear objectives for the next phase of the research. This includes setting milestones, deadlines and refining research questions.

Detailed minutes of the meeting are also recorded, which summarizes discussions, action items and any revisions to the research plan. These minutes later serve as a reference point for the student's progress.

How long should a TAC meeting be?

The duration of a TAC meeting can vary depending on the complexity of the research and the number of agenda items to discuss. However, it's generally recommended to keep these meetings concise and focused. A typical TAC meeting may last anywhere from one to two hours.

Planning for a successful TAC meeting

In order to run a successful TAC meeting, it’s important to prepare thoroughly and to stay structured. Before each meeting, ensure that the progress presentation is well-prepared. Also define a clear agenda for discussion.

Maintain organized records of your research, including data, notes, and any changes made since the last meeting. During the meeting, be receptive to feedback from committee members. Their insights can improve your research and refine your approach.

After the meeting, promptly address any action items or revisions discussed during the meeting. This demonstrates your commitment to your research.

TAC Meetings are invaluable checkpoints that offer guidance, feedback, and accountability. Whether you find yourself in a physical room or a virtual meeting space, these gatherings play a pivotal role in advancing your research and achieving your academic goals.

Schedule your TAC meeting in minutes

To help you focus on what truly matters, try scheduling your next TAC meeting with Doodle. Doodle is a scheduling tool that allows you to find your next meeting in just minutes. You can create a poll, share it with your team and immediately find the best times for everyone.