Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
A PhD, and in particular, that all important PhD thesis, can sometimes feel like climbing a mountain in a pair of flip flops. To make the path feel less treacherous, we’ve researched and compiled top 10 tips for successful PhD completion to help you stay on track, finish on time and successfully.
Even if you just give yourself a goal to write 250 words a day, practicing this key skill will stand you in good stead for your thesis. A PhD may be the highest-level degree, but often the most convincing researchers are those who can convey complex ideas and arguments in a compelling and clear way.
Familiarise yourself with plain English and brush up on your grammar. Consider applying for grants or other funding, however small. Again, this is good practice if you hope for a career in academia.
A PhD is a marathon not a sprint. Treat it like a job, but one where you are self-employed. This way, you can create a work schedule to suit you. This includes time for breaks - as well as other pursuits and interests - which takes us neatly onto:
If you’re struggling with an aspect of your doctoral studies, then it’s all the more important to take time out. Creative pursuits can help focus the mind. These have even been compared to meditation due to their calming effects on the brain and body.
Alternatively reach out to others, even if it’s just for a change of scenery or to vent about a problem. Giving yourself space may enable you gain a different perspective. This may help you overcome the hurdle when you return to your research.
Towards the end of each working day, make a note of one or two top priorities for the next day, plus a couple of additional objectives should time allow. Be realistic and as specific as possible - that way you’ll hit the ground running - and have a greater sense of achievement come the end of your working day.
A PhD can be an isolating experience at times, but you’d be surprised how many people end up contributing, even if only in a small way. Draft an acknowledgement section from day one and make a note of everyone who contributes. Revisit this if you ever feel alone.
Criticism may feel painful, but when it comes from a critical friend, remember it’s from a place of wanting you to succeed. If criticism has you riled, take a break from your research to help you gain perspective and then later consider the criticism afresh and how you are going to respond to it.
If something comes to mind which could be useful, make a note. Come back to this bank of ideas if you’re ever feeling stuck - and review periodically as your ideas may just spark the next step in your PhD research. Remember to include your top 10 tips for successful PhD completion as you are going through the process.
It may sound cheesy and business-like, but networking to make sure others know who you are and where your research interests lie will help ensure you are top of their mind for any future opportunities. No reading group in your area of interest? Don’t be afraid to start one. Given an opportunity to present at a conference? Go for it!
If something comes to mind which could be useful, make a note. Come back to this bank of ideas if you’re ever feeling stuck - and review periodically as your ideas may just spark the next step in your PhD research. Remember to include your top 10 tips for successful PhD completion as you are going through the process.
A PhD is the seed which could grow into a flourishing career in academic research, but it’s not the body of work developed over a lifetime. As huge as it may feel at the time, remember your PhD is about contributing to your field of study, not revolutionising it. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be good.
What were your top tips when you were studying? Can you share any more with us? If you have enjoyed these top 10 tips for successful PhD completion please let us know about your experience!
