As I near the final stage of my PhD journey, I recently reread the book How to get a PhD: A handbook for students and their supervisors by Dr. Phillips and Professor Pugh (1994). Reflecting on my experience, I realised that I lacked critical insights when I first started this path. If I had been aware of the advice provided in this handbook earlier, my PhD experience might have been more manageable. This book provides an essential survival guide for PhD students, and while this article is not an academic book review, I want to share some key points that might inspire and support other postgraduate students.
Editor’s Note: this book is available digitally to AUT students via our Library.
Tip 1: Manage the relationships and expectations with supervisors
Building a rapport and maintaining good communication with supervisors is crucial. It is important to understand your supervisor’s working style and clearly define your responsibilities during the research process. Conducting research is not an isolated activity, and it requires active engagement and collaboration. It is also important for research students to gather as much information as possible, including their potential supervisor’s published work. Managing expectations is equally vital. Supervisors expect students to produce polished work but the very first draft, be passionate about their research, and be honest about their progress.
Tip 2: Understand the standards for earning a PhD
The authors emphasise the importance of understanding the standards required to achieve a PhD. Many students still use their master’s way to write their thesis. To achieve this, one effective way is to examine other’s PhD theses. Also, the initial enthusiasm for research often wanes over time, but the determination to obtain the degree and the pressure to complete the work are what drive most students to the finish line. Therefore, arranging small initial projects with clear deadlines can help ease the transition into the research environment. Many PhD students underestimate the time and effort required for their research, which can lead to emotional challenges, especially as the real work sets in.
Tip 3: Focus on critical analysis, not just description
One of the fundamental expectations of PhD research is the ability to contribute to the analysis and explanation of your chosen topic, rather than merely providing a descriptive account. This requirement distinguishes a PhD thesis from lower levels of academic work. Whether you are conducting a literature review, designing an experiment, or writing up your results, critical analysis should inform every stage of your research. It is through this process that you can make a meaningful and original contribution to your discipline.
Tip 4: Manage the psychological aspects during the PhD
The psychological challenges of pursuing a PhD are often as demanding as the academic ones. Many students enter their PhD programmes with enthusiasm and high expectations, but encounter periods of isolation, stress, self-doubt, and even emotional exhaustion as they progress. These experiences are common, and it is important to acknowledge that they are a normal part of the PhD journey. One of the most effective ways to manage these psychological challenges is through proactive time management. Setting clear, realistic goals, including short-term and long-term goals. Breaking down your research into manageable tasks and setting deadlines for each can create a structured pathway through the PhD journey. Additionally, PhD students need to develop a support network, such as fellow PhD students, mentors, friends, and family members. Regularly discussing your progress, challenges, and feelings with others can provide emotional support and relieve the sense of isolation that often accompanies PhD work. Mindfulness and stress management techniques, such as meditation, exercise, or creative activities, can also be beneficial. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve PhD students’ well-being, alongside seeking professional help if needed.
Reference:
Phillips, E., & Pugh, D. (1994). How to Get a PhD: A handbook for students and their supervisors. Open University Press.
