How to Research & Write a Successful PhD (Smarter Study Skills)

Description

A practical, step-by-step guide to postgraduate study, covering the whole research process from planning to writing up and beyond.   Undertaking a large-scale original research project involves choosing an appropriate topic, planning and carrying out the research, and analysing and writing up the data and conclusions. At PhD level, these steps can be challenging for any student. Using the tried-and-tested approach, style and pedagogy of the Smarter Student series, this text delivers timely, practical, hands-on guidance based on real-life experience from students and supervisors alike.   The book guides the student through all of the key aspects of being a researcher and delivering a successful PhD thesis. It is an invaluable tutorial and reference for those entering academic life at doctoral level, providing practical guidance, examples and tips for success. Cover Contents About the authors Preface Acknowledgements How to Use this Book INTRODUCTION 1 Taking on postgraduate studies 2 Principles of postgraduateness GETTING STARTED 3 Identifying and framing research questions 4 Writing a proposal or research plan KEY PhD RESEARCH SKILLS 5 Developing as a researcher 6 Planning and time management 7 Information literacy for PhD study 8 Accessing content from the literature 9 Organising research materials INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS DURING A RESEARCH PROGRAMME 10 Successful postgraduate–supervisor relationships 11 Dealing with the highs and lows of being a postgraduate 12 Working in a research team 13 Teaching as a postgraduate 14 Giving a research seminar or paper 15 Preparing and presenting a poster 16 Being appraised RESEARCH METHODS 17 Critical thinking 18 Arriving at a position and supporting it 19 Research ethics and safety 20 Citing, referencing and avoiding plagiarism 21 Interpreting and presenting data 22 Aspects of qualitative research 23 Aspects of quantitative research 24 Experiments and field studies WRITING UP YOUR RESEARCH 25 Links between research, writing and speaking 26 The nature of scholarly writing 27 Scholarly writing style 28 Elements of a thesis 29 Becoming an autonomous writer 30 Thesis presentation EXAMINATION AND BEYOND 31 The PhD viva 32 Publishing your research 33 After your doctorate List of references