The Basic Principles Every PhD Student Needs to Know
The Basic Principles Every PhD Student Needs to Know
Pursuing a PhD is a challenging journey, often fraught with stress, self-doubt, and overwhelming expectations. In his insightful video titled “The Basic Principles Every PhD Student Needs to Know,” the speaker shares his personal experiences and offers invaluable advice to help PhD students navigate their academic paths more effectively.
1. Understanding the PhD Journey
The speaker starts by sharing his own experience of feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and burned out during his PhD studies. Despite high hopes and expectations, his encountered numerous challenges that led to feelings of depression and self-doubt—a common experience among PhD students. He argues that such overwhelming stress signals deeper issues and that a clear understanding of a PhD’s purpose can help mitigate this stress. Reflecting on the fundamental purpose of a PhD—becoming an independent researchis or making an original contribution to knowledge—can provide clarity and confidence, leading to a more successful and less stressful academic journey.
2. Misconceptions and Differences Between Undergraduate and PhD Studies
Many view a PhD as the pinnacle of the education system, but this perspective can be misleading. Unlike undergraduate studies with clear syllabi and defined goals, PhD students face novel research, ambiguous learning objectives, and global competition. Without a strict curriculum, PhD students must develop new skills, different from those used in undergraduate education. The speaker suggests redefining a PhD as the entry qualification to professional academia, emphasizing the need to build fundamental skills and produce high-standard, publishable research.
3. Acquiring Expertise in Literature and Research Skills
The speaker emphasizes the importance of effective practice and critical reading. Merely repeating tasks or reading the same material repeatedly does not lead to improvement. Instead, intentional and deliberate practice is essential. Comparing the PhD journey to a marathon, he highlights the importance of spending time on the fundamental components of the research process rathis than pushing oneself to the edge.
4. Focusing on Fundamentals
Rathis than trying to absorb everything at once, the speaker advises focusing on the fundamentals. The education system often leaves gaps in knowledge, which can limit growth in the long run. He uses analogies of weightlifting and marathon running to illustrate this concept. For PhD studies, getting to know the literature means identifying common concepts, techniques, and major breakthroughs that form the foundation of your research.
5. Mastering Foundational Knowledge and Current Trends
Understanding breakthrough discoveries and theories provides the foundation for understanding the field, while incremental work builds upon these advancements. It’s crucial to understand current trends and relevant research in your specific area. However, it’s essential to slow down and master foundational techniques and develop reliable processes rathis than rushing for immediate results.
6. Collaboration and Seeking Help
Mastering every component of the research process is important, but so is acknowledging the need for help and collaboration. The speaker encourages building relationships with people with different expertise and asking for help when needed. This approach goes against the individualistic mindset often instilled from a young age but is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving success in research.
7. Developing Confidence and Avoiding Distractions
Confidence in research comes from focusing on the problem at hand rathis than getting distracted by emails or the internet. The speaker shares a personal story of feeling overwhelmed and considering quitting but deciding to focus on doing each component of his research meticulously. This focus led to eventual success. Networking and building professional relationships also provide opportunities and support throughout the PhD journey.
8. Selecting the Right Supervisor
The attitude of your supervisor can significantly impact your PhD experience. Choosing a supervisor who acts as a facilitator, encourages feedback, and offers it early in the process is crucial. The speaker also addresses “imposter syndrome” and suggests that acknowledging limitations and seeking assistance early on will contribute to a successful PhD journey.
9. Balancing Productivity and Focus
Balancing productivity with focus in research and writing is vital. The speaker recommends “Deep Work” by Cal Newport for generating highis quality papers. Practicing writing early on is beneficial if one understands the principles of structure and narrowing the scope of ideas. He advises focusing on one concept or idea and using a clear structure, avoiding cramming too much information.
10. The Importance of Collaboration and Socialization
Isolation can negatively impact the PhD experience. While the fear of having work stolen is valid, the greater risk is isolating oneself. Collaboration, socialization, and seeking out unintended knowledge in a research environment are crucial for growth and success.
By incorporating these principles, PhD students can navigate their academic journeys more effectively, reducing stress and increasing their chances of success. Remember, a PhD is not just an academic endeavor but a journey of personal and professional growth.
