Getting a PhD - Practical Guide for Research Students

In this review of Getting a PhD the reviewer finds a clear, practical handbook aimed squarely at doctoral candidates and research masters students. The bottom line: this is a focused guide for anyone who needs step-by-step clarity on what a doctoral project requires, especially around independence, originality and the examination criteria. It reads like a mentor who can help avoid common mistakes, so readers who want concrete, hands-on advice about planning research and responsible practice will find the book particularly useful.

Key Features

• Doctoral requirements explained: Clarifies what it means to conduct research at doctoral level so students can align work to expected standards of independence and contribution to knowledge.
• Originality and publication guidance: Advises on originality and suitability for publication, helping candidates prepare work that meets examiners expectations.
• Project planning over time: Offers practical advice on planning a research project across a programme so milestones and workload are manageable.
• Examination criteria demystified: Describes criteria used in PhD examination so candidates understand how theses are judged.
• Responsible research practice: Covers ethical and responsible research practice to reduce avoidable errors during study.

Who It's For

Getting a PhD is best suited to new and mid-stage PhD students who need a concise handbook on doctoral expectations and process. It is also useful for Masters students undertaking substantial research projects and for supervisors seeking a clear checklist to share with supervisees.

Those looking for detailed discipline-specific methodology, advanced statistical instruction, or an exhaustive literature on research methods should look elsewhere; this guide focuses on the practical administration and academic expectations of doctoral study rather than lab techniques or specialist method training.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides clear guidance on independence and contribution to knowledge that helps set realistic doctoral goals.
• Practical planning advice makes long projects feel more manageable and structured.
• Useful explanation of examination criteria reduces uncertainty at thesis submission and viva stages.

Cons

• Not a substitute for detailed, discipline-specific research methods or statistical guides.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Getting a PhD is a sensible, well-targeted handbook for doctoral candidates who need practical advice on how to meet academic expectations and plan a thesis over time. It represents good value for students wanting a compact, actionable guide to independence, examination criteria and responsible research practice, though it should be used alongside discipline-specific method texts where needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for Masters students?
Yes. It provides useful advice for Masters students conducting significant research projects, though its main focus is doctoral-level expectations.

Does it cover research ethics?
Yes. The guide discusses responsible research practice and ethical considerations as part of avoiding common mistakes.

Will it teach advanced research methods?
No. It explains high-level requirements and planning but is not a substitute for detailed, discipline-specific methodology texts.