So it’s happened. You’re standing at the portal to postgrad-dom. Endless possibilities present themselves for the subject of your studies. And you’re about to write a thesis that will change the way humanity perceives the world forever....or are you?
Well, I’m afraid the answer to that is most definitely – NO.
Rule Number One for any new postgrad (be it Master’s or Doctorate student) is eyes to the page, not to the sky. It may sound boring but I promise you it’s not – the page is just as interesting. And the next year or three are your chance to become master (or doctor) of your chosen topic. It’s going to be a great ride – as long as you’re passionate about your subject.
So Rule Number Two is – Choose a question that really drives you. Because you’re going to be answering it (or trying to!) for a very long time.
And Rule Number Three – Planning, Planning, Planning. Again, this may sound like the advice of someone you wouldn’t want to hang out with but if you take it on board now then by the end of your dissertation I’ll definitely be your best friend. Trust me. Here’s how we start.
