Navigating the PhD Journey: Tips for Success, Sanity, and ‘Go-to’ Resources
Disclaimer: The views in this article are solely my own. I have not received any monetary benefits for mentioning any links or applications.
Intro: Buckle Up!
So, you’re thinking about (or already in the middle of) a PhD? First off, congrats! Now grab a coffee, tea, energy drink (or something stronger), because this is going to be one heck of a ride. I started my PhD in the United Kingdom during COVID-19 — definitely not what I’d planned — but despite the chaos, setbacks, meltdowns, and moments of total self-doubt, I made it somehow. Along the way, I picked up some tricks and tips that helped me stay (mostly) sane. Whether you’re just starting out or in the final sprint, this guide will walk you through the entire process. Oh, and I’ll throw in some handy resources and links too. Ready? Let’s go!
First Things First: Finding Your PhD
Finding the right PhD project involves perseverance and a bit of luck — but with continuous effort, you can do it! Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, here are some platforms that’ll help you get there:
- FindAPhD (for Global PhDs);
- Jobs.ac.uk (for UK PhDs);
- EURAXESS (for European PhDs).
Tip 1: Cast a wide net
Apply to different projects and different countries. Take the time to talk to potential supervisors or connect with them on LinkedIn. Your PhD is a long journey, so pick something you’re genuinely interested in — and with a supervisor you can actually work with.
The “Wait, What?” Phase: Getting Started
You’ve found your PhD, and now you’re officially in the program. But wait — why does everything suddenly feel so overwhelming? Welcome to the “Wait, what have I signed up for?” phase. Those first few months can feel like you’re learning a new language. This is normal, so don’t panic.
Learning Resources to Get You Through:
Here are some tools that saved me in the early days:
- LinkedIn Learning (for keeping your skills up to date);
- Zotero (for reference management);
- Overleaf (for LaTeX writing).
Tip 2: Embrace the learning curve
You’re not supposed to know everything on day one. Take your time, and focus on one task at a time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your supervisor or peers. If they don’t reply? Well, ask again and again.
Time management needs to be your biggest skill
Time management will save your sanity. Use tools like Asana or Notion for project management and tracking your progress. Break down your big tasks into small, manageable goals. The Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break) is a great way to stay productive without burning out.
Mid-Journey Madness: Surviving the Slump
Halfway through the PhD, the novelty wears off. You’ve been working hard, but the finish line still seems far away. I call this the “PhD Slump.” Motivation dips, imposter syndrome kicks in, and you might start wondering if you’ll ever actually finish. **Spoiler: you will**. These tools kept me going when I hit the wall:
- Obsidian (for organising notes);
- ResearchRabbit (for discovering new research papers);
- ResearchGate (for connecting with researchers and asking for help);
- Kaggle (is a fun way to learn how to code).
Tip 3: Celebrate small wins
Writing a page? Win. Finishing a tough experiment? Win. Every small step gets you closer to your goal. Don’t wait for the big achievements — acknowledge progress every day. Don’t let imposter syndrome drag you down.
Tip 4: Networking is a game-changer
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Attend conferences (even virtual ones), join academic social platforms like Academia.edu or LinkedIn, and connect with people in your field. You never know what opportunities might come your way through those relationships, from collaborations to job offers.
Visualising Your Research: Make It Pretty!
Making your research look appealing isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about communicating your findings effectively. Whether it’s diagrams, charts, or network analyses, great visuals make your research more digestible and impactful. Here are some tools for creating stunning visuals:
- Canva (for professional-looking posters, slides, and visuals);
- Visio (for flowcharts and diagrams);
- VoSViewer (for creating network maps based on bibliometric data).
Tip 5: Make visuals your best friend
People remember visuals more than text, so make sure your figures and graphs are clear, concise, and attractive. Tools like Canva and Visio are user-friendly and can help you create visuals that not only explain but also impress.
Publishing Your Work: Aim for Consistency
Publishing papers is a key part of your PhD journey. Not only does it build your academic profile, but it also helps you gain recognition in your field.
Tip 6: Set realistic publication goals
Aim for at least one journal and one conference paper per year. If that feels like too much, don’t stress — it’s all about setting manageable targets. The key is to have deadlines for yourself so you’re always moving forward. And remember, quality beats quantity, so don’t rush just to meet a quota.
Mental Health Check: Prioritise Your Well-Being
Let’s be real: PhDs can take a toll on your mental health. Between the workload, isolation, and self-doubt, it’s easy to burn out. But here’s the truth — your mental health is just as important as your research. Actually, it’s more important. It is okay to bed rot and stay on social media from time to time, but remember to stay away from social media regularly. Find and do what works for us as we are all different individuals.
Tip 7: Take regular breaks and reduce stress factors
This isn’t a suggestion — it’s a necessity. You’re not a machine. Take time off to recharge, even when it feels like you shouldn’t. Go for a walk, binge-watch a show, or do whatever helps you unwind. Turn off that computer.Tip 8: Talk it out
Whether it’s with friends, family, or a therapist, talking about your struggles can lighten the load. You don’t have to do this alone.
The Supervisor Relationship: The Game Changer
Your relationship with your supervisor can make or break your PhD experience. Having someone who supports your ideas, offers constructive feedback, and genuinely cares about your progress is crucial. Likewise, a strained relationship can make the process much harder. Try your best to keep a cordial relationship, no matter how hard it gets.
Tip 9: Communication is everything
Regular, open communication with your supervisor is key. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback, schedule regular meetings, and clarify expectations from the start. Your supervisor should be your guide, not your critic. Don’t be scared or be ashamed to communicate what you need to.
Final Sprint: Crossing the Finish Line
As you near the end of your PhD, the workload seems to triple, life goes at 100 MPH. You’re writing your thesis, preparing for your viva, and wondering how you’ll get it all done. But here’s the thing — you’re almost there. The final sprint might feel exhausting, but the finish line is in sight, just keep holding on. This was the toughest part of my PhD, I swear. Resources for Thesis and Viva Prep:
- Grammarly (to catch those sneaky grammar mistakes);
- Thesis Whisperer (for practical tips on writing);
- Viva Survivors (for real-life viva stories and advice).
Tip 10: Focus on progress, not perfection
Your thesis doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be done. Don’t get caught in a cycle of endless revisions. Submit it, defend it, and move on!Tip 11: Use time wisely in the final months
Plan out your final months meticulously. Set daily or weekly goals and stick to them. Allocate specific times for writing, proofreading, and thesis formatting. By staying organised, you’ll prevent a last-minute panic.
Conclusion: Psst.. You’ve Got This!
The PhD journey is long, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There will be days when you feel like you’re not making any progress and other days when you feel on top of the world. Whatever phase you’re in, remember this — you’re doing great. Take pride in every step you’ve taken, no matter how small, and keep pushing forward.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” — Nelson Mandela
You’ve got this! Keep moving forward, Doctor-to-be!
