Your Ph. D. Companion: A Handy Mix of Practical Tips, Sound Advice and Helpful Commentary to See You Through Your Ph. D.

by Stephen Marshall, Nick Green

Guides you through doctoral study from the student's point of view - the challenges, pitfalls, ancd ups and downs that you're likely to encounter in the course of your PhD. This work not only explains what a PhD involves, and how you might tackle one, but also offers insights into the experience of life as a PhD student.

Genres: Personal Development

164 pages, Paperback

First published October 6, 2006

Reviews

[Ksenia]

I wouldn't call it "a companion" - this book is rather something you read before you start the whole PhD process, or still unsure if you need to do it at all. The most valuable advice of the book is "start a relationship only with a fellow PhD student, or somebody who used to be a PhD student, because nobody else understands what are you going through". So true.

[Avesta]

Top-notch, highly inspiring read, for anyone interested in taking a PhD (as well as for those currently in the process of completing one).

Marshall has effectively inspired me to pursue a PhD degree in Neuropsychology, as he has given incredible examples of notable people like Einstein and Wittgenstein, who managed to squeeze in PhDs against all odds, and especially in Wittgenstein's case, where he had no higher education qualifications, and hadn't completed his university degree.

Will read again when I'm working on my thesis and make relevant edits re accuracy etc etc.

[Tim]

When I was thinking seriously about doctoral work (a half dozen years ago), I purchased this book and another called How to get a PhD by Phillips and Pugh. The latter was far superior to this book; thus, I don't recommend buying it.

It's organized chronologically, as if it's taking the reader through the emotional/intellectual/experiential ups and downs of the PhD student. This organization works well and reads easily. The authors adopted a chatty and informal tone that doesn't sit so well. Further, their observations, with only a handful of exceptions, seemed not far beyond the realm of common sense. They've included a number of historical anecdotes which are interesting, but not particularly helpful.

If you're looking for a solid introduction to and guide through PhD studies that is serious and packed with useful information, I'd avoid this volume.

[TyLean]

Although it has some good and helpful tips and advice, it's more of a novelty than a practical guide. For someone looking for advice and information on how to initiate a PhD.... this book is not terribly useful.

However... I would highly recommend this book to someone purchasing a gift for a friend, family member, or colleague about to embark on a PhD or perhaps struggling through to completion.

[Asawari]

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