The 3 Habits of Successful PhD Students: Game changing hacks for all doctoral candidates
What are the three habits of a successful PhD student? What game changing hacks can transform your doctoral journey? Listen up, PhD students, I’m about to share them with you!
In the 20 years I’ve spent supporting graduate students, the PhD candidates who’ve done these three things have seen a lot more success than those who haven’t. These three crucial habits can truly supercharge your doctoral journey. They may not be the ones you initially expect, but trust me, they can make a significant difference in your success!
1. Regularly Revisit Your Literature Review
One common pitfall I've observed among PhD students is neglecting their literature reviews.
It's a classic mistake to leave it untouched for months or even years.
Picture this – you dedicate an intensive chunk of time to your literature review, only to shelve it whilst you collect and analyze your data.
But, the longer you wait to revisit it, the more work you'll have to do later!
As your PhD progresses, your perspective evolves, and new theories emerge. The literature review you drafted over a year ago may no longer align with your current research.
To stay on track, set aside a couple of hours every 2 to 3 weeks for a strategic review. Don't let it become an overwhelming task; instead, dip back into it regularly.
I've devised three questions for your literature review check-ins:
What has changed in my field since my last session on the literature review?
Does my literature review align with my current research focus?
Have I integrated new perspectives or theories into my work?
By consistently revisiting your literature review, you'll save time and ensure it reflects the ongoing evolution of your research.
2. Make Academic Writing a Regular Habit
Academic writing is a hurdle many PhD students face, and if you're struggling, you're not alone.
Impostor syndrome, a fear of not being intellectual enough, or even writer's block can hinder your progress.
The key to overcoming these challenges is establishing a routine of regular writing.
You don't have to start with your thesis; begin with smaller pieces like a research blog, a Facebook post, or a LinkedIn update. These platforms offer lower stakes and can serve as excellent practice for more substantial writing tasks.
Allocate a dedicated writing slot in your weekly schedule – perhaps a Friday morning or a Wednesday afternoon.
Start with just one hour, choose a topic, and let the words flow.
It's okay if it feels like nonsense initially. Writing is a process, and every scholar - including your esteemed supervisor - starts with messy first drafts.
Remember this: What you begin with is not a reflection of your intelligence or your worth as a scholar. It's just a first draft.
3. Foster Connections with Fellow PhD Students
A PhD journey can be isolating, leading to feelings of overwhelm and impostor syndrome.
Spending too much time in your own head can exacerbate these challenges.
That's why cultivating connections with fellow PhD students is crucial.
Consider joining social media groups or Facebook communities dedicated to doctoral candidates.
However, the most effective way, in my experience, is to have regular check-ins with other PhD students. Schedule monthly meet-ups for a catch-up, a chat, and a bit of venting. Structuring these sessions with an agenda can add focus and productivity.
During these catch-ups, reflect on the past month, make plans for the future, and discuss what's working and what isn't.
By sharing experiences, you'll realize that many of the challenges you face are universal.
It's not just you feeling like an impostor or struggling with a particular chapter.
If your university doesn't organize such sessions, consider initiating one. Speak to your supervisors, administrators, or student representatives.
Confronting the internal chatter and misery narrative with others who understand can significantly alleviate the burdens you may be carrying.
What’s next?
In conclusion, adopting these three habits – regularly revisiting your literature review, making academic writing a routine, and fostering connections with fellow PhD students – will supercharge your doctoral studies. Embrace these habits, and you'll not only navigate the challenges more effectively but also find joy in the magical journey of pursuing a PhD.
If you’ve found this helpful, join my Cheat Sheet Library! It’s full of PDF resources to help you establish and maintain good habits as a PhD student. Click the button below to learn more!
