This book guides you through doctoral study from the student's point of view - the challenges, pitfalls, and ups and downs that you're likely to encounter in the course of your PhD. Inside you'll find: - Advice on doing research - Examples of PhD problems and their resolution - Reflections on life as a PhD student - Insights into how the academic system works - Real life cases of famous (and not so famous)PhD students Over and above what your supervisors and university may have to offer, Your PhD Companion will help explain all kinds of things that no one ever seems to tell you - and you don't necessarily know to ask.

"Mastering Your PhD: Survival and Success in the Doctoral Years and Beyond" helps guide PhD students through their graduate student years. Filled with practical advice on getting started, communicating with your supervisor, staying the course, and planning for the future, this book is a handy guide for graduate students who need that extra bit of help getting started and making it through. While mainly directed at PhD students in the sciences, the book's scope is broad enough to encompass the obstacles and hurdles that almost all PhD students face during their doctoral training. Who should read this book? Students of the physical and life sciences, computer science, math, and medicine who are thinking about entering a PhD program; doctoral students at the beginning of their research; and any graduate student who is feeling frustrated and stuck. It's never too early -- or too late! This second edition contains a variety of new material, including additional chapters on how to communicate better with your supervisor, dealing with difficult people, how to find a mentor, and new chapters on your next career step, once you have your coveted doctoral degree in hand.

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.