Master Academia
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Academic Skills
Juggling research and teaching obligations
Teaching is a common task for postgraduate students. Due to its interactive nature and more defined tasks, it is easy to prioritise teaching over research. Carving out time for research during busy teaching periods is never easy. However, there are…
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Academic Skills
How to write effective cover letters for a paper submission
Some journals require a letter to the editor, also called a cover letter, as part of the submission process. This can come as a surprise to PhD and master’s students who are (relatively) new to manuscript submissions. Learn about the…
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Thesis Tips
Minimalist writing for a better thesis
Academic writing is a skill that can be learnt. Students often equate complex and convoluted writing with high academic quality. In reality, concise language and to-the-point messages triumph in academia. Learn about minimalist writing, and how it can benefit your…
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Career Advice
Finish a PhD (in time) by choosing the right project
A new study draws attention to the correlation between the type of PhD projects and the chances of completing a doctorate (as well as completing it in time). Many PhD students might be familiar with the findings based on personal…
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Thesis Tips
Dealing with conflicting feedback from different supervisors
Chances are that your thesis or dissertation is not supervised by just one but two (or more) supervisors. Multiple perspectives and fields of expertise can be an advantage for thesis writing. However, they can also lead to divergent feedback. Find…
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Academic Skills
Dealing with failure as a PhD student
PhD students are extremely prone to experiencing failure. All academics are much more likely to experience failure (repeatedly) in contrast to other professions. But there are strategies to learn how to better deal with ‘academic failure’. Contents Dealing with failure…
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Academic Skills
Energy management in academia
While time management skills are praised in academia, energy management is often neglected. Learn more about energy management and explore concrete steps of how to manage your energy better. Contents Why time management in academia is not enoughWhat is energy…
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Career Advice
Stress levels: PhD versus non-academic full-time job
Is pursuing a PhD as stressful as a full-time job? This is a question that many prospective PhD students ask themselves. While it depends on your personality, a PhD can be more stressful than a full-time job outside of academia.…
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Academic Skills
How to write a convincing research statement
Research statements are a common requirement in academic job applications. A research statement presents an applicant’s research profile, past accomplishments and future research plans. Writing a convincing research statement is an art that can be learnt, and should be practised…
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Thesis Tips
Better thesis writing with the Pomodoro® technique
Thesis writing is challenging. Distractions are everywhere. Trying to focus and get things done is a major struggle. According to the Pomodoro® technique, it is best to concentrate on a single task for 25 minutes straight. Find out how this…