Academic Skills – PhD Students
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How to paraphrase a quote: 4 simple strategies
The ability to paraphrase correctly is incredibly important for academic writing. This is particularly true when writing a thesis or dissertation. Four simple strategies help you to paraphrase academic quotes while avoiding plagiarism. Contents What is paraphrasing in academic writing?Common…
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How to develop an awesome PhD timeline step-by-step
A successful PhD journey begins with a solid plan that includes a PhD timeline. A thought-through and well-designed PhD timeline requires some time but can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Contents Why a clear PhD research timeline mattersStep…
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Creating awesome Gantt charts for your PhD timeline
It’s a common scenario: you have never heard about Gantt charts. Then, when writing a PhD application or planning your PhD timeline for the upcoming years, someone suggests: You should include a Gantt chart! No need to worry. Here is…
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Clever strategies to keep up with the latest academic research
Every day, hundreds of new academic articles and books are published. No wonder it is easy to feel overwhelmed! However, with 4 clever strategies, you can get a grip on new publications and keep up with the latest research in…
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How to select a journal for publication as a PhD student
Selecting a suitable journal to publish your academic work can be overwhelming. However, six concrete strategies can help you to select a suitable journal. Combined, these strategies allow you to identify the perfect journal for your next publication. Contents Explore…
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How to structure your viva presentation (with examples)
Most PhD vivas and PhD defences start with a short presentation by the candidate. The structure of these presentations is very important! There are several factors and approaches to consider when developing your viva presentation structure. Contents Factors to consider…
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18 common audience questions at academic conferences (+ how to react)
While you can practice your conference presentation a hundred times, audience questions are more difficult to prepare for. Nonetheless, several typical audience questions are frequently asked at academic conferences. Be aware of these questions and know how to react! Contents…
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10 things to do when you feel like your dissertation is killing you
A surprising number of people google ‘my dissertation is killing me’ every month. Writing a dissertation is not an easy task: It can be tough, regardless of what level. If you feel defeated, discouraged or exhausted because of your dissertation,…
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Asking for a recommendation letter from a PhD supervisor
Letters of recommendation are required for many applications, and PhD supervisors are often asked to provide these letters to PhD students. How you ask your PhD supervisor, what support you provide, and how you deal with a difficult supervisor relationship,…
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How to introduce yourself in a conference presentation (in six simple steps)
Academic conferences are great occasions for networking. Particularly the start of a conference presentation offers a unique opportunity to introduce yourself to the audience, concisely and effectively. Contents Why effective introductions during academic conference presentations matterStep 1: State your full…