'From page one the appeal of the book is evident in the jargon free, user friendly text. I would not hesitate to recommend it to other students whatever stage of their doctorate they have reached.' - Educate Journal

Whether you undertaking a taught doctorate, or a course of study leading to a PhD, Succeeding with Your Doctorate offers complete, up-to-date guidance and discussion on all aspects of successful doctoral work. The five experienced authors give advice on every stage in the process of completing a doctorate, from helping you to engage in critical reflection to better understand your own research biases, to useful guidelines on preparing for, and surviving, the viva.

Combining general discussion with practical advice, this book is an essential companion to your research. Topics include:

  • Preparing for a doctorate
  • Embarking on your Research
  • Adapting to life as a student
  • Working with a supervisor
  • Reading critically
  • Conceptualising your research
  • Thinking about methodologies and approaches
  • Producing a thesis
  • Preparing for and taking the viva
  • Disseminating your research.

SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, resources and videos on study success!


'Amongst the plethora of advice and guidance books and articles now available for postgraduate researchers, I would advise my students to select this one as providing insight not simply on what to do but also on why and how in relation to developing an effective working relationship with their supervisors. Since it addresses most of the new demands emerging in the doctoral world as well as those standard ones that have impacted previously, I would also recommend it to new or less experienced supervisors' - Professor Pam Denicolo, University of Reading

Making Supervision Work For You discusses the entire supervision process from the student's perspective, as well as considering the supervisor's viewpoint and constraints. The author covers all phases of the student's 'journey', from induction through to final completion and examination of the thesis and the viva voce. The book illustrates many of the key issues in supervision by drawing upon extensive material from recent interviews with a range of supervisors and students.

This book presents new ideas, regulations and codes of practice, and offers practical suggestions for students. It emphasizes students' experiences and needs, whilst also maintaining a focus on the supervisor's perspective and the demands of assessment at post-graduate level.

The book is primarily aimed at Post-graduate students but will also be useful for undergraduates in their final year and equally for new or experienced supervisors.


SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, quizzes and videos on study success!