A practical, step-by-step guide to postgraduate study, covering the whole research process from planning to writing up and beyond.

Undertaking a large-scale original research project involves choosing an appropriate topic, planning and carrying out the research, and analysing and writing up the data and conclusions. At PhD level, these steps can be challenging for any student. Using the tried-and-tested approach, style and pedagogy of the Smarter Student series, this text delivers timely, practical, hands-on guidance based on real-life experience from students and supervisors alike.

The book guides the student through all of the key aspects of being a researcher and delivering a successful PhD thesis. It is an invaluable tutorial and reference for those entering academic life at doctoral level, providing practical guidance, examples and tips for success.


Fully updated since publication in 2007, How to succeed in Exams & Assessments will allow a student to assess and address their particular weaknesses in revising, preparing for and succeeding in academic exams and assessments and delivers detailed tips, techniques and strategies to enable them to significantly improve their abilities and performance in time to make a difference.


Is there a secret to successful study?The answer is 'yes'! There are some essential skills and smart strategies that will help you to improve your results at university.

Using proven techniques and tips to help you focus your efforts and develop successful study skills and strategies, THE STUDY SKILLS BOOKprovides practical answers to questions such as:

What do lecturers expect from you in a tutorial? What's the best way to plan an essay or dissertation? Where should you concentrate your efforts for maximum impact?

New to the highly successful Smarter Study Skills series comes this essential guide to thinking and writing critically.

This easy-to-use guide identifies and addresses the key areas where most students need help in developing and enhancing the critical thinking and writing skills that are crucial to successful academic study, and provides practical tips and solutions. The authors use real life examples to illustrate common mistakes and demonstrate how to avoid them. They provide solid advice on enhancing analytical and argumentation skills by adopting best practice with critical thinking and reflective writing.