"This book explores what a PhD is and the challenges and rewards of completing this journey. There is no one way to complete a doctorate but there are a number of wrong ways, like having your ego flattered into it or because you can't think of what else you would like to do. This book is about what is like to submit yourself to the process of doing a doctorate. It is about how is feels to be a research student; the elation, the guilt, the isolation, the self-doubt, the loneliness. It also describes the practical issues - such as choosing a topic, finding funding, writing a research proposal, different methods of research, the literature review, academic writing, the question of 'truth' in research, the relationship between student and supervisor, maintaining a clear focus, and the viva examination." Lucy Russell Accessible and well-written, this guide will be invaluable reading for anyone thinking about, embarking on or completing a PhD.