FAQs
We tend to receive some recurring questions about various aspects of doctoral study. We've compiled them here. Don't see your question/need more details? Drop us an email at info@phdinafrica.org
Financing Your PhD
1/ What are the tips and tricks to winning a fully funded PhD scholarship?
To increase your chances of securing a fully funded PhD scholarship, read application details thoroughly, explore institutional websites for additional resources, and consider funding opportunities from organizations such as DAAD, MasterCard, and Mozilla Foundation. Talk to people who have won such scholarships and have them read your application before you submit it. Persistence and flexibility are key.
2/ How can I find and secure PhD funding opportunities, fellowships and scholarships?
Use LinkedIn, funding organizations' pages, and institutional websites to gather information on funding opportunities and consider regional organizations focused on African research and development. . Explore external funding sources, such as Mastercard Foundation and Mozilla Foundation, and be flexible and continuously search foropportunities. Follow @PhDinAfrica for diverse opportunities. Talk to academics.
3/ What are the available sources of funding for PhD programs, and how can I conduct a cost-benefit analysis?
Available sources of funding include institutional scholarships, external funding organizations (e.g., DAAD, MasterCard, Mozilla Foundation), and entrepreneurship or research areas. To conduct a cost-benefit analysis, consider factors such as program fees, living expenses, and potential career outcomes.
4/ What are the general requirements and strategies for securing a PhD scholarship?
General requirements include a strong academic record, research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Strategies for securing a scholarship include persistence, flexibility, exploring creative options, seeking support from family, friends, and supervisors, and considering entrepreneurship and research areas for potential scholarships and job opportunities.
Managing Your PhD Journey & Supervisors
1 / How can one overcome burnout and manage stress during the PhD journey?
Developing emotional intelligence is crucial to managing relationships and stress. Effective time management, balancing responsibilities, and taking breaks are essential. Use tools like apps to track time spent on social media and explore resources like Harvard Business Review articles and TED Talks on time management.
2 / How can I navigate the relationship with my supervisor, particularly if they are difficult, unresponsive or delayed in their communication?
Maintain polite and firm communication, document interactions, and ask for clarity when needed. Consider sending reminder emails, and if necessary, escalate the issue to the dean of faculty, presenting it as a concern about timing and its impact on your study plan.When dealing with a challenging supervisor, maintain respect, adhere to their advice, and remain patient and resilient. Develop mental strength to handle dynamics and consider alternative approaches while maintaining tolerance and professionalism.
3 / How can I stay motivated and focused during my PhD journey?
Join support groups, take breaks, and prioritize motivation and support from supervisors, mentors, family, and peers. Remember that a PhD is a marathon, requiring perseverance.
4 / What are some tips for effective time management and balancing responsibilities during the PhD journey?
Deploy apps to track time spent on social media, remain focused, and consistent in managing your time. Develop a structured work plan for both academic and personal life.
5 / How can I overcome writer's block and stay motivated during my PhD journey?
Develop a daily writing habit, set realistic goals, and reward yourself for progress. Engage with friends, family, and colleagues for support, and take breaks to recharge. On challenging days, try changing your environment, watching relevant videos, or seeking inspiration from others.
Research Proposals
1 / How do I know if I've written the correct objectives for my research project in a proposal?
Make sure they align with your research questions and are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Clearly define what you aim to achieve and how you plan to achieve it.
2 / What are the essential components of a winning PhD proposal?
A successful proposal should have clear research questions, specific objectives, and a well-defined methodology. It's also crucial to consider funding sources and understand which topics are likely to receive funding. Ensure your proposal is tailored to the specific school or funding agency you are applying to.
3 / How can I overcome perfectionism and get unstuck in the proposal phase?
To overcome perfectionism, remind yourself that your proposal is a starting point, not a final product. Focus on making progress rather than achieving perfection. Break your proposal into smaller, manageable tasks, and set realistic deadlines. Seek feedback from advisors, peers, or mentors to help you move forward.
Research & Analysis
1 / How can I effectively navigate the quantitative vs qualitative research divide?
Understand the strengths and limitations of each approach. Quantitative research provides numerical data, while qualitative research offers in-depth insights. Consider combining both methods to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of your research topic.
2 / What are the key differences between a Masters and PhD research?
Master’s research typically involves specialization and takes about two years to complete. In contrast, a PhD requires at least three years and focuses on developing theories and synthesizing knowledge.
3 / How can I use AI in research while ensuring ethical considerations?
Utilize AI for tasks like sentence correction, grammar, and spelling checks. However, avoid dependence on AI and ensure human engagement in research to maintain academic integrity and accountability.
4 / What role does theory play in research, and how can I effectively use theory in my research?
5 / How can I develop a strong research design?
Your research design should be a coherent strategy that aligns with your field of study. It serves as the blueprint for analyzing your work. Ensure your research design is well-planned, structured, and aligned with your research objectives.
Literature Review
1 / How do I conduct a literature review and discover a research gap?
Formulate research questions that precede your literature review, focusing on How, Why, What, and Which to identify gaps. Ensure questions are directly tied to your research topic and focus on recent sources (within the last 10 years).
2 / How can I write an effective literature review?
Write a literature review that is directly tied to your research questions and topic. Focus on synthesizing and analyzing existing research, identifying gaps and themes, and providing a clear direction for your research.
Postdoctoral Fellowships
1 / What are the next steps after completing my PhD?
Consider post-doc opportunities, academic positions, or transitioning into industry roles. Leverage your PhD knowledge, network, and maintain relationships to explore various career paths.
2 / What are the prospects of getting post-doctoral positions?
Post-doc opportunities often arise from within the field, emphasizing the importance of networking and maintaining relationships with supervisors. Consider joining our monthly PhD clinics, sharing insights, and establishing contacts within relevant departments.