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.