Researchers at Ulster: Planning your research

Here are some tips and links on how to choose your initial topic. You will also need to discuss these ideas with a member of staff from the Faculty or a specialist in the field to see if the research is possible.

• Continual writing during your research project is key; don't leave writing to the very end, as then the task of writing your thesis may seem impossible. Remember that the very act of writing things down can help you develop your ideas.
• Making and sustaining supervisor contact and supervisory support is essential, especially when nearing the end.
• Immerse yourself in academic culture and get talking about yor research at conferences and research symposia. It is worth trying to publish in a peer-reviewed journal. This will be a valuable confidence boost for your viva.
• Don't get a full-time job, even if you are sorely attempted. However, a part-time job could work in your favour because it could help to structure your time, providing a break from unhelpful spells of isolation and giving you an anchor to the rest of the world.
• Support and understanding from friends and family is important. Talk to them about the challenges you may be experiencing, especially during the final stages.
• Find a writing-up environment that works best for you and minimses unhelpful distractions.
• Reflect on what drives you to write your thesis. Breaking the task into manageable chunks with self-imposed deadlines works well for most and being organised is paramount.