Book sale

3 years for a PhD? Here's how to do it right

by Dr David Yoong

This book is not really about finishing your research quickly, but how to do it right. When you start on the right foot and know what to expect, research writing would still be painful but a whole lot less painful.

Writing a research thesis can be a long, lonely, and daunting journey for many graduate scholars. It is not uncommon to hear of PhD and Master's students giving up halfway… but this fate does not need to befall you.

This book provides the necessary cognitive toolkits to help you chart your research destiny and to help you strategise and overcome many of the challenges that graduate scholars experience in their research journey. You may be able to save hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars along the way.

What people are saying about the book

“Every page of Dr. Yoong’s book brought back memories of my Ph.D. program in the early 1970 at a Midwestern U.S. university. More specifically, it brought back memories of fellow students who did not complete the program. Reading this book before or during their studies would have helped many of them be successful. I hope to ensure that students entering our Ph.D. program read this publication. It would be even more beneficial if they read it before making a decision to pursue a doctorate.”

Professor Dr. Douglas A. Boyd, University of Kentucky, U.S.A.


“In 3 Years for a PhD? Professor Yoong provides a highly accessible reflection and practical guide through the journey of a PhD. Drawing from personal experience undertaking his PhD in Australia and as a supervisor, the book takes us through the personal and intellectual attributes required and developed in undertaking a PhD, as well as the people encountered at various stages on the way to completing a successful thesis and embarking on a research career. I really enjoyed the book, it is written in an accessible style with many of the points often not addressed in this kind of book.”

Professor Dr. Richard Fitzgerald, University of Macau, China


“I wish I could have read this book during my doctoral study! Dr Yoong’s personal and professional expertise and insights into his research and supervision experiences are fruitful and relevant to those who plan to undertake their research endeavours. Despite the ups and downs of your research journey, this book is definitely your great companion to guide you until the end of the tunnel.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singhanat Kenny Nomnian, Mahidol University, Thailand


“This is a book for any graduate student who is in a stare-down contest with their MA thesis or PhD dissertation. David Yoong has been there, and he did more than live to tell the tale: He has also gone on to coach many others to completion. If you are looking for a companion and guide to walk you through the rough patches, then pick up this heartfelt and insightful manual. It is written for you.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jamin Pelkey, Ryerson University, Canada


"This is one little book every graduate student should read before embarking on a new journey of writing a thesis. It will save them a lot of time and tears."

Professor Dr. Kenichi Namai, Waseda University, Japan