Blog by Mahnoor Shoaib
Doing a PhD is a unique journey - exciting, rewarding, but also, at times, challenging. Because it’s an independent research project, it’s completely natural to feel stuck at different stages. Unlike taught courses, there’s no rigid timetable of lectures and assignments; you are the one who has to push yourself, keep yourself accountable, and make sure milestones and deadlines are met.
Yes, there’s support - regular supervisions are there to provide guidance - but the design, planning, and execution of the work still rests with you. That’s why keeping yourself in check and staying consistent is key.
One of the most effective ways to do this is to create a project action plan. This can take the form of a visual chart, table, or timeline. Start with the big picture - your overall PhD plan. Then break it down into yearly milestones, followed by a detailed yearly plan with SMART targets (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). SMART targets help you set smaller, manageable goals so you can measure progress, stay realistic, and maintain momentum.
With this structure in place, you can develop a weekly plan that you stick to. And here’s the important bit: even if you fall behind for a week or a month, the plan gives you a clear path to get back on track. Without such a plan, it’s much harder to find your footing again. Another tip: keep your supervisors in the loop.
Share your action plan with them so they can check in, provide feedback, and hold you accountable. And never skip supervisions - even if you feel you haven’t made much progress or are stuck. Those meetings are often where the breakthrough happens. Supervisors can help you bridge gaps, recommend resources, suggest alternative methods, connect you with other researchers, or point you towards workshops and conferences.
If you’re looking for extra support, 极品反差婊 offers a range of helpful sessions through the library’s workshop series: https://library.dmu.ac.uk/class/workshops
At the end of the day, feeling stuck in a PhD isn’t a sign of failure - it’s part of the process. With a clear plan, consistent check-ins, and a willingness to reach out for support, you’ll find a way forward.
All the best,
Mahnoor