best phd time management

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Cover Story

Where do the hours go?

Graduate students and procrastination experts share their best time-management tips.

By Amy Novotney

Print version: page 26

April Krowel cringes every time she recalls it. It was early December and she had planned to decorate her home for Christmas with her husband and 2-year-old daughter. But she still hadn't started her 30-page practicum paper, which was due the following week.

"I really thought it would be no big deal," says Krowel, a counseling psychology doctoral student at Ball State University. "But it literally took all weekend to complete. I ended up getting it done and got a good grade, but it was at the expense of spending time with my family."

After that weekend, she made a promise to herself never to let it happen again. Now, she uses Apple's iCal calendar program to keep better track of upcoming assignments and schedules time for working on them weeks before they're due. She also sets reminders to avoid forgetting anything.

"It's very important to me that my family doesn't suffer while I'm pursuing my PhD," she says.

Krowel's ruined weekend was the result of an all-too-common phenomenon known as the planning fallacy, says procrastination researcher and Carleton University psychology professor Timothy A. Pychyl, PhD. He and other researchers have found that people tend to overestimate how long it will take to complete short tasks and underestimate the time longer projects will take. Then there's the fact that we forget to schedule time for the basics, says Pychyl.

"One of the biggest myths when it comes to time management is that next week always looks free," Pychyl says. "But if you put everything into the calendar that you have to do before you do anything else — things like eating, sleeping, buying groceries — you see right away that you really don't have a lot of time."

Time management is especially important for graduate students because they have so many concurrent projects, and that is likely to continue throughout their careers, Pychyl says. Get your schedule under control with these tips from several time management mavens:

Audit your time

Take a week to keep track of exactly how you spend your time, Pychyl suggests. Be it showering, eating or doing laundry, every activity should be tracked.

Nicholas Scheidt, for example, uses Google Calendar to schedule and color-code every single thing he does, from driving to sleeping, to going out to brunch on Sunday mornings.

"Every single hour on my calendar is accounted for, so that I have a very clear view of what I'm doing," says Scheidt, a clinical psychology graduate student at Carlos Albizu University in Miami. Then, when he needs to find extra time to study for exams or write a paper, he just looks at the calendar and reprioritizes.

"It's just so helpful to know where every hour is going because then you can really control your time better," he says. Even just tracking your schedule for a week gives you a much better sense of how you are spending your time, how long certain tasks such as grocery shopping or reading email really take. You can then build a more accurate schedule for yourself.

Find what works best for you

Experiment with a few different schedules, suggests Cady Block, a medical-clinical psychology doctoral student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. If you're a morning person, set aside a couple of hours in the morning to study. Block says she tends to work best by doing what she calls "chunking," where she does certain tasks on certain days.

"I found that shifting my mindset too many times during the day — between conducting research, attending practicum for a few hours, and then visiting another site to see patients, for example — made me inefficient," she says. "But if I lump all research into one day, and practica into another, I am able to concentrate all of my attention on what I'm doing."

She also chooses not to work on weeknights, reserving that time for relaxation, and then spends a portion of her weekend on coursework and research activities that can be done outside the lab, such as writing manuscripts.

"I know other students who do the opposite, and that works for them," she says.

Establish bright lines

Leave little room for negotiation once you put something on your agenda, Pychyl says. "There's no starting the task at 10:15 a.m. if you said you're going to start it at 10 a.m.," he says. "You have to honor your schedule as if it's set in stone, because otherwise you're setting the precedent that these things don't matter." If you must give yourself any leeway on this, plan two options for the time chunk — for example, either read studies or write a section of a paper. This strategy should apply to both work time and personal time, Pychyl says: "There needs to be a point in the day where you say, OK, I'm going to do some recreation now."

Just get started

So much of good time management is getting past the "I don't feel like it" mentality, Pychyl says. "The truth is that your motivational state does not have to match the task at hand," he says. "Very often, attitudes follow behavior, so just get started." You'll likely be surprised by your renewed interest in the task once you make a little progress.

Get (a little) help from friends

Block suggests enlisting another student in your cohort to help keep you accountable and meeting with him or her often to review progress. "I know of students who put together ‘dissertation groups' where they met once per month and reviewed progress on their dissertations," she says. "Your peers can often be your key to success in graduate school, as long as you choose them well."

Use small chunks of time

How often do you think to yourself, "I only have 15 minutes before my next appointment — that's not enough time to write that memo/read that article/type up those client notes. I'll just surf the Web instead"? Pychyl suggests using that time to get started on the task. "You might be surprised at how much you can get done in a day by just using those small chunks of time to make progress on something," he says.

Use technology to avoid distraction

Social networking and email checking are a procrastinator's best friend. To help you stay on task, download a productivity tool that allows you to block certain sites on certain days and times of the week, such as Leech Block , Google's StayFocused or Apple's Focusbar app .

"If you know that Facebook or YouTube consumes a good amount of your time, these apps can help eliminate those distractors," says Sheila Modir, a clinical psychology doctoral student at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Abandon perfection

As a busy graduate student, you don't have the time and energy to give every project your all, says Aileen Chang, a school psychology doctoral student at the University of California, Santa Barbara. If there's an assignment that's not crucial to your realm of study, but that you're required to complete, Chang recommends giving yourself only a set amount of time to do it. "Once that time limit is up, consider the product ‘good enough' and move on to the next task," she says.

Reward yourself

It's important to plan breaks — and even an occasional vacation — to refresh your mind and spirit, Scheidt says. While he was writing his dissertation last year, Scheidt took day trips to the botanical gardens to clear his mind. As a bigger reward — and an impetus to stay on task — he scheduled a trip to Argentina for after the project was completed.

"You really need to have incentives like that to stay motivated," he says.

Amy Novotney is a writer in Chicago.

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How to maximize and adjust to a phd schedule.

A PhD schedule takes adjustment, but the strategies that work for doctoral studies carry throughout an academic career.

Adjusting to a PhD schedule can be a challenge. Classes will take up a decent amount of your time for the first few years of a program. After completing the required courses, independent research becomes the main focus. Sometimes that can be intimidating. You become your own boss, which is an adjustment from being told what to do and when to do it.

Here are a few tips from current doctoral students and professors at Wharton on how to transition into this new lifestyle:

Brush Up on Your Time Management Skills

Learning how to manage your time more effectively can help you get your schedule under control as well as stay on task and reduce stress. Prof. Wayne Guay , the doctoral coordinator for the Accounting program, said, “Effective time management is crucial to success, progress and sanity. First, students should know they are not alone, as it is something that many — perhaps most — graduate students struggle with from time to time.”

Time management allows you to maximize your day. If you find yourself struggling to effectively manage your time, click here for helpful tips .

Ask for Help

Completing a PhD is not an easy task. There will be times when you’re struggling and may be feel unsure or overwhelmed. Prof. Fernando Ferreira , the doctoral coordinator for the Business Economics and Public Policy and Real Estate programs, suggested that students reach out for help. He said, “It’s always much better to talk people. Share the experience that’s happening and share the problem, usually that’s the best way to overcome that struggle. It’s much easier once you’re able to communicate what exactly is happening.”

Professors are there to guide you when you need, so take advantage of their expertise. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a professor, talk to a peer. There’s a chance that others have experienced similar issues and can lend some helpful advice. Prof. Ferreira also suggested seeking help sooner rather than later as putting off a problem can cause further issues down the line.

Take a Break

From going to class, completing homework, and conducting research, your days can be jam-packed. Although it is important to focus on your work, it is also important to take time for yourself. Karren Knowlton , a third year Management student, said, “It’s super easy to feel like school is your life, but you won’t be able to bring your best self here if you don’t round yourself out in other ways. I would say maybe two nights a week try to see other people and do something outside of school even if it’s just for an hour.”

Whether grabbing dinner with a friend or joining on a club on campus, there is plenty to do in and around Philadelphia. Karren chooses to spend her free time volunteering with the Science Education Academy in West Philly. Karren said, “ It’s a fun and rewarding way to give something back to the local community that’s easy to work into a PhD student schedule.”

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Not comparing yourself to others is easier said than done. It’s important to remember a PhD program is not one size fits all. What works for one person may not necessarily work for you. Prof. Deborah Small , the doctoral coordinator for the Marketing program, said, “Of course it’s impossible to not compare yourself to others, but there’s not one right way to become an academic other than getting that degree.”

Comparing yourself to others can cause you to lose sight of the goal you’re working towards. Focus on what you personally need to do to be successful. Karren said, “Figure out what your priorities are and don’t let looking at other people and how much they seem to be working or not working affect that.”

Having tips to adjust to a PhD schedule is only helpful if you know what to expect. Get an inside look at the schedule of a PhD student .

Posted: August 4, 2017

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10 Essential Time Management Strategies for PhD Students

As a PhD student, juggling research, coursework, teaching responsibilities, and personal life can be overwhelming. Effective time management is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and achieving your academic goals. In this article, we'll explore ten essential strategies to help you make the most of your time and navigate your PhD journey with greater ease.

1. Prioritize tasks: Begin by identifying and prioritizing your tasks based on their importance and urgency. Use the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks into four quadrants: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Focus on tasks in the first two quadrants to ensure you're making progress on your most critical responsibilities.

2. Create a schedule: Develop a daily or weekly schedule that allocates specific time blocks for various activities, such as research, writing, attending classes, and personal commitments. Be sure to include buffer time for unexpected tasks or emergencies. Stick to your schedule as much as possible, but remain flexible when necessary.

3. Break down large tasks: Large, complex tasks can be daunting and lead to procrastination. Break them down into smaller, manageable sub-tasks with specific deadlines. This approach makes it easier to start and maintain momentum, as you can celebrate small victories along the way.

4. Use the Pomodoro Technique: The Pomodoro Technique involves working in 25-minute intervals, followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus, reduces burnout, and provides a sense of accomplishment throughout the day.

5. Minimize distractions: Identify and eliminate distractions that hinder your productivity. Find a quiet workspace, turn off notifications on your devices, and use website blockers to limit access to time-consuming websites during work hours. Remember, multitasking is a myth; focus on one task at a time for optimal efficiency.

6. Leverage technology: Utilize productivity tools and apps to streamline your workflow and stay organized. Tools like Trello, Asana, or Todoist can help you manage projects, set reminders, and collaborate with others. Reference management software, such as Zotero or Mendeley, can save time when organizing and citing sources.

7. Learn to say no: As a PhD student, you may be presented with numerous opportunities, from collaborations to extra projects. While it's tempting to say yes to everything, overcommitting can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. Learn to politely decline opportunities that don't align with your primary goals or current capacity.

8. Practice self-care: Your physical and mental well-being are essential for sustained productivity. Prioritize self-care activities, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and stress-management techniques like meditation or deep breathing. Taking care of yourself will help you maintain focus and resilience throughout your PhD journey.

9. Collaborate and delegate: Foster relationships with your peers and colleagues to create a supportive network. Collaborate on projects when possible, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. If you have teaching or research assistants, learn to delegate tasks effectively to lighten your workload and provide growth opportunities for others.

10. Regularly review and adjust: Periodically assess your progress and the effectiveness of your time management strategies. Be open to making adjustments as needed to optimize your productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Celebrate your successes, learn from your challenges, and continuously refine your approach to time management.

By implementing these ten essential time management strategies, you'll be better equipped to navigate the demands of your PhD program, achieve your academic goals, and maintain a sense of well-being. Remember, developing effective time management skills is an ongoing process, so be patient with yourself and remain committed to your personal and professional growth.

Here are a few possible time management and productivity tools for PhD students:

• Task management software (e.g. Trello, Asana)
• To-do list apps (e.g. Todoist, Any.do)
• Pomodoro technique apps (e.g. Focus To-Do, Tomato Timer)
• Calendar and scheduling tools (e.g. Google Calendar, Fantastical)
• Mind mapping and brainstorming software (e.g. MindNode, XMind)
• Time tracking software (e.g. Toggl, RescueTime)
• Distraction-blocking apps (e.g. Freedom, StayFocusd)
• Goal setting and habit tracking apps (e.g. Strides, Habits)

These tools can help PhD students stay organized, focused, and productive as they navigate their studies and research. By using a combination of these tools, PhD students can create a personalized workflow that helps them manage their time effectively and achieve their goals.

Useful Task management Software PhD student

Task Management Software: Streamlining Your To-Do List

As a PhD student, managing multiple projects and tasks can be overwhelming. From conducting research, to writing papers, to participating in class, there’s always something on your plate. To stay organized and productive, it’s crucial to have a system for managing your tasks. And that’s where task management software comes in.

Task management software, such as Trello and Asana, provide a simple and efficient way to keep track of your to-do list and keep your projects organized. Whether you’re working on a team or just trying to stay on top of your personal tasks, these tools are essential for staying productive and getting things done.

Trello is a visual task management tool that allows you to create boards for different projects and organize tasks into cards. You can add due dates, labels, attachments, and even collaborate with team members in real-time. The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to rearrange tasks and prioritize your work.

Asana, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive task management platform that also allows you to manage projects and collaborate with team members. You can create tasks, set due dates, assign tasks to team members, and track the progress of your projects. With Asana, you can also create custom workflows and integrate with other productivity tools, such as Google Drive and Slack.

Whether you’re using Trello or Asana, task management software offers a range of benefits for PhD students:

• Keep track of your tasks: No more losing track of what you need to do! With task management software, you can see all of your tasks in one place, making it easy to prioritize and stay on top of your work.
• Collaborate with team members: If you’re working on a project with others, task management software makes it easy to collaborate and share updates.
• Set deadlines and reminders: Keep your projects on track by setting deadlines and reminders. You can also set recurring tasks to help you stay on top of your work.
• Prioritize your work: With task management software, you can see all of your tasks in one place and prioritize your work based on importance and deadline.
• Track your progress: Seeing the progress you’ve made on a task or project can be motivating and help you stay on track. With task management software, you can see what you’ve accomplished and what still needs to be done.

In conclusion, task management software is a crucial tool for PhD students looking to stay organized and productive. Whether you’re working on a team or just trying to manage your personal tasks, Trello and Asana offer an easy and efficient way to keep your projects organized and get things done.

Top 10 task management softwares

Here are the top 10 task management software:

• Asana – a comprehensive task management platform that allows you to manage projects, collaborate with team members, and set deadlines.
• Trello – a visual task management tool that allows you to organize tasks into cards and boards.
• Todoist – a to-do list app that allows you to manage your tasks and projects, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members.
• Wunderlist – a to-do list app that allows you to create tasks, set reminders, and collaborate with team members.
• Any.do – a to-do list app that allows you to manage your tasks, set reminders, and prioritize your work.
• ClickUp – a task management tool that allows you to manage tasks, projects, and team work in one place.
• Monday.com – a project management tool that allows you to manage tasks, projects, and team work, and visualize progress.
• Smartsheet – a task management and collaboration tool that allows you to manage tasks, projects, and team work in a spreadsheet-like interface.
• Todo Cloud – a to-do list app that allows you to manage your tasks, set reminders, and prioritize your work.
• Airtable – a task management tool that combines the features of a spreadsheet with a database to allow you to manage tasks, projects, and team work.

These task management software tools can help you stay organized, prioritize your work, and manage projects effectively. By using a combination of these tools, you can create a personalized workflow that helps you get things done and achieve your goals.

Top 10 Time Management Tools

Here are the top 10 time management software:

• Toggl – a simple time tracking tool that allows you to track time spent on tasks, projects, and clients.
• RescueTime – a time management software that tracks the time you spend on different applications and websites to help you understand how you’re using your time.
• Focus To-Do – a Pomodoro technique app that helps you stay focused and get things done.
• Google Calendar – a calendar and scheduling tool that integrates with other Google apps, such as Gmail and Google Drive.
• Remember the Milk – a to-do list app that allows you to manage your tasks and projects, set reminders, and prioritize your work.

These time management software tools can help you stay organized, prioritize your work, and get things done. By using a combination of these tools, you can create a personalized workflow that helps you manage your time effectively and achieve your goals.

Top 10 Pomodoro technique apps

Here are the top 10 Pomodoro technique apps:

• Forest – a gamified Pomodoro technique app that allows you to track your focus and grow virtual trees.
• PomoDone – a Pomodoro technique app that integrates with other task management tools, such as Trello and Todoist.
• Tomato Timer – a simple Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks.
• Toggl Focus – a Pomodoro technique app that helps you stay focused and track your time spent on different tasks.
• Be Focused – a Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks, and track your progress.
• Pomodoro Time Pro – a Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks, and track your progress.
• Focus Keeper – a Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks, and track your progress.
• Focus – a Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks, and track your progress.
• Marinara Timer – a simple Pomodoro technique app that allows you to set timers for focus and breaks.

These Pomodoro technique apps can help you stay focused and get things done, by using the Pomodoro technique to break your work into focused work sessions and breaks. By using a combination of these apps, you can create a personalized Pomodoro technique workflow that helps you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Calendar and scheduling tools

Here are the top 10 calendar and scheduling tools:

• Google Calendar – a free online calendar that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and share calendars with others.
• Microsoft Outlook Calendar – an email and calendar app that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and view multiple calendars.
• Apple Calendar – a free calendar app that comes pre-installed on Apple devices and allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and view multiple calendars.
• Fantastical – a paid calendar app for Apple devices that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and view multiple calendars.
• Calendly – a scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments and meetings with others, and integrates with other tools such as Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook Calendar.
• Acuity Scheduling – an appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage your calendar.
• Simplybook.me – an appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage your calendar.
• ScheduleOnce – an appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage your calendar.
• Setmore – an appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage your calendar.
• Square Appointments – an appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage your calendar.

These calendar and scheduling tools can help you stay organized and manage your schedule effectively. By using a combination of these tools, you can create a personalized calendar and scheduling workflow that helps you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Mind Mapping and Brainstorming Software

Here are the top 10 mind mapping and brainstorming software:

• Xmind – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• MindNode – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• Coggle – a collaborative mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects with others.
• MindMeister – a collaborative mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects with others.
• Ayoa – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects, and also includes a task management feature.
• MindMup – a free mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• Scapple – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• iMindMap – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• The Brain – a mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.
• Bubbl.us – a free mind mapping tool that allows you to create and share mind maps, brainstorm ideas, and manage projects.

These mind mapping and brainstorming software can help you generate ideas, organize your thoughts, and manage projects effectively. By using a combination of these software, you can create a personalized mind mapping and brainstorming workflow that helps you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Time Tracking Software

Here are the top 10 time tracking software:

• Toggl – a simple time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• Harvest – a time tracking and invoicing tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate invoices, and integrate with other tools.
• Clockify – a free time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• RescueTime – a time tracking tool that runs in the background of your computer and tracks your productivity, helping you understand how you spend your time.
• Everhour – a time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• TimeCamp – a time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• Time Doctor – a time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• Paymo – a time tracking and project management tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, manage projects, and generate invoices.
• Tick – a time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.
• Hours – a time tracking tool that allows you to track time on projects and tasks, generate reports, and integrate with other tools.

These time tracking software can help you manage your time effectively, understand how you spend your time, and improve your productivity. By using a combination of these software, you can create a personalized time tracking workflow that helps you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Distraction-Blocking Apps

Here are the top 10 distraction-blocking apps:

• Forest – an app that allows you to plant virtual trees, which grow over time as you stay focused, and help you build a forest of your achievements.
• Cold Turkey – an app that blocks distractions for a set amount of time, helping you focus and get more done.
• Freedom – an app that blocks distractions for a set amount of time, helping you focus and get more done.
• StayFocusd – a browser extension that blocks distracting websites, allowing you to stay focused on your work.
• Cold Turkey Blocker – an app that blocks distractions for a set amount of time, helping you focus and get more done.
• SelfControl – a Mac app that blocks distracting websites, allowing you to stay focused on your work.
• Anti-Social – an app that blocks social media websites, allowing you to stay focused on your work.
• RescueTime – an app that tracks your activity, giving you insights into how you spend your time and helps you limit distractions.
• Hocus Focus – a Mac app that hides inactive windows, allowing you to stay focused on your work.
• Focus To-Do – an app that combines the Pomodoro Technique with task management, helping you stay focused and get more done.

These distraction-blocking apps can help you stay focused, limit distractions, and improve your productivity. By using a combination of these apps, you can create a personalized distraction-blocking workflow that helps you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Goal Setting and Habit Tracking Apps

Here are the top 10 goal setting and habit tracking apps:

• Strides – a goal tracking app that helps you set and track your goals, habits, and to-dos, with detailed reports and charts.
• Goals.com – an app that helps you set and track your goals, with detailed reports and charts, and a focus on goal setting as a process.
• Coach.me – an app that helps you set and track your habits, with a focus on community and coaching, and a database of over 300 habits.
• Habitica – a gamified habit tracking app that helps you set and track your habits, with a focus on gamification and a database of over 750 habits.
• Todoist – a task management app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on project and task management.
• Asana – a project management app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on project and task management.
• Evernote – a note taking app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on note taking and organization.
• Google Keep – a note taking app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on note taking and organization.
• Wunderlist – a task management app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on project and task management.
• Trello – a project management app that helps you set and track your goals and tasks, with a focus on project and task management.

These goal setting and habit tracking apps can help you set and track your goals and habits, improve your productivity, and build better habits. By using a combination of these apps, you can create a personalized goal setting and habit tracking workflow that helps you achieve your goals and build better habits.

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Managing your time as a researcher

By charlesworth author services.

• Charlesworth Author Services
• 27 April, 2021

The demands of a PhD can often feel overwhelming, and it is not uncommon to hear of doctoral students being stressed and overworked. However, this does not have to be your experience. The PhD journey can also be an entirely manageable and pleasurable one if you plan well ahead of time.  

Below are six key steps for ensuring you get everything done on time, while enjoying your PhD.  

1. Accept that you cannot do everything

The first step is to understand and accept that there is no way you can possibly read everything you think you need to read, or do every experiment or piece of fieldwork that you think is essential. A PhD is a finite piece of work and you are not expected to create whole, perfect knowledge that will account for every eventuality. When you accept this and clearly define the parameters of your research, you will find that your reading list and research goals become much more manageable.

2. Establish key milestones  

Some universities schedule assessments (sometimes called progression points) for their doctoral students at specific times in their programme, for example at the end of each year or midway through the PhD. Speak to your supervisor or senior PhD colleagues in your department to find out approximately what needs to be done at each stage.  

For example, find out when you should be doing your fieldwork/data collection, performing analysis or writing your first chapter. Finding out these key points will clarify where you should be at each stage. You can then work backwards to decide what you need to be doing, and when, to meet those milestones.  

3. Break down your to-do list

Technically, what is expected of you in your PhD can be accomplished within the timeframe that you have. It seems like a huge amount of work, but you can begin to lighten the load for yourself by breaking down what needs to be done into smaller manageable chunks.  

Deal with tasks one stage at a time. For example, determine the tasks you need to do for your data collection/fieldwork and allocate specific periods of time for each task. You can then break down these tasks further into a monthly or weekly schedule. By doing this, you’ll feel more confident about what you can practically achieve on a day-to-day basis.

4. Steady wins the race

Know that you do not necessarily have to be working a crazy number of hours, all day every day, to do good research. Some academics recommend working approximately 40 hours a week, as you would for a normal job, but understand that each person has their own way of working and may require slightly more or less at different stages of the PhD.  

More important than trying to clock in a set number of working hours is to work steadily at a pace that suits you best. For example, you may accomplish more by working only four focused hours every weekday, than by trying to do everything at once or forcing yourself to work long hours at the last minute to meet a deadline.  

5. Be realistic

To ensure that you are able to work at a consistent, steady pace, be honest and realistic about your working habits and pace. If you know that it takes you a full day to write 500 words, don’t aim to write a 3000-word essay in two days! You will not only set yourself up to fail but will also create a tremendous amount of pressure on yourself. Your mental health will suffer and the PhD will become something you dread.  

Instead, when planning your working schedule, always give yourself more time than you think you need. This extra time can cover any unexpected issues that may arise and give you more space to work peacefully and steadily. If you finish ahead of time, give yourself some well-deserved time off!  

6. Find time for rest

Although this can often feel counterintuitive, taking time off is one of the best things you can do for yourself in the long term. Forcing yourself to keep working – whether it’s reading another journal or writing another few hundred words – may seem like you’re making progress, but if you are tired and burnt out, you may end up making mistakes or having to redo the work.  

Take a full, regular break from your PhD every evening or weekend to rest and recharge. You’ll find that when you’re rested, you will return to your work with clearer perspectives, more energy and ultimately will be able to accomplish more in less time.

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Time management tips for PhD students

• by James Hayton, PhD
• April 16th, 2024

Stay up to date

What makes a good phd research project, should you quit your phd.

Here’s a situation you might find familiar:

You feel like you’re not getting enough done, so you decide you need to get organised and manage your time better. You sit down and make a timeline with key deadlines, then you set yourself a timetable for the week, perhaps even planning to wake up earlier to achieve something early.

This always feels good… it gives you the reassuring feeling you’re in control… and maybe it works for a day or two if you’re lucky… but then you fall behind.

The routine and the deadlines start to slip, and that detailed plan starts to become more of a burden… a demotivating reminder of the standards you’re failing to live up to… rather than a useful tool.

So in this video I’m going to share some thoughts and tips on time management for PhD students, but with the caveat that it’s really complicated. It’s not just about setting up a plan or a system and following it, because there are so many complicating factors in PhD research and in life. There are no universal easy fixes, and different people might have different circumstances that affect their ability manage time effectively.

For example, someone who has ADHD might face different challenges to someone who someone who’s doing a PhD while working a full time job and raising kids, who might face different challenges from someone who has no other major commitments, but has just been ground down by the PhD and has had their confidence drained.

So I’m not going to pretend I have perfect solutions, and I’m not going to pretend that I’ve mastered my own time management, but there are some principles you can work with and adapt to your own needs.

Why time management is so difficult for PhD stduents

One of the reasons why plans often fall apart is that, in research, it’s often impossible to predict how long something will take. As a PhD student, you’re probably learning new techniques, meaning you’re unlikely to do it perfectly first time. And then of course there are other factors like equipment breaking down or administrative delays that are outside your control and can delay progress for months

But even when you have everything you need, including a lot of skill and experience, experiments rarely work first time around. And some experiments, even if you do everything right, never work at all. This is just what happens when you push at the boundaries of knowledge.

But when planning, we tend to guess the minimum amount of time; assuming a perfect version of the future where everything goes smoothly.

While some tasks (routine procedures that you’ve done many times before) might be predictable, many of the most important research tasks (the ones that lead to new breakthroughs in your research) simply aren’t.

These two types of tasks need to be treated differently. For the routine tasks you can just make a checklist and follow the steps. Once you’ve done it a few times you’ll know how long it takes, and you might get quicker with practice.

But not everything is routine, and we also have to allow for the inherently unpredictable, chaotic, messy nature of research. We have to allow for mistakes, delays and dead-ends and let go of the idea that we can make a perfect plan and stick to it.

We also need to let go of the idea of doing everything as fast as we can, because you’re never going to be able to do your best work this way (and things often end up taking longer when you rush them).

So instead of thinking in terms of a to-do list where you aim to complete a task within a set time, it might be better to plan for problems to work on.

When you do this, the goal isn’t necessarily to solve the problem straight away, or guess how long it will take. Instead, it might be better to simply try to understand the problem, because it’s often only when we start work on something that we begin to appreciate what’s required.

You can then think about different approaches and try different ways to solve the problem, accepting that some of the things you try might not work, and that you might have to go through several false starts before you can make real progress.

It’s not always about productivity

If we accept that many of the things we try won’t work, that mistakes and dead ends are necessary and unavoidable, then we also have to accept that much of the time we spend working won’t be measurably productive or produce immediate results; and that’s OK.

The goal should be to spend time on a problem, whether or not it’s productive, focusing on the process and doing the work to the best of your ability, without overly worrying about the end result.

No matter how carefully you work, you will face problems, but what matters is how you react to them.

You might be tempted to switch to work on something else in order to stay productive. This might work in the short term, but what happens when you face another block in that other task?

Do you switch to something else again? This guarantees that you’ll stay busy, but without actually solving any of the problems that you face. It’s a guaranteed recipe for overwhelm.

Or maybe, instead of switching tasks, you go online because you aren’t sure what to do. This was my habit… my coping mechanism… through most of my PhD, but checking email (no matter how I justified it at the time) was just a way of avoiding the issue.

But towards the end of my PhD, I started taking walks around the university campus whenever I faced a problem in the lab, just to give myself time to think. This wasn’t productive time in the traditional sense, but was one of the key habits that ultimately saved my PhD; staying engaged with the problem, but in a relaxed way that allowed me to slow down and think calmly and creatively.

You don’t have to go for a walk, but I do think it’s important to slow down and give yourself time to think instead of rushing on to the next task or distracting yourself online.

So if you set aside time to work on something, just try to stay with it. Even if you’re not being productive, you’re giving yourself a chance to figure it out.

Staying focused

Slowing down to think about a specific problem in your research means temporarily shutting out all the other things you could be doing .

You’ll always have competing demands on your time, and you’ll always have other things you could be working on, but you can only ever really work on one at a time.

But as you work on one task, whatever you’ve decided to prioritise, your brain will probably try to divert you to something else (especially in those moments when you’re not sure what to do).

One trick I’ve found useful is to keep a notepad next to the computer and make note of all the times I’m tempted to do something else.

So let’s say I start working at 9, and by 9:01 my brain wants to check email, I’ll write down; “9:01, tempted to check email” and then turn my attention back to the work. Then at 9:02 my brain will tell me I urgently need to go online and look up how to make sourdough bread.

But then some of the things I think of might actually be important, but I can just write them down and tell myself, it’s OK, I’ll deal with that later. And then, gradually, my brain settles, the self-distraction gets less frequent and I can relax into the work.

Dealing with urgent tasks

But what if you suddenly realise there’s something you have to do right now?

Well then maybe you have to do it… but it’s also a sign that something’s gone wrong if you’ve forgotten about it until the last minute. If you find yourself in this situation all the time, constantly putting out fires, it’s going to be even harder to manage your time and attention.

The simplest thing you can do to avoid this is to take time at the end of each day to plan and prepare for the next . This means you always start each day knowing what your priorities and commitments are and there are no surprises.

This alone can make a big difference, but it also helps to think on a slightly longer-term basis too, and deal with at least some tasks before they become urgent.

Now I fully acknowledge that this is one of those things that’s easy to say, much harder to do. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to put things off until the last minute… Because why would you do something now if you don’t have to?

When there’s no immediate reward for doing something, and no immediate consequences to putting to putting it off, it can be hard to get motivated.

But the longer you put something off, the heavier it gets… so by the time something becomes urgent you’ve trained your brain not to do it and it’s even harder to overcome the resitsance

So one of the best habits you can adopt is to recognise when you’re putting something off, something you keep meaning to do, and make it an absolute priority before it’s urgent. If it’s a single task or decision you’re putting off then you can just do it. Or make a list of tasks you’ve been putting off and work your way through them. You might have to fight a bit of resistance, but you’ll probably find they get easier the more you do, and it’ll feel really good to take those tasks off your mind.

For more complex tasks or longer term projects you’re putting off, you might have to set aside some regular time, and make it part of your routine

When setting up a routine, the most common mistake is to lay out a plan for the whole week, where every hour of every day is mapped out. This gives you very little flexibility to cope with the unexpected, and is also really difficult to stick to.

So it might be better to establish a foundation by focusing on just one point in the day, preferably the morning because what you do early sets the tone for the rest of that day.

For example, right now I’m trying to get some writing done every day, because I want to publish YouTube videos more often. Now I could say I’ll set the routine of publishing a video every Friday, for example, but it’s often better to focus on the process, not the outcome, and the critical part of the process limiting factor is the time taken to write the scripts.

Now I could say I’ll take time on a Thursday afternoon to write, but I want to give priority to the task I’m putting off.

So the routine I’m establishing is to dedicate an hour and a half to writing first thing in the morning, focusing on the process and the time spent engaging in the problem, rather than the result. I get up, make coffee and start writing.

If I make that a non-negotiable commitment and follow through on the plan early, then I find that I’m much more motivated and disciplined throughout the rest of the day because I’m building on a win.

So instead of having a rigid plan for the whole week, I’m creating a simple routine for the start of the day. From there I can add others… for example, I could say that after writing for 90 minutes I’ll go through my emails… but I want to establish that one habitual routine first before adding more complexity.

And if I slip up in my routine, or if it’s disrupted, I have a simple, clearly defined routine to go back to.

A few quick notes here.

• I’m not strict about the start time. So if I get up 15 minutes later, I’m not going to beat myself up about it. I just start as soon as I can.
• Second, even though I start working on writing straight away, I never, ever, just write as fast as I can just to get words down. I take my time to think about what I want to say and how I want to say it, and most of the time when I’m writing I’m not actually typing. The time I spend thinking isn’t measurably productive, but it’s essential to solve the problems that arise.
• I’d also say that this is just an example of setting up a simple regular routine as a foundation. Not everybody has to write every day… and for you the foundational routine might be that you arrive at the lab and take 15 minutes to go over your plan for the day and gather what you need (ideally away from the computer so you don’t immediately distract yourself with email).

What if there’s just too much to do?

All this might sound good in principle, but what if there’s just too much to do? Or what if you have constantly changing demands on your time, making it impossible to establish your own routine?

I’d say the best thing to try to do would be to carve out a little bit of time somehow. This will often mean communicating with others and rearranging or renegotiating some of your commitments.

So if, for example, you’re doing a PhD while working a part-time job , what I’d try to do is set clear boundaries where you have clearly defined and protected time when you’re unavailable; when your phone is off and you’re not reachable by email, so you can focus on your PhD work.

If that’s not possible on a regular basis, something has to give, whether that’s changing jobs to one where you have fewer hours or more flexibility, or just not doing the PhD (which is also fine as an option, and a lot of people are are a lot happier not doing a PhD).

If you’re doing a PhD while raising kids it’s more difficult, because, especially when they’re very young, sometimes you might have to drop everything, and it might be hard to carve out that protected time on a regular basis.

In this case, if you have to just work when you find the time, then it’s important to have a very clear priority. You’ve got to know that if you get an uninterrupted 30 minutes today, THIS is what you’re going to work on. This will be easier if you’ve taken a little time at the end of each day to plan and prepare for tomorrow, because if you sit down and then try to figure out what to do, especially if you’re sleep deprived, it’s going to be impossible.

Self-care, social contact and sleep

And speaking of sleep deprivation, this brings us to the issue of self-care during your PhD .

When the work piles up and you’re struggling to make progress, you might be tempted to work longer hours and cut back on sleep and social contact.

And, to be honest, sometimes that’s necessary just to get something done— but it just isn’t sustainable as a long term strategy.

Sleep and social contact are fundamental to good mental and physical health, which are also important if you want to do good work.

PhD research is cognitively demanding, and if you’re exhausted and miserable then it’s going to be extremely difficult to think clearly and solve the problems that arise, meaning everything takes longer, which, in turn, might tempt you to work longer hours.

But sacrificing more of yourself doesn’t always increase your chances of success, so I think an important aspect of time management is also protecting some time for self care, social contact, and, above all, sleep.

Throughout this video, I’ve talked about how it’s hard to predict how long things will take and how we need to slow down and think and try things that might not work.

But what if you have a deadline and have to deliver work on time?

The only way to meet deadlines is to narrow your focus and make clear decisions about what you’re going to do and how.

So I’m talking about two different ways of working. One being very open and exploratory and creative, staying focused on problems without worrying too much about immediate results, the other being very decisive and prioritising getting things done on time.

This decisive mode also means deciding what not to do. This can be challenging because you’ll probably want your project to be as impressive as possible, but sometimes you have to let go of some ideas simply because of practicality.

And this can, potentially, make your project stronger, because it frees up time and energy to do a better job on the essentials.

But sometimes, even if you simplify, it’s just not possible to get it done in time.

If this is happening, you’ll usually know before the deadline arrives, in which case it’s best to communicate with others and renegotiate any deadlines or request extensions in advance, rather than leaving it until the deadline has passed.

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PhD: An uncommon guide to research, writing & PhD life

By james hayton (2015).

PhD: an uncommon guide to research, writing & PhD life is your essential guide to the basic principles every PhD student needs to know.

Applicable to virtually any field of study, it covers everything from finding a research topic, getting to grips with the literature, planning and executing research and coping with the inevitable problems that arise, through to writing, submitting and successfully defending your thesis.

Useful links

About james hayton, phd, latest phd tips, phd coaching.

AI-free zone

All the text on this site (and every word of every video script) is written by me, personally, because I enjoy writing. I enjoy the challenges of thinking deeply and finding the right words to express my ideas. I do not advocate for the use of AI in academic research and writing, except for very limited use cases.

See: Why you shouldn't rely on AI for PhD research and writing

Time Management Mastery: Essential Tools and Tips for PhD Students

Navigating the demanding journey of a doctorate or postdoctorate program requires more than just academic prowess; it demands exceptional time management skills. In today’s fast-paced educational landscape, effectively managing your time is crucial for success. This blog post aims to equip aspiring PhD students with practical tools and tips to enhance their study efficiency and productivity. Let's dive into strategies that can transform your academic journey. PhD and postdoctorate studies are marathons, not sprints. They require long-term commitment and consistent effort. According to a study by the Council of Graduate Schools, the average time to complete a PhD is 5.8 years. This duration can be overwhelming without effective time management strategies. Efficient time management not only helps you meet deadlines but also ensures a balanced lifestyle, reducing stress and burnout. What tools can we use to Improve Time Management? 1. Digital Planners and Calendars: Tools like Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook can help you organize your schedule, set reminders for deadlines, and plan your study sessions effectively. 2. Project Management Software: Platforms like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com enable you to break down your research into manageable tasks, track progress, and prioritize activities. 3. Pomodoro Technique Apps: Apps like Focus Booster or Tomato Timer incorporate the Pomodoro Technique, encouraging focused study sessions interspersed with short breaks to boost productivity. 4. Time Tracking Tools: Apps like RescueTime or Toggl track how much time you spend on various activities, providing insights into where your time goes and how you can optimize it. Some strategies that will help you achieve effective time management are: Set Clear Goals: Begin by setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your research and studies. Prioritize Tasks: Use the Eisenhower Box method to differentiate between urgent and important tasks, focusing on what contributes most to your academic progress. Create a Structured Daily Routine: Establish a daily routine that allocates specific times for study, research, breaks, and leisure activities. Stick to this routine as closely as possible. Avoid Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time. Multitasking can reduce the quality of work and increase time spent on tasks, as per a study by the American Psychological Association. Take Regular Breaks: Short, regular breaks help maintain consistent performance. Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break) are highly effective. Set Realistic Deadlines: Set achievable deadlines for each task, considering potential obstacles and allowing some buffer time. Seek Feedback Regularly: Regular feedback from supervisors can help you stay on track and make necessary adjustments to your plan. Stay Physically and Mentally Healthy: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep are essential for maintaining focus and energy levels. Use Technology Wisely: Leverage digital tools for research, organization, and communication, but avoid digital distractions like social media during study hours. The Impact of Good Time Management Effective time management in PhD studies leads to better research quality, timely completion, and an overall satisfying academic experience. It also prepares you for future professional roles, where these skills are highly valued. A survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) indicated that time management is one of the top soft skills sought by employers in business school graduates.

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Five Time Management Tips for PhD Students

16 th August 2022

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Due to the limited contact time you’ll receive during your PhD, you’ll need to motivate yourself and organise your own time efficiently – that is if you don’t want to end up going into your final year with an entire thesis still to write. Time management isn’t easy. This little fact is probably something you learned while studying for your undergrad, and it will almost certainly have been reinforced over the course of your Master’s degree. When you’re studying for a PhD, time management is crucial. However, the good news is that there are plenty of effective time management techniques you can use to keep you on the right track. Have a read through the following to get you started… 

Time management tips

Find a routine.

If you don’t have a daily routine, it may be all too tempting to get into bad habits (like staying up until the early hours and then sleeping in until midday). Set yourself a time to wake up each day, and then do your best to stick to it. This will help you to save time when you might be tempted to dither around in the morning.

Keep a diary

Having a place where you can organise your thoughts, jot down to-do lists and keep a track of upcoming dates is always handy – buy yourself a diary and get into the habit of using it on a daily basis. Having a documented account of your goals can help to make you like you've steadily been achieving milestones, and we all know how satisfying it is to tick things off a list.

Create a 'work space'

Working and not working in the exact same space can make it difficult to disconnect when the time comes to relax, or make it hard to focus when you need to get back to studying. Whether it’s a desk in your room or your university’s library, having a designated place where you can go to work will help you separate your work time from your leisure time.

Setting yourself goals (such completing a chapter of your thesis or organising an academic conference by a certain date) is a great way to organise your time and keep motivated. If you're able to do so, allocate time to certain tasks so you don't get lost in a certain subject or cut short your time on an important assignment.

Give yourself a break

It’s also possible to overwork yourself. If you give yourself a start time of 9 o’clock each day, make sure you also have an end time. That way you’ll have something to work towards and a well-deserved break to look forward to at the end of the day. This is something you can also apply to your year as a whole – don’t be afraid to give yourself a week off every now and then!

Next: Read more about How to Manage Your Time As a Postgraduate Student

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Productivity and Time Management Tips for PhD Students

One of the things that PhD students across the globe struggle with is productivity and time management. And this struggle is even more profound for PhD students who are also working and have a young family.

I am one of those juggling PhD studies with family, work and other ventures.

So, how should one manage all these conflicting responsibilities without losing their sanity?

The answer lies in effective productivity and time management practices.

In this post, I share a few tips on how to enhance productivity and manage time well that I have learnt along the way.

Enemies of productivity and time management

Before I give tips for time management and productivity, it is important to understand what the barriers are:

1. The need for perfection

If you are like me, then you must have suffered from this illness called perfectionism in any area of your life. In PhD, especially, perfectionism manifests in various ways: wanting to submit a perfect assignment, wanting your proposal to be perfect, wanting your thesis draft to be 100% error-free, etc. Perfectionism holds you back because you keep on doing the same thing over and over again with the hope that the end result will be excellent. As a result, other important tasks suffer and delay in the process. Whereas it is noble to strive for excellence, it is important to understand that a good assignment or proposal is one that has been submitted.

PhD students should therefore give their assignments and writings the best they can give and submit them in good time. This helps them receive feedback on their work in good time, and subsequently they can revise and submit an improved version within a shorter timeframe than if they were striving for perfection.

2. Social media

Social media is all around us, and the platforms keep increasing and becoming more interesting as the years go by. Whereas social media platforms have pros, such as helping us connect with our loved ones and peers, the main downside to them is that they can be such time wasters. The temptation to keep scrolling when you open your Facebook page or when you log in to your Instagram account is too great that it takes such a strong resolve to exit. In most cases, by the time one exits their social media account, two or even three hours are already lost.

Besides social media, email is another great time waster. This is made worse if you have turned on notifications for email and if your email tab is open. It is impossible to avoid the temptation to check an email that has just come into your inbox and to respond to it.

4. Multi-tasking

Multi-tasking entails doing more than one thing at the same time. This is an enemy of productivity and time management because your attention will be divided between the various tasks at hand and will end up either doing a shoddy job on them or failing to complete them within their deadlines.

5. Lack of a plan

A big enemy to productivity and time management is the lack of a plan. Some people go to bed not having a clear plan on how their next day will run. They wake up in the morning and still have no agenda for the day. They operate on “whatever comes my way” basis. The lack of a daily plan holds people back because they will not know how to allocate time to important and non-important tasks, and will therefore end up wasting time in the process.

With this understanding of the greatest enemies of productivity and time management, I next discuss some great tips for boosting productivity and managing one’s time in the most effective and efficient manner.  

Top 10 productivity and time management tips

1. prioritise.

We all have competing tasks, some important, some urgent. To boost one’s productivity and manage time well, PhD students should create a list of their priority tasks, on a monthly, weekly, and daily basis. The good thing with priorities is that they are fluid, and keep changing by the day, week, or month.

Creating a list of priorities can help PhD students focus on what’s most important at that particular time, and dedicate less time to other tasks that are not important or urgent.

An example: assuming a full-time PhD student struggling with allocating his time between his various tasks such as reading, writing, taking classes, submitting assignments. If the coursework is the first year of the PhD programme, then his priorities during the first year of his programme should be taking classes, and working on assignments. This does not mean that he will not read papers or write his proposal; he will do them but will not dedicate much time to those tasks in the first year because they are not the most important or urgent tasks. Come second year, the student will now have completed his coursework and can now re-focus his effort and time to proposal writing, which would entail reading many papers and writing out his proposal drafts until he submits and fends his proposal. Come third year, and the focus for the student would now be data collection, analysis and report writing. This example is a clear indication of the fluidity of priorities and the need to focus on what’s important and urgent in any particular season of the PhD journey.

The same applies to PhD students with other competing interests as well such as work and family. They need to know when they should focus on their work, when to focus on their families and when to focus on their studies. This clarity of priorities makes all the conflicting responsibilities a little bit easier to manage.

2. Always start your day right

There is power in completing the most important task first. The task you do first when you wake up should be one that is most important and that brings you the highest value, and sets the right pace for the rest of your day. If you start your day by checking and responding to emails, you are in essence dedicating your most precious time to other people’s agenda, rather than your own. The most important, highest value task will vary by individuals and by the season the individual is in.

For PhD students working on their proposals, the most important and highest value task could be reading journal papers or writing our portions of the proposal. Starting the day with these tasks will not only give the student a sense of accomplishment but it will also clear the way for the student and makes the remaining tasks easier to do.

Tackling the most important, highest value task first thing in the morning should be done consistently until it becomes a habit.

Not only is it important to tackle the most important, highest value task first thing in the morning, it is equally important to work deep.

In the book Deep Work by Cal Newport, he defines deep work as “professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limits” (p.3).

The concept of working deep is highly applicable to PhD studies, where students are expected to make contributions to the body of knowledge. But how does a student make original intellectual contributions when he is working with social media on and in the midst of distractions? This is impossible.

Going deep means locking yourself in a room away from other people, and turning off technological distractions such as mobile phones and just focusing on your work for a given amount of time; this can be as short as 1 hour or as long as an individual’s brain can take it.

Going deep enables a PhD student to have laser focus on the task at hand, be it reading papers or writing bits of a thesis.

4. Set aggressive deadlines for yourself

In my PhD program, it is the norm for students to be given a month to complete coursework assignments. What I have observed is that majority of the students are adrenaline junkies and wait until the very last minute to submit their assignments. An assignment that can be completed in two weeks at most ends up taking a whole month.

What I have found to be useful is to set for myself aggressive deadlines and work with those deadlines. So for a one-month assignment, I set a week or at most two weeks’ deadline to research on it, work on it and upload it on our platform. There is nothing as liberating as completing tasks way ahead of their deadlines. You not only set your mind free from always reminding you subconsciously about the pending assignment but you also free your time to do other important things.

Setting yourself aggressive deadlines forces you to be laser-focused on those tasks and to make better use of your time than more lenient deadlines.

Aggressive deadlines can also be applied to other tasks such as proposal writing, whose timeframe provided by the institution may be as long as one or two years. Be intentional to cut down this time by half or even more, then set to work on the proposal as if your life depends on (and indeed it does). Same case for data collection, writing journal papers, and writing the thesis itself, among other tasks that seem like a mountain for most PhD students.

Setting aggressive deadlines is one of the reasons why some students take 3 years to complete their PhDs while their classmates end up taking even 5 years to complete the same program, yet they started on the same day.

5. Create a to-do list

Keeping your to-do tasks in your head makes one prone to forget some important and not-so important tasks. Your mind will also feel congested with pending tasks.

Free your mind! Jot it all down.

You can use the good old pen and paper method to create your to-do list or you can go the digital way. It does not matter as long as you have one.

A to-do list creates a visual picture of what you are supposed to do each month, week, and day. It’s therefore important to have a to-do list for the month, then break it down into weekly to-do lists and further into daily to-do lists.

This way, your tasks become clearer and less mind boggling.

6. Schedule your tasks

It is one thing to create a to-do list but another thing all together to schedule those tasks.

Use a calendar to schedule your tasks.

It is easy to work on something that has been scheduled than one that does not appear in the calendar.

Use your daily to-do lists to schedule the tasks according to their importance. When you go to bed each night, be clear on what you will do the next day and what time you will do them.

This saves one time that is spent in trying to find what you will do at any particular time.

It will also prevent you from finding and doing less important tasks throughout the day.

7. Use themes to schedule tasks

One strategy that works for some people is the use of themes to compartmentalise tasks and group similar tasks together.

One can use daily themes or time themes.

For daily themes, you can allocate each day of the week for specific tasks e.g. Mondays for reading journal papers only, Tuesdays for writing, Wednesdays for working on references, Thursdays for short courses etc.

For time themes, you can allocate times of the day for specific tasks e.g early mornings for reading, mid-mornings for writing, after lunch for data analysis, early evenings for communication etc.

This strategy reduces distractions and helps one to stay focused on one task on any given day and at any given time.

8. Use dead time to your advantage

Everyone has dead time, which is the time that is lost during the day.

Dead time can be the time we use when we take a shower, when we commute to and from work/school, when we take meals by ourselves etc.

One can use dead time to be more productive by engaging in activities that enhance our productivity.

For instance, rather than scrolling the social media while taking lunch, one can decide to listen to a podcast or an audiobook, practice public speaking, do some stretching exercises etc.

One can also use shower time to meditate, plan for the next day or unwind so as to rejuvenate oneself.

You can also use commute time to read a book (if not driving) or to listen to a motivational speech or audiobook etc.

Dead time is often underestimated but those few minutes each day can add up to hours, days and weeks as the days go by.

9. Consistency is key

You can become better at anything by doing it repeatedly every day.

Same applies to PhD. Many PhD students struggle especially with writing. But you can only become a good writer if you write something every single day.

The more you write, the better you become at it, and the less time it will take you to write in future. This is true for other tasks as well.

PhD students should therefore get in the habit of creating a daily routine for tasks such as reading and writing.

An example that is too common among students is putting off some tasks such as referencing until the last couple of months to dissertation defense. This is a huge mistake and ends up being time-consuming and prone to errors when done this way. It is recommended that referencing (inserting in-text citations and building the reference list) should be done regularly each time a source is read and referenced.

A little each day goes a long way!

10. Take breaks

Your mind, body and soul need breaks throughout the day to rejuvenate.

After every 90-120 minutes, take a short good break.

There are breaks that will boost your productivity and breaks that will dampen it. Learn the difference.

Examples of a good break include: drinking water, eating a fruit, walking around, stretching a bit, taking a power nap etc. These are breaks that build you.

An example of a bad break includes surfing the internet aimlessly, logging into your social media accounts etc. These are breaks that will waste your time and further drain you.

A good break should re-energise you, reset your mind and make you more or as productive as you were before.

Don’t push your body and brain without giving them time to recover; they will not serve you as efficiently as you would like.

Schedule your breaks regularly throughout the day and you will be amazed at how much you will be able to accomplish each day.

It is said that time is a great equaliser; we all have 24 hours in a day.

The difference between successful and unsuccessful people lies mostly in how they utilise their 24 hours.

On the same note, the difference between a productive and an unproductive PhD student is how they use each second, each minute and each hour of their day. If you are a PhD student, implement the strategies and systems highlighted above and you will find your journey to be a bit more manageable.

Related post

How to Create and Use a Gantt Chart for PhD Studies

Grace Njeri-Otieno

Grace Njeri-Otieno is a Kenyan, a wife, a mom, and currently a PhD student, among many other balls she juggles. She holds a Bachelors' and Masters' degrees in Economics and has more than 7 years' experience with an INGO. She was inspired to start this site so as to share the lessons learned throughout her PhD journey with other PhD students. Her vision for this site is "to become a go-to resource center for PhD students in all their spheres of learning."

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• Doing a PhD on the Side: The Importance of Time Management

It’s Saturday morning 8.30am, so the alarm clock reveals loudly. While many others press snooze, that’s not an option for you. You’ve committed to a part-time PhD and know this week’s progress so far is non-existent.

What part of your research to-do list do you prioritise? Literature review, data analysis or write-ups? Try to indulge in all of them, and you can forget about getting any rest.

This time management dilemma is an important skill for all PhD students, but it’s even more important for part-time researchers. In fact, it’s the number 1 area I support part-time research students with. Master time management, and you’re halfway on your journey to doctoral achievement.

This is easier said than done. As a part-time student time is a scarce resource. So how do you manage it most effectively? Here are my tips.

Splitting up your research

My first advice is often simple: deploy your cookie cutter. Split that one major, intractable objective (i.e. getting a doctorate) into small, digestible chunks. This starts with research design. When I was pursuing my own part-time PhD, my supervisors and I intentionally divvied the thesis up into three smaller, self-contained chapters. This gave us a range of clear and achievable milestones.

Then start splitting up each research chapter. Consider the subsections, such as literature review, hypothesis development, data analysis and so on. The progress on these subsections can often be readily measured, for instance by number of paragraphs written, number of regressions conducted, etc. Or, quite often, it may be number of paragraphs re -written, number of regressions re -run. A PhD is not a linear, steady journey . Expect a waltz, moving forwards and backwards.

Think energy level

And to dance well, you will want to tailor your study objectives to your level of energy. Post-hangover econometric regressions are often poor regressions. If you are more tired, perhaps go through several relevant journal articles. Feeling pumped up? Then engage in work that requires heightened focus, such as writing up your data analysis section.

Commitment devices & rewards

Whether you’re buzzing or not, always discipline yourself with commitment devices. How can you actually put your to-do plan into action? Trial and error has led me to several preferred methods for myself. For instance I often diarise study time, which helps designate it an ‘important appointment with myself’. A meeting I should be on time for and prepared for.

Or I would send promissory e-mails to my supervisors: “By the end of the month I will have a draft of this chapter ready.” This helps bind you to that deadline. Your supervisor is your manager – and you don’t want to disappoint the boss. Particularly as he or she holds the key to you becoming a Dr.!

Small post-research rewards can also help. What treats can incentivise you to put in an extra hour of PhD time? "I’ll finish writing up my Literature Review, and then I’ll allow myself to watch an episode of Game of Thrones ."

The right surroundings

No reward however can make up for the right surrounding. What do you consider your research office? If you don’t have one, create one. Set aside a dedicated space within your home for your studies. Somewhere where your notes, books and other PhD essentials are within arm’s reach. And ensure you have sufficient folders to quickly turn this into a mobile office. So you can take your PhD with you when you travel.

Because as a PhD student, wherever you go, your PhD will inevitably be on your mind. Carefully apportion your time however and you will feel less guilty and more successful.

Arthur Krebbers completed his PhD in 2016 before going on to found the PartTimePhD.com website to advise and assist other students.

From the best opportunities to consider, to the skills you'll need to make the most of them

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Confessions of a part-time PhD student

What's it really like to study a PhD part-time (and hold down a full-time job)? Arthur shares more of his experiences in this post.

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Career Guide  01 April 2019

Time management for scientists

Many scientists juggle dozens of tasks and projects at the same time. Adopting effective time management strategies can be a challenge. It’s important to strike a healthy work-life balance. Here’s a guide to getting it right.

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Through intellectual rigor and experiential learning, this full-time, two-year MBA program develops leaders who make a difference in the world.

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Earn your MBA and SM in engineering with this transformative two-year program.

Combine an international MBA with a deep dive into management science. A special opportunity for partner and affiliate schools only.

A doctoral program that produces outstanding scholars who are leading in their fields of research.

Bring a business perspective to your technical and quantitative expertise with a bachelor’s degree in management, business analytics, or finance.

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This 20-month MBA program equips experienced executives to enhance their impact on their organizations and the world.

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A non-degree, customizable program for mid-career professionals.

PhD Program

Program overview.

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Rigorous, discipline-based research is the hallmark of the MIT Sloan PhD Program. The program is committed to educating scholars who will lead in their fields of research—those with outstanding intellectual skills who will carry forward productive research on the complex organizational, financial, and technological issues that characterize an increasingly competitive and challenging business world.

Start here.

Learn more about the program, how to apply, and find answers to common questions.

Admissions Events

Check out our event schedule, and learn when you can chat with us in person or online.

Start Your Application

Visit this section to find important admissions deadlines, along with a link to our application.

Click here for answers to many of the most frequently asked questions.

PhD studies at MIT Sloan are intense and individual in nature, demanding a great deal of time, initiative, and discipline from every candidate. But the rewards of such rigor are tremendous:  MIT Sloan PhD graduates go on to teach and conduct research at the world's most prestigious universities.

PhD Program curriculum at MIT Sloan is organized under the following three academic areas: Behavior & Policy Sciences; Economics, Finance & Accounting; and Management Science. Our nine research groups correspond with one of the academic areas, as noted below.

MIT Sloan PhD Research Groups

Behavioral & policy sciences.

Economic Sociology

Institute for Work & Employment Research

Organization Studies

Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Strategic Management

Economics, Finance & Accounting

Accounting  

Management Science

Information Technology

System Dynamics  

Those interested in a PhD in Operations Research should visit the Operations Research Center .  

PhD Program Structure

Additional information including coursework and thesis requirements.

MIT Sloan Predoctoral Opportunities

MIT Sloan is eager to provide a diverse group of talented students with early-career exposure to research techniques as well as support in considering research career paths.

Rising Scholars Conference

The fourth annual Rising Scholars Conference on October 25 and 26 gathers diverse PhD students from across the country to present their research.

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The goal of the MIT Sloan PhD Program's admissions process is to select a small number of people who are most likely to successfully complete our rigorous and demanding program and then thrive in academic research careers. The admission selection process is highly competitive; we aim for a class size of nineteen students, admitted from a pool of hundreds of applicants.

What We Seek

• Outstanding intellectual ability
• Excellent academic records
• Previous work in disciplines related to the intended area of concentration
• Strong commitment to a career in research

MIT Sloan PhD Program Admissions Requirements Common Questions

Dates and Deadlines

Admissions for 2024 is closed. The next opportunity to apply will be for 2025 admission. The 2025 application will open in September 2024. 

More information on program requirements and application components

Students in good academic standing in our program receive a funding package that includes tuition, medical insurance, and a fellowship stipend and/or TA/RA salary. We also provide a new laptop computer and a conference travel/research budget.

Funding Information

Throughout the year, we organize events that give you a chance to learn more about the program and determine if a PhD in Management is right for you.

PhD Program Events

August phd program overview.

During this webinar, you will hear from the PhD Program team and have the chance to ask questions about the application and admissions process.

Discover Your Doctoral Path

An in-person event for prospective students with Boston-area management programs

September 12 PhD Program Overview

September 25 phd program overview.

Complete PhD Admissions Event Calendar

Unlike formulaic approaches to training scholars, the PhD Program at MIT Sloan allows students to choose their own adventure and develop a unique scholarly identity. This can be daunting, but students are given a wide range of support along the way - most notably having access to world class faculty and coursework both at MIT and in the broader academic community around Boston.

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Profiles of our current students

MIT Sloan produces top-notch PhDs in management. Immersed in MIT Sloan's distinctive culture, upcoming graduates are poised to innovate in management research and education.

Academic Job Market

Doctoral candidates on the current academic market

Academic Placements

Graduates of the MIT Sloan PhD Program are researching and teaching at top schools around the world.

view recent placements 

MIT Sloan Experience

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The PhD Program is integral to the research of MIT Sloan's world-class faculty. With a reputation as risk-takers who are unafraid to embrace the unconventional, they are engaged in exciting disciplinary and interdisciplinary research that often includes PhD students as key team members.

Research centers across MIT Sloan and MIT provide a rich setting for collaboration and exploration. In addition to exposure to the faculty, PhD students also learn from one another in a creative, supportive research community.

Throughout MIT Sloan's history, our professors have devised theories and fields of study that have had a profound impact on management theory and practice.

From Douglas McGregor's Theory X/Theory Y distinction to Nobel-recognized breakthroughs in finance by Franco Modigliani and in option pricing by Robert Merton and Myron Scholes, MIT Sloan's faculty have been unmatched innovators.

This legacy of innovative thinking and dedication to research impacts every faculty member and filters down to the students who work beside them.

Faculty Links

• Accounting Faculty
• Economic Sociology Faculty
• Finance Faculty
• Information Technology Faculty
• Institute for Work and Employment Research (IWER) Faculty
• Marketing Faculty
• Organization Studies Faculty
• System Dynamics Faculty
• Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management (TIES) Faculty

Student Research

“MIT Sloan PhD training is a transformative experience. The heart of the process is the student’s transition from being a consumer of knowledge to being a producer of knowledge. This involves learning to ask precise, tractable questions and addressing them with creativity and rigor. Hard work is required, but the reward is the incomparable exhilaration one feels from having solved a puzzle that had bedeviled the sharpest minds in the world!” -Ezra Zuckerman Sivan Alvin J. Siteman (1948) Professor of Entrepreneurship

Sample Dissertation Abstracts - These sample Dissertation Abstracts provide examples of the work that our students have chosen to study while in the MIT Sloan PhD Program.

We believe that our doctoral program is the heart of MIT Sloan's research community and that it develops some of the best management researchers in the world. At our annual Doctoral Research Forum, we celebrate the great research that our doctoral students do, and the research community that supports that development process.

The videos of their presentations below showcase the work of our students and will give you insight into the topics they choose to research in the program.

Attention To Retention: The Informativeness of Insiders’ Decision to Retain Shares

2024 PhD Doctoral Research Forum Winner - Gabriel Voelcker

Watch more MIT Sloan PhD Program  Doctoral Forum Videos

• [email protected]

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Faculty Directory

Meet our faculty.

PhD | Management

The Ph.D. in Management

Stern’s Ph.D. program in management prepares students to understand how organizations need to compete in challenging and volatile business environments and how managers must manage in complex and changing workplaces. The training is broad based and interdisciplinary, drawing on the fields of economics, psychology, and sociology. Areas of focus within the management doctoral program at Stern include strategy, the study of the competitive dynamics of firm performance; organizational behavior, the study of the behavior of individual employees and managers within organizations; and organization theory, the study of organizational structures and processes.

Explore Management

Discover our other fields of study.

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Time Management Is About More Than Life Hacks

• Erich C. Dierdorff

Your productivity hinges on these three skills.

There is certainly no shortage of advice — books and blogs, hacks and apps — all created to boost time management with a bevy of ready-to-apply tools. Yet, the frustrating reality for individuals trying to improve their time management is that tools alone won’t work. You have to develop your time management skills in three key areas: awareness, arrangement, and adaptation. The author offers evidence-based tactics to improve in all three areas.

Project creep, slipping deadlines, and a to-do list that seems to get longer each day — these experiences are all too common in both life and work. With the New Year’s resolution season upon us, many people are boldly trying to fulfill goals to “manage time better,” “be more productive,” and “focus on what matters.” Development goals like these are indeed important to career success. Look no further than large-scale surveys that routinely find time management skills among the most desired workforce skills, but at the same time among the rarest skills to find.

• Erich C. Dierdorff is a professor of management and entrepreneurship at the Richard H. Driehaus College of Business at DePaul University and is currently an associate editor at  Personnel Psychology.

Partner Center

PhD in Management Program

A phd in management: where business research and education intersect.

Become an industry thought leader while preparing tomorrow’s business leaders.

Our fully funded PhD in Management is designed for ambitious students and professionals interested in a career in university teaching and research.

This residential program, based at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management in Ithaca, NY, combines Ivy League rigor and real-world relevance to prepare you for successful careers in academia.

Why Get a PhD in Management?

With a strong focus on management science and applied research, this doctoral degree is ideal for someone looking to teach at the university level and contribute to the greater body of industry knowledge. Pursuing a PhD in Management is also an ideal next step for executives and senior managers who want to make a transition to academia or enhance their research skills for a successful consulting career.

Fully Funded, Highly Flexible: What Makes Cornell’s Management PhD Different?

As you explore PhD programs’ degree requirements, faculty engagement, and campus experience, Cornell stands alone.

In Cornell’s highly flexible program, you’ll choose a specific area of study and build your own dissertation committee. Our program faculty are genuinely interested and invested in your intellectual development. In this small and highly selective program, you will get to know the faculty and your peers well.

The SC Johnson Graduate School of Management is home to leading research centers and a high-impact academic journal; these open you up to unique learning and mentorship opportunities.

Business Simulation Lab

The Debra Paget and Jeffrey Berg Business Simulation Lab facilitates in-person and online behavioral research related to decision-making and problem-solving.

Discover More About BSL

Our Three-Pronged Approach to a PhD in Management

The Johnson School’s doctoral degree in management combines the best of theory and practice, building on a three-pronged foundation:

Hands-on Experience

Develop your research and analytical skills. You’ll work with classmates to examine existing literature and theories for class deliverables, which will often include your own original research.

Customizable Curriculum

Design your own academic pathway. You’ll choose one of six primary areas of study and create your own dissertation committee.

University-Wide Coursework

Draw on the expertise from across Cornell. You’ll get to select graduate-level courses from schools and colleges devoted to law , hospitality , engineering , labor relations , and other fields.

At a Glance: Cornell’s Fully Funded PhD in Management

The fully residential, fully funded PhD in Management program includes a tuition waiver and a stipend for living expenses. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Degree Awarded

PhD in Management

Program Location

Ithaca, NY, with options in New York City

Program Format

Foundational coursework, original research, and six potential areas of study

Hear from Our Community

“PhD is a marathon, not a sprint, and collaborating with great people is paramount. At Cornell, I’ve found a place where amazing people come together, supporting my research and personal growth. Choosing Cornell means joining a community that knows how important it is to work with exceptional people to excel in the program.” – Elina Hur PhD ’23

Customize Your Path: Our Areas of Study

When you apply to the Johnson School’s PhD in Management, you will select a primary area of study. Choosing a concentration allows you to gain specialized skills and knowledge while growing a portfolio of original research.

Examine the role of accounting information in firms and financial markets. PhD-level research at Cornell explores topics such as how firms report information to investors, how accounting information is used to manage firms, and the nature of auditing.

Strategy & Business Economics

Use modern tools and methodologies to gain a better understanding of the world. PhD students in this area explore many aspects of economics including industrial, behavioral, labor, and organizational.

Dive deep into the financial structure and issues of organizations. Your research might look at how conflicts of interest affect corporate policy, how investor psychology affects asset pricing, or how to detect price bubbles.

Learn how theories from operations research, economics, psychology, and sociology intersect to inform corporate and consumer decisions. Your PhD studies will explore both quantitative and behavioral perspectives of marketing.

Management & Organizations

Prepare for a research-focused career in academia or industry. This versatile concentration develops skilled, innovative, analytical researchers through a broad curriculum and close faculty collaboration.

Operations, Technology, & Information Management

Develop the technical skills and behavioral analysis knowledge you need to address high-impact managerial decisions. This focus area also offers an option to complete coursework at Cornell Tech in New York City.

Idea Generation to Publication: A Career in Teaching and Research

The majority of our PhD in Management students pursue careers in academia. After graduation, many land tenure-track teaching positions at top-tier business schools and continue to advance knowledge through original research. Johnson School PhD students often field multiple offers and see starting salaries range from $150,000 to $250,000.

Finding Your Place at Cornell: Meet Our Current PhDs

Students from around the United States and across the globe arrive at the Johnson School to earn their PhD in Management—and their diverse research interests, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences make for a vibrant, enriching learning environment.

MEET CURRENT PHD STUDENTS

Research and Placements: Making an Impact in the Management Field

After earning the PhD in Management, our alumni go on to teach and inspire future leaders at top-tier institutions. Not only do they teach and conduct research alongside some of the most brilliant minds in business, but they also advance the field through publishing in leading journals and presenting their work at industry conferences.

Recent PhD in Management Placements

• Piyush Anand, PhD ’21, assistant professor of marketing, Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University
• Guarav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, assistant professor, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh
• Eunjee Kim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University
• Sarah Lim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Xuege Lu, PhD ’22, assistant professor, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota
• Subrina Shen, PhD ’21, assistant professor, McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin

Recent Research Publications

• “ Do Real Estate Values Boost Corporate Borrowing? Evidence from Contract-Level Data ” in the Journal of Financial Economics (2022) — Gaurav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, with Murillo Campello, Robert A. Connolly, and Eva Steiner
• “ Converging Tides Lift All Boats: Consensus in Evaluation Criteria Boosts Investments in Firms in Nascent Technology Sectors ” in Organization Science (2021) — Xirong (Subrina) Shen, PhD ’21, with Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, and Pamela S. Tolbert 
• “ Initial and Longer-Term Change in Unit-Level Turnover Following Leader Succession: Contingent Effects of Outgoing and Incoming Leader Characteristics ” in Organization Science (2020)— Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, with John Hausknecht and Lisa Dragoni

“ Does Regulatory Jurisdiction Affect the Quality of Investment-Adviser Regulation? ” in American Economic Review (2019) — Alan Kwan, PhD ’17, with Ben Charoenwong and Tarik Umar

Our Faculty: Accomplished Researchers, Dedicated Teachers

When you join the PhD in Management program at the Johnson School, you’ll be part of a learning community comprising more than 100 accomplished academics and thought leaders. 

Not only will you take courses with renowned professors from across the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, but you also will have the opportunity to build your own faculty committee—a group that will become instrumental as you select your dissertation topic and embark on your original research.

Faculty Spotlight: Learn from Leading Thought Leaders

Throughout the PhD program—from foundational coursework to your dissertation—you’ll work closely with dedicated teacher-scholars like these:

Kristina Rennekamp

Dr. Rennekamp’s research focuses on financial accounting from a behavioral perspective. She’s widely published, with work appearing in leading academic journals such as The Accounting Review , Contemporary Accounting Research , and The Journal of Financial Reporting .

Karan Girotra

Dr. Girotra studies the digital transformation of companies, whether it’s looking at emerging tools and practices or exploring new business models. He’s frequently interviewed in an array of mainstream business media outlets, including Bloomberg BusinessWeek , Fortune , and Forbes .

Kaitlin Woolley

Dr. Woolley studies the psychological processes behind consumer motivation. She’s an award-winning educator and researcher with work published in academic journals and national media outlets including the Journal of Consumer Research , Journal of Marketing Research , and The Wall Street Journal .

EXPLORE JOHNSON SCHOOL FACULTY

What You’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview

As you pursue your PhD in business management, you’ll begin with a set of foundation courses and progress into advanced coursework in your area of interest. Through it all, your faculty committee will help make sure you’re on the right track.

Foundational Management Coursework

Early in your doctoral program, you will complete foundational coursework in management and other fields. Many of these will focus on the research process and prepare you for your dissertation.

Advanced Coursework in Your Concentration Area

As you progress in the PhD in Management program, you’ll take electives and advanced courses that align with your research area of interest; these classes can be in the Johnson School and across Cornell.

Your Dissertation: Creating Original Research

During the final part of the program, you begin work on your dissertation—the culmination of your original research. You choose the topic of research in conjunction with your committee.

VIEW PROGRAM SPECIFICS

Beyond Business: Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration and Dialogue

Tap into the experience and expertise of faculty members from across Cornell University.

Management is a broad science. Business leaders serve in a variety of roles in industries of all kinds: healthcare, consumer goods, agriculture, biotechnology, media, and consulting to name just a few. At Cornell, you can enrich your education and expand your research opportunities by taking courses and finding mentors beyond the college of business.

Explore fields like computer science, psychology, sociology, communication, engineering, and data science—and then connect the dots back to your management research.

Interact with peers and professors from other disciplines by participating in student organizations and special interest groups or by attending public lectures, workshops, and networking events.

Admissions Overview: How to Apply to the Management PhD Program

The ideal candidate for the Johnson School’s doctorate degree in management will have a strong record of academic excellence, a solid understanding of the research process, and an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. An MBA or master’s degree is not a requirement for admission. 

Our admissions page offers more details about program prerequisites, selection criteria, requirements, deadline information, and a checklist of materials you need to submit with your application.

Connect With Cornell Admissions

The Johnson School admissions team is available to answer your questions about the program and the application process. Stop in or reach out by phone or email today.

253-D Sage Hall Johnson Graduate School of Management Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-6201

Phone: 607-255-5340 Email: Graduate Research Programs Office

The Cornell Campus: Where You Will Learn, Grow, and Thrive

Learn, grow, and thrive on one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. As a PhD student, you’ll spend a lot of time in Sage Hall, a Gothic-style building dating back to 1875. You’ll find more high-tech learning spaces just off campus at the Breazzano Family Center for Business Education. You’ll also have access to the innovative campus of Cornell Tech in New York City—particularly relevant to students focused on technology and information management. 

Attending Cornell also means you’ll call Ithaca, NY, home for about five years. Our eclectic downtown is full of eateries, shops, activities, and all of the amenities you’d need for everyday life. When you’re not in class or studying, you can explore all that the Finger Lakes region has to offer.

PhD in Management FAQ: What You Need to Know

Before you apply to a research-focused graduate program, you’re likely to want to do some deep research of your own. For instance, how does a fully funded PhD in Management work? What’s the typical completion time?

We have a robust Frequently Asked Questions section to help you learn more about our program, the admissions process, and dissertation requirements. For our international applicants, you’ll also find specific details about earning your PhD in Management.

May I speak to someone about my interest in the program and visit?

You are welcome to reach out to any professor with whom you see a good research fit. Our website also has a wealth of information about the program.

Is an interview part of the process?

We offer interviews only to a few applicants after their first screening.

May I talk to a professor or advisor?

You are welcome to contact any professor with whom you see a research match. Faculty are more likely to respond to specific research queries.

I have questions; may I write to this program email address?

Yes. Our response time will vary. We are not able to answer detailed questions that are better assessed by faculty during the application process.

May I schedule a campus tour?

Admissions does not offer campus tours for PhD program applicants. However, you may arrange an appointment with a faculty member.

Fraud alert – beware of third-party post-doc scams.

Cornell University recently has been made aware of fraudulent activity targeting overseas students and researchers, including at least one third party website falsely stating that it is offering a postdoctoral or visiting scholar program in association with Cornell. These scams, which may seek to obtain money and/or personal details from interested applicants, are fraudulent. 

Cornell wishes to warn the public about these fraudulent activities being perpetrated purportedly in the name of Cornell, and/or its officials. Please be advised that: 

• Cornell does not, nor has it, worked in collaboration with third-party companies or organizations to offer postdoctoral or research certificate programs.
• Third parties do not collect tuition or fees on behalf of Cornell.
• Cornell does not work with or endorse such organizations including, but not limited to, Shanghai Lufei Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 上海璐斐教育科技有限公司) and Shenzhen Guoyan Era Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 深圳市国研时代教育科技有限公司).

Cornell’s postdoctoral positions are listed on the Academic Career Opportunities website and postdoctoral fellowship programs are available for viewing. If you suspect a third party of falsely advertising a Cornell program, please notify [email protected]. Victims of such scams may also report them to their local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action.

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When you study at the undergraduate level, you are introduced to a field and gradually become aware of its unexpected nuances and complexities. At the doctoral level, you acquire an intellectual framework that allows you to embrace and accommodate that complexity as you strive to make sense of the world. As you progress, your novel insights help others make sense of the world as well. When that occurs, you are contributing to knowledge. Doctoral study is rigorous and immersive—but it is rewarding.

In the Kellogg PhD program, you will master an academic discipline—economics, psychology, sociology, operations research, or data science—and apply that mastery to real world problems facing managers and policy makers. This discipline-based approach prepares you to challenge conventional wisdom with new ideas, models, and empirical findings that have enduring impact on businesses, organizations, and communities. After leaving Kellogg, you can look forward to a career leading and inspiring others through teaching and research.

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The Best Time Management Apps for Online College Students

Posted by Kelly Cutler | Aug 20, 2024 | Time Management

As an online college student, you are constantly juggling classes, activities, jobs, and countless tasks. Staying organized feels overwhelming at times. The solution? Time management apps. They can provide a quick fix for regaining control of your daily schedule and to-do list.

We’ve curated a list of the best time management apps for you to help improve your workflow. Discover features to centralize your commitments, set reminders, prioritize tasks, block distractions, schedule study sessions, and visualize your week. We’ll help you find an app that aligns with your organizational needs and productivity goals.

Easily Distracted? These Platforms May Help

Brain focus.

As a college student, your ability to deeply focus is crucial for academic success. Brain Focus helps you develop this vital skill through the Pomodoro technique. You work in focused sprints, taking rejuvenating breaks to avoid burnout. By training your brain to concentrate and optimize your focus, you can fly through your studying.

Focus Keeper

Focus Keeper is a time management app designed to help eliminate distractions. It provides white noise soundtracks to block out external noises that could break concentration. Additionally, there are customizable task lists that allow you to carefully plan out your workflow. 

By utilizing features like these to remove disruptions from your environment, you can power through assignments, projects, and other tasks more efficiently.

Forest uses gamification to help you focus and minimize interruptions from your phone. Its core feature allows you to “plant” a virtual seed that grows into a tree as long as you stay focused, but withers if you get distracted and leave the app. 

By transforming focused work into an engaging and rewarding experience, Forest helps you cultivate better study habits and time management.

Reminder Apps: Never Miss a Task Again

Remember the milk.

It’s easy to forget assignments, events, and errands in the chaos of your day. Remember the Milk helps you stay organized by providing a centralized to-do list. You can easily input items, set due dates and reminders, and check things off as completed. 

Having one place to track all your responsibilities ensures nothing slips through the cracks, allowing you to showcase your capabilities academically and personally.

Microsoft to-do

Microsoft To-Do allows you to organize all your tasks and deadlines in one place. You can easily create lists, set due dates and reminders, and check off completed items. Utilizing To-Do’s features enables you to better manage your time, reduce stress, and stay focused on your academic goals.

Any.do is a great time-management app that helps you track complex projects. One thing to note is their widget feature. It lets you quickly view and manage your agenda from your device’s home screen. 

Any.do’s premium version enables further customization with recurring reminders, color-coded tasks, and more. And by syncing across devices, you’ll have seamless access to your organized schedule anytime, anywhere.

Stay Organized

Notion is an all-in-one workspace. You can take notes, create tasks and calendars, collaborate on documents, and build customized databases to fit your needs. Having this level of organization in one flexible app helps you manage your academic responsibilities. 

Evernote provides a digital workspace where you can easily capture, organize, and access all your notes, files, photos, and reminders across devices. Instead of having important information scattered, Evernote puts it all in one searchable place. 

This seamless way to compile everything related to your academic life ensures no details get lost. With Evernote, important concepts, assignment requirements and deadlines are always at your fingertips.

2Do is a task manager designed to help you master your to-do lists. It offers capabilities like customizable smart lists that automatically organize your tasks and seamless cloud sync across your devices. One of its standout features is the intuitive tagging system that allows you to categorize and filter tasks however makes sense for your workflow. 

Maximizing Your Time Management

With so many time management apps to choose from, you now have a plethora of tools at your fingertips to accomplish your goals. Whether you need help creating the perfect prioritized to-do list, building better study habits, creating focused work sessions, or just decluttering your digital workspace, there’s an app to fit your productivity needs. 

Don’t let another day go by feeling overwhelmed and disorganized. Take control of your schedule and better manage your time with these helpful apps. As you find the right tool for your workflow, you may be amazed at how much more efficient you can be.

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