Time and Effort: Writing a PhD Thesis in Anthropology and Beyond

The process of completing a PhD thesis can be both grueling and gratifying. From the initial literature search to final defense, it is a journey filled with numerous challenges and significant milestones. In this article, we will delve into the experience of a PhD candidate, exploring the time and effort required to complete their thesis, and discussing the experience of writing the thesis in a specific field.

Understanding the Context and Process

Many PhD candidates like myself at Berkeley found that the journey from coursework to thesis defense is both time-consuming and intensive. This article aims to provide insights into the time and effort required for completing a PhD thesis, particularly for those in non-STEM fields such as Anthropology.

Literature Search and Coursework

Initial Setup and Coursework
I spent four years at Berkeley, entering the program already having taken several graduate courses in Math, Economics, and Finance. The first three semesters involved extensive coursework, which was followed by a semester of preparation for the written Prelims.

Research and Writing

Dissertation Structure and Timing
My dissertation was composed of three research papers on related topics, along with introductory and concluding chapters, and an appendix. After completing the coursework and my written Prelims, the dissertation took approximately two years to complete. For much of this time, I spent about six to seven hours daily in my office for analysis and writing, followed by another four hours at home each night downloading data, which was significantly slower compared to today's standards.

Personal Circumstances and Adjustments

External Factors and Adjustments
By September 1975, I had completed enough of my literature search to start writing my dissertation. I continued my research and writing until July 1976, when my need to support my widowed mother forced me to take a full-time job. I wrote every evening until October 1976, when I had an all-day session with my advisor, who critically reviewed and evaluated my dissertation. This led to a four-month period of fixing all the issues and ultimately sending it to my committee. Despite receiving comments from three committee members that were relatively easy to address, one adjunct professor held out until fall 1977. However, I was able to quickly resolve his concerns, and I successfully defended my dissertation in December 1977.

Advising and Revisions

Supportive Environment and Revisions
In a sense, the answer to how long it took was indeed two years. It is important to note that during most of this period, I was earning a lucrative salary. As for the writing process, maintaining a supportive environment, such as a writing group through my university (or even on Discord), can greatly assist in staying focused and making the most efficient use of time.

Field-Specific Considerations

Field-Specific Length and Expectations
The length and complexity of a PhD thesis can vary significantly depending on the field. For instance, in Anthropology, my thesis was around 50,000 words, while in STEM fields, theses are generally shorter. Some programs may allow for publishing three articles instead of a traditional thesis. My personal experience was that I wrote mine in just 3.5 months, which was due to a time crunch. This was preceded by data collection for a summer and three consecutive semesters.

Overcoming Challenges

Managing Revisions and Rejections
The most challenging part for many PhD candidates is handling requested revisions that they believe may be incorrect. It is important to remember that by the time a candidate is writing a thesis, they are often considered experts in their niche topic, not just by their committee but by the broader academic community. Therefore, hesitation to reach out to committee members and discuss such issues is not advisable. Engaging in a dialogue can lead to a better and more accurate final product.

In conclusion, the process of writing a PhD thesis, especially in non-STEM fields like Anthropology, requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach to manage time and resources effectively. By understanding the context, leveraging personal and institutional support, and maintaining open communication with advisors, candidates can successfully navigate the challenges and complete their research with integrity.