ABSTRACT
In this chapter we present a broad overview of some of the main features of postgraduate research in the social sciences. We appreciate that our account is bound to be general while your experience of research work will be unique and special to you. Indeed, the concept of a social sciences research degree is something of a myth as the field comprises a wide variety of disciplines and even within each discipline a diversity of research traditions and methodologies exist. Nevertheless, what we have attempted to do is to draw upon both research and our own personal experience in order to offer some observations and insights which might help you to prepare for your role as a research student and to enable you to take more responsibility and control over the process of undertaking postgraduate research.
