ABSTRACT
Trainees have always been encouraged to complete at least one project, and more recently two, during their time on the scheme. The group leaders need to be fully aware of the advantages of a project for trainees, and put forward a good case for doing one. At Exeter all trainees joining the scheme know that projects are expected and slowly the reluctance to do a project has decreased, but has not disappeared completely. The trainee needs to be able to approach his trainer as well as his group leader for advice. Sometimes neither will have an answer, but will be able to suggest other resources. Unfortunately, trainers themselves sometimes have doubts about the value of projects. Trainees are encouraged in the habit of regular reading as soon as they join the three-year scheme. One of the difficulties facing trainees is the vast amount of literature available, and the continuing flow of journals and books published.
