I imagine it might just be that your nerves are manifesting themselves as depression? I think it's common to suffer withdrawal symptoms after submitting. You were constantly motivated by that goal and you reached it, but are in a bit of a limbo land until the actual VIVA. Have you felt like doing any of the things you didn't have time to during the last few weeks/months? Maybe you just need a good distraction. Just think of all the struggling PhDs who would love to be in your place! You have submitted and should be very proud! Hope you feel better soon. :-)

======= Date Modified 22 Feb 2012 22:24:29 =======
Hi Lullaby,

This fairly recent thread has lots of responses on the shortest possible duration: http://www.postgraduateforum.com/threadViewer.aspx?TID=21629

Basically, I think the answer is ''it depends'' ; if you are focused predominantly on the thesis for three years and if your supervisor is quick about reading your work and giving feedback, then 3 years is definitely possible. But, things may happen that are beyond your control - personal circumstances, internal delays in the department, etc.

I'm in the same position as you and I'm determined to get it finished within the three years. (up)

======= Date Modified 19 Feb 2012 19:59:34 =======
To be honest, I would be a bit weary of this supervisor's motivations. Has she mentioned funding possibilities for you? Or is her department simply after your fees. No-one should try to convince you to do something of this scale. You need to be the one driving the process. Her promising you her students never fail is a very negative place to begin the discussion.
Your reasons for doing a PhD have to be strong enough to get you through the difficult times. If you don't want to stay in academia and if it isn't a requirement for the work you want to do in the future, then I imagine doing it simply for the prestige is not going to be reason enough.

I don't know about organizations, but you should be able to apply within your department? Have you tried searching your university's website for how to apply?

I think I understand what they mean: when you write a chapter, it is meant to flow - each element connecting to those before and after, without too much repetitiveness. If you make changes to X, Y, and Z at the suggestion of your supervisor, then items you insert or cut have a knock-on effect on various parts of the chapter. Basically, you have to use your intuition to work out what relates to what else and in what way. You need to always be aware of the questions you have raised and whether or not you answer them in a way that makes sense to the reader.

I know that might seem like a convoluted response, but it's a difficult question to answer!

Really glad to hear you are sticking with it, lost final year! Sometimes a break and a pep talk from someone who has faced the same problem is all you need. Best of luck with your new method. You will get there. (up)

Brilliant new. Congratulations, Dr. Sneaks! 8-)

======= Date Modified 07 Feb 2012 23:11:58 =======
Thanks for coming back with some rays of optimism, donzy! Best of luck with your viva. :)

I thought my eyes were deceiving me when I read '9 years ago'. I didn't even realize the forum was that old.

Thanks Delta and Ady regarding when funding would stop. Mine is very hand-off - all automatic with no progress reports, so I can't see them stepping in between my submitting and my viva. I'm getting very ahead of myself though!