Dear Button,

Just be brutal! cutting down any work is always difficult, you just need to identify the major works and ask yourself 'does the reader need to know this'. There are a few techniques that may help. For example, you could try grouping authors/literature together into clear schools of thought and write about the more broader developments in the field rather than specific studies. You could also be a little clever with the referencing. Depending on what referencing style you use and your discipline, you can use footnotes or endnotes, for example, to signal to the reader that you are aware of the more obscure literature etc. - but, obviously, don't overdo it.

Hope that helps, and good luck

Best,
Si

Dear Delta,

If your main rationale for doing the PhD was the money, and you believe it is a waste of time since it is not related to your research interests, then maybe your supervisor senses this and thats why he/she has not been forthcoming in future career advice. Your negativity jumps off the screen at me; maybe try and be more a little more positive/enthusiastic and maybe people will be more willing to help. That would be my advice, for what it is worth. I hope things work out for you in the future though.

Best,
Si

Dear Delta,

I am about to start a PhD this September so can't comment too much. However, I have had a chance to meet my supervisor during the interview and he has also rung me up for a chat during the application process. All I can say is that I am really looking forward to working with him over the next few years. His research interests are closely related to mine and he seems really enthusiastic about my research project; so I think he will be a great source of inspiration and encouragement throughout my PhD!

Best
Si,