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PhD Cheats
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items Some people call me one of the most successful researchers at my lab, I say it’s organization and planning, check out my tips!!
Sections
6
Organization
Stationary
Computers/Technology
Comfy
Transport
Life savers
Organization
Having your goals written down and in your face every day makes the biggest difference!! Could not get by without my whiteboard on my door to see my goals and to keep track of things to do
Small White Board
Keeping yourself organized is the best way to stay on task. Could not get by without having my days planned out
Academic Planner
Lab notebooks are a MUST have… keeping track of ideas, meeting notes and progress is essential!!
hardcover notebook | staples.ca
The best reference manager!! As I read papers I use the Google chrome extension and add the paper!! Auto makes your references and bibliography in whatever style/format you want
Zotero
Stationary
Sticky notes have saved me so many times, whether it’s organization, remembering specific points in research papers, or even remembering passwords, I always need my sticky notes on hand
Self-Stick Notes: Office Products
Computers/Technology
Having dual monitors was a game changer, being able to have papers pulled up on one, and things I was actively writing or doing on the other makes referencing so much easier
Monitors for All Spaces and Uses
Getting an iPad was a GAME CHANGER, I was able to read papers and write notes at the same time, I could easily share my screen and do tutorials for students, and was perfect for notes in supervisor meetings… so much quicker and easier than paper note...
iPad Pro - Apple (CA)
Air tags have to be gods creation… I have one on my keys, wallet, purse, backpack and suitcases!! When you’re so busy and running around it’s so easy to misplace things, this makes it easy to find them and locate them asap!!
AirTag
I wouldn’t know what to do without my Apple Watch, it keeps me on track with fitness, scheduling and on what’s going on in my personal life, definitely a must have
Apple Watch
Goes without saying! Apple Pencil for iPad has helped me so much throughout grad school
Apple Pencil - Apple (CA)
Google home has been a life saver for me! From setting alarms, turning on lights, monitoring my pet chinchilla or even controlling the temperature in my room, it has saved me so much time and energy on a day to day basis
Manage your Smart Home with Google Home
Comfy
I don’t know about you, but I cannot work if I’m cold or uncomfy, having a warm blanket sweater makes long days sitting at my desk in the cold lab soooo much easier!!!
The Oodie
One of the best things I got for the lab were fuzzy slippers!! I love the croc ones because they stay on so well and keep my feet warm when I’m sitting at my desk!
House Shoes & Slippers | Comfortable & Cozy ...
Need I say more? When you’re staring at screens all day you can get a wicked headache. Blue light glasses have been a game changer for me. My head doesn’t start hurting at 11am anymore
Discover the Trendy Blue Light Glasses Collection | BonLook!
Transport
I’m going into my 8th year of post secondary school, and walking is not it anymore. This is arguably my best purchase since starting grad school… gets me to class, teaching or the lab in less than 5 minutes (compared to a 20 min walk)
NIU Toronto - Electric Scooters & Bikes
Life savers
Maintaining hydration when you’re on the go is so difficult, ever since getting a 2L water bottle I have been so much more hydrated and I don’t go the full day without water… definitely a must have
2L Water Bottle
Having a mini toiletry bag in my school bag at all times has been a life saver, whether it be needing floss, deodorant or a hair brush, I have it and I’m set
Toiletry Bags: Beauty & Personal Care
Do you ever get so busy you forget to drink your coffee? And then it’s to late? Me too. Ever since I got my coffee warmer this has been a non issue for me. 10/10 would recommend
I Finally Caved and Got a Mug Warmer—Now I Use It Almost Every Day