ABSTRACT
Do not embark on a research problem about which you know more than your dissertation committee. Especially in social sciences, being simplistic can be a very useful attribute. Make your research sound and methodologically solid. During the writing phase, start by doing a ‘sloppy’ job. That is, make grammatical and nontechnical errors in writing to the degree that your advisor keeps “busy” while reading and correcting those minor errors without thinking you do not know what you are doing. If you do a perfect job in writing and everything is self-explanatory, your advisor may not think “You are OK and ahead”; instead, the committee members, especially the thesis chair, will think of something that may be unnecessary or complicated for you to undertake. Do an elaborate literature review, and make sure you cite the current and past research in your dissertation area often during your meetings with the committee to give the impression you are articulate and thorough in your work—hence, that will cut down the chance of them asking trivial and irrelevant questions of you. It will be very helpful to somehow incorporate or cite the work of one or more of your thesis committee faculty members. Just drop by the office of a faculty member and have an impromptu chat about your research agenda—both current and post graduation. Creating a good impression, playing the role properly, and going by the rules help. Remember, at the time of defense, the members will make use of the impression and information you have provided them during prior months or years.
