The PhD process is governed by various formal rules and regulations. Apart from these you also need to consider whether you have to seek ethical clearance, how you are going to deal with issues of confidentiality, storage of your raw data and the issue of intellectual property. You need to be aware of, and comply with them at all stages. You will find these rules and regulations in official handbooks published by your university for postgraduate students. Make sure you read them well in advance to avoid surprises later.

	Learning about your rights and obligations as a student.
	Finding out about departmental resources.
	Coping with the transition to study.
	Clarifying expectations.
	Lots of problems have come up along the way and I don't think I'm going to get it done in time. Is there any way to get an extension?
	Consortium Universities Assistance.