As a PhD student in computer science, I've spent a lot of time reflecting on how I work best. The journey through academia is not only about research. It is also about discovering your own process and finding what works for you. Here is what I've learned about myself along the way.
My Approach to Problem Solving
I like to take my time understanding a problem before diving in. There is something satisfying about surveying the landscape first and seeing how others have tackled similar challenges. I am good at connecting dots between seemingly unrelated solutions and taking inspiration from one field and applying it to another.
When deadlines loom, I can shift gears. I focus on the core problem, ignore the peripherals, and stitch together a working solution surprisingly quickly. It is not always pretty, but it gets the job done.
As for collaboration, I am selective. When I find someone who is intellectually in sync with me, working together can be magical. I have also learned an important truth: I would rather work alone than spend precious time bringing someone else up to speed. The time investment of explaining everything often exceeds the benefits of having help.
My Ideal Work Environment
Home is my sanctuary. I need quiet spaces where I can focus without feeling watched. Ironically, while I do not like people hovering around me, I enjoy people watching. That makes coffee shops and other public workspaces problematic for my productivity.
I used to wake up at the crack of dawn, ready to conquer the day. Now I still wake up early, around 6 to 6:30, but I often find myself stuck in the social media scroll. It is a habit I am actively trying to break. These days, my peak productivity happens in the evening hours, though I rarely push past 1 to 2 AM.
I prefer deep focus on one task, and I notice my own avoidance patterns. When faced with particularly challenging work, I sometimes drift to other tasks. I recognize this tendency and I am working to overcome it.
I am a “tools person.” I appreciate anything that helps me visualize my thoughts or automate tracking. I am not chasing every shiny new app that comes along. When I find something that works, I stick with it. I will have a separate post about my favorite tools.
My Productivity Killers
Nothing derails my work like disorganized, frequent meetings. When my calendar becomes a patchwork of interruptions, my mindset shifts from “make progress on research” to “just survive until the next meeting.” It creates a cycle that prevents deep work.
Social media is my other nemesis. I am actively working to reduce my consumption. It is striking how much those small dopamine hits can fragment attention throughout the day.
My Communication Style
When it comes to communication, I value efficiency. Instant messaging wins over email because it is less formal and gets straight to the point. For meetings, I prefer in person over video calls when possible.
Feedback is essential, and I have a specific preference. Do not just point out flaws. Anyone can criticize. I value feedback that comes with suggestions for improvement. Show me you are invested in the solution, not only in identifying the problem.
What Keeps Me Going
I find inspiration in smart people who make difficult things look effortless, especially those who maintain balance in their lives. The stereotype of the socially awkward genius who does nothing but work is not my aspiration. I admire those who do brilliant work while still having fulfilling personal lives.
I am especially motivated when I can see the real world impact of my work. During a recent project developing software for biologists, learning that my work would directly improve their daily research energized me so much that I spent a weekend building a proof of concept.
On the less inspiring days, it is often about consequences. Deadlines, responsibilities, and expectations provide the external structure that keeps me moving forward.
The Shadow of Burnout
The specter of burnout looms large in academia. PhD work is filled with uncertainty. You can spend months on an approach that ultimately fails. This creates a mindset in which any time not working feels like failure. I catch myself thinking, “I should be working now,” during moments of rest.
I am learning that this mindset is not sustainable. Sometimes you have to work on uncertain projects, and sometimes you need to rest even when outcomes are not guaranteed. Finding that balance remains one of my biggest challenges.