Research objectives — The principles of scholarship and research. The dissemination of original research and scientific popularization. Expanding the frontiers of knowledge. Positioning oneself within an academic conversation. Defining a research problem of demonstrable value on which one seeks to solve or shed new light.

The thesis — Types of theses and choice of subject. From subject to research problem, from research problem to questions, from questions to answers through the description and analysis of the corpus. The sequence of steps: from courses and exams, preparing the research field; from the Field Examination to the thesis; from the thesis to publication, a book or articles derived from the thesis, subsequent projects.

The tools of research — The plan, as the main working tool. The table of contents as a working hypothesis and continuous reference point. The bibliography as an instrument to be used for research, as an instrument provided with the dissemination of results. Writing adapted to media through which research is disseminated: thesis, article, conference presentation.

Professional skills — Time management: establishing a list of priorities, planning activities, breaking the cycle of procrastination. Teaching: course preparation, classroom delivery, grading, tips of the trade. Developing an academic persona: remaining professional in all circumstances, the CV. Establishing a network of colleagues and experts.