Best Practices

Some practices are so universal in importance and effectiveness that everyone should do them, regardless of one's specific research project. The lists below are not exhaustive. There are many practices that could be added. You should consider what practices would be helpful to you and add them to the list.

Daily

• Write down a daily plan, even if it's just a couple bullet points. Don't just say it to yourself - actually write it down.
• Record difficulties/challenges in your lab notebook.
• Bring your notebook to meetings with your adviser.
• Build a glossary of terms and techniques that you don't understand.
• Research an unknown item from the glossary.
• Review your notes from the last meeting with your adviser. Remind yourself what problems and solutions were identified.

Weekly