Are you cut out for further studies? This document attempts to lay down some criteria that I consider important. This page is under constant update. Your comments are welcome at: jb@che.iitb.ernet.in or by letter.

Should you go in for a research career, especially a PhD?

Go in for a PhD mainly for "the joy of learning." All other reasons pale in comparison.

Do you constantly experiment in everyday things? If so, you are fit for a research career.

Do you have strong opinons on most things, but are still open to revising them? If so, you are suited for research.

Can you calmly listen to a contrary opinion and respond logically to it? If yes, you are fit for a research career.

Do you get obsessed by an idea to such an extent that it consumes you? If so, you are well suited.

Do you give up esaily? If so, you may not be suited for a research career.

Can you describe in written words, precisely and in great detail, what happened during an incident you observed, or an experiment you did? If so, you will be a great experimentalist and paper writer.

Are you one step ahead of your peers? Are you constantly looking ahead, planning for alternatives and re-evaluating things? If so, you are in the PhD game.

Do you subscribe to the second part of Albert Einstein's quotation: "you can live your life as if nothing is miracle, or you can live it as if everything is miracle."