From Hypothesis to Healing: Practical Advice for the Indian Medical PG
– Dr Dinesh Raja, PGY1 MD Pediatrics, Madras Medical College
Writing a thesis is an essential and often challenging journey for medical postgraduates in India. Here is a practical, step-by-step guide that aligns with both the opportunities and obstacles within this unique academic path.
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Step 1: Finding the Right Research Topic
A. Select a Topic with Practical Significance
Choose a subject that aligns with your clinical interests and has real-world relevance. Dr Rohan Kamat, a senior resident, emphasizes the importance of “picking a topic that excites you and can enhance patient care, making your thesis more than an academic requirement.”
Early in your clinical experience, you will notice certain cases that intrigue you—consider selecting a common but interesting area that you will encounter regularly in practice. This way, your research can naturally align with your daily work without extra strain on data collection. It is better to focus on mastering research methodology than attempting groundbreaking studies. Also, aim for something distinct to your institution or region to add a unique touch.
Pro tip: Always do a pilot study before taking up a topic to see if the study is feasible or not. Because changing protocols later can be a time-consuming process and set you back by a few months.
Questions to ask, while choosing a topic:
– What is the problem?
– What is the relevance of this problem?
– What information is already available?
– What is the expected outcome and how much is it useful?
B. Consult Faculty Mentors Early On
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Senior faculty and mentors can offer valuable insights into trending topics and feasible research areas. As Dr Rajesh Shah from KEM Hospital shared in an Instagram Q&A, “A good mentor can save you from a lot of trial and error.” Your mentors’ experiences and connections can be a tremendous asset and make your research journey smooth.
C. Review Past Theses and Research Publications
Review! Review! Review!
Reviewing related studies and theses will clarify what has already been explored and help you identify gaps and refine your research focus. Take time to search effectively, using Boolean operators and MESH terms.
When analyzing studies, consider:
– What were the main findings?
– Strengths and weaknesses of the study?
– How does it relate to other research?
– What future questions did it leave unanswered?
Pro tip: Jot down notes on key studies—this makes revisiting them simpler later.
Step 2: Designing Your Study and Drafting a Protocol
A. Establish a Clear Research Question and Goals
A well-defined question will streamline your study design and set the stage for a structured thesis. As clinical scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan states, “A clear question is the foundation of a well-constructed thesis.”
B. Create a Practical Protocol and Obtain Approvals
Outline your research method, sample size, and analysis plan, ensuring that you follow your institution’s guidelines. Secure ethics approval early to avoid delays.
Pro tip: Consult a statistician upfront for sample size calculation—it’s much harder to address this retrospectively.
C. Decide on a Retrospective or Prospective Study
Retrospective studies, which rely on existing data, can save significant time, making them popular among residents. While prospective studies may be more challenging, they’re often rewarding with the right support.
Step 3: Efficient Time and Resource Management
A. Set Milestones and Break Down Tasks
Given the workload, break the project into manageable steps with mini-deadlines. As Dr Sudhir Joshi advised in his Quora post, “It’s key to keep progressing, even if slowly.” This steady pacing, combined with teamwork, can make the process smoother.
According to a wise African quote, “If you want to run fast, run alone. If you want to run far, run together.” Leverage the numbers! Take the help of your friends and help in their thesis work as well.
B. Leverage Technology for Efficiency
Use digital tools like Google Forms, SPSS, and Zotero to streamline tasks from data collection to analysis. Direct input of data into digital sheets as you go can save you significant time.
C. Explore Institutional Grants and Resources
Some Indian medical colleges offer funding for research, especially for studies on major health issues like tuberculosis or diabetes. Check with your research department and consider Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) grants as well.
Step 4: Conducting Data Collection and Analysis
A. Be Systematic with Data Collection
Consistency is key, whether you’re using patient records or conducting interviews. Dr. Vandana Sharma, a recent MD graduate from AIIMS, tweeted that “organized data collection is half the battle.” A clear record-keeping system is invaluable.
Since 1st year, the resident writes the discharge summaries, one can segregate cases of interest and start collecting the discharge card and keep a copy. It would be wise to tell your colleagues about it as well so that they can refer those cases as well.
Pro tip: Consent! Consent! Consent! This point can never be overemphasized!
B. Get Help with Data Analysis When Needed
Data analysis can be complex, especially without a statistics background. Collaborate with biostatisticians to ensure accuracy.
C. Quality Over Quantity in Data Collection
Dr Deepak Aggarwal’s advice in his blog is to “value well-analyzed data over sheer volume.” Instead of focusing on large quantities of data, concentrate on gathering information that is relevant and meaningful.
Step 5: Writing and Structuring the Thesis
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A. Divide Writing into Phases
Writing in phases makes it manageable, especially with a demanding residency schedule. Start with straightforward sections like methodology to gain momentum.
B. Follow the IMRAD Format
This structured format (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) keeps your thesis organized and ensures clarity. Many Indian institutions prefer this structure, making approval easier.
C. Proofread and Seek Feedback Regularly
You may share drafts with mentors or colleagues to get constructive feedback.
Pro tip: Avoid plagiarism by properly paraphrasing and citing sources.
Step 6: Presenting and Defending Your Thesis
A. Prepare a Clear Presentation
A concise PowerPoint highlighting objectives, methodology, findings, and conclusions will help convey your work effectively.
B. Anticipate Questions and Practice Responses
Experienced examiners often ask about your methods, interpretations, and conclusions. Practicing with friends or mentors can help you respond confidently.
C. Stay Calm and Trust Your Preparation
When presenting, remember that no one knows your thesis better than you. Dr Amit Raj’s advice in his post is, “Confidence and preparation are your best tools. Go in knowing you’re the expert on your research.”
This journey will demand effort and resilience, but with the right planning and support, it can be a deeply rewarding part of your medical education.
P.S.: All the very best for your future endeavors!
I hope your thesis journey is both successful and with a smile on your heart.
Take care.
Yours Truly,
Dr Dinesh Raja
Writer & Doctor
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dinesh-raja
https://thestarcatcher.home.blog
References
1. Tadavi, Firoz & Pawar, Sudhir & Gondane, Ajitkumar & Kshirsagar, Pramod & Dhage, Pravin & Rege, Manasi & Helge, Bharat. (2023). Challenges Faced By Postgraduate Residents And Senior Residents While Conducting Their Dissertation: An Observational, Cross-Sectional Study In Tertiary Care Hospitals Of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Research Journal of Pharmaceutical Biological and Chemical Sciences. 14(5). 272-279. 10.33887/rjpbcs/2023.14.5.39.
2. Direct interviews of Junior and Senior Residents across the country
3. Direct interviews of Professors
