Good PhDs

Robust Methodology
Clear aim, objectives, hypothesis, research Questions
Good data collection and analysis methods
Comprehensive literature review, Critical Analysis
Well presented, Interesting findings
Strong Validation, Good reflections
Good use of appendices
Confidence, Other researchers will use as a reference
Work already published
Original findings
Appropriate structure of chapters (flow)
Writing style (exciting)
Evidence based
Well scoped (focus)
Intellectuality and creativity are evident
Strong theoretical underpinnings
Researching a phenomena
Refereed journal papers as references
Contribution to knowledge clearly described

(From slides “How to succeed in doing a PhD: personal experiences”
A PhD is a journey of discovery & fun by Professor Ghassan Aouad
Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation
University of Salford on 10th March 2009)