Weak PhDs

Weak methodology
Ambiguity in defining the aim, objectives, research questions
Weak data collection and analysis methods
Superficial literature review
Superficial analysis
Badly presented (spelling)
Findings are not clearly reported
No validation
No reflections
Bad use of appendices
Bad Performance at viva
Arrogance and ignorance
Other researchers will not use as a reference
No publications before viva
Predicted findings
No structure (flow)
No excitement in the writing style
Opinion based (unsupported statements)
No scope, all over the place
No intellectuality or creativity
Weak theoretical underpinnings
Reporting on a piece of software
Conference papers and reports
Contribution to knowledge is not sufficiently addressed

(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)