Start by summarising your PhD – using just 2 or 3 short sentences write down the aims / focus of your PhD project. 

Give yourself a specific time frame to work to – make a record of the things you want to achieve and when you want to achieve them.  For example:

• Try to divide up your research work in to sub-sections and set yourself deadlines for completing each sub-section.

• Set out the number of publications you would like to achieve and when you would like to have them written-up in draft form.

• List which research skills you need to acquire training in and when you plan to do this.

• Decide on a conference to attend and make a note of the abstract and application deadline.

• List any other skills you need feel you need to develop (communication, scientific writing, and teaching), identify some training courses and potential dates.

Reviewing your progress – When you review your CDP plan every 6 months, highlight which targets from your previous CPD you have already achieved. 

What’s your plan after your PhD? – if you know what you want to do, then write it down here, and detail any extra training / experience you will need to achieve this.

If you don’t know what you want to do, why not list a few potential career plans and make it your aim to learn more about them (what the job is like day-to-day and what skills and experience you will need to do the job).