SMARTCUT #1: Follow the Instructions

Why is my business called Academic Smartcuts? Well, there are no shortcuts to success in academia. There are, however, smartcuts that can make things a little easier to help you get from where you are now to where you want to be. The first one I want to mention is: FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS.

I am shouting in capital letters for a reason. This is perhaps the simplest of all smartcuts, but the one that is overlooked the most often. Ensuring that you have a good grasp on whatever you’re doing—grant proposal, conference submission, job application—saves time and effort in the long run because you don’t need to re-do it. It might also boost your chances of success if others haven’t bothered to take the guidance into account.

Instructions can be varied, but all should be followed to the letter. This includes formatting (margins, line spacing, font type, font size, etc.) as well as the topic of the funding scheme, call, or conference. Submitting by the deadline is a must, and don’t overlook special instructions like an anonymous first stage or a limited number of co-Is on a grant. Just taking the time to ensure you understand the guidance is a great way to avoid falling at the first hurdle.