Free learning pathL0–L4

Postgraduate research applications

Build the foundations, methods and work samples used in postgraduate research applications roles.

An entry-level learning direction with educational tasks; check target-role requirements.

Practice setWork-sample template

Your learning checklist

Required items: 0 / 10 completed or already known

Device storage

Next: Read a role through its responsibilities

Checklist statuses are self-reported; exercise scores are recorded separately. You can reset any item.

L0

Know the role

  1. Read a role through its responsibilitiesRequired

    Translate a role description into three observable learning goals.

L1

Build foundations

  1. Spreadsheet formulas and reconciliationRequired

    Build a sourced calculation table with an independent check.

  2. Statistics, samples and uncertaintyOptional

    Describe a distribution and its limits of inference.

  3. Research and programme fitRequired

    Independently: Compare research areas, training and requirements across three programmes.

  4. Literature discovery and synthesisRequired

    Independently: Build a five-paper matrix of questions, methods, findings and limits.

L2

Develop core skills

  1. Research gap and contributionRequired

    Independently: Identify a bounded unanswered question from the literature matrix.

  2. Methods and feasibilityRequired

    Independently: State data/material sources, methods and time constraints.

  3. Proposal structureRequired

    Independently: Draft question, context, methods, contribution, timetable and references.

L3

Practise scenarios

  1. Research, citation and argumentRequired

    Write a sourced analytical paragraph with limitations.

  2. Materials and eligibilityRequired

    Independently: Check official materials, deadlines and language requirements.

  3. Research discussion and interviewOptional

    Independently: Prepare a three-minute pitch and answer method/limitation questions.

L4

Build a work sample

  1. Present an inspectable work sampleRequired

    Submit a work sample with method, results and reflection.

Try a practice set

Calculations and choices receive immediate checks. Review open responses yourself against the rubric. All examples are educational.

1. Read 4 papers per week for 3 weeks. Total papers?
2. What makes a research question bounded?
3. After the materials and eligibility task, state one assumption, one supporting fact and one condition that would change your conclusion.

Research proposal and literature matrix

For this research proposal and literature matrix, bound the problem to one educational scenario. List inputs and assumptions, preserve calculations and distinguish findings from missing evidence.

Define the question, scope and success criteria of this research proposal and literature matrix.

Record data, source links, dates, units and assumptions.

Write reproducible steps with calculations, evidence or a process map.

Separate observations, interpretation and recommendations.

List unknowns, validation steps and conditions that change the conclusion.

Work-sample checklist