Can I restructure my dissertation methodology while managing ADHD and part-time work?
My advisor says my qualitative methodology draft reads more like a literature review than an actual research design, and I need to completely overhaul it. Between my 20-hour weekly shift at the clinic and managing my ADHD, trying to organize the data collection steps and NVivo coding process feels incredibly overwhelming right now. What is a realistic step-by-step approach to revise this section into a clear, actionable blueprint without burning out?
1 Answer
Your methodology should be rewritten as a concise, step‑by‑step research design that lists the specific qualitative approach, sampling strategy, data‑collection instruments, and coding plan rather than summarising existing literature; each element must be framed as an action you will actually take. Start by drafting a one‑page outline that names the method (e.g., semi‑structured interviews), defines the participant pool, schedules the interview dates, and sketches the NVivo workflow, then flesh out each bullet with just enough detail to show feasibility. The most helpful move is to break the overhaul into three micro‑tasks and schedule them in short, timed blocks that align with your ADHD‑friendly work rhythm. First, spend 30 minutes creating the outline—use a simple template so you don’t get lost in prose. Second, allocate two 45‑minute sessions (one after each clinic shift) to flesh out the sampling and data‑collection steps, writing them as imperative statements (“Recruit 12 participants via clinic flyers”). Third, reserve a single 60‑minute slot on a low‑distraction day to map the NVivo coding process, drawing a quick flowchart that shows import, initial coding, and theme development. By limiting each task to a concrete, timed chunk, you avoid overwhelm, maintain momentum, and produce a clear, actionable methodology section without burning out. This structured, bite‑size approach keeps you focused and makes progress measurable.
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