This document uses a series of expanding circles to illustrate what earning a PhD involves. It explains that a PhD pushes at the boundaries of existing human knowledge through focused research and study, resulting in a new contribution, or "dent," that expands what is known. Obtaining a PhD gives one a deeper understanding and worldview compared to other degrees as it involves pushing into unknown areas at the edge of human knowledge.

1. What Is PhD?
Ever wondered what getting a doctorate really means? It will be explained perfectly in this
graphic presentation that starts with a simple circle:
It's hard to describe it in words.
So, I use pictures.
Read below for the illustrated guide to a Ph.D.
Imagine a circle that contains all of human knowledge:
SEXPAND
By the time you finish elementary school, you know a little:

2. SEXPAND
By the time you finish high school, you know a bit more:

3. SEXPAND
With a bachelor's degree, you gain a specialty:

4. SEXPAND
A master's degree deepens that specialty:

5. SEXPAND
Reading research papers takes you to the edge of human knowledge:

6. SEXPAND
Once you're at the boundary, you focus:

7. SEXPAND
You push at the boundary for a few years:

8. SEXPAND
Until one day, the boundary gives way:

9. SEXPAND
And, that dent you've made is called a Ph.D.:

10. SEXPAND
Of course, the world looks different to you now:

11. SEXPAND
So, don't forget the bigger picture:

12. S