Hi everyone, I've never asked for an extension before and really don't want to (especially since I'm not that far into my PhD), but I think I might have to this time. I have my proposal review in the middle of May and my supervisors have asked me to come up with a first draft of my proposal and timescale (approx 8000 words) for this Thursday, two weeks after my last supervision.

Unfortunately I have had to work more hours than planned in my PA job due to staff sickness and 1/2 term, giving me less time for my PhD. I've also had a nasty bout of sciatica for the past week so haven't been able to get so much done as my back has been so painful. I just don't want to sound like I'm lazy and I only want until Monday to give it a better shot, I could get it finished for Thursday but it definitely wouldn't be good enough.

My supervisors are lovely and nothing but supportive, I just don't want to piss them off.

Thanks for reading,

Natassia x

Well this is not really an extension as such. They would like to see a 'first draft' which in most cases is an unfinished document. The actual final document is due May so there is plenty of time to tidy up the offering you give them on thursday. I would try to do as much as possible so showing that you are committed. I wouldn't say that you have been working (jobwise) and not had a chance to do this as they may not be quite so supportive, however you have had a bout of sciatica which would justify some sympathy from them! Do what you can and if you feel they are approachable then perhaps send an email to let them know you are a few days behind schedule, but show them what you have on thursday. At this stage they just want to see progress being made and a level of commitment from their students, which I can see that you have.

Hey Natassia! I would just send them what you've done this Thursday (so they know that you've done something!) but explain the situation and tell them that you will send an updated version on Monday and you would prefer that they wait to look at the updated version if possible. I don't think it will be a problem at all- I know with my supervisor she always urges me only to send her stuff when I have done my best on it, rather than sending her a rough and hurried version, so I doubt they'll mind! Best, KB

Thank you for the responses - they were along the lines of what I was thinking anyway, to send them something tomorrow then a revised version on Monday. They do know I have to work as well but I would probably be right to keep mention of that to a minimum.

Have a lovely day Dunni and KB! :-)