There seems to be many PhD-students contributing to this site, some of them happy with their choice, others not so satisfied. If you could name one thing you wished you'd thought more about before choosing your project, what would it be? I'm trying to make the right decision, and any advice would be very helpful.

I should have thought about whether i'd really enjoy being supervised by an old fuddy-duddy. Although my supervisor is one of the best in his field and he's genuinely a lovely lovely person, he is so boring!!! I don't for one minute regret studying with him, but it'd be nice if he was a bit more engaging to be with!

good point kay. my supervisor is also a big yawn, but she's also a good rock. I know that once she's said something she's gonna stick to it, not like the flighty young flipperty-gibbet supervisors that some of my peers are lumped with!

(sorry, i meant jay not kay!)

another point - don't study in a small research group. big group = more chance of clicking with at least some of them!!!!!

I would really research the area you will live in cos living in an place you dont like will make the best phd miserable.
And definitely join a bigger research group - mine is small and very isolated.
And dont go for an old supervisor they are usually winding down and no longer ambitious.

When u choose your project, be careful that you are really motivated by the topic and will still be in 3 years time. And most importantly, the supervision. Is there anyone to supervise you properly? Can u ask anyone for help when u have technical problems, I think that's the most important, not to feel left alone during PhD.
And last but not least, make sure that there is someone to train you on the devices you will use or on the techniques that you are "supposed" to know. Or someone you may ask when you have problems. Because I think PhD is personal matter but it is still part of your education and formation. Learn the most u can from it.

Thank you so much! It has been very interesting to read your advice. If anyone else has additional opinions, please post them.