Recently, I decided to put ChatGPT to the test. I asked it a question I often hear from many of the Ph.D. students I coach: “How can I strengthen my dissertation argument?”
The AI response was technically correct and well-structured—it suggested reviewing literature, refining the thesis statement and ensuring strong supporting evidence.
But something was…missing.
What ChatGPT didn’t do was ask follow-up questions or customize the advice to a specific research topic. It didn’t stop to consider the nuances of methodology, the expectations of a scrutinizing dissertation committee or the unique struggles of a student who has been stuck in a revision loop for months.
This is exactly where AI falls short and where real coaching makes all the difference.
Let’s break down what AI can and can’t do for doctoral students and why real-life, human coaching is still essential for finishing a dissertation.
It’s obvious: artificial intelligence is affecting higher education and many Ph.D. students are turning to tools like ChatGPT to assist with research and writing. It’s also true that AI can summarize journal articles, build out well-structured outlines and even refine academic language.
While ChatGPT provides truly valuable assistance, it has very definite limitations.
A dissertation is more than just compiling research and structuring arguments; it requires an in-depth level of critical thinking, strategy and personal resilience. And it’s in this arena where AI falls short and where human Ph.D. coaching offers more.
AI Can Provide Information But a Dissertation Coach Provides Strategy
AI is generic. Coaching is customized. ChatGPT can readily answer general questions about topics such as dissertation structure but it does not offer personalized guidance.
A dissertation coach understands the nuances of individual programs, advisor expectations and the specific challenges a student may be facing.
For example, a dissertation coach helps students:
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Break down research into manageable chunks or milestones
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Navigate often complex institutional requirements
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Adjust strategies based on unique writing styles and strengths
AI operates with a vast reservoir of pre-existing data—a dissertation coach operates with real-world experience tailor-made to the student.
AI Can Generate Content But a Ph.D. Coach Helps Build Original Thinking
AI tools are trained on massive datasets, meaning they excel at processing and regurgitating existing knowledge. But the reality is that a dissertation requires original contributions to the field, not just well-structured summaries.
A dissertation coach like myself works closely with students to:
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Fortify and sharpen critical thinking and analysis
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Identify gaps in research and refine research questions
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Ensure that arguments are well-supported rather than formulaic
Yes, AI may help structure ideas, but it lacks the ability to truly challenge assumptions, refine methodologies or push students toward deeper, individualized inquiry.
AI Lacks Accountability—A Dissertation Coach Keeps Students on Track
As a dissertation coach for over a decade now, one of the the biggest challenges Ph.D. students face is staying motivated and focused.
Sure, ChatGPT can generate writing prompts and offer productivity tips, but it does not provide individualized accountability.
A dissertation coach offers:
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Structured timelines to maintain progress
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Regular check-ins to ensure deadlines are met
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Encouragement and troubleshooting when students feel stuck
AI cannot effectively follow up or help a student move through a complex period of writer’s block or self-doubt.
AI Cannot Address the Emotional Toll of a Dissertation
Let’s face it: the dissertation process is not just academic—it is mentally, psychologically and emotionally demanding over a long period of time. Many students experience imposter syndrome, stress and burnout. AI can provide logical responses to this but it lacks true emotional intelligence, or simply: empathy.
A dissertation coach understands the personal side of doctoral work, offering:
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Guidance through setbacks and revisions
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Support in dealing with difficult advisors or committee members
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Encouragement to stay motivated and confident
These aspects of dissertation writing cannot be automated no matter how big the database grows.
The Role of AI in Dissertation Coaching
AI is a useful tool when integrated strategically into the dissertation process. It can help with brainstorming, summarizing literature and improving clarity in your writing.
But AI is not a substitute for expert human guidance—nor should it ever be. After all, learning is something we’re meant to do together!
A dissertation coach ensures that students are:
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Conducting meaningful research
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Thinking critically beyond AI-generated responses
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Staying motivated, accountable and prepared for success
While AI can assist with the writing process, a dissertation coach ensures students reach the finish line.
Reach out if you need dissertation support of the warm-blooded and coffee-fueled human variety.