<p>Doctoral students face a number of challenges during research. Guidance and support is provided through research supervision. However, an individual new to the process may find identifying an appropriate supervisor difficult and be unaware of strategies that can be employed to make the most out of the process. This paper outlines the characteristics of doctoral research supervision and the minimum standards required in the United Kingdom. I will present practical strategies gleaned from my experience as a student and doctoral supervisor, along with potential ethical issues relating to doctoral supervision. The intention is to enable doctoral students to have the confidence, knowledge and skills to enhance their supervision experience and increase the chance of doctoral success.</p>