What are the pros and cons of a Ph.D?

What are the pros and cons of pursuing a direct PhD from IIT or IISc in computer science after B.Tech?

• I am fearful that from a guided environment in Btech, I would be suddenly escalated to research environment of Phd. Would it be wiser to step in gradually, first entering MTech and then Phd? Do direct Phds suffer any discrimination while applying for teaching posts?

• Answer:

  I an a Direct PhD scholar joined last year at IITM (within two months of finishing BTech). Usually you have to do several courses - much more than people who do PhD after PG. So you will be on a similar level before starting your research. The research atmosphere nowadays in IITs is very supporting, and it will make sure you don't feel isolated. One big piece of advice, though, is that you have to get rid of the time factor before joining for PhD (direct or otherwise). Also, the aims of your life should be focused, and you should be aware of the area in which you want to work - the subject(s) which you enjoyed the most in your BTech. We don't need to worry about the exact research problem at the time of joining; it will become clearer when you do the courses. If you are still confused, joining as an MS scholar is also a good option; you can convert to PhD later if you wish to, with another exam (and/or interview). Remember - in research (and actually in everything else), you will always do wonders if you like what you do :)