The phrase in query refers to a selected kind of phrase puzzle immediate encountered when fixing crosswords. These prompts are designed to steer the solver to a solution associated to the assessments or examinations usually undertaken by people pursuing doctoral levels. For instance, a clue like “PhD hopeful’s hurdle” would possibly end result within the reply “QUALS,” quick for qualifying examinations.
The prevalence of all these clues displays a cultural consciousness of the rigorous educational processes inherent in postgraduate research. They function a compact technique of referencing advanced processes throughout the constraints of a crossword grid. The frequent look of such entries additionally signifies a standard understanding, amongst crossword constructors and solvers, of the challenges related to doctoral applications.
