The PhD Viva Demystified: Exploring Frequently Asked Questions

Are you nearing the end of your doctoral journey? The PhD viva, or the oral examination, is an essential component of earning your coveted doctoral degree. However, it is also one of the most intimidating and anxiety-inducing steps in the process.

But worry not! In this comprehensive article, we aim to address frequently asked questions about the PhD viva to help ease your concerns and guide you towards a successful defense of your research.

What is a PhD Viva?

The PhD viva, short for "viva voce" which means "by word of mouth" in Latin, is an oral examination held by a panel of experts in your field. Its purpose is to assess your understanding of your research topic and evaluate the original contribution it makes to your discipline.

The Viva: Who? What? How?: Frequently Asked Questions About The PhD Viva

by Nathan Ryder(Kindle Edition)

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The viva typically takes place once you have submitted your thesis, and it offers an opportunity for you to defend your work, discuss any strengths or weaknesses, and engage in a constructive discussion with the examiners.

How long does a viva last?

The duration of a PhD viva can vary, depending on various factors such as the nature of your research, your field of study, and the approach taken by your institution. On average, viva voce examinations last between one to three hours.

It's important to remember that the duration should not be a cause for concern. Instead, focus on preparing thoroughly to present and discuss your research effectively within the allocated time.

Who are the examiners?

The examiners for your PhD viva are typically experts in your research area. They may be professors, academics, or professionals who possess significant experience and knowledge relevant to your field. The panel usually consists of an internal examiner from your institution and an external examiner from another academic institution.

The examiners have read your thesis thoroughly and will assess the quality of your research, methodology, analysis, and overall contribution. They will ask questions to gauge your understanding, challenge your arguments, and assess the validity of your findings.

How should I prepare for my viva?

Preparation is key to ensuring a confident and successful viva experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Revisit your thesis: Familiarize yourself with the details of your research, methodologies employed, and the results obtained.
• Anticipate questions: Reflect on the potential questions that may arise from your thesis and develop concise and well-supported responses.
• Practice answering: Conduct mock viva sessions with your supervisor, colleagues, or friends to simulate the actual examination conditions.
• Stay updated: Stay up-to-date with the latest literature in your research area to showcase a deeper understanding of your field.
• Seek guidance: Discuss your viva preparations with your supervisor or mentors who can provide valuable insights and advice.

What types of questions can I expect during a viva?

The questions during a viva can vary, but they typically fall into the following categories:

1. Thesis-related questions: These questions will directly relate to your research and thesis, testing your knowledge, methods, data analysis, and s.
2. Conceptual questions: Expect questions that challenge your understanding of foundational concepts in your field and their application within your research.
3. Publication-related questions: Examiners might inquire about potential publications based on your research, exploring the implications and contributions of your work.
4. Future research questions: Anticipate questions regarding the potential future directions of your research, identifying areas for further exploration and development.

By expecting and preparing for a variety of questions, you can feel more confident and articulate in your responses during the viva.

What if I don't know the answer to a question?

It's perfectly normal to encounter challenging questions during your PhD viva, and it's important to remember that you are not expected to know everything. If you find yourself unsure about a question, here's what you can do:

• Remain composed: Take a deep breath and remain calm. Panicking will only hinder your ability to think clearly and respond effectively.
• Clarify and seek clarification: Ask the examiner to rephrase the question if it is unclear. Seeking clarification shows your willingness to engage and understand the question better.
• Offer thoughtful insights: If you genuinely don't know the answer, you can acknowledge it honestly. However, try to provide possible approaches or strategies you may have considered in addressing the question.
• Show enthusiasm to learn: Express your enthusiasm for further exploring the topic and the potential avenues for future research.

What happens after the viva?

Once the viva has concluded, the panel of examiners will deliberate to determine the outcome. Common outcomes include:

1. Pass: Congratulations! You have successfully defended your research, and minor or no corrections are required to your thesis.
2. Pass with revisions: Your research is deemed acceptable, but minor revisions need to be made to your thesis. These corrections are typically related to typos, formatting, or clarifying minor ambiguities.
3. Conditional pass: Your research has potential, but significant revisions or additional work need to be undertaken before the thesis can be accepted.
4. Fail: In rare cases, if your research and defense fail to meet the required standards, the panel may recommend resubmission or consider the termination of your doctoral journey. However, this outcome is rare.

If you receive revisions or conditional pass outcomes, address the suggested changes promptly and resubmit your revised thesis for re-evaluation.

The PhD viva is undoubtedly a daunting hurdle, but with proper preparation and understanding, you can navigate it successfully. Embrace the opportunity to engage in stimulating academic discourse and showcase your expertise.

Remember, the viva is not only a test of your research; it is also a chance for you to demonstrate your ability to defend your work, think critically, and contribute to the wider academic community.

So, keep calm, stay focused, and prepare diligently. With the right mindset and thorough preparation, you will be well-equipped to conquer your PhD viva and emerge as a proud doctoral graduate.

The Viva: Who? What? How?: Frequently Asked Questions About The PhD Viva

by Nathan Ryder(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	221 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	85 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Nathan Ryder loves helping PhD candidates to prepare and be confident for their viva. For five years he has been delivering viva preparation workshops to candidates at UK universities. He always starts by asking candidates "What do you want to know about the viva?"

In The Viva: Who? What? How?, Nathan answers the most common questions in candidates' minds. Over twenty-seven chapters he provides insight into questions such as:
What makes a good examiner?
Is a mock viva essential?
Is there a "standard" viva format?
How can I avoid nerves?
These and more than twenty other common questions about the PhD viva in the UK are answered in this book. Along with tips for engaging with the viva it aims to remove the distractions that impede effective preparation.

About the Author
Dr Nathan Ryder works with PhD candidates all around the UK, and is the creator of the Viva Survivors Podcast. His first book, Fail Your Viva, is a Kindle bestseller in the Study Skills and College & University charts.