Defending your thesis before a panel of often highly distinguished academics in the field is by no means an easy task but with thorough preparation, a solid thesis and a calm approach, it can indeed be mastered.

The Viva is designed to assess how well you know the field, your own research and whether your contribution is novel, substantial and original enough to be worthy of a PhD title. It normally lasts two hours at most, in which the examiners will ask you questions about your work. The defence panel is typically comprised of internal and external examiners, some of which you can select. Your supervisor will also be present, but will not be allowed to answer any questions on your behalf. You will typically be allowed to bring in your thesis (although that may vary by institution), which you may consult during the exam. The questions asked may be rather general or very specific, pertaining to the field. Questions typically asked are:

• Why did you choose this particular research problem to address?

• What is the research methodology you employed?

• What is the original contribution you made to the field and why is it significant?

• What are your principal findings?

• What would you approach differently, or what would you leave out if you were to start out again?

• Where do you see future research developing in the field?

The list of possible questions is long and some may seem rather testing and probing. While the examiners are not intending to trip you up, they do want to establish that you are well versed in your field and that you are likely to contribute in the future to your chosen academic area and your work is worthy of the title Doctor of Philosophy.

There are numerous sources and resources on the Internet that focus on how best to survive a Viva. The following represents a summary of this information:

1. Write a good and sound thesis. Having a convincing piece of work to defend is considerably easier than having to argue a porous case. While it is not always easy to deliver an entirely flawless argument, it is advisable to put all your effort in making a strong case before even entering the Viva.

2. Practice! Ask your supervisor to arrange a mock Viva, or practice with fellow students or colleagues in your field of research. Another very helpful way to prepare is to attend and contribute to as many conferences as possible. The more exposure you have to your peer’s insights and criticisms, the more confident you will become of your argument.

3. Be prepared for picky questions. Examiners will try and assess thoroughly how well you know the body of knowledge in the field and your own work. Don’t take any of the questions personally, be courteous and assertive in your reply.

4. Know your thesis and your argument like the back of your hand. Be certain of the works you have referenced, know the core of your contribution, and be clear about its significance to the existing body of knowledge in the field.

5. Speak to other scholars and students who have recently undergone a Viva, ask them for their insights and any tips they might have.

6. Be friendly but confident. Remember that while the examiners on the panel are experts in the field of subject, you are the ultimate expert in your particular subject area. This doesn’t mean you should not take any arguments and objections seriously, but maintaining confidence in your work will help you give an impression of authority and expertise.

7. Prepare, if you can, for the individuals on your examiners’ panel. You will typically be given the names of the examiners beforehand and it may give you an advantage to know their work and whom you will be dealing with.

8. Don’t get too stressed out. While the Viva is a rigorous exam, it is essentially a test of something that you have been working with for the past three to five years. Get a good night’s sleep before the Viva.

9. Read the thesis again carefully with the Viva in mind. Know any weaknesses and prepare to be questioned on gaps in any of your arguments presented.

10. Enjoy it – the Viva is equally the culmination of your hard work and an opportunity to demonstrate what you have achieved.

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