A viva presentation often follows the same format as a PhD thesis, which is considered the gold standard. Everything from the introduction and literature review through the approach, findings, conclusions, etc., will be discussed during the viva presentation. It is customary for there to be at least two examiners present for a PhD candidate's viva. The purpose of a PhD viva is to verify that the work presented is original, that the candidate has a thorough grasp of the material, and that the candidate is a capable researcher. Everything from the introduction and literature review through the approach, findings, conclusions, etc., will be discussed during the viva presentation. The format of your viva presentation is very important in communicating the main points of your PhD.
• Time slot for the presentation: While most universities allow between 10 and 20 minutes for a viva presentation, this varies by institution. The framework you create for a viva presentation that lasts 10 minutes won't work for one that goes on for 20 minutes. Therefore, find out how long your presentation is allotted!
• Your thesis's most important original contribution: A viva presentation's structure should mirror that of the PhD thesis's substance and significant arguments. You wouldn't want to base your whole presentation on your data gathering and analysis if, for example, your PhD thesis is very theoretical. Make sure the format of your viva presentation complements your key points.
University requirements Each institution may have distinct (and even tacit) norms and standards, so it's best to share your thoughts and plans for the framework of your viva presentation with others beforehand. Find out from your mentors how they like to convey their viva findings. You should also chat to the people who will be defending their theses before you.
Each presentation should have a well-thought-out framework that makes the presentation's narrative easy to follow. Even in viva presentations, this is true. So, define your story's arc and construct your presentation around it.
Everything from the introduction and literature review through the approach, findings, conclusions, etc., will be discussed during the viva presentation.
This conventional structure has the benefit of detailing each section of the thesis. In addition, it's not too difficult to make.
The problem with the standard presentation structure is that it's tough to cover everything in, say, a 10-minute talk.
In addition, it might cause the examiners, who have already read the thesis, to find the presentation dull.Organizing your viva presentation around your most significant results
Organizing a viva presentation around the most significant results of the PhD study is one such approach.Choose three major results and explain how they relate to the prior research, your own methodology, and the (new) empirical insights you've uncovered. A viva voice, which translates to "with the living voice," is a kind of oral examination. It's a chance to present and defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of academic experts in a concentrated conversation.
The best way to prepare for your viva voice is to start planning as soon as you know the date. Make sure you give yourself enough time to evaluate and reevaluate your work before the big day so that you can concentrate on the nuts and bolts.
This includes anything from preparing sure you get enough of rest the night before the viva (if you're going in person) to planning transportation so you arrive on time.
While doing an online PhD viva has its own unique obstacles, it is still important to put up an effort in terms of appearance.
Dress appropriately for the interview by selecting an outfit that displays your best qualities while yet allowing you to feel confident in yourself. Dressing the part might help you adopt a more businesslike demeanor in your interactions.
In the lead-up, try to avoid everything that can cause you tension and instead adopt a positive outlook, one that will make you really enthusiastic to argue the work you've been toiling over for a long time.
Before leaving for the test, double-check that you have brought the thesis and any other relevant notes or resources to back up your arguments.
The PhD viva might run anywhere from one to four hours (often two), therefore it's important to pace yourself.
Keep in mind that the examiners' goal is the same as yours; they want to see you succeed and are mainly interested in hearing you discuss your project. After the first pleasantries have been exchanged, the icebreaker is usually played to assist everyone relax.
You should feel comfortable disagreeing with the examiners gently, particularly on topics about which you feel passionately. Make sure to back up your claims with evidence from your thesis, but keep your writing simple and short.
You should be able to breeze through this exam if you are well-versed in your topic and can articulate your process. And if you're stumped for an explanation when asked a direct question, just say so; it's better to be honest about your ignorance than to ramble on in vain. While acknowledging the limitations of the study at hand is essential, refraining from becoming too self-critical is also crucial.
Finally, take your time thinking over your answers; the PhD viva questions might swiftly shift from lighthearted to in-depth. The examiners' silence is not always a reflection of how poorly you are doing.