10 Thesis Reading Tips For Viva Prep

I always tell people that reading their thesis is an essential part of viva prep, like it’s the easiest thing in the world – and I know that I struggled with it a lot! By the time I submitted I felt like I was burned out on my thesis. I felt confident, but was looking forward to when it would all be done. Here are ten tips for reading your thesis that should help with your viva preparations:

1. Take a break for at least two weeks after you submit. Give yourself a little distance from your thesis.
2. Plan when you’ll read it. When will you have read the whole thesis?
3. Put Post Its at the start of each chapter. Make your thesis easier to navigate.
4. Put Post Its where you find something important. Make it easier to find your thesis essentials.
5. Try not to skim-read your thesis. Read it line-by-line at least once.
6. Make a list of questions that one might have about your thesis. Keep them in mind.
7. Underline typos when you see them. Don’t obsess about finding them.
8. Make a glossary of terms. Whenever you find a piece of jargon, break it down.
9. Set some goals. How many times do you need to read your thesis to feel happy?
10. Take a day off from reading your thesis from time to time!

You have to read your thesis. It can feel like a chore at times, but it really is essential for the viva. Do everything you can to make the process work well for you.