“Do publications mean my examiners are more likely to pass me?”
Yes, but not for the reasons that I think are behind the question.
Candidates asking this are really wondering, “Will my examiners add those papers into the balance of material that help decide whether or how I pass the viva?” The answer is no, the viva is thesis examination; you and the thesis are being examined, not publications, posters and presentations. It’s on the merit of the thesis that the viva is decided.
But…
…the publications, posters and presentations all help. They help sharpen your thinking every time you do one. They help bring your ideas and arguments together. If you reflect on the experience you have from them, you’ll see that you’re a really good candidate when you come to meet your examiners.
Your examiners don’t pass you on the basis of prior publications; you pass because of all of your PhD experiences.
