This is a non-exhaustive list of things that candidates, in my experience, consistently throw lots of energy and attention at – despite none of these things really being problems.
- Answering every question you set out to with your research.
- Not publishing during your PhD.
- Not citing your examiners in your thesis.
- Citing your examiners in your thesis.
- Finding spelling mistakes in your thesis after submission.
- Pausing to think in the viva.
- Being asked to complete corrections afterwards.
It’s not wrong to feel concerned about something, but better to check if it really is a problem. The list above is non-exhaustive, but it could be exhausting for you to deal with. It’s much more useful to find things that are really worth your attention before the viva. Invest time in getting ready. Invest attention in your confidence. Invest your time in finding out more about the viva.
