A mock viva or mini-viva is like a prototype for the real thing you’ll experience.
- Does it have all of the questions you’ll be asked at your viva? No, but it has enough to get a sense of what to expect.
- Will you have all of the familiarity or preparation you need to engage on the day? No, but you can figure out what else you need to do for that day.
- Does it mostly work in the way you’d expect of the real viva? Yes, it’s still trying to explore and discuss all of the things you’ve done and can do.
A prototype never has all of the features of the final product, but it helps one to get a feeling for what it will be like. Whether you rehearse with your supervisor or with friends, make some time to engage with viva-like practice before your viva.
