Tag: your turn to speak

The viva is a conversation between you and your examiners. They use questions to facilitate a discussion about you, your research and your thesis. They’re looking for you to demonstrate your capability as a researcher and the contribution in your thesis.

So, when it’s your turn to speak:

• Pause.
• Make sure you understand the question.
• Know that not every question has an “answer”.
• If the first thought in your mind is “I don’t know,” then pause and think again.
• Take your time when speaking, there’s no rush.
• Use diagrams or sketches to help share your points, if appropriate.

And remember to actually respond to the question!