Three Overviews

I like the structure of Why-How-What for writing an overview of PhD research:

• Why did you do this research?
• How did you do it?
• What was the result?

Why-How-What has a nice structure for creating a summary during viva prep. It can also be expanded on in other ways. For example:

• Why did you explore this area?
• How did your plans change?
• What do you need to emphasise to your examiners?

A different set of questions can help you draw together different helpful ideas. You could also help your general viva preparation with a quick Why-How-What overview:

• Why are you on track to succeed at your viva?
• How could you build your confidence in the coming weeks?
• What will you do to help yourself?

Keep Why-How-What in mind as you approach your viva. If you’re asked to prepare a presentation as part of your viva, as some candidates are, then consider this as a nice introduction structure too!

PS: if you’re looking for helpful viva prep ideas then check out Viva Survivors Select Volume 1. This is my complete collection of helpful viva zines I made last year. Volume 1 has eight issues, 165 curated posts from the archives and lots of new resources – and an introductory offer price until tomorrow at midnight!