Backups

It is better to use your viva prep time to focus on the best rather than the worst case scenario. Give a few minutes to consider the possible backups for the most important parts of your viva and prep.

• If your supervisor wasn’t available to facilitate a mock viva then what would you do instead?
• If your preferred external had to cancel the month before your viva then who is next on the list?
• What would you do if something unexpected comes along to change your plans for viva prep?

Backups can be the very specific – like alternate examiners or other people to rehearse with – or just the general idea of a backup plan for prep in case something interferes with your situation.

For your peace of mind as you prepare, make sure you have some backup plans for getting ready.