The Differences

Every viva is different because every candidate’s circumstances are different.

Your research is different. Your thesis is different. You are different!

Your examiners are not your friend’s examiners. Your work exists in a different context to every other PhD journey.

And yet, overall, your viva will be similar to others. Regulations create processes. Experiences create expectations. Local culture in your department gives rise to ideas of how things “should” be done.

Similar and different.

For the most part, focus on the differences that matter and are important. If something feels like it will have an impact then decide what you will need to do as a result.

Otherwise, find out how and why most vivas are similar. Figure out what you need to do to get ready.

Pay attention to what makes your work different from what has come before: it’s likely that that difference creates something valuable and worth talking about.