The Same
It’s interesting to consider what you would do differently if you had your PhD time again.
Perhaps with the benefit of hindsight you would take a different approach, explore another topic or organise your work differently. In some cases it might not even be a case of thinking that things would be better: perhaps you can simply see that there are other options or opportunities.
What would you keep the same?
This is perhaps an even more interesting provocation: with experience, understanding and hindsight, what would you keep the same about your PhD?
Ahead of your viva consider what you wouldn’t change. Maybe your topic, approach and effort. Maybe your working process.
Surely your determination. One reason that you got as far as you have is that you managed to keep going, whatever challenges came to you along the way.
PS: if you’re looking for help getting ready for your viva then check out details of my Viva Survivor webinar on Wednesday 3rd December 2025. This is my standout, comprehensive session on getting ready and there’s full details at the link about what to expect. Also, if you use code VIVASURVIVORS before midnight on Sunday 5th October 2025 you can save £10 on registration!