PhD VIVA

During the two-minute oral viva presentation, just concentrate on the following:
1. Your research problem
2. Your objectives
3. Your methodology
4. Your results
5. Conclusion and contributions...
Now in two minutes, your examiners should know what your thesis is all about. Trust me, at this stage, you have already passed by 50 percent. When your university sends your thesis to potential examiners, not all of them read your thesis closely; some just read it quickly and so may not have a full picture of your study.
Remember, 250-350 pages of thesis require time and energy to read. So, let’s say they have read but are slightly confused. Here you are, your two-minute oral presentation should clear up any misunderstanding or confusion.

THE GOLDEN RULES
1. Before you start your presentation, say something nice to the examiners to make them relaxed and happy.
2. You must know your thesis inside out by heart. You must know which information is on which page; I am not kidding, I did memorize my whole thesis.
3. Have ready on your table and in your laptop a copy of your thesis with the same pagination as that of your examiners and your supervisor(s).
4. Don’t try to fool your examiners. They are experts in your field.
5. Don’t admit to anything negative, such as: Sorry, I am not prepared and so on.
6. Don’t take it easy. Examiners may be friendly, but sometimes things may get unpleasant. Keep cool and be polite always.
7. At any point, if you are under stress, ask for permission to look at your thesis.
8. Focus on the importance and gravity of your research problem. Cite published references to support your stand.
9. Emphasize the importance of your contributions and how you have bridged the gap in the literature.
10. Prove to them with published references that your methodology is sound and used by many other researchers.
11. Simplify your results with graphs and tables and relate them to your hypotheses.
12. Show your conclusion and highlight your new findings.

During Your Presentation, Remember These Tips:
1. Refer to different coloured markers (that have been inserted earlier) in various parts of your thesis to help you locate specific points if necessary.
2. Don’t fight for your right. Your examiners are your clients. Remember, customers are always right. Never ever argue with them; instead, get ready with a pen and a paper and write down their suggestions and thank them.
3. Admit it if you are wrong. Be patient. In a short while, you may well be on the way to being addressed as Dr..... just like everyone else in the hall, hopefully. So be humble.
© Dr. Faryadi