5 top tips for PhD viva preparation by Dr Nathalie Sheridan*

1.     Prepare in a modular way not question by question

a.    This means: look at possible issues, weaknesses and establish their impact throughout your research (dissertation)

b.    This way you remain flexible in your answers and don’t become stuck in a certain way of thinking

2.     Take the key points from your work and seek out possible issues

a.    Use scenario technique

b.    Ask a critical friend

3.     Make sure to have strong, valid arguments for all the decisions made

a.    You can admit to having made a mistake, if there is really a mistake

b.    BUT before admitting anything, make sure you defend your decisions. However, do not become defensive but choose positive language for the decisions

4.     Know thy authors

a.    Make sure you can relate to authors that helped you make the major decisions for your research

b.    While you do not need to be able to quote, if you know one point that could be critical it certainly helps if you can support your decision with references

5.     Have an emergency strategy

a.    Mine for instance was: If in doubt argue with your data, theories or methodology

b.    Because I knew these were the strong points of my work

c.     This also helps you to keep your language positive instead of becoming defensive

*Dr Nathalie Sheridan successfully completed her doctorate in Education in the UK in May 2011. Her PhD focused on Creative Learning Processes of Refugee Children and the Utilisation of Social Capital.