I have just submitted my thesis and will have a viva soon. I would appreciate any comments, books, and/or links on how to prepare for the viva

good luck

Hi Markov, it is a scary time, I remember it well. To prepare, I re-read my thesis and all the key papers I had referenced. I also read my examiners’ papers to get an idea of their approach to the field. I think having a mock viva (with your supervisory team) is invaluable. Above all, be confident in your viva (even if you don’t feel it!) but not arrogant. Remember that no thesis is perfect and if you are aware of flaws or shortcomings (and hence, prepared to defend them) you will be ok. Best of luck!

Thanks a lot Ann, will let you know how it goes.

Thanks lalal

Anyone else?

You're welcome. You may find this link useful;
http://www.geocities.com/andrewbroad/cs/cs710/viva.html

All the best :o)

One other thing, find out if your Uni runs a PhD Viva preparation workshop. My Uni did and it was really helpful. Even if you are up to date with the university regulations and procedures regarding the viva process, it's good to meet and chat with other students in the same position and you'll be given lots of good advice and tips.

E.g. Why did you tackle this project? (even if it was allocated YOU should have thoughtful reason(s) for doing it); Why your particular approach? (you can't just say "my supervisor told me"); How your results compared to others? (be prepared to DEFEND differences/findings); N.B. don't rely on the paper review done at the start - check out the latest... be ready to comment on how this now reflects on your work... it could be that it completely contradicts you but as long as you can give cogent reasons for it doing so, that (apparently?!) counts.

What went well / badly? How you'd do it now, with the benefit of hindsight, etc. Most of all "they" will want you to show that it is YOUR project work, that you have thought about it (not just been told what to do). As it is your "apprenticeship" as a researcher you must be able to clearly demonstrate a REAL UNDERSTANDING and capability as an independent worker. All the best!