Hi. I have read few articles online on pre-viva anxiety & now I think I’m suffering from the same. Actually, my doctoral viva is scheduled after 3 months, so basically got a less time to prepare. And reading all those, I were nodding in positive. Can you guys just tell me how to deal with such state of mind? Any tips for preparation is appreciated. Thanks.
Hello Everyone
Last time I posted, I was waiting for my Viva. But unfortunately, my thesis got rejected so I got a lot more to worry about now.
To put it broadly, the comments of the examiners were something like these:
1. The hypothesis are not well supported by the literature
2. Not well development of the questionnaire and research methods without the linkage of the literatures. There is no clear explanation of the sample size
3. Chi square should not be used for ordinal or scale type data. Correlation test or regression should be used. The reliability tests should be detailed
4. Conclusion is fairly formed but due to the hypothesis the value of this chapter is low
Now what do I do? I am so worried, I can’t even sleep. I can do the corrections, yes, but the analysis? I can’t do that all again. I really need some advice now.
Sorry to hear that, but its kinda normal. There are only few who get it all ‘right’ in the first go. Just do whatever you can, and talk to your professor or supervisor about what should be done of the analysis part. I think u’ll have to redo it all again as the comments clearly state that Chi-square test is wrong. How much do you have to make the corrections?
I am so demotivated due to my rejected proposal, I can only imagine what you must be going through! We got no option, but to research and make the god damn corrections. Though, I am planning to take a professional help.
Good luck to you!
@dolliejgandy Are professional services trust-able? Whom are you referring to?
@tappedward: I haven’t consulted a professional yet, I am still looking for a trustable one as there are so many online services available. Though, I have heard about Dissertation India from a friend who opted for an editing service and he claimed that the work is pretty decent. So, I will interact with them and only after going through their policies will I think about hiring them. Are you too looking for online help?
I am making the possible changes but I am not confident about it. I am thinking of taking a professional editing service. It would be helpful if someone can suggest me a trustful editor.
After you’re done with writing your research comes the dreaded moment of having to defend it. As tricky as it seems, this last segment of your PhD will definitely test your potential. Here are some tips to help you through this task-
1. Know the format: The format for defending your thesis varies from country to country. You may be required to have a one on one interview or give a presentation to a panel. Whatever the format is, you should be prepared accordingly.
2. The presentation: Prepare a well studied presentation and practice it to perfection. Know the material thoroughly, note the time taken and refine it. Practice in front of peers and friends to gain confidence and feedback.
3. The questions: You are required to know a lot about your research and the topic, but not necessarily everything. Its okay of you don’t know the answer to some question. Just acknowledge and mention what you think about it. If you do know the answer, explain it calmly. Take time to breathe and focus on what you are saying.
4. Its okay to be nervous: Even your examiners expect you to be nervous! Happens with just about everyone. Talking really fast is something that generally happens when we are nervous. So take care to slow down and breathe deep!
And remember, its all going to be OKAY! A nervous performance and minor goof ups cannot undermine a well researched thesis. Hard work will never go unappreciated.
can you suggest how to respond to a question, the answer to which i don’t know at all? what should be my way to express ?
Peter, 
danny54460, and 1 other are discussing. 
Siemen is discussing. 
Discuss your Dissertation 
terry 11:55 am on December 9, 2016 Permalink |
Let me tell you what my examiner said to me during viva on the very first moment. He told me that he wants me to pass the viva so I should not get nervous or restless. He even warned me to not to change his mind. Did you get what he and I mean?
Peter 12:00 pm on December 12, 2016 Permalink |
Opt for the experienced examiners once provided choice. Experienced ones would make less tough for you to answer because they are already aware of your expertise. On the contrary, inexperienced examiners would ask each and everything which might give you a hard time.
danny54460 1:58 am on December 10, 2016 Permalink |
@Terry Of course, I understand what you mean. Anyway, had you passed your viva then?
Roger 11:51 am on December 19, 2016 Permalink |
I had the same anxiety but mine wasn’t due to reading or something. Past viva experiences was the reason. I would suggest be positive and surround you with positivity. Keep yourself motivated, confident of your thesis; challenge your examiner since you are the expert of your paper. You can answer any question raised related to your thesis.