The Final Hurdle

You've completed a minimum of three years chemical research and written your thesis, now you have your viva to prepare for. The last hurdle can sometimes feel like the biggest, and you may be feeling in the dark about what is expected of you. This informative guide, written by Dr Natalie Mansfield (Higher Education Specialist, Royal Society of Chemistry) is the first step in answering all your questions. Consisting of four main chapter sections the guide covers everything you need to know about completing a viva, from suggestions of what to do beforehand through to the day itself. Illustrated throughout with additional tips and advice this informative, concise, guide touches on all aspects of the viva. It gives helpful indicators of the type of questions you may be asked, coupled with advice on how best to formulate your answers. The key message being preparation is key. You may have been researching your subject for the past three years, putting this research into words can sometimes be harder than expected! The guide also comments on how to best to conquer those viva nerves. Advice is also given on key discussion area, how to get the best out of your supervisor and what to expect from the exam itself. Helpful pointers like this are provided throughout the text making this guide essential reading for anyone about to sit their viva. The guide finishes with several additional referenced sources for further information and guidance on how best to not only survive, but complete a successful viva. If you are a chemical research student this straightforward, practical guide will offer you everything you need to know about that final, and most important, hurdle.

This informative guide is supported by the UK GRAD programme.