How to Prepare for Internal Viva Exams

If you are studying in college or university, then you must have heard the name of “Viva Exam”. Viva means an oral exam in which the student has to explain the information related to his subject, project or research by speaking. In this, the teacher or expert sitting in front asks you questions and checks your understanding, confidence and grip on the subject.

Now even though many students get nervous on hearing the name of Viva, but the truth is that if it is prepared well, then not only can good marks be obtained, but confidence also increases.

What is Viva Exam?

The full name of Viva is Viva Voce, which means “in live voice”. That is, giving information not in writing, but by speaking.

Usually 10 to 30 minutes are given in this exam. This time depends on the complexity of that subject, research or project. If you have a major project or thesis, this time may be slightly longer.

For example:

• If you have done a project in computer science, you may be asked: “Why did you choose this programming language?”
• If you have done research in biology, the question may be: “What impact can your research have on society?”

Why is it important to prepare for the viva?

The viva is an opportunity to show your understanding of the subject, confidence and presentation skills. Sometimes your hard work is being judged by the very teachers who taught you – and the viva is the only time you can show them how much you have learned.

If you go unprepared, nervousness, wrong answers and lack of confidence can hurt you.

What is the format of the viva?

The viva format of each college may be slightly different, but some things are common:

• In the beginning, you are asked which subject you chose and why.
• Then questions related to that subject or project are asked.
• Sometimes there may be questions related to general knowledge or thinking skills.

How to prepare for viva?

1. Read your project or report carefully
   • Read your report carefully at least 2–3 times.
   • Understand the important parts such as hypothesis, methodology, results and conclusion.
   • Try to understand the language of your report by simplifying it.
2. Make a study plan
   • Make a timetable for one week.
   • Prepare a new section every day.
   • Keep two days for “revision” and “mock viva”.
3. Practice Mock Viva
   • Ask your friends or seniors to play the role of a teacher.
   • Ask them to ask possible questions.
   • Ask them to create an environment like real viva while answering.
4. Record your answers
   • Record your answers on mobile and listen to them later.
   • This will improve your speaking style, language and confidence.

How to increase confidence?

• Stand in front of the mirror every day and practice speaking about your project.
• Speak slowly and pause in between to think.
• Make a habit of speaking while looking into each other’s eyes.
• Think positively – say to yourself, “I am ready”, “I know”, “I will do well”.

How to answer questions in viva?

• Listen to the question carefully – do not hurry to answer.
• Give structured answers – first tell the main points, then explain in detail.
• If you do not know the answer, do not panic – you can say, “I would like to do more research on this.”
• Speak directly and clearly – do not use evasive words.

Common mistakes that should not be made in viva

• Going unprepared
• Giving too many or off topic answers
• Getting angry at criticism
• Not paying attention to body language
• Going with a negative mindset

Some more useful tips

• Get a good sleep the night before the exam.
• Have a light and nutritious breakfast in the morning.
• Reach the viva venue on time.
• Keep all your documents, reports and notes with you.

For which students is viva special?

• Graduation and post-graduation – especially for final year students
• Engineering and medical students – practical is a part of viva
• Research scholars – for thesis or project defense
• Courses like B.Ed., B.Sc., M.Com – also have a part of viva

Some inspirational things

Viva is not a fear, it is an opportunity.

It not only tests your understanding, but also your confidence, presentation and way of thinking.

Consider it a positive experience where you proudly present your work.

Conclusion – Make Viva Your Strong Point

Viva exam not only tests your knowledge, it also gives you a chance to be proud of yourself. If you prepare, there is no need to panic. Practice, confidence and clarity are your biggest weapons.

So next time when it comes to viva, smile and say – “I am ready!”