Feeling nervous during a viva or any other form of external evaluation is entirely normal. Here are some tips to help you manage and reduce nervousness during a viva:
Preparation is Key: One of the main reasons people get nervous is feeling unprepared. Make sure you thoroughly review the material and topics that might be covered in the viva. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel.
Practice with Mock Vivas: Arrange mock viva sessions with friends, family, or colleagues. Practicing answering questions in a similar setting will help you become more comfortable with the process.
Know Your Material: Understand the subject matter deeply, not just memorize it. When you have a good grasp of the concepts, you'll be better equipped to handle various questions.
Visualize Success: Take a moment to visualize yourself confidently answering questions and impressing the examiners during the viva. Positive visualization can help reduce anxiety.
Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing techniques before and during the viva. Deep breaths can calm your nerves and help you stay focused.
Focus on the Question: Listen carefully to the examiner's questions. If you're unsure about something, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Take your time before responding, and gather your thoughts.
Confidence through Body Language: Maintain good posture, make eye contact with the examiners, and speak clearly. Even if you feel nervous, acting confidently through body language can have a positive impact.
Don't Fear Mistakes: Remember that nobody is perfect, and it's okay to make mistakes. If you don't know the answer to a question, be honest about it. Don't be afraid to say, "I'm not sure, but I can look that up and get back to you."
Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your hard work and that you deserve to succeed.
Keep Things in Perspective: Remember that a viva is just one evaluation and does not define your entire worth or knowledge on a subject.
Stay Present: Try to focus on the current moment rather than worrying about the outcome or what the examiners might think of you.
Reward Yourself: Plan a small reward for yourself after the viva, regardless of how you think it went. Treating yourself for your efforts can create positive associations with the experience.
Lastly, remember that it's okay to feel nervous. Many people experience nervousness during evaluations. Channel that energy into your performance, and remind yourself that you are well-prepared and capable. With practice and time, you'll likely find that your nervousness reduces over subsequent viva experiences. Good luck!