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FAQ : The “Snake Fight” Portion of Your Thesis Defense

By luke burns.

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window.

Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department.

Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be.

Q: Does my thesis adviser pick the snake? A: No. Your adviser just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was.

Q: What does it mean if I get a small snake that is also very strong? A: Snake-picking is not an exact science. The size of the snake is the main factor. The snake may be very strong, or it may be very weak. It may be of Asian, African, or South American origin. It may constrict its victims and then swallow them whole, or it may use venom to blind and/or paralyze its prey. You shouldn’t read too much into these other characteristics. Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography.

Q: When and where do I fight the snake? Does the school have some kind of pit or arena for snake fights? A: You fight the snake in the room you have reserved for your defense. The fight generally starts after you have finished answering questions about your thesis. However, the snake will be lurking in the room the whole time and it can strike at any point. If the snake attacks prematurely it’s obviously better to defeat it and get back to the rest of your defense as quickly as possible.

Q: Would someone who wrote a bad thesis and defeated a large snake get the same grade as someone who wrote a good thesis and defeated a small snake? A: Yes.

Q: So then couldn’t you just fight a snake in lieu of actually writing a thesis? A: Technically, yes. But in that case, the snake would be very big. Very big, indeed.

Q: Could the snake kill me? A: That almost never happens. But if you’re worried, just make sure that you write a good thesis.

Q: Why do I have to do this? A: Snake fighting is one of the great traditions of higher education. It may seem somewhat antiquated and silly, like the robes we wear at graduation, but fighting a snake is an important part of the history and culture of every reputable university. Almost everyone with an advanced degree has gone through this process. Notable figures such as John Foster Dulles, Philip Roth, and Doris Kearns Goodwin (to name but a few) have all had to defeat at least one snake in single combat.

Q: This whole snake thing is just a metaphor, right? A: I assure you, the snakes are very real.

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How to survive the "snake-fight" portion of your Ph.D. defense

Most people think that Indiana Jones' fear of snakes stemmed from a traumatic childhood experience . Wrong. In truth, his ophidiophobia came about after failing repeatedly to defend his Ph.D. thesis. Jones may have known his archaeology backwards and forwards, but all his hours of academic research did basically nothing to prepare him for one of the most important facets of his viva voce : the snake-fighting challenge.

Don't make the same mistake Indy did — make sure you're prepared by reviewing this helpful list of frequently asked questions regarding your upcoming scrap with a serpent , courtesy of McSweeny's Luke Burns. Some choice nuggets of wisdom await you, including:

Q: Why do I have to do this? A: Snake fighting is one of the great traditions of higher education. It may seem somewhat antiquated and silly, like the robes we wear at graduation, but fighting a snake is an important part of the history and culture of every reputable university. Almost everyone with an advanced degree has gone through this process. Notable figures such as John Foster Dulles, Philip Roth, and Doris Kearns Goodwin (to name but a few) have all had to defeat at least one snake in single combat. Q: Does my thesis adviser pick the snake? A: No. Your adviser just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was. Q: What does it mean if I get a small snake that is also very strong? A: Snake-picking is not an exact science. The size of the snake is the main factor. The snake may be very strong, or it may be very weak. It may be of Asian, African, or South American origin. It may constrict its victims and then swallow them whole, or it may use venom to blind and/or paralyze its prey. You shouldn't read too much into these other characteristics. Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography. Q: When and where do I fight the snake? Does the school have some kind of pit or arena for snake fights? A: You fight the snake in the room you have reserved for your defense. The fight generally starts after you have finished answering questions about your thesis. However, the snake will be lurking in the room the whole time and it can strike at any point. If the snake attacks prematurely it's obviously better to defeat it and get back to the rest of your defense as quickly as possible.

[ Luke Burns via BoingBoing ]

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Do I have to kill the snake?

Institute guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window.

Does everyone fight the same snake?

No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by MIT Facilities.

Are the snakes big?

We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be.

Does my thesis advisor pick the snake?

No. Your advisor just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was.

What does it mean if I get a small snake that is also very strong?

Snake-picking is not an exact science. The size of the snake is the main factor. The snake may be very strong, or it may be very weak. It may be of Asian, African, or South American origin. It may constrict its victims and then swallow them whole, or it may use venom to blind and/or paralyze its prey. You shouldn’t read too much into these other characteristics. Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography.

When and where do I fight the snake? Does the department have some kind of pit or arena for snake fights?

You fight the snake in the room you have reserved for your defense. The fight generally starts after you have finished answering questions about your thesis. However, the snake will be lurking in the room the whole time and it can strike at any point. If the snake attacks prematurely it’s obviously better to defeat it and get back to the rest of your defense as quickly as possible.

Would someone who wrote a bad thesis and defeated a large snake get the same grade as someone who wrote a good thesis and defeated a small snake?

So then couldn’t you just fight a snake in lieu of actually writing a thesis.

Technically, yes. But in that case the snake would be very big. Very big, indeed.

Could the snake kill me?

That almost never happens. But if you’re worried, just make sure that you write a good thesis.

Why do I have to do this?

Snake fighting is one of the great traditions of higher education. It may seem somewhat antiquated and silly, like the robes we wear at graduation, but fighting a snake is an important part of the history and culture of every reputable university. Almost everyone with an advanced degree has gone through this process. Notable figures such as John Foster Dulles, Philip Roth, and Doris Kearns Goodwin (to name but a few) have all had to defeat at least one snake in single combat.

This whole snake thing is just a metaphor, right?

I assure you, the snakes are very real.

(with apologies to McSweeney’s )

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Answers to Questions You May Have About the Snake Fight Portion of Your Thesis Defense

A few weeks ago a friend asked me why why I didn’t pursue a PhD. “Snakes,” I explained, “I’m deathly afraid of snakes.”

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window. Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department. Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be. Q: Does my thesis adviser pick the snake? A: No. Your adviser just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was.

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Advancing ecology

Published by the nordic society oikos, search form, advice: the 'snake fight' portion of your thesis defense.

It's the time of year when many graduate students defend their dissertations. Many students are anxious about the defense, especially the part where they have to fight a snake. Here is a FAQ that addresses common concerns about the 'snake fight' portion of your dissertation defense. I recommend that you check it out. You don't want the snake fight portion of your defense to go like this .

Note that the advice in the linked article applies mainly to North American and British defenses. In many northern European countries, an external examiner known as the 'opponent' fights the snake on behalf of the student. In such cases, the quality of your thesis determines, not the size of the snake you have to fight, but rather the snake-fighting skill level of the opponent. If you write a very good dissertation, your opponent will be a skilled snake-fighter . If you write a weak dissertation, your opponent will be afraid of snakes .

View the discussion thread.

PhD Dissertation Defense Slides Design: Additional Resources

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• Last Updated: Aug 28, 2020 1:13 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.cmu.edu/c.php?g=883178

Henry Quach

Henry's doctoral defense, official defense recording: monday november 21, 2022.

Official Slides (PDF)

Celebration

Dissertation

Snake fight rules.

In accordance with Common Law, doctoral candidates must defeat a snake as a final requirement for their degree.

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Snake Fight

November 29, 2010 by Corrie Leave a Comment

Luke Burns provides a hilarious Q&A regarding the procedures of a snake fight that apparently occurs during one’s Thesis Defense.

FAQ: THE “SNAKE FIGHT” PORTION OF YOUR THESIS DEFENSE

by Luke Burns

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window.

Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department.

Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be.

Q: Does my thesis adviser pick the snake? A: No. Your adviser just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was.

Q: What does it mean if I get a small snake that is also very strong? A: Snake-picking is not an exact science. The size of the snake is the main factor. The snake may be very strong, or it may be very weak. It may be of Asian, African, or South American origin. It may constrict its victims and then swallow them whole, or it may use venom to blind and/or paralyze its prey. You shouldn’t read too much into these other characteristics. Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography.

Q: When and where do I fight the snake? Does the school have some kind of pit or arena for snake fights? A: You fight the snake in the room you have reserved for your defense. The fight generally starts after you have finished answering questions about your thesis. However, the snake will be lurking in the room the whole time and it can strike at any point. If the snake attacks prematurely it’s obviously better to defeat it and get back to the rest of your defense as quickly as possible.

Q: Would someone who wrote a bad thesis and defeated a large snake get the same grade as someone who wrote a good thesis and defeated a small snake? A: Yes.

Q: So then couldn’t you just fight a snake in lieu of actually writing a thesis? A: Technically, yes. But in that case the snake would be very big. Very big, indeed.

Q: Could the snake kill me? A: That almost never happens. But if you’re worried, just make sure that you write a good thesis.

Q: Why do I have to do this? A: Snake fighting is one of the great traditions of higher education. It may seem somewhat antiquated and silly, like the robes we wear at graduation, but fighting a snake is an important part of the history and culture of every reputable university. Almost everyone with an advanced degree has gone through this process. Notable figures such as John Foster Dulles, Philip Roth, and Doris Kearns Goodwin (to name but a few) have all had to defeat at least one snake in single combat.

Q: This whole snake thing is just a metaphor, right? A: I assure you, the snakes are very real.

***Favorite Quote: “Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography.”

Found via McSweeney’s Internet Tendency.

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A Handy Guide to the Snake Fight Portion of Your Thesis Defense

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window. Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department. Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be.

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Away beyond many a far meridian

Your phd viva: the snake fight.

Luke Burns at McSweeney’s has written an FAQ to the “Snake Fight” portion of the PhD Thesis Defense:

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to “defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window. Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department. Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be. Q: Does my thesis adviser pick the snake? A: No. Your adviser just tells the guy who picks the snakes how good your thesis was. Q: What does it mean if I get a small snake that is also very strong? A: Snake-picking is not an exact science. The size of the snake is the main factor. The snake may be very strong, or it may be very weak. It may be of Asian, African, or South American origin. It may constrict its victims and then swallow them whole, or it may use venom to blind and/or paralyze its prey. You shouldn’t read too much into these other characteristics. Although if you get a poisonous snake, it often means that there was a problem with the formatting of your bibliography. Q: When and where do I fight the snake? Does the school have some kind of pit or arena for snake fights? A: You fight the snake in the room you have reserved for your defense. The fight generally starts after you have finished answering questions about your thesis. However, the snake will be lurking in the room the whole time and it can strike at any point. If the snake attacks prematurely it’s obviously better to defeat it and get back to the rest of your defense as quickly as possible. Q: Would someone who wrote a bad thesis and defeated a large snake get the same grade as someone who wrote a good thesis and defeated a small snake? A: Yes. Q: So then couldn’t you just fight a snake in lieu of actually writing a thesis? A: Technically, yes. But in that case the snake would be very big. Very big, indeed. Q: Could the snake kill me? A: That almost never happens. But if you’re worried, just make sure that you write a good thesis. Q: Why do I have to do this? A: Snake fighting is one of the great traditions of higher education. It may seem somewhat antiquated and silly, like the robes we wear at graduation, but fighting a snake is an important part of the history and culture of every reputable university. Almost everyone with an advanced degree has gone through this process. Notable figures such as John Foster Dulles, Philip Roth, and Doris Kearns Goodwin (to name but a few) have all had to defeat at least one snake in single combat. Q: This whole snake thing is just a metaphor, right? A: I assure you, the snakes are very real.

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Proven Techniques for a Successful PhD Defense

• July 13, 2023
• 12 minute read

Table of Contents Show

Be you, be confident , the importance of time management, working collaboratively with your committee, checklist for understanding your research , know your audience , rehearse, rehearse, and rehearse some more , visual aids are your friends , the q&a dance , handling difficult questions from your committee, speak clearly and confidently: , put things in perspective , prepare for the unexpected , take care of your body , unearth the past , play devil’s advocate , practice makes perfect , embrace the unpredictable , following up with your committee after the defense, never stop learning .

Picture this: you’ve just spent years mastering the art of late-night coffee brewing, diving deep into pools of dense academic literature, and perfecting your ability to sound incredibly smart at dinner parties. Now, the time has come to defend your PhD. Ready for the final boss battle? No worries, hero – we’ve got your back! 

“The PhD defense is not just a ceremony, but the final test in a long, rigorous academic journey. It’s your moment to shine, to demonstrate the depth of your knowledge and to leave a lasting impression.”

Cracking the code to a successful PhD defense doesn’t have to feel like deciphering the enigma of quantum physics (unless, of course, that’s your field of study!). Let’s break down the science of a stellar PhD defense into digestible nuggets of wisdom.

Preparing for Your Defense

Preparing for your defense? Here’s your ticket to acing it! It’s time to buckle up and get ready for a thrilling ride. The end is in sight, and your victory lap is just around the corner. 

Breathe . Yup, first things first. It’s important to remember that your PhD defense is not about catching you out. Instead, it’s a celebration of your hard work over the past few years. 

Remember, you’re the expert in the room. You know your research better than anyone else, so stand tall and proud.

Enough pep talk, let’s dive into some practical tips! 

• Practice makes perfect. Conduct a mock defense with your friends, mentors, or the mirror. This will help you anticipate questions and work on your presentation skills.
• Know your audience. Who are you speaking to and what interests them? Make sure to tailor your presentation to your audience.
• Prepare a killer presentation. Use visual aids, tell a story, and make sure it’s engaging. This isn’t a lecture, it’s a performance.
• Be ready to defend your work. You should be able to justify every decision you made in your research.

PhD defense can indeed feel like a ‘defense’. But hey, remember that you’re in the driver’s seat. Control the narrative, defend your decisions, and above all, enjoy the ride. 

At the end of the day, your defense is about showcasing your work and your journey. Just be yourself, be confident, and let your passion shine through. After all, this is your story to tell, and no one can tell it better than you can.

Hey, future PhD owner! Let’s chat about time management. It’s like that secret ingredient that turns ordinary instant ramen into a sumptuous gourmet meal. 

Time management – two words that can cause a shiver down the spine of even the most diligent student. But fear not, it’s easier than you think, and I’m here to guide you through it. 

Picture this. You’re juggling research, writing, and perhaps even teaching – it’s a circus act that would have even the most experienced performers sweating. But with a sprinkle of time management, you can become the ringmaster of your own academic circus. 

• Plan your work: Outline your tasks for the day, week, or month. It’s like creating a roadmap for your PhD journey – you wouldn’t set off on a road trip without knowing the way, would you?
• Set realistic goals: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your PhD won’t be either. Setting manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming and more rewarding.
• Make use of tools: From planners to project management apps, there’s a vast array of tools at your disposal. They’re like your backstage crew, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
• Take breaks: This might seem counter-intuitive, but taking breaks can actually boost your productivity. Think of it as the intermission during a play, giving you a chance to recharge before the next act.

Remember, time management isn’t a rigid structure, it’s a fluid entity. It’s about finding what works for you. So, go on, take the reins and manage your time like a pro.

Let’s talk about the dream team behind your PhD success – your committee. They’re not just there to give you the third degree (literally). They’re your intellectual pit crew, ready to help you race to the finish line. So, here’s how you can work effectively with them. 

• Communication is key: This isn’t a game of ‘hide and seek’. Establish an open line of communication with your committee members. Update them regularly about your progress. Don’t shy away from discussing any obstacles you’re facing. They’re there to help!
• Value their feedback: They may occasionally play the role of the ‘bad cop’. But remember, their critiques are meant to help you grow. So, don’t dismiss their feedback. Digest it, discuss it and implement it.
• Respect their time: Time is a precious commodity. Respect your committee members’ time by being punctual for meetings, hitting deadlines, and being concise with your queries.

Remember, this is not a solo journey. You’ve got a team of experienced scholars rooting for you. So, let’s buckle up and use their brainpower to your advantage!

Understanding Your Research and Its Implications

Ever felt like you’ve been dropped into a labyrinth and can’t find your way out? That’s often what deciphering the intricacies of your research might feel like. But don’t worry, the key to understanding your research and its implications is simply about breaking things down. 

First step , take a deep breath. Your research is your baby, you’ve nurtured it from the idea phase right up to this point. Trust me, you’ve got this. 

Right, now let’s look at the bigger picture. Imagine your research as a puzzle. Each piece represents a different element of your work. Some pieces might represent data, others theory, yet others might be your methodology or conclusions. When you piece these together, you can see the full picture of your research and its implications. 

Remember, the devil is in the details. So be attentive.

• Can you explain your research in layman’s terms? Can your grandma understand it?
• Do you know why each piece of data is there, and what it means?
• Can you justify your methodologies?
• Are you sure of your conclusions, and the implications they have on your field of study?

Answering these questions will help you gain a solid understanding of your research and its implications. This will not only prepare you for your defense but also make you a better researcher. So, go ahead, grab that magnifying glass and start exploring your research puzzle! 

Remember, a successful PhD defense is not about knowing everything, but understanding your research thoroughly.

Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks. Even detectives need to step back and let the clues marinate. Your brain too, needs downtime to connect the dots in your research. So, go ahead, take that break. Your PhD will thank you for it!

Presenting Your Research with Confidence

Stepping onto the academic stage to present your research, your heart may feel like it’s playing a flamenco. Fear not, dear scholars, the key to conquering this stage fright lies in confidence, and confidence comes with preparation. Here are our top tips to help you present your research like a Broadway star. 

Imagine your academic committee as a theater audience, eager to be impressed. Your job is to deliver a compelling performance. Knowing their interests, their research areas, and anticipating their questions will help you tailor your presentation to captivate their attention. 

Even the most accomplished actors rehearse before the curtain rises. Run through your presentation multiple times, in front of a mirror, your cat, or a group of friends. The more familiar you are with your “script,” the more you’ll be able to focus on delivering it with flair. 

Use visual aids to spotlight your research findings. Diagrams, charts, and images can speak volumes and give your audience a break from the textual tango. But remember, these are your supporting actors, not the stars of the show. Your research should always take center stage. 

Questions from your committee aren’t booby traps, they’re opportunities to show off your knowledge. Think of the Q&A as an improvised dance. Listen carefully to your partner’s (committee’s) steps (questions), then respond with grace and poise. You’ve got the moves, so don’t step on your partner’s toes. 

Remember, the stage is yours, the spotlight is on, and the audience is waiting. Show them what you’ve got, and give them a presentation to remember! You’re the star of this academic theater, and this is your time to shine.

Fear not, brave scholar! Facing down a panel of experts can surely feel like fighting dragons in a medieval fantasy. But fret not, for I bring good tidings. Here are some battle-tested strategies to help you deal with difficult questions from your committee and, more importantly, emerge victorious in your PhD defense. 

• Remember, they’re not your enemy: It might feel like you’re in a gladiatorial arena, but remember, your committee members are there to challenge your work, not to make you personally suffer. They want to see you succeed!
• Stay calm: When a particularly challenging question is thrown your way, take a deep breath. It’s totally fine to pause, think, and then respond. No one expects an instant reply.
• Don’t bluff: If you genuinely don’t know the answer, it’s okay to admit it. It’s better to confess ignorance than to bluff and risk being caught.
• Turn the tables: A good defense is sometimes a great offense. If a question seems difficult, try reframing it or asking for clarification. This shows your engagement and can often lead to a more productive conversation.

But what if the difficult question is from your chair, you ask? No worries, dear reader. Remember, the chair of your committee typically wants you to shine. They’ve invested their time and credibility in you. So, if they’re asking tough questions, it’s usually to make sure you’re ready to represent their tutelage to the world.

Now, go forth, armed with these strategies, and defend your PhD with the confidence of a knight facing down a dragon. You’ve got this!

Practicing Your Presentation Skills

Let’s spill the beans on one secret – a successful PhD defense is a polished performance. But, don’t fret! With a dash of practice, you’ll soon be the Paganini of PowerPoint, the Bernstein of body language. 

Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse:  

Give your presentation the time it deserves. Rehearse in front of the mirror, your friends, your cat, anyone who will listen. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be in the limelight. Remember, comfort breeds confidence. 

Feedback, the Breakfast of Champions:  

Don’t shy away from criticism. Ask for feedback on your presentation style, your pacing, your poise. It’s the secret sauce to a smashing performance. 

Confucius once said, “Reviewing what you have learned and learning anew, you are fit to be a teacher.” In your case, a PhD holder!

Incorporate Tech:  

Make friends with technology. Use tools like Prezi or PowerPoint to create engaging visuals. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but a well-designed slide might just be worth a PhD! 

Clarity and confidence in your speech are key. Remember, it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. So, articulate, enunciate, and radiate confidence! 

Tailor Your Presentation:  

Know your audience. Tailor your presentation to your committee, tapping into their interests, their expertise. It’s like giving a rock concert – play the hits they love to hear! 

Check Your Equipment:  

Nothing spoils a performance like a tech glitch. Test your equipment before the big day. Better yet, have a backup plan. It’s your insurance policy for a smooth show. 

As the saying goes, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Don’t let a dodgy projector be your downfall!

With these tips up your sleeve, you’re ready to rock your PhD defense. Break a leg!

Dealing with Nerves and Anxiety

Oh, the butterflies! That sensation in your belly right before you step onto the stage. Don’t let it get the better of you. Here are some tips to help you combat nerves and anxiety. 

• Breathe: It’s not just for yoga. Deep breathing exercises can help soothe your jitters and clear your mind.
• Practice: Familiarity breeds confidence. Rehearse your presentation until you know it like the back of your hand.
• Visualize success: Picture yourself nailing your presentation. Visualization is a powerful tool that can help you feel more confident.

Remember, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. Even seasoned professionals get stage fright. What sets the successful ones apart is the ability to manage these nerves. 

“The only way to get rid of the fear of doing something is to go out… and do it.” – Susan Jeffers

Here are some more detailed strategies to help you keep your cool: 

Yes, your defense is important. But remember, it’s just one day in your academic journey. Don’t give it more power than it deserves. 

No matter how much you plan, things can go awry. Be prepared to think on your feet and handle unexpected questions or technical issues with grace. 

Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise. These might seem unrelated to your defense, but taking care of your physical health can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. 

In conclusion, nerves are a part of the process. Embrace them, manage them, and let them fuel your performance rather than hinder it.

Anticipating Potential Issues and Preparing for Them

Hey there future PhD Holder! Let’s talk about something we all love – surprises. Well, not all surprises are parties and puppies. Sometime they’re unanticipated questions in your PhD defense. But don’t you worry, we’ve got your back. 

Foreseeing potential issues and prepping for them is the knight in shining armor you need to conquer your PhD defense. It’s all about adaptability. You’re a chameleon, changing colors to match the terrain. Or in this case, the questions. 

Firstly, dig into the history of past defenses in your department. There’s nothing like a good ol’ history lesson to prepare you for the future. Ask yourself, ‘What questions were frequently asked?’ 

It’s time to embody your inner critic. Yes, it’s uncomfortable, but oh so effective. Scrutinize your thesis, anticipate questions, and prepare crisp responses. 

Hold mock defenses. Your peers and mentors can ask you questions that you haven’t considered. It’s like having your very own PhD defense rehearsal dinner, but without the dinner! 

Lastly, accept that you can’t predict everything. And that’s okay. Remember, your PhD isn’t defined by one defense; it’s the culmination of your hard work and dedication. You’ve got this! 

So, gear up, put on your armor of preparation, and charge ahead with confidence. The PhD defense battlefield awaits you, and we can’t wait to see you conquer it.

Phew! You’ve just battled through your PhD defense – let’s not let the momentum drop now. The encore of this academic concert is just as vital as the show itself. Here’s how to keep the groove going with your committee, post-defense. 

Send a Thank You Note  

Let’s start with the basics. Sending a  thank you note to your committee members is not only courteous, but also a way to keep the lines of communication open. It’s a humble gesture that speaks volumes of your character and can lay the groundwork for potential future collaborations. 

Request Feedback  

Just like a chef tasting their own creation, it’s essential to ask for feedback. Reach out, either via email or in person, to your committee members and ask for their inputs. This feedback will help you refine your work further and could be instrumental in your future career. 

Keep Them Updated  

Remember, your PhD defense wasn’t a whistle-stop tour. It was a journey that your committee members were a part of. Keep them in the loop about your research updates, job hunts, or any subsequent findings. It’s about creating and maintaining connections that could prove valuable down the line. 

Recognize and Address any Criticism  

Let’s face it – nobody’s perfect. If you received any criticism during your defense, don’t sweep it under the rug. Address it, learn from it, and show your committee that you’re dedicated to ongoing improvement. It’s all part of the learning curve! 

So, there you have it! Putting in that extra effort post-defense can make a real difference. It’s all about fostering relationships, receiving feedback, and continuous learning. After all, the end of your PhD defense is just the beginning of the rest of your career journey!

Celebrating Your Success: What to Do Next

Oh, the joy ofPlot Your Next Adventure

With your PhD in hand, the world is your oyster! It’s time to ponder what you want to do next. Whether it’s diving into the world of academia, starting your own research project, or venturing into the corporate jungle, the choice is yours. 

Remember, your PhD is not the end of your educational journey, but a stepping stone. Stay curious and keep pushing the boundaries of your knowledge. Embrace lifelong learning and continue to make your mark in the world. 

So, dear Doctor, relish your success, share your joy, recharge, and prepare for your next great adventure. After all, this is just the beginning of your incredible journey!

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“A Guide to the ‘Snake Fight’ Portion of Your PhD Dissertation”

Lindsay beyerstein july 5, 2012.

The funniest thing I have read today, from McSweeney’s , via Boing Boing :

Q: Do I have to kill the snake? A: University guidelines state that you have to ​ “ defeat” the snake. There are many ways to accomplish this. Lots of students choose to wrestle the snake. Some construct decoys and elaborate traps to confuse and then ensnare the snake. One student brought a flute and played a song to lull the snake to sleep. Then he threw the snake out a window. Q: Does everyone fight the same snake? A: No. You will fight one of the many snakes that are kept on campus by the facilities department. Q: Are the snakes big? A: We have lots of different snakes. The quality of your work determines which snake you will fight. The better your thesis is, the smaller the snake will be. […] Q: Would someone who wrote a bad thesis and defeated a large snake get the same grade as someone who wrote a good thesis and defeated a small snake? A: Yes. Q: So then couldn’t you just fight a snake in lieu of actually writing a thesis? A: Technically, yes. But in that case the snake would be very big. Very big, indeed.

Rumor has it that Saul Kripke got his PhD by writing, ​ “ I defeat this snake” on a cocktail napkin. The serpent fell over dead on the spot.

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