Key Points to Remember for a Successful MBBS Viva

Taking the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) viva can be a daunting experience, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can ace it. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the viva successfully and with confidence.

Understanding the Viva Experience

Before we dive into the specific rules and tips, it's important to recognize the purpose of the viva. The goal is to assess your knowledge, understanding, and ability to reason through complex medical scenarios. The viva examiners aim to evaluate your critical thinking skills and your ability to communicate effectively under pressure.

Tips for a Smooth Viva

Rule No. 1: Acknowledge What You Don't Know

One of the cardinal rules in a viva is to be honest when you don't know the answer. If you're unsure, it's better to admit it politely and respectfully. For instance, if a question is asked and you don't know the answer, simply say, 'Sorry sir/madam, I don't know the answer.' This shows your honesty and integrity, which is highly valued by examiners.

Rule No. 2: Confidence in Your Answers

When you do know the answer, be confident and confident in your answers. Speak clearly and audibly. This shows that you are knowledgeable and prepared. Avoid guessing or providing incomplete answers, as this can reflect poorly on your performance. Be concise and to the point.

Rule No. 3: Clarity and Comprehension

If you don't understand the question initially, ask for clarification. This demonstrates your analytic and clarity skills, which are crucial in the medical field. However, if you need to repeat the question twice, it's important to realize that you may not understand it, and it might be best to admit that you don't know the answer. Making the examiner repeat the question three or more times indicates that you are not fully engaging with the question, which is unprofessional.

Rule No. 4: Stay Calm and Collected

Staying calm is crucial during the viva. Panicking or becoming agitated can negatively impact your performance. Remember that the examiners are there to support you and help you do your best. If you feel nervous, take a deep breath and focus on the question at hand. Aim to answer about 50-60 percent of the questions correctly, and avoid major blunders. Remember that this viva is not the end of the world, and there are always opportunities to improve and succeed.

Rule No. 5: Use Proper Medical Terms

Always use appropriate and accurate medical terms during your responses. Avoid using vague or incorrect terminology as it can lead to further questions that might test your knowledge in areas you are not familiar with. Precision in medical communication is key to a successful viva. If you're unsure about a term or concept, it's better to admit it rather than using jargon that might be incorrect.

Rule No. 6: Self-Assessment of Theory Exams

When asked about your performance in theory exams, be honest and self-critical. Telling the examiner that you performed poorly or did not meet your expectations is more appreciated than lying or trying to cover up any shortcomings. This shows your integrity and willingness to learn and improve.

Rule No. 7: Dress Code and Professionalism

Promptness, adherence to formal dress codes, and proper conduct are critical. Arrive on time, wear clean and neat clothing, and maintain a professional demeanor. If you need to use a mobile phone or communicate with others, make sure it's done discreetly and without being noticed. Any unauthorized use of electronic devices can result in failure in the exam.

Rule No. 8: Perspectives on Failure

Lastly, keep in mind that this viva is just one of many milestones in your academic and professional journey. Failure in the viva is not the end of your life or career. Embrace the learning experience and use it as a stepping stone to improve and succeed in future endeavors. Remember, life always provides another chance, and with each failure comes an opportunity for growth and success.

Always remember, your preparation, honesty, and integrity will be the key to achieving success in your MBBS viva. Good luck, and all the best for your upcoming viva!