good luck defending your thesis

Readings With Hope

50 Congratulations Messages for Thesis Defense

The culmination of years of research, sleepless nights, and countless revisions, a thesis defense is a significant milestone in any scholar’s academic journey. It marks the transition from student to expert, from learner to contributor.

As friends, family, and colleagues, it’s our privilege and joy to share in this momentous occasion.

And what better way to express our admiration and pride than with the perfect congratulatory message?

Whether you’re seeking heartfelt words or a touch of humor, this guide offers some congratulatory messages tailored for thesis defenses, ensuring that you convey just the right sentiment.

Dive in and discover the ideal way to celebrate this monumental achievement!

Congratulations Messages for Thesis Defense

Congratulations on your outstanding defense! The dedication and hard work you poured into your research truly shone through today. You’ve set the bar high for aspiring researchers.
Every step of your academic journey has led to this monumental achievement. You’ve not only defended your thesis but also upheld the spirit of inquiry. Well done!
Bravo! Your passion for your topic was evident in your defense. May this success open doors to even greater achievements in the future.
It’s not just about defending a thesis, it’s about standing strong for your ideas and insights. You’ve made everyone proud today! Keep reaching for the stars.
Your defense was nothing short of spectacular! Your depth of knowledge and eloquence truly impressed everyone. Celebrate this huge milestone!
Watching you defend your thesis was a clear reminder of the power of dedication and perseverance. You’ve achieved something truly remarkable. Kudos to you!
Your rigorous research, methodical approach, and confident defense have surely set you apart. You’re destined for greatness! Congratulations!
Celebrating your phenomenal achievement today! Your defense was a testament to the countless hours of hard work and commitment. Well done!
You’ve not only defended your thesis but also ignited inspiration in many. Your prowess and expertise were truly commendable. Hats off to you!
Today, you’ve added another feather to your academic cap. Your defense was articulate and insightful, paving the way for many more successes.

Your success story is an inspiration. With every challenge, you’ve risen above and proved your mettle. Heartiest congratulations on a brilliant defense!
The way you handled the questions and presented your findings was truly commendable. You’ve defended more than a thesis; you’ve defended your dreams.
A monumental day in your academic journey! Your defense showcased not just your findings, but also your deep passion for your subject. Congrats!
The precision, dedication, and brilliance you displayed during your defense was unparalleled. May this success lead you to greater adventures!
Congratulations on turning your thesis into a masterpiece and defending it with such flair! You are indeed a force to be reckoned with in your field.
You came, you researched, and you conquered! Today’s defense was a shining moment in your academic journey. Take a bow!
Your meticulous research and eloquent defense have surely set a benchmark. Heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable achievement!
From the proposal to the defense, your journey has been a testament to hard work and perseverance. Today, you reaped the rewards. Cheers to you!
It’s one thing to write a thesis and another to defend it so proficiently. You’ve showcased true academic excellence. Congratulations!
Your defense was a powerful demonstration of your commitment to your field. You’ve made a mark, and this is just the beginning. Well done!

By successfully defending your thesis, you’ve proven that dreams coupled with hard work can lead to monumental achievements. Congrats!
The diligence with which you approached your thesis and the confidence with which you defended it were exemplary. Your future is bright! Cheers to your success.
A standing ovation for your impeccable defense! Your passion and dedication were palpable in every word you spoke. Congratulations!
Your thesis defense was more than a presentation; it was a performance of your unwavering commitment to your research. You’ve truly outdone yourself. Bravo!
Today, you’ve not only earned a degree but also the respect and admiration of many. Your defense was a masterclass. Here’s to many more accomplishments!
Your resilience and determination have culminated in this grand moment. Every slide, every word, every answer was a testament to your dedication. Congratulations!
The journey from hypothesis to conclusion is long and arduous. Yet, you navigated it with grace and brilliance. Your defense was simply extraordinary!
Today, you didn’t just defend a thesis; you showcased your unwavering commitment to knowledge. Your confidence and expertise were in full display. Cheers!
What a magnificent achievement! Your eloquent defense was a reflection of the hard work and sleepless nights you invested. Take a well-deserved bow!
Behind this success is a saga of challenges, perseverance, and undying passion. You defended with vigor and pride. Heartiest congratulations!

Today, you’ve shown everyone that with passion and determination, even the loftiest academic goals can be achieved. Your defense was impeccable!
As you stood there, confidently presenting and defending, you personified academic excellence. Many congratulations on your momentous achievement!
Thesis defense is more than an academic ritual; it’s a rite of passage. You’ve transitioned with such brilliance. Here’s to the journey ahead!
Your defense today wasn’t just about your research; it was about your dedication, your passion, and your drive. You truly shined! Congratulations!
In the realm of academia, moments like these define a scholar. Your remarkable defense has undoubtedly set you on a path of greatness. Kudos!
Celebrating your incredible milestone! Every query you addressed showcased the depth of your understanding. Your defense was truly commendable.
In your defense, we didn’t just see slides and hear words; we witnessed your journey, your struggles, and your victories. A job splendidly done!
The brilliance with which you defended your thesis is indicative of the great things awaiting you in the future. Heartfelt congratulations!
Your defense was a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and prowess. It’s evident how much of yourself you’ve poured into this work. Salutations on your achievement!
To take a concept, research it thoroughly, and then defend it with such finesse is truly admirable. Your hard work has paid off! Cheers!

This is not just a celebration of your defense but also a testament to your relentless pursuit of knowledge. You’ve made everyone immensely proud.
Not everyone can stand their ground and defend their years of research with such confidence. You were phenomenal! Here’s to this and many more successes.
The depth, the rigor, and the brilliance you showcased during your defense was a masterclass in itself. You’ve raised the bar! Congratulations.
Today’s success story is a combination of your determination, hard work, and an undying spirit of inquiry. You truly deserve all the accolades!
Thesis defense is a significant milestone, and the way you executed it was nothing short of perfection. You’ve etched a mark in everyone’s heart. Kudos!
The journey you embarked on led to this commendable defense. Every challenge faced has turned into a stepping stone for your success. Hats off to you!
Your defense was an exhibition of your depth of knowledge and commitment to your field. A triumphant moment truly worth celebrating!
Successfully defending a thesis is a monumental achievement, and today, you’ve proven your mettle. Warmest congratulations on this feat!
Your defense wasn’t just a presentation; it was a manifestation of your passion, hard work, and perseverance. Your success is truly well-deserved.
In your defense, we saw the culmination of years of dedication, learning, and growth. You’ve made a remarkable achievement. Heartiest congratulations!

Founder @ ReadingsWithHope.com

I make sure that your cards don't go empty handed.

50+ Congratulation Messages and Wishes for Thesis Defense

Congratulations Messages, wishes, and Instagram captions for thesis defense are a wonderful way to show your support and appreciation for someone who has successfully completed a significant milestone in their academic journey. It is a momentous occasion that deserves recognition and celebration. Whether it is your friend, sibling, or colleague, their hard work and dedication should be acknowledged and commended.

Thesis defense is a rigorous process that requires extensive research, critical thinking, and the ability to present one’s findings effectively. It is a culmination of years of hard work and sleepless nights. So, when the day finally arrives, it is essential to let the person know how proud you are of their achievement.

A heartfelt congratulatory message can go a long way in boosting their confidence and making them feel appreciated. Whether you choose to send a thoughtful text, write a heartfelt card, or post an Instagram caption, your words of encouragement and admiration will mean the world to them.

Congratulation Messages For Thesis Defense

Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant achievement. Your research and insights have undoubtedly contributed to the advancement of knowledge in your field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make valuable contributions in the future. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I am extremely proud of your accomplishment. Your research has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to your field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! You’ve proven that you’re not just a master procrastinator, but also a master of your subject. Now that you’ve conquered this academic challenge, it’s time to celebrate and start working on your next groundbreaking research: finding the most effective way to procrastinate while still looking productive!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and brilliance have paid off, and I couldn’t be more proud of you. This milestone is a testament to your intelligence and perseverance, and I have no doubt that your future holds even greater achievements.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and your accomplishment is truly commendable.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! You’ve managed to prove to the world that you’re not just a one-hit wonder when it comes to academic brilliance. Now go celebrate with copious amounts of cake and champagne, because you’ve earned it!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have paid off, and I am in awe of your exceptional accomplishment. Your research has not only contributed significantly to your field but has also inspired others to pursue their academic endeavors with passion and determination. May this milestone be the stepping stone to a brilliant future filled with even greater achievements.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. Your research has not only contributed to your field but has also inspired others to pursue their own academic endeavors. Well done on this remarkable achievement!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant achievement. Your research and insights have undoubtedly contributed to the field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make a lasting impact in your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your ability to explain complex concepts with the enthusiasm of a toddler explaining their favorite toy is truly commendable. Now, go celebrate with a well-deserved nap and a gallon of ice cream!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. This achievement is a testament to your intelligence, passion, and commitment to academic excellence. Wishing you continued success in all your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant achievement. This milestone not only showcases your expertise in your field but also sets the stage for a promising future filled with endless possibilities. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone. Wishing you endless opportunities and continued success in your academic journey and beyond!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant accomplishment. Your research has undoubtedly made a valuable contribution to your field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your academic journey.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder of your achievement. This milestone is a testament to your intellect, passion, and commitment to excellence. Well done, and may this accomplishment pave the way for even greater success in your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I am incredibly proud of your achievement. This milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in your academic journey, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I am extremely proud of your remarkable achievement. This milestone not only signifies your expertise in your field but also marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards making significant contributions to the world of academia. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be immensely proud of this significant achievement. Your research and findings have undoubtedly contributed to the field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make great strides in your academic journey. Well done!
Congratulations on slaying that thesis defense dragon! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, leaving no room for any “dissertation” doubts. Now, it’s time to celebrate your triumphant victory and embark on new scholarly adventures.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant accomplishment. This achievement not only showcases your knowledge and expertise but also sets the foundation for a promising future in your field.

Congratulation Wishes And Greetings For Thesis Defense

Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and passion have truly paid off. This milestone is a testament to your intelligence, perseverance, and ability to overcome challenges. Your research has undoubtedly contributed valuable knowledge to your field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make significant contributions in the future. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be immensely proud of this accomplishment. Your research has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to your field, and I have no doubt that your future endeavors will be equally impactful.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! You’ve proved that you can talk about your research for hours without putting anyone to sleep, except for that one committee member who dozed off – but let’s just call that “peer review in action.” Now, it’s time to celebrate and finally catch up on all those TV shows you missed during the writing process!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and passion have paid off, and I am incredibly proud of you. This achievement not only showcases your intelligence and expertise but also reflects your determination and perseverance, making me fall in love with you even more.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and expertise have certainly paid off, and I have no doubt that your research will make a significant contribution to your field of study.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your ability to talk for hours without making any sense truly deserves an award. Now go celebrate by taking a long nap and dreaming about all the sleep you’ve missed during this journey. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of knowledge have paid off, as you have emerged triumphant in this intellectual battle. Your thesis defense was nothing short of awe-inspiring, captivating the audience with your profound insights and thought-provoking arguments. Your achievement not only marks a significant milestone in your academic journey but also showcases your exceptional intellect and ability to contribute meaningfully to your field. Bravo, and may this remarkable accomplishment propel you towards even greater heights in the pursuit of knowledge.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your dedication, hard work, and brilliant insights have truly paid off. Your research has pushed the boundaries of knowledge and will undoubtedly make a significant impact in your field.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and determination have paid off, and this achievement is a testament to your intelligence and expertise in your field. Your research has the potential to make a significant impact, and I am excited to see where your journey takes you next.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Now you can finally join the exclusive club of people who have spent an absurd amount of time researching a ridiculously specific topic. May your newfound expertise in [insert obscure subject here] bring you endless opportunities to impress others at parties and bore them to death with your extensive knowledge. Cheers to you, Dr. Smarty Pants!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder of your achievement. Your research and findings are truly remarkable, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your academic journey. Wishing you all the best for a bright and successful future ahead!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and your research has undoubtedly contributed valuable insights to your field. Wishing you continued success in all your future endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and intelligence have paid off, and you have proven yourself as a true scholar. May this achievement be just the beginning of many more remarkable accomplishments in your academic journey. Well done!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and determination have paid off. You should be proud of this remarkable achievement and the valuable contribution you have made to your field of study. Keep up the great work, and may this be just the beginning of many more successful endeavors in your academic journey.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I couldn’t be happier for you. This achievement is a testament to your intelligence, passion, and exceptional research skills. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I am truly proud of your remarkable achievement. May this be the beginning of a successful and fulfilling journey in your academic and professional endeavors.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be proud of this remarkable achievement. This milestone not only showcases your expertise but also sets the stage for a promising future in your field.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and you should be incredibly proud of this significant achievement. Your research has undoubtedly contributed to the field, and I have no doubt that your future endeavors will continue to make a positive impact. Well done!
Congratulations on acing your thesis defense! You’ve truly defended your ideas with a strong thesis-strength, leaving the committee in awe of your intellectual muscle. Your research has undoubtedly paved the way for new discoveries, making you the ultimate thesisaurus rex!
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and I am truly impressed by your accomplishment. Your research has made a significant contribution to your field, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your academic and professional journey.

Congratulation Instagram Captions For Thesis Defense

Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work and dedication have paid off. #ThesisDefenseSuccess
Breaking news: [Name] successfully defended their thesis and officially became a professional procrastinator! 🎉🎓 #PhDoneAndDusted
Congratulations to [name] on successfully defending their thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. #ThesisDefenseSuccess
🎓🥳 A round of applause for this brilliant mind who just aced their thesis defense! 🙌🎉 Your hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination have paid off, paving the way for an exciting future ahead. #ThesisConqueror
Congratulations to my love on successfully defending their thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and intelligence never cease to amaze me. So proud to be by your side as you achieve this incredible milestone. #ThesisSuccess
Congratulations to the unstoppable force of brilliance! Your thesis defense was a mesmerizing display of knowledge and dedication. You’ve conquered this milestone with grace and now it’s time to embrace the next chapter. #ThesisWarrior
Congratulations on conquering your thesis defense! Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have paid off. #ProudGraduate
Thesis conquered, sleepless nights defeated! 🎉🎓 Finally, a master in the making! #ThesisConqueror
🎉Congratulations on acing your thesis defense!👏 You’ve worked so hard and it’s time to celebrate this incredible achievement. 🎓 #ThesisSuccess
Thesis defense, you slayed it like a boss! 🎓🔥 Congrats on conquering this academic milestone and getting one step closer to world domination! 🌍💪 #ThesisWarrior
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. #ThesisDefenseSuccess
Congratulations on conquering the academic battlefield and emerging victorious with your thesis defense! Your dedication, hard work, and intellectual prowess have paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder. #ThesisTriumph
So proud of you for successfully defending your thesis! Your hard work and dedication have paid off. #ThesisDefenseSuccess
Thesis defense: 1, Me: 0! Time to celebrate with a well-deserved nap and a lifetime supply of coffee ☕️🎉 #GradSchoolSurvivor

daily lab life of a career sixth author

Thanks!!! I definitely saw this message right before my defense :) I think it went well!

Filed under ask chemistry chem science eltheodi

Congratulations, Jonathan Udoff on successfully defending your dissertation and becoming Dr. Jonathan Udoff!

On August 6, 2014, Jonathan Udoff defended his dissertation to earn his doctoral degree! Congrats, Jonathan!

I am proud that you were my first Ph.D student in the SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program! It’s been great working with you and congratulations, Dr. Udoff!”

– Dr. Karen Emmorey

Dear Jonathan,

Many congratulations on this huge accomplishment, Dr. Udoff! It has been wonderful witnessing your dissertation in the making from close by and watching you very successfully present your work at meetings and conferences. All leading up to this very special moment! Congratulations to Max as well, for sharing this important milestone with you. Best of luck in all your future endeavors, wherever these may take you!

– Marcel and Heleen

Dear Jonathan.

As our resident expert on Jeopardy! you should be able to answer this one easily.

Answer: One day of examination and celebration

Question: _______________________________

Congratulations on your Ph.D., Dr. Jonathan Udoff! That is a huge accomplishment that requires a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication. Your perseverance over the years has finally paid off. I wish you all the best as you embark on a new and exciting chapter in your life.

– Steve

Congratulations on completing your dissertation and receiving your Ph.D! I learned a lot from you in the year I spent working with you in the lab, and am so happy for you. Best wishes for your future!

– Desiree Sasunian

Congratulations Jonathan!

Thanks for all your advice over the years. It’s been great getting to work with you. Best of luck to you in your next steps!

– Kristen

Congratulations! A little bird (named Allie) told me that you are now Dr. Jonathan Udoff!!!! How wonderful! I wish you all the best for the exciting things that await you. I look forward to our paths crossing again in your journey.

Warm wishes,

– Brenda Nicodemus

Thank your for being a great TA for Dr.Emmorey’s class.

– Hannah Bowley

Dearest Jonathan,

What’s up doc??? i can’t wait to see what words of wisdom you dispense after being crowned ‘doctor’. i’m very proud of you for reaching this pinnacle of your journey. take some deep breathes and savor the moment. in lieu of words of wisdom, i instead offer you this silly limerick:

there was a boy named jonathan

who was very cosmopolitan.

now that he’s a doctor

(we should celebrate with lobster!)

he can finally breathe in some oxygen.

Good luck in your recovery from grad school – i look forward to your future successes!

– Jill

Congratulations!

Well deserved! Thanks for showing me around when I was in San Diego!

– Joshua Williams

Congrats, Jonathan!!

Now spread your Jeopardy knowledge to the world!

– Adam Stone

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go with Your Ph.D.” Gluck!

– ETLP & Dr. Seuss

Jonathan, it has been wonderful to meet you. Congratulations for having closed this important stage. I have no doubts you have done a very good job and I am looking forward to reading it. ‘Petonets’ from Barcelona!

– Celia

Congratulations Jonathan on your accomplishment! It seems like yesterday that you arrived in the lab for your first year and now I can no longer say, “What year are you in again?” You will be missed, but I know that you will continue to be a part of our large LLCN family.

– Allie

Congratulations for earning a Ph.D. degree! You have earned every single bit of it! May this open many doors in life for you!

– Zed

Congrats Jonathan!

You put some much hard work into this and I’m so thrilled I was able to work by your side during it. Welcome to the land of being able to put Ph.D. after your name!

– Jordan Weber

Congrats for successfully completing your academics. Your amazing perseverance/dedication has paid off. Like Napoleon Hill said, cherish your visions and your dreams as they are the children of your soul, the blueprint of your ultimate achievement. Keep on living!

– Franco Korpics

Congratulations, Dr Jonathan!

It was great working for you and I hope a was able to ease off at least a little bit of the work load! Thanks for being patient with me while I tried to navigate through those complicated (for me) programs and I really wish you the best of luck with what ever you decide to do next ! But for now you’ve earned yourself a good holiday, so enjoy! Hope to see you and Sadie again someday !

– Mahie

We all start out little pups, and if we’re lucky, we find good friends to love us and good mentors to guide and teach us.

……Yup, we definitely lucked out!

CONGRATULATIONS, JONATHAN!!!!!!

…..ON YOUR BIG ACHIEVEMENT,

YOUR EXTENSIVE HARD WORK, AND YOUR VALUABLE

ORIGINAL IDEAS THAT GOT YOU THERE!

– Amy & Bean

Dear Jonathan!

It was my pleasure to working with you for a couple of years. I remembered my first day in the lab, you welcomed me warmly. I thank you for that!

It’s exciting to see you defending your dissertation. You will do well.

I wish you the best of luck with your career.

– Cindy

50+ Ways to Say “Good Luck” in Writing & Speaking | “Good Luck” Synonyms

Wishing someone good luck is a common way to show support and encouragement. Whether it’s for a big exam, an important presentation, or a new endeavor, there are many ways to express this sentiment.

In this article, we will explore various ways to say good luck, from traditional phrases to more unique and creative expressions. Whether you’re looking for a new way to wish someone well or simply want to expand your vocabulary, these options will help you convey your best wishes in a meaningful and memorable way.

Ways to Say “Good Luck”

Learn 50 “good luck” synonyms in English.

All the best!
Be careful!
Best of luck!
Fingers crossed!
I hope things will turn out fine.
Wishing you all the best!
Wishing you lots of luck!
You are going to be amazing!
You were made for this!
You’ll do great!
All the best to you.
I hope it all goes well!
Have a blast!
I wish you luck!
Best wishes.
Many blessings to you.
Knock them dead.
May luck be in your favor!
Blow them away!
Break a leg!
I’m pretty confident that you’ll do well.
Hope you do well!
I hope everything will be all right.
Here’s a four leaf clover.
Call on a higher power.
Better luck next time!
May all of your efforts yield a positive outcome.
Win big time!
Live long and prosper.
Go forth and conquer.
Take home the crown!
Remember me when you’re famous!
I hope things will work out all right.
May the force be with you!
Mesmerize them!
Prayers be with you.
Come back a legend!
Let me know how it went.
Knock on wood!
Believe in yourself and make it happen.
Have fun storming the castle!
To infinity and beyond!
Bring home the trophy.
Do yourself justice.
Successfully pull off the heist!
May the good lord bless you.
Hang in there, it’s all going to be all right!
I’m rooting for you.
Press your thumbs together.

50 Ways to Say "Good Luck" in Writing & Speaking | "Good Luck" Synonyms

Formal Ways to Say “Good Luck”

When it comes to formal situations, it’s important to choose your words carefully. Here are a few formal ways to wish someone good luck:

Best of luck : This is a classic and formal way to wish someone good luck. It’s a safe and polite option that can be used in most situations.
I wish you the best of luck : This is a more formal version of “best of luck.” It’s a bit longer, but it shows that you’re taking the time to wish the person well.
May luck be on your side : This is a slightly more poetic way to wish someone good luck. It’s a bit more formal than “best of luck” but still appropriate for most situations.
I hope everything turns out fine : This is a more general way to wish someone well. It can be used in situations where luck may not be the only factor in the outcome.

When using these phrases, it’s important to remember to be sincere. Don’t just say the words because you feel like you have to. Take the time to think about the person and what they’re going through, and then choose the phrase that feels most appropriate.

Informal Ways to Say “Good Luck”

When you want to wish someone good luck in an informal setting, you have a variety of options to choose from. Here are some informal ways to say good luck:

Break a leg! This is a common phrase used in the performing arts, particularly in theater. It is believed that wishing someone good luck directly can be seen as bad luck, so saying the opposite is believed to bring positive outcomes .
Knock ’em dead! This phrase is often used to wish someone good luck before a performance or presentation. It implies that the person will do such a great job that the audience will be blown away.
Crush it! This phrase is commonly used to wish someone good luck before a competition or exam. It implies that the person will perform exceptionally well and come out on top.
Nail it! This phrase is similar to “crush it” and is often used to wish someone good luck before a performance or presentation. It implies that the person will do an excellent job and succeed.
Good luck, champ! This is a friendly and encouraging way to wish someone good luck before a competition or difficult task. It implies that the person is capable of achieving great things.

“Good Luck” in Different Contexts

Professional scenarios.

In professional scenarios, it is important to wish someone good luck in a way that is appropriate and respectful. Here are some different ways to say “good luck” in a professional context:

Best of luck in your new position.
Wishing you success in your upcoming presentation.
May everything go smoothly on your business trip.
Good luck on your job interview tomorrow.

Personal Scenarios

When wishing someone good luck in a personal context, it is often more informal and can vary depending on the situation. Here are some different ways to say “good luck” in a personal context:

Break a leg on your performance tonight!
Hope you have a great time on your vacation!
Good luck on your first date!
Best of luck on your marathon!

Academic Scenarios

In academic scenarios, wishing someone good luck can be a way to show support and encouragement. Here are some different ways to say “good luck” in an academic context:

Wishing you the best on your final exams.
Good luck on your thesis defense!
May your research project be successful.
Best of luck in your academic pursuits.

Remember, the way you say “good luck” can vary depending on the context and situation. Use these examples as a guide to find the appropriate way to wish someone good luck in different scenarios.

Idiomatic Expressions

In English, there are many idiomatic expressions that can be used to wish someone good luck. These expressions are often informal and can be used in a variety of situations. Here are a few examples:

Break a leg: This expression is commonly used in the performing arts, especially in theater. It is believed that wishing someone good luck before a performance is bad luck, so instead, performers say “break a leg” as a way to wish each other success.
Knock ’em dead: This expression is also used in the performing arts, but it can be used in other situations as well. It means to do something so well that it impresses everyone who sees it.
Finger crossed: This expression is used to express hope that something will turn out well. It is often accompanied by the action of crossing one’s fingers.
Best of luck: This is a more formal expression that can be used in a variety of situations. It is a simple way to wish someone success in whatever they are doing.
May the force be with you: This expression is a reference to the Star Wars movies and is often used jokingly. It means to wish someone luck and to hope that they will be successful.

Overall, idiomatic expressions can be a fun and creative way to wish someone good luck. However, it is important to remember that not everyone may understand the meaning behind these expressions, so it is best to use them in appropriate situations.

Ways to Respond to “Good Luck”

When someone wishes you good luck, it’s polite to respond with a phrase that shows your appreciation. Here are some ways to respond to “good luck” wishes:

Thank you : This is the most common and straightforward response. Simply say “Thank you” to show your gratitude for the person’s well wishes.
I appreciate it : This response shows that you appreciate the person’s thoughtfulness and support.
Thanks, I’ll need it : This response is a bit more lighthearted and acknowledges that you may have a challenging task ahead of you.
I’ll do my best : This response shows that you are determined to succeed and that you appreciate the person’s encouragement.
I’m feeling confident : This response shows that you are optimistic about the outcome and that you appreciate the person’s support.
I’ll keep you updated : This response is appropriate if the person has expressed a particular interest in the outcome of your endeavor. It shows that you appreciate their support and will keep them informed.

Remember that the key to a good response is to show your appreciation for the person’s well wishes. Use these phrases as a starting point, but feel free to personalize your response based on the situation and your relationship with the person.

“Good Luck” Synonyms – Image

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50 alternative ways to say “Good Luck!” video with American English pronunciation.

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The top 10 thesis defense questions (+ how to prepare strong answers)

Crafting a thesis is significant, but defending it often feels like the ultimate test. While nerve-wracking, proper preparation can make it manageable. Prepare for your thesis defense with insights on the top questions you can expect, including strategies for answering convincingly.

Mastering the thesis defense: cultivate a success mindset

Confidence enables you to present your research with conviction, while composure allows you to navigate any challenges with grace and clarity.

Remember, you know your thesis best, so trust in your expertise.

In essence, a success mindset encompasses the belief in your abilities, coupled with the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

Stay composed and focused, relying on your thorough preparation. If you encounter a question you can’t answer, gracefully guide the conversation back to familiar topics.

By embracing these principles and staying confident and adaptable, you’ll navigate your thesis defense with ease.

Question 1: Why did you choose this particular topic for your research?

This question delves into the origins of your academic journey, aiming to understand not just what you studied, but the underlying motivations and processes that drove your exploration. It’s not merely about the superficial aspects of your research, but rather about the deeper intellectual curiosity that ignited your quest.

Moreover, discuss the gaps you identified in the existing literature that motivated you to contribute to your field. What deficiencies or unanswered questions did you observe? How did these gaps inspire you to embark on your research journey with the aim of filling these voids? By articulating the specific shortcomings in the current body of knowledge, you demonstrate a nuanced understanding of your research area and underscore the significance of your work.

Question 2: How does your research contribute to the existing body of knowledge?

This question delves into the vital role your research plays within the existing body of knowledge, urging you to articulate its significance and impact. It’s not merely about the subject matter you’ve studied, but also about the unique contributions and advancements your research brings to your field. To effectively respond, delve into the intricacies of your work and its implications for the broader academic landscape.

Illuminate how your findings could influence future research trajectories. Explore potential avenues for further inquiry that emerge from your research findings. Consider how your work opens up new questions or areas of exploration for future researchers. By identifying these potential research directions, you demonstrate the forward-looking nature of your work and its potential to shape the future trajectory of your field.

Question 3: What are the key findings of your research?

Furthermore, relate these findings to the broader implications they hold for your field. Articulate how your research contributes to advancing knowledge or addressing pressing issues within your academic discipline. Consider the potential impact of your findings on theory, practice, or policy, highlighting their relevance and significance within the larger scholarly community.

Question 4: Can you defend your research methodology?

Defending your research methodology entails a comprehensive understanding of its rationale, alignment with research objectives, and acknowledgment of potential limitations. It’s not merely about explaining the methods employed but also justifying why they were chosen over alternative approaches. To effectively respond, delve into the intricacies of your methodology and its implications for the study.

Be prepared to discuss the limitations inherent in your chosen methodology and how you mitigated them. Acknowledge any constraints or shortcomings associated with the selected approach, such as potential biases, sample size limitations, or data collection challenges. Demonstrate your awareness of these limitations and discuss the strategies implemented to address or minimize their impact on the validity and reliability of your findings.

Question 5: How did you analyze the data and what challenges did you encounter?

Begin by outlining the techniques used for data analysis. Describe the specific methods, tools, and software employed to process and interpret the data collected. Whether it involved quantitative statistical analysis, qualitative coding techniques, or a combination of both, provide insights into the analytical framework guiding your study. Additionally, discuss the rationale behind the chosen analytical approach and how it aligns with the research objectives and questions.

In summary, when addressing inquiries about data analysis, consider the following key points:

Question 6: What theoretical frameworks or references underpin your research?

Elucidate on how these frameworks shaped your hypothesis and analysis. Describe how the theoretical perspectives and insights gleaned from seminal works informed the development of your research questions, hypotheses, and analytical framework. Discuss the ways in which these theoretical frameworks guided your data collection and interpretation, influencing the selection of variables, measures, and analytical techniques employed in your study.

Question 7: How did you address ethical considerations in your research?

When addressing ethical considerations in your research, it’s essential to demonstrate a commitment to upholding ethical standards and protecting the rights and well-being of participants. Responding to inquiries about ethical protocols involves explaining the steps taken to ensure ethical conduct throughout the research process, describing the consent process and data protection measures implemented, and mentioning any institutional review board (IRB) approvals obtained.

Mention any institutional ethics review board approvals you obtained. Highlight any formal ethical review processes or approvals obtained from relevant regulatory bodies, such as IRBs or ethics committees. Discuss how the research protocol was reviewed for compliance with ethical guidelines and standards, including considerations of participant welfare, informed consent procedures, and data protection measures. By acknowledging the oversight and approval of institutional review bodies, you demonstrate your commitment to ethical integrity and accountability in conducting research involving human subjects.

Question 8: In what ways does your research contribute to the field?

Begin by detailing the novel insights your thesis provides. Articulate the key findings, discoveries, or perspectives that distinguish your research from existing literature and contribute to advancing knowledge within your field. Discuss how your study fills gaps in current understanding, challenges established assumptions, or offers innovative approaches to addressing pressing issues, highlighting its potential to generate new avenues of inquiry and broaden the scope of scholarly discourse.

In summary, when addressing inquiries about the contributions of your research to the field, consider the following key points:

Question 9: How did you ensure your research was free from bias?

Describe any blind or double-blind procedures employed in the study. Explain how blinding techniques were used to prevent bias in data collection, analysis, or interpretation. This may involve withholding certain information from researchers or participants to minimize the potential for conscious or unconscious bias to influence the results. Discuss how these procedures were implemented and their impact on enhancing the credibility and impartiality of the research outcomes.

Question 10: Where can future research go from here?

When considering the potential trajectory of your research topic, it’s essential to identify areas where further investigation could yield valuable insights, discuss unexplored questions that emerged from your research, and reflect on the limitations of your study as starting points for future research endeavors. Responding to inquiries about the future direction of research involves suggesting fruitful areas for further investigation, highlighting unresolved questions, and leveraging the limitations of your study as opportunities for future exploration.

Reflect on the limitations of your study as starting points for future research. Acknowledge any constraints, biases, or methodological shortcomings that may have influenced the outcomes or interpretations of your study. Discuss how these limitations provide opportunities for future research to refine methodologies, address confounding variables, or explore alternative theoretical frameworks. Consider how addressing these limitations could enhance the validity, reliability, and generalizability of future research findings within your field.

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How to prepare an excellent thesis defense

What is a thesis defense?

How long is a thesis defense, what happens at a thesis defense, your presentation, questions from the committee, 6 tips to help you prepare for your thesis defense, 1. anticipate questions and prepare for them, 2. dress for success, 3. ask for help, as needed, 4. have a backup plan, 5. prepare for the possibility that you might not know an answer, 6. de-stress before, during, and after, frequently asked questions about preparing an excellent thesis defense, related articles.

If you're about to complete, or have ever completed a graduate degree, you have most likely come across the term "thesis defense." In many countries, to finish a graduate degree, you have to write a thesis .

A thesis is a large paper, or multi-chapter work, based on a topic relating to your field of study.

Once you hand in your thesis, you will be assigned a date to defend your work. Your thesis defense meeting usually consists of you and a committee of two or more professors working in your program. It may also include other people, like professionals from other colleges or those who are working in your field.

During your thesis defense, you will be asked questions about your work. The main purpose of your thesis defense is for the committee to make sure that you actually understand your field and focus area.

The questions are usually open-ended and require the student to think critically about their work. By the time of your thesis defense, your paper has already been evaluated. The questions asked are not designed so that you actually have to aggressively "defend" your work; often, your thesis defense is more of a formality required so that you can get your degree.

Check with your department about requirements and timing.
Re-read your thesis.
Anticipate questions and prepare for them.
Create a back-up plan to deal with technology hiccups.
Plan de-stressing activities both before, and after, your defense.

How long your oral thesis defense is depends largely on the institution and requirements of your degree. It is best to consult your department or institution about this. In general, a thesis defense may take only 20 minutes, but it may also take two hours or more. The length also depends on how much time is allocated to the presentation and questioning part.

Tip: Check with your department or institution as soon as possible to determine the approved length for a thesis defense.

First of all, be aware that a thesis defense varies from country to country. This is just a general overview, but a thesis defense can take many different formats. Some are closed, others are public defenses. Some take place with two committee members, some with more examiners.

The same goes for the length of your thesis defense, as mentioned above. The most important first step for you is to clarify with your department what the structure of your thesis defense will look like. In general, your thesis defense will include:

your presentation of around 20-30 minutes
questions from the committee
questions from the audience (if the defense is public and the department allows it)

You might have to give a presentation, often with Powerpoint, Google slides, or Keynote slides. Make sure to prepare an appropriate amount of slides. A general rule is to use about 10 slides for a 20-minute presentation.

But that also depends on your specific topic and the way you present. The good news is that there will be plenty of time ahead of your thesis defense to prepare your slides and practice your presentation alone and in front of friends or family.

Tip: Practice delivering your thesis presentation in front of family, friends, or colleagues.

You can prepare your slides by using information from your thesis' first chapter (the overview of your thesis) as a framework or outline. Substantive information in your thesis should correspond with your slides.

Make sure your slides are of good quality— both in terms of the integrity of the information and the appearance. If you need more help with how to prepare your presentation slides, both the ASQ Higher Education Brief and James Hayton have good guidelines on the topic.

The committee will ask questions about your work after you finish your presentation. The questions will most likely be about the core content of your thesis, such as what you learned from the study you conducted. They may also ask you to summarize certain findings and to discuss how your work will contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

Tip: Read your entire thesis in preparation of the questions, so you have a refreshed perspective on your work.

While you are preparing, you can create a list of possible questions and try to answer them. You can foresee many of the questions you will get by simply spending some time rereading your thesis.

Here are a few tips on how to prepare for your thesis defense:

You can absolutely prepare for most of the questions you will be asked. Read through your thesis and while you're reading it, create a list of possible questions. In addition, since you will know who will be on the committee, look at the academic expertise of the committee members. In what areas would they most likely be focused?

If possible, sit at other thesis defenses with these committee members to get a feel for how they ask and what they ask. As a graduate student, you should generally be adept at anticipating test questions, so use this advantage to gather as much information as possible before your thesis defense meeting.

Your thesis defense is a formal event, often the entire department or university is invited to participate. It signals a critical rite of passage for graduate students and faculty who have supported them throughout a long and challenging process.

While most universities don't have specific rules on how to dress for that event, do regard it with dignity and respect. This one might be a no-brainer, but know that you should dress as if you were on a job interview or delivering a paper at a conference.

It might help you deal with your stress before your thesis defense to entrust someone with the smaller but important responsibilities of your defense well ahead of schedule. This trusted person could be responsible for:

preparing the room of the day of defense
setting up equipment for the presentation
preparing and distributing handouts

Technology is unpredictable. Life is too. There are no guarantees that your Powerpoint presentation will work at all or look the way it is supposed to on the big screen. We've all been there. Make sure to have a plan B for these situations. Handouts can help when technology fails, and an additional clean shirt can save the day if you have a spill.

One of the scariest aspects of the defense is the possibility of being asked a question you can't answer. While you can prepare for some questions, you can never know exactly what the committee will ask.

There will always be gaps in your knowledge. But your thesis defense is not about being perfect and knowing everything, it's about how you deal with challenging situations. You are not expected to know everything.

James Hayton writes on his blog that examiners will sometimes even ask questions they don't know the answer to, out of curiosity, or because they want to see how you think. While it is ok sometimes to just say "I don't know", he advises to try something like "I don't know, but I would think [...] because of x and y, but you would need to do [...] in order to find out.” This shows that you have the ability to think as an academic.

You will be nervous. But your examiners will expect you to be nervous. Being well prepared can help minimize your stress, but do know that your examiners have seen this many times before and are willing to help, by repeating questions, for example. Dora Farkas at finishyourthesis.com notes that it’s a myth that thesis committees are out to get you.

Two common symptoms of being nervous are talking really fast and nervous laughs. Try to slow yourself down and take a deep breath. Remember what feels like hours to you are just a few seconds in real life.

Try meditational breathing right before your defense.
Get plenty of exercise and sleep in the weeks prior to your defense.
Have your clothes or other items you need ready to go the night before.
During your defense, allow yourself to process each question before answering.
Go to dinner with friends and family, or to a fun activity like mini-golf, after your defense.

Allow yourself to process each question, respond to it, and stop talking once you have responded. While a smile can often help dissolve a difficult situation, remember that nervous laughs can be irritating for your audience.

We all make mistakes and your thesis defense will not be perfect. However, careful preparation, mindfulness, and confidence can help you feel less stressful both before, and during, your defense.

Finally, consider planning something fun that you can look forward to after your defense.

It is completely normal to be nervous. Being well prepared can help minimize your stress, but do know that your examiners have seen this many times before and are willing to help, by repeating questions for example if needed. Slow yourself down, and take a deep breath.

Your thesis defense is not about being perfect and knowing everything, it's about how you deal with challenging situations. James Hayton writes on his blog that it is ok sometimes to just say "I don't know", but he advises to try something like "I don't know, but I would think [...] because of x and y, you would need to do [...] in order to find out".

Your Powerpoint presentation can get stuck or not look the way it is supposed to do on the big screen. It can happen and your supervisors know it. In general, handouts can always save the day when technology fails.

Dress for success.
Ask for help setting up.
Have a backup plan (in case technology fails you).
Deal with your nerves.

How to prepare for your PhD thesis defence

by James Hayton, PhD
August 13th, 2021

Stay up to date

The 3 habits that saved my phd, how to design figures for your phd thesis.

What’s the best way to prepare for your PhD thesis defence? The tips below will help you in the final few weeks before the exam, but the real preparation begins as soon as you start your PhD . Talking to people and discussing your work regularly over a long period of time is the best preparation, so don’t let your thesis defence be the first time you get feedback on your work!

Know the format of your PhD thesis defence

The format of a PhD thesis defence varies from country to country. Having studied in the UK, my viva-voce defence was essentially an interview with one internal and one external examiner. In other countries, it’s common to have public examinations with a whole panel of examiners and an audience of colleagues, family and friends. The first and most obvious tip, then, is to make sure you know what the format of your exam will be; whether you will have to prepare a presentation and so on.

Prepare and practice your presentation

If you have to give a presentation, check any time restrictions so you can prepare accordingly. You don’t want to show up with 100 slides for a 15-minute presentation, nor do you want to show up with 3 slides for a 1-hour presentation.

The most important thing to do for any presentation is to practice so that;

You know the material inside out
You know how long it takes
You can refine the presentation

You can practice on your own or with an audience, and you should do both if possible. Practicing on your own and speaking out loud to an empty room may feel silly, but overcoming that discomfort is good preparation for the discomfort of facing an actual audience. Practicing with an audience of peers is then a good way of getting feedback and finding out what questions people ask.

See also: How to design outstanding PowerPoint slides

The dreaded “awkward question”

A common fear is being asked a question you can’t answer. It’s tempting to try to read a ton of literature to prepare for this, but since it’s very difficult to predict what the examiners will ask and it’s impossible to read everything, this approach isn’t always effective or reassuring (it might just make you realise how much you don’t know).

You aren’t expected to know everything. Sometimes, an examiner will ask a question they don’t know the answer to, either out of interest (since you are the expert in your research) or because they want to see how you think. While it is OK, sometimes, to just say “I don’t know”, you could also say something like,

‍ “I don’t know, but I would think that […] because of x and y , but you would need to do […] in order to find out” .

This shows that you have the ability to think as an academic.

Core content

Of course, there is some core content which you will be expected to know well, but this is set by you, not the examiner. To a large extent, the content of the examination is determined by the content in your thesis.

When you choose what to cover in your thesis you are choosing your battleground for the thesis defence. The best strategy, then, is to stick to the material you know best in your writing!

Dealing with nerves in your thesis defence

You will be nervous before your examination. You will almost certainly get an adrenaline rush, which can set your heart racing, give you sweaty palms, make your stomach churn and make you want to go to the toilet 10 times in 20 minutes. This is normal!

The worst part is waiting to start because there isn’t much you can do to use up your nervous energy. But once the defence starts, you can do some things to keep it under control.

One symptom of nerves is to talk really fast and to try to show how much you know and speak in this kind of long stream of consciousness that diverges away from the question until you forget what the actual question was but then you don’t know how to get back to the point and so you just keep talking and that makes you more nervous and how are you going to get off this train of thought…

Try to slow down and give yourself time to breathe. Try to remember the question* and come back to the point. Once you have answered, stop talking!

*If you forget the question, it’s OK to say, “sorry, I got lost in my train of though there, what was the question, again?”

The examiners expect you to be nervous

Remember that the examiners expect you to be nervous, and they will help you through if necessary. It’s OK to ask them to repeat or clarify a question, to pause to think, or to take a sip of water if you need to!

Ultimately…

Success or failure is determined mainly by the content of your thesis. If your research is good, and you actually did the work, it’s unlikely that a nervous performance in your defence will lead to failure. Generally speaking, once your thesis is submitted, there isn’t much you can do to affect the outcome (positively or negatively). Read through your thesis, read up on one or two key points if necessary, practice your presentation, and trust that whatever happens you will be OK.

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PhD: An uncommon guide to research, writing & PhD life

By james hayton (2015).

PhD: an uncommon guide to research, writing & PhD life is your essential guide to the basic principles every PhD student needs to know.

Applicable to virtually any field of study, it covers everything from finding a research topic, getting to grips with the literature, planning and executing research and coping with the inevitable problems that arise, through to writing, submitting and successfully defending your thesis.

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The only place I use AI is to transcribe subtitles for videos: Words I've already written and spoken myself.

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10 Ways To Successfully Defend Your PhD

First, what does it take to give a successful PhD Defense? How can you prepare, keep the stress levels low, and make sure you have the highest chance of success?

I’ll just say that everyone’s PhD Defense is unique and is unpredictable. Your talk/presentation is only as good as you want it to be. And you cannot fully prepare for all the endless possibility of questions. If you wrote a 200 page thesis, your thesis commitee can pick apart an error bar on a graph on page 133. They can ask you what you meant by a word in a random sentence in any given paragraph. Keep in mind, this is all just apart of the PhD hazing process, and in a sense is just to humble you. At the end of the day, if you wrote a good quality thesis and are CONFIDENT, you should have no problem successfully defending and leaving that room with a sense of relief. Either way, I wanted to share my experience while it is still fresh in my mind

1) Do not underestimate how long it takes to prepare your slides/talk and make sure you give multiple practice talks

When I turned in my thesis two weeks ahead of time to my committee, I thought the hard part was over. Although a very important milestone, don’t let your guard down. If you already have most your slides ready to go, then you are lucky. I ended up getting data at the last minute and my story changed. I had to make many model slides from scratch.

If you want to give a GOOD thesis talk, you need to practice multiple times . And this means that you don’t cram it all in a couple of days right before your talk. I’m not talking about giving just one practice talk. You need to give multiple group practice talks. In between, you need to practice on your own.

You certainly don’t have to memorize every word of your thesis defense talk, but you should have it well-polished. There is no limit (or requirement) on how many practice talks you should give, but give as many talks as it takes until you feel like you are ready. If you are unsure of the quality of your talk (or being “ready”), tape record yourself or watch a video of yourself to see just how good it is. You might be surprised when you play it back to yourself.

You should also time your talk. I noticed that I tend to talk faster (by about 5 minutes) when giving the actual public talk vs. when I practice on my own. The length of the talk can depend on many departmental factors. My talk was ~45-50 minutes long which also leaves time for questions.

Either way, do not procrastinate on your slides and/or talk until days before. Make sure you use the full two weeks to perfect your slides, polish your talk (and be very concise about your words), and review material you are unsure about.

2) Listen to other thesis defense talks

The best way to mentally prepare for your thesis defense talk is to listen to other thesis defense talks. I actually went and got a few talks on DVD (the good ones that I remembered). If their research is on a similar topic as your own, this would be more ideal-but take what you can get. When you watch the talk, ask yourself what makes it good or bad? Were they enthusiastic and sincere? Did they keep the energy throughout the talk? Were there some rough areas of the talk? When nerves are running high, talks may not go as expected. You can battle this nervousness by showing up well-prepared. If you are, the thesis defense talk is just a formality.

If you cannot obtain any thesis defense talks on video, make sure that you go to actual public thesis defense talks. At least go to one so that you have a good idea of how to TIE the whole story together and give your audience the big picture. Keep in mind that you are giving a talk to a general audience . This means that use of jargon and highly technical terms will only put your audience to sleep. Make sure it is clear and understandable. Simplify it the best that you can and put it in the larger context of your research field. Use cartoons or model slides (if necessary) to give your audience the general, overall picture.

3) Have your friends, labmates, and others drill you with questions

What’s the best way to prepare for unforeseen questions? Have others that are familiar with your work drill you with questions. Chances are that even though these questions may not be the actual questions you will be asked either by the public and/or your thesis committee, it prepares you to think on your feet. It also builds your confidence . And the questions that your labmates or friends ask you may just be the same question you will get asked on your defense day.

4) Re-read over your entire thesis and write out your own list of questions

You may be sick of reading your entire thesis over and over by now, but you need to keep everything fresh in your mind. I actually read over my entire thesis multiple times during my final two weeks and came up with my own list of questions that I thought my committee would ask me. In addition, I also came up with a list of questions that I had of my own (questions that I was unsure of or that I thought were a weakness of mine). If you cannot come up with a list of good questions, then you are not trying hard enough.

Even though my committee didn’t ask me my exact list of questions, the process of coming up with my own list of questions-then finding the answers to those questions (beyond my thesis)-actually helped me gained a deeper understanding of my project. And it was a confidence booster in disguise.

5) Don’t let distractions get to you

Completing your thesis is a huge milestone. Those last two weeks until defense day can be stressful. Whether you are doing job interviews, applying to other jobs, or you want to “jump the gun” and finally start your post-PhD life, don’t give into temptation. Keep your guard up until your actual defense day. This is key to giving a good talk. You need to go in with the mindset that you will kill your presentation and give a long lasting impression to your audience. I have actually heard that some people who gave great thesis defense talks were offered a position shortly after (i.e. a postdoc).

You are going to want to do all those little tasks that you have been putting off for so long because you have spent X amount of months writing your thesis in solitude and you had no time to do them. Your list could be very long. I can tell you that one of the things on my list was to keep publishing blog articles and keep my blog running. I simply did not have enough time. Prioritize and focus on your defense talk and nothing else . If you are looking for jobs during this time period, I will be writing about this in Part 3 of this series.

6) Get plenty of sleep, keep your diet in check, and take care of yourself

This might be the most difficult thing for anyone. I struggled with this the most while writing my thesis. Skipping meals, late nights, overloading your system with caffeine just to stay awake. You have to fight it the best that you can. A month before my defense talk, I hit the gym 3x a week (for the first time in months). Everyone handles the anxiety of their defense talk differently. I am someone who thinks about it constantly. So it becomes hard to focus on other things, like taking care of yourself.

Once your thesis is turned in to your committee members, during those final two weeks- sleep and a proper diet are KEY. The day of your defense, make sure you are well-rested (don’t stay up all night stressing about it) and eat well. Don’t sell yourself short. By taking care of yourself, you ensure that you have the highest probability for giving a great thesis defense talk and showing your committee members that you are confident about your project.

7) Keep your cool and relax

When your defense day comes, you have to remember that you have put in a lot of HARD WORK to get to this point. You know your topic better than anyone . Because of this, you have no reason to be stressed out.

When your committee pushes you and asks you questions, they again will push you to your limits. You will meet a point where you won’t know the answer. Also, a question could simply be a future direction/experiment that you simply haven’t tested yet. Remember that they are simply trying to test your knowledge and humble you. You don’t have to know all the answers. Therefore, when you are answering questions, keep your cool and relax. Answer the questions the best that you can and you should have no problem passing. And in all honesty, the prelim (or qualifying exam) was much harder than the actual defense…

8) Don’t focus on the after-party until you have actually reached the after-party

Who doesn’t want to spend their final two weeks planning the celebration? Although I did have an after-party, I did not go to great efforts to plan it like a wedding party. As I said in #5, prioritize and focus on your thesis defense talk and nothing else. Plan your after-party while you are on break from your practice talk/preparing for questions/working on slides but do not make it a number one priority. Once you have passed, then you can change your focus. The feeling is indescribable (see #10).

9) Have a good structure

A good thesis talk also has a good introduction before going on to the next idea or slide. It should flow in a logical manner and be smooth. That is why #1 is important, because many people don’t spend enough time in the creation of good powerpoint slides. Your slides and talk have to MATCH up , meaning you can’t have really good slides and a mediocre talk (or vice versa) if you want it to go well.

This is why practice is important, and if you spend enough time on BOTH the talk/slides you will give a very good talk. A lot of times while I was actually practicing my talk, I had to go back and change the order/wording of slides or how I introduced certain slides (the wording) so that the flow would be better.

Be formal in how you word things (i.e. say “our data show that”… vs. “you see here that”…). To give a good introduction, it might be wise to use slides that ask a question in between. This question slide (break) in-between your next idea allows for your general audience to CATCH UP and understand your logic . Why are you doing this experiment? If you just show a bunch of your published data with no introduction (and maybe a title that gives an interpretation/punchline), you will overwhelm and bore your audience.

Many scientists forget that although they are an expert on their topic, what seems easy and understandable to them-does not apply to others outside of their field .

Before you go to your next data slides introduce the idea (based on this data I wanted to ask this question). Then tell them WHY you performed this particular experiment (which is basically in the form of a question). Once your audience understands why, go on to the next slide and give them your interpretation. In other words, don’t just jump to the interpretation . This will keep your audience’s attention and make sure that your thesis defense talk gets a lot of positive feedback and leaves a good impression on your committee members (it really does show).

10) Visualize yourself giving your defense each day and think about how good it will feel when it’s over

This one is pretty self explanatory. I will say that when it is all said and done, it feels like a huge burden has been lifted off your shoulders. It is emotional and you finally feel that all that hard work and time that you put in over the years-was all worth it in the end. Good luck to all those who are preparing for their defense talk in the future! Think about what it will be like to get up in front of a large audience and show everyone how you moved a field forward. This is YOUR moment to show everyone you are an expert in your field. The more you keep this mentality, the better your talk will be. Keep your cool and relax (#7) and everything will be fine.

If you would like to see an example video of a defense talk that illustrates the advice I’ve given, a link to my PhD defense can be found here: http://bit.ly/1sAIT7O

Best of luck to all!

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How to greet the audience at the beginning of a PhD defense talk/presentation?

I'll be giving a 30-min public talk as a part of my PhD defense next month. It would be attended by the examination committee (consisting of my advisor and two examiners). I reckon that some professors/lecturers from the university might also join it apart from my colleagues and friends.

What would be a suitable - neither too short or seemingly-snappy nor too long and boring - way to address the audience at the very beginning of my talk? For instance, starting with

Hello everyone

sounds a bit too informal to me. Personally, I am inclined to starting with

Respected members of the examination committee...

but I am not sure if that, because of the " Respected ", may be considered too traditional (unfortunately, I don't recall how my colleagues who graduated in the last years did it - you never focus on such aspects until it is your turn :-$).

Should I refer to the examination committee using names, as in:

Respected members of the examination committee, Prof. X, Prof. Y, and Prof. Z

or better not?

For peers and friends, addressing could simply continue as

... and dear colleagues and friends.

Should I also try to sandwich another category specifically for the other professors and lecturers? If so, what could be a suitable way to address them?

presentation

40 Most PhD talks around here start with something like "Good morning. My name is jayann, and I am today defending my dissertation on XYZ". No need to overthink this. – xLeitix Commented Jan 6, 2015 at 10:37
21 It depends on your institution. In Holland, you actually have to say (in Dutch) something to the effect of "Very esteemed and highly learned Professor Doctor X, I would like to give you my most sincere thanks for the very insightful comments that blah blah blah" (seriously). I've been to defences in California where the candidate just went "hi". Short answer: ask you advisor, he/she knows what the norm of your institution is. – Koldito Commented Jan 6, 2015 at 10:53
15 In my graduate (US mathematics) department, the custom was for the thesis advisor to introduce the speaker as we usually do for invited speakers at seminars/colloquia (something like 'I am pleased/delighted to introduce Harry Potter who will be defending his thesis "Horcruxes and how to find them"'), following which the speaker usually thanks the advisor for the introduction, possibly thanks the audience for being there, and then gets on with it. – Aru Ray Commented Jan 6, 2015 at 15:26
1 I would go with "Hello, and welcome to the presentation of my Ph.D. thesis". – padawan Commented Oct 1, 2015 at 0:53
2 In the US to me, "Hello everyone" sounds formal and appropriate, whereas "Respected members of the examination committee" sounds downright ridiculous. Just wish everyone a "good morning", or a "hello", or a "let's get started", and then get on with your talk. – Caleb Stanford Commented May 19, 2017 at 23:04

3 Answers 3

I would like to second both xLeitix and Koldito's comments and convert them into an answer:

In most cases, there is no requirement, and you can just say, "Good [morning/afternoon], my name is [name], and welcome to my thesis defense."

A very few institutions have a much more formal set of requirements. For example, when I was an examiner for a defense at TU Delft, I had to learn a few words of Dutch in order to ask my questions with the required formality. Also, I had to come a day early to get fitted for a special archaic form of suit. Don't worry about this, though: if this is the case for your institution, then somebody will make sure that you are instructed in what to do.

3 Indeed, these formalities are (nearly) the same at all Dutch universities and if you're a PhD student, the precise rules will most surely be pointed out to you well before the day of the defense. Still, when the time is there, candidates make mistakes, but nobody cares that much: it's mostly fun to spot them when you're in the audience ;-) – Jaap Eldering Commented Oct 1, 2015 at 0:07

The answer lie in the comments to your question.

Check your local customs. Have you not attended a single PhD talk during your time as a PhD student? What have students done so far? And ... talk to your advisor.

Do not overdo it. If you try to work in lots of complex thanks and courteous comments, you are very likely to stumble and forget and the impression becomes unprofessional or insecure at best. Thanks area also easily managed by adding a slide with thanks to advisers, funding and whatever you feel is necessary. You can use that as the last slide of your presentation since the audience will then know the presentation is over.

Ideally, you would already have attended similar defenses of your advisor's earlier Ph.D. students before and picked up the prevailing social norms there - also concerning other "soft factors", like whether to feed everyone afterwards, with what etc.

I gather this didn't happen, so I'll second Koldito's comment-answer : just ask your advisor. And/or talk to other people in your institution, even if they work in other areas. Such things will likely be more specific to your regional culture than to your specific subfield.

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Congratulation Messages for Thesis Defense

A thesis defense is an opportunity for a student to showcase their work and demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter. It is also an opportunity for the student to receive feedback from their peers and mentors. A successful thesis defense can be a great way to launch a student’s career in academia or research.

A thesis defense typically consists of two parts: a presentation by the student, followed by questions from the audience. The presentation should be an overview of the student’s work, highlighting the main points of the research. The questions from the audience should be focused on the student’s work and should be designed to help the student clarify their ideas and findings.

A thesis defense can be a stressful experience, but it can also be a very rewarding one. A student who is well-prepared and confident in their work can use the defense as a chance to shine. With hard work and preparation, a student can make their thesis defense a success.

Congratulation message for thesis defense

Congratulations on your thesis defense! This is a significant accomplishment and you should be very proud of your hard work. Your thesis defense is a chance to showcase your research and demonstrate your knowledge to your peers and professors. It is also an opportunity to receive feedback and criticism that will help you improve your work.
Congratulations on a successful thesis defense! All your hard work has paid off and you can now enjoy the fruits of your labor. This is a great accomplishment that you should be very proud of.
Preparing for your thesis defense can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that you have already done the hard work. The best way to approach your defense is to be confident and well-prepared. Review your research thoroughly and practice explaining your work to others. Anticipate questions and have thoughtful answers ready.
Your thesis defense is a chance to shine. Showcase your research and your knowledge, and be confident in your work. Congratulations on this significant accomplishment!
A big congratulations to you on passing your thesis defense! This is a huge accomplishment and you should be very proud of yourself. Your hard work and dedication has paid off and you can now officially call yourself a doctor! This is a huge milestone in your life and your career and you have worked extremely hard to get to this point. Your family and friends are all very proud of you and are looking forward to seeing what you achieve in the future.
Congratulations on successfully defending your thesis! This is a huge accomplishment and you should be very proud of yourself.
Well done on successfully defending your thesis! This is a significant milestone in your academic career and you have worked hard to achieve it.
Congratulations on a successful thesis defense! This is a major accomplishment and you have put in a lot of hard work to get here.
Well done on defending your thesis! This is a big achievement and you have worked hard to make it happen.
Congratulations on your successful thesis defense! This is a fantastic accomplishment and you should be very proud of yourself.
Well done on defending your thesis! This is a huge milestone in your academic career and you have worked hard to achieve it.

Thank you messages after thesis defense

Thank you so much for attending my thesis defense and for your support throughout my studies. I really appreciate all your questions and comments, which helped me clarify my thinking on this important topic. I am grateful to have had such a supportive and engaged audience, and I am looking forward to continuing our dialogue in the future. Thank you again for everything!
Thank you so much for attending my thesis defense! Your support means the world to me.
I cannot express how grateful I am for your feedback and support during my thesis defense. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Thank you for being such an engaged and supportive audience during my thesis defense. Your questions and comments were invaluable.
I am truly appreciative of your time and effort in attending my thesis defense. Your support is very much appreciated.
Thank you for being such an attentive and supportive audience during my thesis defense. I truly appreciate your feedback and questions.
I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for your attendance and support during my thesis defense. Thank you so much for your time and input.
Thank you very much for your participation and support during my thesis defense. I greatly appreciate your feedback and questions.
I would like to express my gratitude for your time and effort in attending my thesis defense. Your support is very much appreciated.
Thank you for your interest and support during my thesis defense. I truly appreciate your feedback and questions.
I am extremely grateful for your attendance and support during my thesis defense. Your feedback and questions were invaluable. Thank you so much!

Best wishes for thesis defense

Congratulations on making it this far! Best of luck in the final push to complete your thesis. Wishing you all the best in your defense.
I am so proud of you and all that you have accomplished. I know you will do great in your thesis defense. All the best!
I am confident that you have put your heart and soul into your thesis and I know you will do an amazing job defending it. All the best!
I wish you the best of luck in your upcoming thesis defense. You have worked so hard and I know you will do great.
I am excited to see all that you have accomplished with your thesis. Wishing you the best of luck in your defense. You got this!
You have worked so hard on your thesis and I know you will do an amazing job defending it. All the best!
Best of luck in your thesis defense! I know you have worked hard and you will do great.

Tips on how to prepare for a successful thesis defense

Thesis defense is an opportunity for a student to present their research and findings to their peers, academics, and other interested parties. It is also a chance to receive feedback and suggestions for improvement. A well-prepared defense can mean the difference between a successful thesis and one that is unsuccessful. Below are some tips for preparing for a successful thesis defense.

Choose a topic that you are passionate about and have a good understanding of. Your defense will be more successful if you are able to speak confidently and knowledgeably about your topic.
Do your research. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the existing literature on your topic. This will not only make your defense more convincing, but will also give you a better understanding of the research process itself.
Develop a clear and concise thesis statement. Your thesis statement should be a clear, concise statement of your argument. It should be easy for your audience to understand and should be no more than a few sentences long.
Prepare an outline of your defense. An outline will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that you stay on track during your defense.
Practice, practice, practice. The more you practice, the more confident you will be when it comes time to actually give your defense.

A thesis defense is an opportunity for a student to present their research and findings to a panel of academic experts. Thesis defenses are typically held at the end of a student’s degree program, and they offer the student a chance to show what they have learned over the course of their studies.

Thesis defenses can be nerve-wracking experiences, but they are also opportunities to showcase your hard work and intellectual achievements. If you are preparing for a thesis defense, congratulations! This is a significant milestone in your academic career.

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What to write in a good luck card.

Good luck card sticking out of an envelope.

Whether it’s a big test or a first day on a new job, a good-luck message is always welcome and appreciated. Your card might be just the confidence-booster a friend or loved one needs to get through a tough day or an important challenge!

“Good luck”—those two little words can express big caring and encouragement all by themselves. But if you’d like to say more, you’ve come to the right place for ideas. From different energy levels, to different situations and recipients, we’ve got tips and message starters on what to write in a good luck card to get your thoughts flowing and your pen moving.

Whether you keep it low-key or amp up the enthusiasm, we hope our ideas help you send a little well-timed luck and support to someone who needs it!

Inspired? Create and share by tagging @Hallmark .

Affirmation
Inspiring Quotes
Warm Closings

Wishes

You don’t have to write a lot to encourage your recipient in a big way. It’s fine to keep your personal message short and sweet—especially when the card itself has already said quite a bit.

“Best of luck at your race tomorrow! I’ll be thinking about you!”
“Good luck today! I hope it helps to know you’ll be in my thoughts.”
“Good luck and good wishes.”
“All the luck in the world, all wished for you.”
“Good luck, you! We’re all betting on you!”
“Love and luck to you on your first day at work. Can’t wait to hear all about it!”
“Sending good vibes to take with you to your treatment.”
“I know how important this is for you. Hope you know how much I’m pulling for you!
“Best wishes for a successful interview!”
“Prayers and good thoughts coming your way. Good luck!”
“May good fortune smile on you as you begin this new adventure.”
“Go forth and conquer!”
“Crossing my fingers for you! Go, go, go!”

Writing tip: Is it possible to overdo the enthusiasm in a good-luck message? If you’re writing to someone facing treatment for a serious illness or other difficult circumstance, then maybe so. But in general, don’t hold back on the energy…or the exclamation points!

Affirmation

If you want to go one step beyond a simple good-luck wish, try expressing your belief in your recipient and their ability to tackle the challenge they’re about to face. Compliment them for preparing well. If appropriate, remind them of how far they’ve already come.

“Good luck with the presentation. You’re going to be amazing!”
“I know today won’t be easy, but I also know you’re up to the challenge. Best of luck to you!”
“Wishing you the very best luck…not that you need it. You’ve got this.”
“Just a friendly reminder that I believe in you.”
“Hope you’re feeling good and confident about today. You have every reason to.”
“I predict a big win tomorrow. Good luck to you!”
“You can do this!”
“Go get ‘em! (Just like you always do.)”
“May all your practice and preparation meet with the best of luck!”
“All your hard work is about to pay off…”
“Go out and give it your best shot. Whatever happens, you’ve already got a lot to be proud of!”
“You’ve worked hard to get this far. Best wishes as you make this final push!”
“Just relax and do your best. You’ll be great!”

Writing tip: What if the card itself has already said “good luck”? Build on it by sending “good thoughts,” “good vibes,” or “good wishes.” Express confidence. Add a compliment. Or simply remind your recipient that you’re thinking of them .

To a Child

For kids, good-luck messages should focus less on achieving any particular outcome, and more on things like doing their best, having fun, and knowing they’ve got a cheering section .

“Sending you good-luck hugs!”
“Good luck at the game tonight. Win or lose, I’m proud of you!”
“Just wanted you to know I’m thinking about you as you get ready for your recital. Have fun with it and do your best!”
“Can’t wait to cheer you on! Best of luck today!”
“You’ve practiced hard, and you’re going to do great!”
“Good luck at your appointment. If you get nervous, remember I love you…and maybe think about cute puppy videos, too. ☺”
“Today will be tough, but you’ll be tougher.”
“Good luck to my favorite awesome tee-ball player!”
“May good luck smile on you today. And may you be smiling, too.”
“Good luck! I believe in you. And unicorns. But especially you.”
“I hope this good-luck candy bar gives you a little extra boost!”

Writing tip: A doodle, riddle, on knock-knock joke written off to the side can make a fun addition to a good-luck message for a child.

Inspiring Quotes

Got some favorite inspiring words? Consider adding them to your good-luck message, like so…

“No bird soars too high, if he soars with his own wings.” —William Blake Looking forward to watching you soar!
“I can do all things in him who strengthens me.”—Philippians 4:13 (RSV) You can do this! Good luck!
“We find in life exactly what we put into it.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson Here’s to giving it all you’ve got!

Writing tip: If you know your recipient admires a particular well-known person, past or present, see if you can find some inspiring words from that person. We’ve got some inspiring words of our own, too!

Warm Closings

A warm closing before your signature is a perfect way to wrap up any good-luck message. Choose one of ours, or come up with one of your own.

Lots of love,
Love always,
Love and prayers,
Thinking of you,
Best wishes,
All the best,
Good luck to you,
God bless you,
Stay strong!
Behind you all the way,

Now you know what to write in a good luck card! If you need even more card message ideas, we’ve got you covered:

What to write in a friendship card
What to write in an encouragement card
What to write in a thank you card
What to write in an appreciation card
greeting card messages

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Dissertation Defense: Steps To Follow To Succeed

A dissertation defense is arguably one of the most important milestones in every student’s career. While it signals that your tenure as a student is soon about to close, it validates all your efforts towards your thesis.

Being cautious about including all the necessary details is very important to successfully complete your dissertation proposal defense. This article tells you everything that you need to know about writing a defense that can add great credibility to you as a student.

What is A Dissertation Defense?

The first thing that you need to learn is what is a dissertation defense and what is its purpose. In simple terms, it is a presentation made by a student to defend all the ideas and views that are presented in a dissertation.

The presenter must include details like what is the reason for choosing specific research methods, the theory that has been selected for the paper, and other such points. This presentation is made before an audience that comprises of the university committee, professors and even fellow-students. It is met with questions and answers that gives the student an opportunity to provide more clarity on the dissertation in order to convince the committee to approve it.

Stages of a Dissertation Defense

One of the most important dissertation defense tips provided by several professors is to breakdown the process into three steps:

Preparation : This stage involves collection of all the necessary information that must be included in the defense dissertation and making all the arrangements for the actual meeting.
The defense meeting : This is where you decide how you will present the defense. The actual meeting is hugely reliant on the performance, body language and the confidence in your oral defense.
After the defense meeting : This stage, also known as the follow up, requires you to make the necessary revisions suggested by the university committee. You can even provide bound copies of the whole dissertation to distribute among different members of your departments. In the follow up stage, one must also think about expense that are related to publishing the Ph.D. dissertation defense as well as printing additional copies of the manuscript, if required.

How Long is a Dissertation Defense?

The first thing that a student should know is how long does a dissertation defense last? The length has to be carefully calculated to make the impact that you want. One of the most important steps in the dissertation preparation is to understand how much time each department allocates to the closing oral defense. When you plan in the early stages of your dissertation itself, you can write it in a manner that allows you to defend it in the allocated time.

Usually these meetings including the presentation, the oral defense and the question and answer session last for about two hours. In most cases, these two hours also encompass the time needed by members of the committee to deliberate.

How to Prepare for the Dissertation Defense

Now that you know how long is a dissertation defense, the next step is to prepare well enough to make your presentation impressive.

Here are some tips on how to prepare for a dissertation defense:

Watch other students in action to learn about different presentation styles. You can attend defenses of different colleagues in your department as well as other departments in your university.
Get all the details about the deadlines and the rules of your college or university about scheduling your defense.
Scheduling is also a very important part of your preparation. It is important to note that members of the committee and University chairs need to make time for these defences in a very packed schedule. Coordinate the date, venue and time of your defense as early as possible.
Prepare a manuscript adhering to the necessary formatting rules. Review your manuscript thoroughly before you hand it in. During your PH.D, your faculty will also assist you with the defense. For this, they must have a crisp and polished copy of your manuscript.
Most colleges have the facility for a pre-defense meeting. This is the best opportunity to sort out any concerns that you may have about the actual meeting. It is a good idea to ask the chairs what types of questions may be put forward and if there are any problems with the defense that need to be resolved. When you prepare for a pre-defense meeting, think of it as the final one and give it your all.
Put together all the material that you need for the defense. A detailed, yet to-the-point presentation must be prepared.
The final stage of preparation is practicing your presentation over and over again. It is not just the presentation but also the approach towards the questions that you must practice.

Tips To Nail Your Actual Meeting

With these tips you will be one step closer towards a successful defense that will help your dissertation pass and be approved:

All meetings should begin by addressing the chair. Make sure you thank all the committee members and the advisors for the efforts that they have put it. This gives you a professional start to the presentation.
The presentation should cover the following subjects in brief:
The research topic
Literature review
The methods used for analysis
The primary findings of the research
Recommendations of additional research on the subject in the focus.
Do not get rattled by any discussions among the chairs. They will deliberate on any disagreements or topics of interest. This is a part of the process and is not a reflection of the presentation itself.
There are two questions that are commonly asked that you should be prepared for. This includes the weaknesses of the dissertation and the research plans that you have made post-dissertation.
Use subtle gestures when you are talking. Do not overuse your hands when doing so. The whole meeting including the question and answer session should have a very formal appeal.
The tone of your voice must be assertive without making it seem like you are trying to hard. Be clear and enunciate when you speak.

Once the questions have been answered, the committee will leave the room. Then, after the deliberation, you will be informed if your dissertation has passed or not.

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