BHMS Viva Preparation Guide – How to Answer Confidently & Score Maximum Marks
Introduction
Viva voce examinations are a crucial part of BHMS assessments. Many students lose marks in viva not because they lack knowledge, but because they fail to present answers confidently, clearly, and systematically. Unlike theory exams, viva tests clarity of concepts, presence of mind, and communication skills.
This article provides a complete, practical guide on how BHMS students can prepare for viva examinations effectively and score maximum marks.
1. Understand the Purpose of Viva
A viva is not meant to trap students. Examiners aim to assess:
Basic conceptual understanding
Ability to recall important facts
Logical thinking
Confidence and clarity
Practical orientation
Viva focuses more on fundamentals than on deep memorization.
Key point:
If your basics are strong, viva becomes easy.
2. Know the Pattern of BHMS Viva
Most BHMS viva questions fall into the following categories:
1. Definitions
Examples:
What is inflammation?
Define vital force.
What is anemia?
Definitions must be:
Short
Precise
Textbook-based
2. Classifications
Very common and high-scoring.
Examples:
3. “Explain in Short” Questions
Examples:
Explain totality of symptoms
Explain case taking
Explain hypersensitivity
4. Practical-Based Questions
Examples:
3. How to Frame Answers in Viva
Your answer structure matters as much as content.
Ideal Answer Structure
Definition (one sentence)
Classification or key points
One important example (if needed)
Example:
Q: What is necrosis?
“Necrosis is the irreversible death of cells occurring in living tissue due to severe injury.”
Stop.
Do not add unnecessary lines unless asked.
4. Common Mistakes Students Make in Viva
Avoid these mistakes at all costs:
❌ Over-explaining
Giving long answers irritates examiners.
❌ Guessing wrong answers
If you don’t know, say:
“I am not able to recall at the moment.”
❌ Speaking without structure
Random thoughts show confusion.
❌ Arguing with examiner
Never correct or challenge the examiner.
❌ Poor body language
Avoid slouching, shaking legs, or looking down.
5. Subject-Wise Viva Preparation Strategy
Pathology
Focus on:
Definitions
Classifications
Differences (benign vs malignant)
High-yield topics:
Necrosis
Organon
Focus on:
Definitions
Key principles
High-yield topics:
Materia Medica
Focus on:
Never give treatment advice in viva.
Practicals
Focus on:
Principle
Procedure
Precautions
6. How to Prepare Notes for Viva
Viva notes should be short and sharp.
Best Viva Notes Format
One page per topic
Definitions in bold
Classifications in bullet points
Diagrams if possible
Avoid writing paragraphs.
7. Smart Viva Preparation Techniques
Technique 1: Question-Answer Practice
Prepare a list of:
100 common viva questions per subject
Practice answering them aloud.
Technique 2: Mirror Practice
Answer questions while looking into a mirror.
This improves confidence and clarity.
Technique 3: Group Discussion
Discuss viva questions with classmates.
Explaining to others improves memory.
Technique 4: Teach Someone
Teaching juniors or friends is one of the best revision methods.
8. Body Language & Communication Tips
Examiners notice behavior immediately.
Do
✔ Sit straight
✔ Maintain eye contact
✔ Speak clearly
✔ Stay calm
Don’t
❌ Fidget
❌ Speak too fast
❌ Panic
❌ Argue
Confidence often earns partial marks even if the answer is incomplete.
9. Last-Day Viva Revision Plan
One day before viva:
Revise definitions
Revise classifications
Go through practical principles
Revise important diagrams
Sleep properly
Do NOT start new topics.
10. How Examiners Actually Give Marks
Marks are based on:
Accuracy
Confidence
Logical flow
Honesty
A student who answers calmly and logically scores better than someone who memorizes without clarity.
Conclusion
BHMS viva examinations test understanding, confidence, and clarity, not rote memorization. With structured preparation, clear answer framing, and calm communication, scoring well in viva becomes achievable. Focus on basics, practice regularly, and approach viva as a conversation, not an interrogation.
