i'm a violist doing grade 5 and i have technique problems as i only did my grade 3 in december! my little finger is v. short and i can't stretch it enough esp. in 3rd pos any advice?

I play the viola too. I've found that it has taken a long time for my little finger to get stronger, but it has definitely improved over the years.

I took Grade 3 last summer, but I don't feel quite ready for Grade 4 yet. so I'm going to work on my technique for a bit longer.

To strengthen your little finger - I've found that regularly using it when playing helps the most. There are some studies especially designed to give you lots of 4th finger practice.

Perhaps you could also consider trying a smaller viola, to see if that helps. The one you've got could be too big for you! Mine is size 15 and a half and it's just about comfortable for me (I'm about 5 foot 3).

Hope this helps,
carys