Overview: To get into a dream college like the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), cracking the CAT exam is the first stage. Once you have given the CAT exam, you will need to clear the CAT sectional as well as the CAT overall cutoff which will make you eligible to appear for the next selection rounds at the various CAT accepting and participating colleges. Once the candidates clear these selection rounds, they are shortlisted for the counselling rounds at the colleges, and then the students finally get admission to the desired colleges depending on the seat availability and other factors of the institute.
In this article we will aim to cover these three rounds in detail. It is important for the candidates to know what these rounds mean, what they entail, what they assess, and what are the certain topics that candidates can prepare for. This article will majorly detail the factor of how to prepare for the CAT GD, and WAT-PI round.
Now, let us understand what these selection rounds are. These selection rounds comprise of three stages - Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Written Ability Test (WAT). It depends on the institutes whether they wish to conduct all the three rounds or just a couple. However, candidates should be well-prepared for each and every round.
What is Group Discussion (GD)?
The CAT Exam will include a Group Discussion in which candidates will be placed into groups of 8-10. Each group will be assigned a topic to discuss for at least 15 minutes. Candidates will be tested on their leadership abilities, vision, decision-making abilities, mediation skills, and other areas. The next section contains some important facts on CAT GD preparation.
1. Leadership Skills
Candidates must improve their leadership abilities. If a candidate lacks experience in exercising leadership, it will reflect poorly on them. They should understand how to lead a conversation without dominating it. Candidates must add their points wherever they are needed during the discussion. They must pay close attention during the GD.
2. Personal Grooming
Candidates should ensure that they are dressed professionally. The majority of students chosen are well-dressed in order to make a good impression on the judges. Benefit from the prejudices that are already present. Don't dress too plainly or garishly. A well-ironed shirt and a pair of trousers are sufficient to make a favorable impression on your personal grooming. The attire should not be too loose or too tight, and the applicants should check that the clothes they are wearing fit properly.
3. Body Language
When candidates use positive body language, it makes other people more receptive to them. You should not put your arms back or fold your arms because it gives the impression that you are reserved or closed off. Do not stare at others, but make eye contact with everyone. Maintain professional demeanor at all times and avoid appearing too comfortable.
4. Listening Skills
Most applicants do not prepare for the level of Group Discussion by practicing their listening skills. Candidates can only become effective leaders if they have exceptional listening abilities. Recognizing some solid arguments made by other candidates in their GD round lends credibility to your argument/point and fosters group cohesion. Candidates must practice in order to develop in this area. They must set aside their differences and practice empathy. They must be objective and attentive to the group discussion at all times.
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Significant themes for CAT Group Discussion
- Impact of banning cryptocurrency on the Indian economy
- Union budget
- Escalating petrol prices
- National education policy
- The future of work, including job displacement and the evolving nature of work
What is a Personal Interview?
A Personal Interview-PI is a discussion in which someone is questioned about their history, lifestyle, and experience. The panel can assess if a candidate has the capacity and abilities necessary to successfully pursue and develop a career in management through a personal interview with the applicant. Here are some CAT PI preparation ideas to remember while taking part in a Personal Interview.
Prepare Your Answers
Even though no one can predict what questions an interviewer will ask, you may always prepare responses for basic inquiries such as current events, subjects from the course that you studied as your higher education degree, and your past job experience, if appropriate.
Be Self-Assured
Being hesitant and unconfident in yourself is one of the last things you should do at an interview. When it comes to finding a job, there is a lot of competition. As a result, confidence will be your best buddy throughout the procedure.
Do's and Don'ts in PI
Below listed are a few things that the candidates should keep in mind while preparing for the interview round. These are the certain Do's and Don'ts that the candidates can follow.
Do's in a Personal Interview
- Write your Statement of Purpose (SOP) very well and practice accordingly
- Take some help from experts.
- Practice on body language
- Practice on Voice modulation
- Carry all documents aligned
- Wear a formal dress
Dont's in a Personal Interview
- Never tell a lie
- Don't fudge data
- Don't go in interview in informal manner
- Don't Compromise on Ethical Issues.
What is Written Ability Test (WAT)?
The Written Ability Test or WAT, is a 15 to 30 minute paper-pen based writing test administered by IIMs and other top B-schools to assess your writing skills after being shortlisted for the final admission round. This test is given right before your personal interview. In reality, in the final selection phase, most IIMs have replaced the Group Discussion (GD) round with WAT. In the WAT round, a candidate can openly express his or her opinions and thoughts on writing without fear of being interrupted. Some preparation tips for WAT are listed below:
A Lot of Reading
Reading will help you broaden your mental process and expand your vocabulary. The business and economic parts of the newspaper are recommended.
Write a lot
Write your thoughts down in a logical and simple manner. Check that your handwriting is legible. After reading a topic, write your thoughts on it and then examine it.
Time Management
Consider the limitations of your writing time. Write about the same topic in different time periods of 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, and 30 minutes.
Develop a Quick Frame
Spend not more than 2-3 minutes mentally arranging your thoughts and outlining your ideas before writing on any topic. This will help your article make sense.
Consider Expert Advice
Show your work to professors or anyone who can help you. Take professional advice and correct your blunders.