Now that the answer keys are out, the tension rises regarding the next step in the CAT rounds, which are GD and PI. We all know that scoring well in the written exam and achieving the IIM cut-off percentile won’t guarantee success in cracking the IIM tag. As the admissions process progresses, the level of difficulty increases.
We are here to discuss how to master the CAT Group Discussion for the IIMs and top MBA schools in India and be ahead of the curve.
In this blog, we will get down to the business of the CAT group decision round for IIMs by understanding what types of questions and topics are asked and how you can prepare them. We will also go through different methods for preparation and understand the dos and don’ts of the group discussion rounds.
Significance of CAT Group discussion round
To understand the significance of the group discussion round in CAT is to understand the make-or-break point of the exam. You might be wondering why.
The group discussion round assesses candidates through their abilities, such as knowledge of current affairs, leadership qualities, communication skills, and much more. Which are crucial to entry into IIMs. CAT Group discussion rounds generally follow a set structure, and understanding this can help you during your process.
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Breaking down CAT Group discussion topics into categories
- Current Affairs GD Topics
- Abstract Topics for GD
- Business & Economy Topics
- GD Topics of Social Issues
- Case Studies and Latest Trends
To get started, let us understand the important selection parameters for acing the GD round. Most of the time in the CAT Group Discussion round, they test candidates’ knowledge by assessing their understanding of current affairs, such as what’s happening in the business world. So we recommend you go through the latest business and economic topics, which will help you stand out from the pool of other candidates.
It is also important to be well-versed in topics such as social issues such as unemployment, healthcare accessibility in India, combating corruption in Indian society, and much more. Case studies also play a significant role in the GD rounds, to give an example of past IIM topics such as Aditya-L1: India’s first solar mission, entrepreneurship in today’s era, and informal topics like love marriage vs. arranged marriage.
Typical Questions for Each Type of Group Discussion Topic in IIM CAT Admissions
Category | Questions |
Current Affairs GD Topics | Sustainable Development Goals and What Are the Progress & Challenges? |
What are the Opportunities & Risks of Metaverse in the Future? | |
Define the Pros and cons of the Uniform Civil Code | |
What are the implications for the aviation industry after Tata takeover Air India? | |
Impact on the Global Economy after the Ukraine-Russia Conflict | |
Is the Population Control Bill a necessary step or a challenge? | |
Are cryptocurrency and NFTs a threat or a boom for India’s economy? | |
Should India adopt the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)? | |
Is it effective to have a single-use plastic ban? | |
Is AI a replacement or helper for humans in the future? | |
What role can India play in the global climate crisis, mitigating its effects? | |
Business & Economy GD Topics | Can ONDC disrupt e-commerce like UPI? |
Will TATA NEU succeed in being a super app in India in the competitive market? | |
How will the Russia-Ukraine War impact India’s economy? | |
What are the key takeaways from the Economic Survey 2024? | |
Is globalization still relevant? | |
What are the challenges and growth prospects of the telecom sector in India? | |
Key Causes and Remedies for Inflation in India? | |
How will tech layoffs affect the industry and employees? | |
Social Issue GD Topics | Is women’s empowerment progressing in India? |
Do you think social media is a boon or bane for society? | |
Has Beti Bachao Beti Padhao been a success and failure in India? | |
What’s the impact on children’s growth over a shortage of open spaces? | |
“Free Metro Ride for Women” A step towards women’s empowerment or a political gimmick? | |
Should English be the only official language of India? | |
Are caste-based reservations a roadblock to casteless society? | |
Swachh Bharat Mission Why is success still going on? | |
Is social media addiction a real issue for Indian youth? | |
Is India ready for a mental health revolution? | |
Abstract Topics for GD | Which is more effective, hard work vs. smart work? |
Can ethics and profits coexist in business? | |
Is the “Me Too campaign” a tool for justice or a trap? | |
What is more significant? Innovation vs Invention | |
Is work-life balance a myth or a reality? | |
Is patience a virtue in business and management? | |
What makes a person truly successful? Fame vs. importance? | |
Which part of India is superior east or west? | |
Does innovation or tradition drive change in society? | |
What is Your definition of success? Is it personal or universal? | |
Case Studies and Latest Trends | Does cryptocurrency stand as a threat to global financial stability? |
Is India ready for the rise of electronic vehicles? | |
Is remote working the future of employment? | |
What role did India’s G20 play in 2023 and beyond? | |
How does space exploration impact India’s global position? | |
How has the pandemic reshaped global business? | |
Is the National Green Hydrogen Mission a game-changer for India? | |
Is the digital revolution pushing the world towards a cashless society? |
Preparation tips for CAT Group Discussion?
Case Studies & Examples: Read newspapers or articles about the latest business crises, tech disruptions, leadership challenges, and other things happening around the globe.
Prepare Arguments: Prepare basic arguments for and against controversial topics, which you can use as a foundation in group discussion rounds. The key element is to back up your points with data and statistics.
Communication Skills: Practice speaking with clarity and confidence and being an active listener to fill the gap in the group discussion round. Focus on body language and professionalism to dominate over the other candidate.
Group Dynamics: One of the crucial things in a GD round is to collaborate effectively by keeping up with group discussions and staying respectful during disagreements.
Opinion—Mock GDs: Participate in practicing GDs to improve your speaking, teamwork, and time management skills. So that you can have a seat at the interview
Understand GD Format: Know the structure of a GD and the evaluation criteria (communication, leadership, critical thinking, teamwork) to understand where you stand and how you can improve yourself.
Common Etiquette for GD Round
- Be on time.Don’t be late for the exam; it will create a bad impression in front of the panel.
- Pay attention to others by being an active listener
- While speaking be confident and to the point
- Avoid interrupting others and be respectful
- When speaking, maintain eye contact to show you are engaged in the conversation.
- Be calm during a heated conversation. Think first and reply in a calm, responsive manner.
- Create a good impression by dressing in a professional manner, which speaks confidence.
Conclusion
Mastering CAT group discussion rounds for IIM admissions is a critical part of the admission process. To stay ahead of the pack, you need to up your game by doing your homework. We have prepared a mock bundle that will help you maintain a leadership position and secure a spot in a top MBA schools in India.
FAQs
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Types of Topics Covered in GD for IIM Admissions
Topics related to current affairs, such as Current Affairs, Social Issues, Abstract Topics, Business & Economy, and technology, can be seen in CAt GD 2024
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Are the topics related to current events in the GD Round?
Yes, GD topics will cover current events, including political developments, global conflicts, economic policies, and technological advancements. So we recommend you stay updated with news and trending topics.
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How Should I Prepare for GD Topics on Current Affairs?
You can refer to the news by reading the newspaper or watching news channels and following reliable online sources. Also, try to analyse the topics by understanding both arguments for balanced viewpoints. So that you can be prepared with data that will help you support your points.
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What is Expected of Me During a GD on Social or Controversial Issues?
During the IIM GD interview round, they expect you to be composed by handling sensitive topics, being respectful of other people's opinions, and addressing all the pros and cons for a practical solution. They also check the tone of voice and the language used while discussing this topic, so we recommend avoiding harsh or offensive language.
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What are the characteristics of abstract GD topics?
While looking at an abstract of GD, know that there are no right or wrong answers. They look over your thinking and analytical skills in GD. So focus on being conceptual about your idea and be open to different interpretations of the topic given.
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How Do I Handle a GD Topic That I Know Very Little About?
First, it's important to know that it's okay if you don't know that it is often the case with many candidates. In such cases, we recommend you stay calm and stick to the basics of the given topic. try to ask questions to get clarification and listen carefully Oftentimes, through the conversation, you get clarity over the topic. Also, it's okay to acknowledge that you have limited knowledge of the given topic rather than to guess it inaccurately.
