MBA colleges, particularly most Indian Institute of Managements (IIMs) are all set to begin their Written Ability Tests (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. Written Ability Test evaluates one’s ability to think precariously, how efficaciously one can put forth one’s ideas, and develop an appropriate response within a short span of time. The topic selected for WAT is usually from current political, economic and business affairs.

GDPI expert, Prof Sidarth Balakrishna opines that the topics of a Written Ability Test are usually similar to that of a Group Discussion (GD). Perhaps that is why a few colleges/ institutes conduct WAT instead of GD.

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Here are some tips for WAT that Prof Balakrishna shares with MBA aspirants

Essay must have an introduction and conclusion besides the main body.

In the main body, present only one idea per paragraph.

Support the idea or opinion you present with facts, data, and examples so as to logically argue your perspective.

Try and analyse the matter at hand in the main body itself, rather than stringing together mere opinions

An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, Balakrishna has worked for some of the world’s leading marketing, management consultancy and energy firms. He has also written a number of books and articles for various reputed publications, and given guest lectures and appeared at seminars across the country. He has also authored books, some of which are:

1. An Introduction to CAT: Tips from an IIM Alumnus

2. Reading Comprehension for the CAT: A Winning Approach by an IIM Alumnus

3.Case Studies in Marketing (Pearson Case Book series)

He is also a career counselling expert and a member of the interview panel to select students at various reputed MBA institutes. Additionally, he is a visiting faculty in several MBA and coaching institutes.

You can read and know more about WAT from Sidharth Balakrishna’s GD / PI preparation course that can be purchased here: https://www.prepathon.com/gd-pi-by-sidharth-balakrishna

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