How To Prepare For CAT GDPI 2024?

Published on 26th November 2024, 11:00 AM 

Once you are done with the CAT exam and know that your score is up to the mark, candidates should shift their focus and begin preparing for the CAT GDPI 2024, as it is an important step to get picked in the final selection process. Students are highly advised to pay extra attention to their communication abilities during the CAT GDPI rounds as they indirectly affect the evaluation. Normally, many institutions offer GDPI calls to candidates thrice the number of seats available, granting final admission offers to just one candidate out of three candidates. Moreover, the GDPI round is granted significant weightage in the last tally. To put it mildly, the GDPI preparation is an integral part of the final selection. Hence, students must comprehend the notions relevant to the CAT GDPI 2024 alongside persuasive people skills. Candidates must learn what to say and what not to say during the GD (Group Discussion) and PI (Personal Interview) rounds. 

So if you are bewildered about how to prepare for the CAT GDPI 2024, we have curated some of the most useful tips to help you crack the GDPI round on the first try. 

CAT Exam Group Discussion (GD) 

In the GD round, you will be among the group of 8 to 12 students debating a topic that is given by the panel. The purpose is to assess your skills to speak effectively, articulate your concepts clearly, and have the ability to work in a squad.

> Make a Group with Peers to Practice: If you want to practice for the GD round, the most effective way is to make a group consisting of 5 or more people and then talk about topics on current events, business, or any other relevant topics to heighten your confidence. This will aid you in conveying your viewpoint and displaying your awareness about the particular subject.

> Utilize Online Forums or Communities: Another way to practice your CAT GD round is to make use of various forums or communities and express your views and opinions there. Take note of the feedback from friends and mentors, as this will help you enhance your GD skills.

> Analyze the GD Recordings: Look for genuine and expert-recommended videos in GD rounds and carefully analyze them. This will give you a clearer perspective on how to answer back during the discussion and when to respond or not.

Also Read: CAT Group Discussion

CAT Exam Personal Interview (PI) 

The Personal Interview round is a face-to-face conversation with the interviewers. Here they will ask you about your personal interests, background, objectives, and your awareness of current events. This is your opportunity to display your qualities, confidence, and explicitness. 

> Do Thorough Research: Have a good amount of knowledge on business schools, such as obtaining all the information you can, learning the college’s background, culture, and unique approaches, and most importantly, see whether or not it aligns with your career plans and complements your abilities and interests.

> Personal Presentation: It is very important to work on your presentation & communication skills while preparing for an interview. Below mentioned are some steps to improve your personal presentation as follows:

> Make a detailed resume and be ready to talk about your educational accomplishments, work experience, and extracurricular activities without missing out on a single piece of information. 

> Make sure to highlight your crucial achievements and the skills you obtained. 

> Actual-world Implementation: Combine your experiences and knowledge with actual world settings. Display how your educational and competent journey makes you a worthy candidate.

> Interview Code: In an interview, one should learn the proper etiquette and how one should present oneself in front of a panel of interviewers. For a professional outlook, one must dress decently as per the industry norms and reach on time. The way you dress, how you present yourself, and your punctuality show your professionalism. 

Maintain a well-behaved and respectful demeanor all through the interview process. Showcase your skills to deal with stress and communicate professionally. 

Also Read: CAT Personal Interview

How To Prepare For GDPI After The CAT exam?

Most candidates find it challenging to prepare for a GDPI round, as they are either afraid to face the plethora of questions bombarded by the interviewer or are worried because of lacking skills on their resume. Well, both cases are matters of concern. One should thoroughly prepare for their interview rounds in order to secure a seat at their dream B-school and take the month after CAT very seriously to improve both their communication skills and resume.

Preparation Tips For CAT GD

Here are a few tips straight from the horse's mouth in order to improve your GD preparation as follows:

> Create a Study Group: Team up with your friends or classmates to form a study group where you can discuss current events and business issues. Schedule regular mock group discussion (GD) sessions on various topics to practice together.

> Join Online Discussions: Participate in online GD forums or communities where you can share your thoughts and get feedback from peers and experts, helping you improve your GD skills.

> Watch GD Videos: Analyze recorded GD sessions to learn effective techniques, successful strategies, and areas where you can improve your performance in group discussions.

> Access Online Practice Sessions: Join online classes for GD, Group Exercises (GE), and Written Ability Test (WAT) preparation, including discussions tailored to specific institutes. Additionally, attend offline Foundation Series sessions to learn the basics of GD, WAT, and Personal Interviews (PI).

Preparation Tips For CAT PI

Here are a few tips straight from the horse's mouth in order to improve your PI preparation as follows:

> Self-Reflection: Make a comprehensive list of your strengths, weaknesses, and notable achievements. Practice talking about yourself as much as possible to confidently answer interview questions.

> Career Vision: Clearly identify your career goals and evaluate how an MBA can help you achieve them. Be sure to articulate your vision in a clear and straightforward manner.

> Simulated Interviews: Set up mock interviews with mentors or professionals to gain a realistic interview experience. This will also provide you with valuable, constructive feedback.

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Best of Luck!!