Students’ Speak: Preparing for Group Discussion

By: Srinivas Goud

Tips to prepare for Group Discussion and some general tips to keep in mind during the process.

Group Discussion judges the personality of a person and there are no specific rules to prepare for a GD. However, below are a few points that an individual can refer to while preparing for GD. 

 Before the Group Discussion

 Stock yourself with information. No one knows what the subject of GD is going to be. Hence, it'll be an honest idea to stay yourself abreast with topics such as:

• Current Affairs

Current Affairs are some things that you simply need to be thorough with. For this, read newspapers regularly and watch news on the TV. Understand the recent crises that the planet is reeling under, the newest developmental initiatives, the ties between various countries and therefore the like. 

• Historical topics

Have a good knowledge of the country’s history and also the history of other countries. The topics might not be specifically from this area, but having historical information will assist you to cite examples and make references whenever needed. 

• Sports, Arts & Literature 

In these topics, attempt to have an honest idea about what's popular, who are the leaders in each area, the newest that went on in these areas. If the subject for GD is from these areas, then you'll be on top of things, alternatively, you'll definitely use the knowledge to draw references.

• Data crunching

Do familiarize yourself with important data. Throwing in some data if required in your GD will certainly create an impact among the assessors.

Generic Tips:

• On the day of GD, relax and dress in comfortable clothes.
• Be confident but avoid being cocky. 
• Talk sense. Avoid superficial talk.
• Listen carefully and speak only at the acceptable time.
• Be very sure of what you're speaking.
• Use easy-to-understand English.
• Speak loudly and clearly.
• Do not get impacted by other members’ aggressive or submissive behavior.
• Accommodate diverse viewpoints.
• Put forth your points without being aggressive.
• Give due importance to others’ views.
• Stick to the topic. Attempt to support it with more viewpoints.
• Do not allow yourself to be diverted by other people’s points.
• Do not be distracted. Your concentration should be solely on the discussion.
• If you are doing not know something, don't speak.
• Try to maintain a balanced tone during GD by not getting excited and aggressive during the discussion.
• Try to contribute throughout the discussion.
• Try to be the primary speaker and therefore the last to talk. 
• Read the maximum amount as possible. Have a good and sound knowledge on numerous topics. Watching documentaries on various topics will help here.
• Improve your vocabulary. This doesn't mean that you simply use heavy and large words, but it means you'll be ready to understand the subject better and contribute effectively

About the Author:

Srinivas Goud is a student at CMR Technical Campus pursuing BTech in Electronics and Communication Engineering.