Gd Guide New

GROUP DISCUSSIONTips,Tricks & Topics

2013-14This MBA season, learn how to discuss, not debate

ContentsContentsContentsContentsGROUP DISCUSSION Introduction 3

GROUP DISCUSSION Preparation 4

GROUP DISCUSSION Dos and Donts 5GD Topics List Past 3 years 7 IIM Lucknow 7 Topics of 2010 7 IIM Shillong 9 Topics of 2011 9 Topics of 2010 9 Shailesh J Mehta School of Management, IIT Bombay 12

Topics of 2012 12

Vinod Gupta School of Management, IIT Kharagpur 13 Topics of 2011 13

Amity Business School 14 Topics of 2012 14

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai 15 Topics of 2010 15 Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI) 17 Topics of 2011 17 Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA) 18 Topics of 2012 18 Topics of 2011 18 Topics of 2010 19 Faculty of Management Studies 19 Topics of 2010 19Group Exercises Introduction 21

Prepare well understand what a GD is not.

It is not a debate

It is not a measure of the amount of speaking time

Group Discussion (GD), following a written test, is an important part of the final selection process for admission in professional courses, especially management programs. Clearly, a winning performance at this stage is critical to your making the final cut.

GDsGDs are based on a variety of topics ranging from economics to business to current affairs etc, so its important to keep yourself updated by developing a habit of reading newspapers and magazines. A good level of general knowledge will give you the confidence to talk on any topic and improve your articulation.

WWe know that on the list of GD etiquettes, the need to maintain a polite tone ranks high, even as you proceed to oppose a point raised by another team member. But how do you do that when your GD could turn into a fish market scene? Dont be caught off guard, because thats where your leadership skill, team spirit, critical thinking ability and your group behaviour will be tested by way of how you manage to perform even amid a chaotic environment.

Focus on putting the five bullet point structure to the discussionFocus on putting the five bullet point structure to the discussion

Always look at the current speaking person and nod to display your intent to listen.Always look at the current speaking person and nod to display your intent to listen.Be ready for confusion in the first two minutesBe ready for confusion in the first two minutesDo not take a stand on the topic in the first 2 minutesDo not take a stand on the topic in the first 2 minutes

You should be comfortable to start a conversation on a random topic with strangers. Next time you are in a city bus, movie theatre or shopping mall practice to strike a conversation with strangers. You should converse for at least two minutes; five minutes is excellent. The topics can range from the weather to the current political situation.

Strike a conversation

You will be given the topic at the last minute. A good discussion is possible only if you know the topic. Do not fear. It will not be random. There is a 90% chance that the topic will be on current affairs. You should read the newspaper daily; not only the front page headlines but also the editorial. Reading is not enough, practice to summarize the topic within five bullet points. First bullet should be able to convey the key message of the topic. Second and third should be the pros of the topic. Fourth and fifth points should be the cons of the topic.

Summarize the topic

A discussion would last for 10 minutes. Your contribution will be great with three minutes of total speech time. In the best case you can take another minute in total to lead the group. You should be in listening mode for majority of the duration of discussion. Listen to what is being said and keep checking if any of the summary points are being covered. You may be asked to summarize the discussion at the end. Listening will help you lead the conversation and also summarize at the end.

Listen

Dressing helps make the first impression and determines ones personality so do not take it casually. Dress in smart formals. It will add to your confidence and keep you comfortable while speaking in a group. Positive gestures and body language will make your work easier.

1) Dress formally

Initiating the GD is a big plus. But it works in your favour only when you understand the GD topic clearly. If you are not sure, take your time to start and take a cue from what others have to say. It will help you appear more measured when you speak and bring out your analytical skills.

2) Dont rush into it

Stay relaxed and keep eye contact with every team member while speaking. Do not look at the evaluators only.

3) Keep eye contact while speaking

Do not interrupt others. Even if you dont agree with their thoughts do not snatch their chance to speak. Instead make a mental note and state your points when its your turn. This will show that you are not desperate to blow your own trumpet and are mindful of other peoples opinion.

4) Allow others to speak

Speak politely and clearly. Use simple language to convey your thoughts without being irritable. Dont be aggressive even if you need to disagree with someone. Express your feelings calmly and politely.

5) Dont be aggressive

GD is a team activity. Be confident but do not try to dominate anyone. Remember its a discussion and not a debate, so express your feelings calmly and politely. Ensure a positive body language. Show interest in the discussion when others express their thoughts. This will make you appear as someone who is a team player.

6) Maintain positive attitude

Do not speak just to increase your speaking time. Dont worry even if you speak less but do not try to beat around the bush. Your thoughts should be sensible and relevant. Wasting the groups time with your irrelevant speech or speaking without proper subject knowledge will only create a poor impression.

7) Speak sensibly

Being a good listener is an important skill. Pay attention when others speak. This will encourage coherent discussion and you will get involved in the group positively. That way, others are also more likely to be receptive to your points.

8) Listen carefully to

A basic subject analysis is sufficient. Theres no need to mention exact figures and statistics while making a reference. You have limited time in a GD, so be precise and convey your thoughts in a smart and crisp manner.

9) Avoid time-consuming details

If you find the group is digressing from the topic or goal then simply take the initiative to bring the discussion back on track. Uphold and emphasize the groups common objective to stick to the topic to arrive at some conclusion at the end of the discussion. This will exhibit your leadership skills.

10) Keep the discussion on track

GD Topics List Past 3 yearsGD Topics List Past 3 yearsGD Topics List Past 3 yearsGD Topics List Past 3 years

IIM Lucknow

Topics of 2010:

Legalising doping in sports in modern times.

Should essential services like electricity and water be privatised?

In India, should minorities be given the first right to resources?

Breaking larger state into smaller states is politically correct.

More IITs and IIMs will dilute quality of education.

The only way to reduce crime is to increase the severity of punishments.

WWomen's Reservation bill will enhance the gender divide.

Beauty pageants objectify women.

If life is a competition, success is the final quest, then victory is all thatmatters.

The Government is right in denying provision of surplus food grains for freeto people below poverty line.

Religion is the only way to attain Spirituality.

TThe major reason behind the success of Capitalism is not greed-basedbut success-based.

Taboos and Traditions are nothing but a cultural baggage.

Introducing sex education in primary classrooms is jumping the gun.

Tradition is just another means of inconsistency and inequality.

All government institutions should be under the purview of RTI

GD Topics List Past 3 years

War is the only way to preserve peace.War is the only way to preserve peace.

Regional languages in India are fading out in today's world.Regional languages in India are fading out in today's world.

A poor country like India should stop it's space programmes and use the funds for upliftment of the poor.A poor country like India should stop it's space programmes and use the funds for upliftment of the poor.

Importance of Women in Mens' LifeImportance of Women in Mens' Life

Insanity is doing same thing over and over again and expecting different results.Insanity is doing same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Insanity is doing same thing over and over again and expecting different results.Insanity is doing same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Beauty pageants objectify women.Beauty pageants objectify women.

Advertising is legalised lying.

Insanity is doing same thing over and over again and expecting different results.Advertising is legalised lying.

The man who isn't willing to die for what he believes, doesn't deserve to live.The man who isn't willing to die for what he believes, doesn't deserve to live.

All exact sciences are dominated by approximations.All exact sciences are dominated by approximations.

Keep your feet on the ground but aim for lofty heights.Keep your feet on the ground but aim for lofty heights.

Government view of Indian economy: "If it moves tax it, if it keeps on moving regulate it, if it stops moving subsidize it".Government view of Indian economy: "If it moves tax it, if it keeps on moving regulate it, if it stops moving subsidize it".

Art is the proper task of life.Art is the proper task of life.

GD Topics List Past 3 yearsGD Topics List Past 3 yearsGD Topics List Past 3 years

IIM Lucknow

Topics of 2010:

A girl goes to a live in a community to learn about how they lead their lives. As a sign of integration in the community, she has to accept stolen goods. To be one among them she is forced to make an ethical decision.

A girl goes to a live in a community to learn about how they lead their lives. As a sign of integration in the community, she has to accept stolen goods. To be one among them she is forced to make an ethical decision.

A contract being awarded to a person who's in the state government and wants to bid for it through his private company. Whether we should award him the contract or not?


About an Indian lady who conducted an ethnographic study in Malaysia with a rural community there and decided not to publish the names of the village or the people involved in the internal feuds there owing to inter-country conventions. When she visits the village again with the book, they not only realise the book is about their community but also get irritated with her for not publishing their names correctly and criticise her. What should she do?


XYZ company is a pro in genetic engineering and files a patent on GE modified tomato and applies to National food and drug association (NFDA). This products pros and cons were given in the narration like good for vitamins, nutrients etc but some activists protest that the testing on animals should not be done and it may have long time consequences. The question is Being a member of NFDA would you label it or not.


About the decision of government to continue funding in conservation of bio-fuels.About the decision of government to continue funding in conservation of bio-fuels.

Should the genetically modified food be used to meet the future food demand though it may lead to side effects like health concerns?Should the genetically modified food be used to meet the future food demand though it may lead to side effects like health concerns?

IIM ShillongTopics of 2011

Discussions based on

A young port engineer is proud to be the executer of a multi-million dollar repair of one of the ships of his shipping company. But then he finds that the contracted firm has overcharged his company by 1/3rd of the original amount, which he then brings to his bosss notice. Though the officials then set up a meeting, they agree to split the amount and seem to him to be very cavalier about the entire deal. He then realises that though the company respects his integrity, they will not do anything about this (i.e. they are corrupt themselves).themselves). If he does not sign the passing order, he may lose his job, and there were not many companies offering the kind of role he wanted. Also, he has an ailing mother. What can he do now?

A young port engineer is proud to be the executer of a multi-million dollar repair of one of the ships of his shipping company. But then he finds that the contracted firm has overcharged his company by 1/3rd of the original amount, which he then brings to his bosss notice. Though the officials then set up a meeting, they agree to split the amount and seem to him to be very cavalier about the entire deal. He then realises that though the company respects his integrity, they will not do anything about this (i.e. they are corrupt themselves).

About the professional dilemma of an audit firm employee, who is acting as a whistle-blower, but his superiors are trying to curb him.About the professional dilemma of an audit firm employee, who is acting as a whistle-blower, but his superiors are trying to curb him.

About a plastic goods manufacturing company that wanted to go for new technology in order to reduce toxic effluents but had a stringent budget. Also, if not opted for it, government might impose it forcefully after sometime on the basis of public outcry. The current level of toxins released by the company were within legal limits but a report published recently showed that the legal levels set for the toxins were lagging and the regulation to reduce the level of toxins could come any soon. Further, the company was not generating very highhigh profits due to already going expansion plans. The introduction of new technology could create a problem of over-budget to the company.

About a plastic goods manufacturing company that wanted to go for new technology in order to reduce toxic effluents but had a stringent budget. Also, if not opted for it, government might impose it forcefully after sometime on the basis of public outcry. The current level of toxins released by the company were within legal limits but a report published recently showed that the legal levels set for the toxins were lagging and the regulation to reduce the level of toxins could come any soon. Further, the company was not generating very high

Should capital punishment be abolished or not?Should capital punishment be abolished or not?

Some info was given about BRICS nations doing really well, how OPEC determines the oil prices, and how India and China are large importers of oil etc. Students had to design the oil policy of India?

Some info was given about BRICS nations doing really well, how OPEC determines the oil prices, and how India and China are large importers of oil etc. Students had to design the oil policy of India?

There is a city where to stop bikers from NOT wearing helmet, instead of fining them, a new innovative way is used : of garlanding them. As a DGP, discuss whether similar technique would work for other such social crimes.

There is a city where to stop bikers from NOT wearing helmet, instead of fining them, a new innovative way is used : of garlanding them. As a DGP, discuss whether similar technique would work for other such social crimes.

IRCTC has made it mandatory for older people (above 70) travelling on tour packages to have one young companion with them and for 60-70 age group to carry a medical fitness certificate with them. What do you think about it?


0 IRCTC has made it mandatory for older people (above 70) travelling on tour packages to have one young companion with them and for 60-70 age group to carry a medical fitness certificate with them. What do you think about it?


Dhoni has made a press release that he wants to retire from the Test cricket arena so that he can continue till the 2015 WC. As a selector what is your reaction?

Dhoni has made a press release that he wants to retire from the Test cricket arena so that he can continue till the 2015 WC. As a selector what is your reaction?

Should the content of social sites be pre-scrutinised or checked afterwards?Should the content of social sites be pre-scrutinised or checked afterwards?

Sports ministry wants to make a policy that allows athletes of other countries to represent our country so that India can win more medals. What are your suggestions to the ministry?

Sports ministry wants to make a policy that allows athletes of other countries to represent our country so that India can win more medals. What are your suggestions to the ministry?

UP's former CM Mayawati erecter her statues. Election Commission (EC) wants to stop the practice and remove the statues. An MLA is quoted saying that removing her status is not the right solution to the problem. You are the head of EC, what would you do?

UP's former CM Mayawati erecter her statues. Election Commission (EC) wants to stop the practice and remove the statues. An MLA is quoted saying that removing her status is not the right solution to the problem. You are the head of EC, what would you do?

Should Indian pitches be made spinner friendly or not?Should Indian pitches be made spinner friendly or not?

Should Voting be made mandatory?Should Voting be made mandatory?

A girl goes to a live in a community to learn about how they lead their lives. As a sign of integration in the community, she has to accept stolen goods. To be oneamong them she is forced to make an ethical decision.

A girl goes to a live in a community to learn about how they lead their lives. As a sign of integration in the community, she has to accept stolen goods. To be oneamong them she is forced to make an ethical decision.







About the decision of government to continue funding in conservation of bio-fuels.About the decision of government to continue funding in conservation of bio-fuels.Should the genetically modified food be used to meet the future food demand though it may lead to side effects like health concerns?Should the genetically modified food be used to meet the future food demand though it may lead to side effects like health concerns?

IIM ShillongTopics of 2011


A cloth merchants company is going through a transitory phase and the management is falling apart. Analyse and give a solution to the problem.A cloth merchants company is going through a transitory phase and the management is falling apart. Analyse and give a solution to the problem.

A new comer in a company struggles to mingle with oldies who are not serious about their job/ day-to-day work. Conflict between the two was given.A new comer in a company struggles to mingle with oldies who are not serious about their job/ day-to-day work. Conflict between the two was given.

Employees at a company were working for more than 10 hrs a day and it was affecting their domestic lives. Discuss whether its necessary to work like that and whether such employees were suitable for corporate world?

Employees at a company were working for more than 10 hrs a day and it was affecting their domestic lives. Discuss whether its necessary to work like that and whether such employees were suitable for corporate world?

An FMCG firm spends a good amount in giving training to its employees for skill enhancement. An Engg+MBA with 6 years of work-experience and the training certification applies to another MNC, gets a lucrative job offer and is deciding to quit as there aren't enough growth opportunities in this organisation. His manager is in a fix as he is working on some project for 10 months and if he leaves then he would have to find a replacement and the companys money invested on his training would also go waste. Discuss on what should be the policypolicy guidelines for such employees? What should the manager do and what should be the rules for such development programmes?

An FMCG firm spends a good amount in giving training to its employees for skill enhancement. An Engg+MBA with 6 years of work-experience and the training certification applies to another MNC, gets a lucrative job offer and is deciding to quit as there aren't enough growth opportunities in this organisation. His manager is in a fix as he is working on some project for 10 months and if he leaves then he would have to find a replacement and the companys money invested on his training would also go waste. Discuss on what should be the policy

About Oswal Textiles, which was once a brand name but is now losing its market share because old employees are at the verge of retirement and there is much dispute among younger generation of employees.

About Oswal Textiles, which was once a brand name but is now losing its market share because old employees are at the verge of retirement and there is much dispute among younger generation of employees.

Shailesh J Mehta School of Management, IIT Bombay

Topics of 2012:

Discussions based on case studies

An HR case study in which a person is recruited by an electrical company at high salary. He works hard and enthusiastically but slowly gets loaded with more and more work. So, after a year when it gets unbearable to manage social and personal life, he quits. GM tries but fails to stop him. GM then appoints a committee to look into the issue. But then suddenly GM dissolves it. Discuss: What made GM dissolve the committee before it started working? What are the flaws in recruiting policy of HR, and what made the guy quit?

An HR case study in which a person is recruited by an electrical company at high salary. He works hard and enthusiastically but slowly gets loaded with more and more work. So, after a year when it gets unbearable to manage social and personal life, he quits. GM tries but fails to stop him. GM then appoints a committee to look into the issue. But then suddenly GM dissolves it. Discuss: What made GM dissolve the committee before it started working? What are the flaws in recruiting policy of HR, and what made the guy quit?

Shailesh J Mehta School of Management, IIT Bombay

Topics of 2012:

Discussions based on case studies

Vinod Gupta School of Management, IIT KharagpurTopics of 2011


About customer dissatisfaction about a retail store, less than expected profit, etc. What should the manager do?About customer dissatisfaction about a retail store, less than expected profit, etc. What should the manager do?

About the productivity and how it affects the nation as a whole and the different companies.About the productivity and how it affects the nation as a whole and the different companies.

A case study on a firm which deals with aspirin based products in an analgesic market.A case study on a firm which deals with aspirin based products in an analgesic market.

About two managers Ben and Phil. Ben believes that workers are priority. He believes in keeping his workers happy and provides every facility he can and never interferes in the work of supervisors. Though he was not able to provide the results and plant was in loss under his management, there was no union under his management period. Then some company took over the plant and then replaced Ben with Phil. Phil thinks opposite to Ben. He believes that he should take strict measures and workers should not be given much importance.importance. He used measures of firing workers if they didn't work properly. He did cost cutting and many other things. During his time, company did make profit and even cost of production was less. But all this led to anger in workers. Many supervisors left, and he was facing difficulty in recruiting new employees and there were talks about creation of union. Finally, there were 2 questions: Who is an ideal manager? And What should be done in this situation?

About two managers Ben and Phil. Ben believes that workers are priority. He believes in keeping his workers happy and provides every facility he can and never interferes in the work of supervisors. Though he was not able to provide the results and plant was in loss under his management, there was no union under his management period. Then some company took over the plant and then replaced Ben with Phil. Phil thinks opposite to Ben. He believes that he should take strict measures and workers should not be given much importance.

About Kelloggs Company whose CEO decided to expand it and the challenges faced by it.About Kelloggs Company whose CEO decided to expand it and the challenges faced by it.

Analysis of the successful business operations of McDonald's in US and the strategies adopted by it to target the customers in other countries such as Japan , Germany et al.

A company has 3 products in juices category. One of the products is making losses while the same type of product is making profit for a rival company. Advice the company about the same.

A company has 3 products in juices category. One of the products is making losses while the same type of product is making profit for a rival company. Advice the company about the same.

Analysis of the successful business operations of McDonald's in US and the strategies adopted by it to target the customers in other countries such as Japan , Germany et al.



A guy was working for a company for 5 years. He wanted a promotion and enrolled for a six-month course offered by his company where a good performance would get him a promotion. He was a good student in school. So, he isolated himself for the first month of course and he kept studying. On his first assessment exam, he got a grade of B. Other grades were A+,A, B+,B(nothing was mentioned that A+ is highest or B is lowest). The guy got depressed after his performance. His morale went down. He started bunking thethe classes for the course he joined. Discuss: What could be the possible reason for his performance? What kind of expectation he had from his current job? What should the course coordinator do in order to boost the guy's morale?

A guy was working for a company for 5 years. He wanted a promotion and enrolled for a six-month course offered by his company where a good performance would get him a promotion. He was a good student in school. So, he isolated himself for the first month of course and he kept studying. On his first assessment exam, he got a grade of B. Other grades were A+,A, B+,B(nothing was mentioned that A+ is highest or B is lowest). The guy got depressed after his performance. His morale went down. He started bunking the

Mr X has been to several foreign countries and now wants to open a Health Resort and Gymnasium in our country. He aims to first open it for working employees & professionals and then, open it for college students and housewives. As lot of investment is involved, he needs advice on finance as well as market research area.

Mr X has been to several foreign countries and now wants to open a Health Resort and Gymnasium in our country. He aims to first open it for working employees & professionals and then, open it for college students and housewives. As lot of investment is involved, he needs advice on finance as well as market research area.

Amity Business SchoolTopics of 2012

Mr A started an HR Company and preferred an informal working environment. Everyone was contributing happily. Later, a new head of HR was appointed and as soon as he joined, he sacked some of the employees for not working properly. All employees became scared of the new guy and company started becoming formal and employees were not contributing like before. What should be done now?

Mr A started an HR Company and preferred an informal working environment. Everyone was contributing happily. Later, a new head of HR was appointed and as soon as he joined, he sacked some of the employees for not working properly. All employees became scared of the new guy and company started becoming formal and employees were not contributing like before. What should be done now?



Life is a struggle.Life is a struggle.

Lifelong employment is a thing of the past.Lifelong employment is a thing of the past.

Truth cannot be hidden for long and time waits for no one.Truth cannot be hidden for long and time waits for no one.India is progressing at the expense of poor.India is progressing at the expense of poor.

Policing in India is incompetent.Policing in India is incompetent.

What we see is what we get, what we don't see gets us.What we see is what we get, what we don't see gets us.

Today, the world is losing ethics and values.Today, the world is losing ethics and values.

In marketing, the game is to catch eyeballs.In marketing, the game is to catch eyeballs.Indian TV shows do not reflect Indian values.Indian TV shows do not reflect Indian values.Business successful globally, dies nationally.Business successful globally, dies nationally.Tabs will soon replace libraries.Tabs will soon replace libraries.Media sensationalises news.Media sensationalises news.Pollution and development are two sides of the same coin.Pollution and development are two sides of the same coin.It is tougher to stay at the top than to reach the top.It is tougher to stay at the top than to reach the top.CSR is a sham.CSR is a sham.It is a good policy to not hit a man when he is down and out.It is a good policy to not hit a man when he is down and out.The irony of Facebook is that face-to-face conversation is getting lesser.The irony of Facebook is that face-to-face conversation is getting lesser.

Case study on FDI in Retail. Pros and Cons given. Analyse.Case study on FDI in Retail. Pros and Cons given. Analyse.

A case study about a CEO who had to lay off employees despite promising them verbally that it won't happen. What can he do to gain the trust of the people and what could he have done better?

A case study about a CEO who had to lay off employees despite promising them verbally that it won't happen. What can he do to gain the trust of the people and what could he have done better?

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, MumbaiTopics of 2010

2 convicts had to be jailed but attorney couldn't do it due to lack of evidence. Decide individually for the first 5 minutes, then discuss for 15 mins and come to a consensus.

2 convicts had to be jailed but attorney couldn't do it due to lack of evidence. Decide individually for the first 5 minutes, then discuss for 15 mins and come to a consensus.

The MD of Finance of a very reputed company charged with insider trading banned by the SEBI. But such jobs give you inside information. Should limited insider trading be allowed?

The MD of Finance of a very reputed company charged with insider trading banned by the SEBI. But such jobs give you inside information. Should limited insider trading be allowed?

You are a tourism company and need to select some new packages with a new approach. 6 packages are given for you to rank as per your preferences. Discuss about packages and come to a common group ranking.

You are a tourism company and need to select some new packages with a new approach. 6 packages are given for you to rank as per your preferences. Discuss about packages and come to a common group ranking.

Chinese authoritarian rule v/s the democratic structure of IndiaChinese authoritarian rule v/s the democratic structure of India

5 company workers are angry as their salary is less than that of employees hired later. They want HR to resolve the matter in a day. But HR neglects the scenario for two days. Then Operations manager intervenes and solves the matter. Workers start working more and have to sometimes work even at weekends. Then after some time they start realising that hopes of better remuneration are not realistic. So frustrated with the unknown workload they have plans to quit. What should be done now?

5 company workers are angry as their salary is less than that of employees hired later. They want HR to resolve the matter in a day. But HR neglects the scenario for two days. Then Operations manager intervenes and solves the matter. Workers start working more and have to sometimes work even at weekends. Then after some time they start realising that hopes of better remuneration are not realistic. So frustrated with the unknown workload they have plans to quit. What should be done now?

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, MumbaiTopics of 2010

Re-enact a scene from a classic movie and relate it to a current scenario. (Material given: magazine, a bunch of chart papers, sketch pens etc.)

Design a social networking platform for the year 2025. Discuss 5 major features it will have. Come up with an innovative name and design for its wall.Design a social networking platform for the year 2025. Discuss 5 major features it will have. Come up with an innovative name and design for its wall.

Prepare a humorous Save Fuel ad campaign in 25 min and enact it in 5 min. (Props: hammer, umbrella, charkha, teddy bear, some artificial flowers, sketch pens etc.)

Prepare a humorous Save Fuel ad campaign in 25 min and enact it in 5 min. (Props: hammer, umbrella, charkha, teddy bear, some artificial flowers, sketch pens etc.)

Create an ad against cruelty towards animals. (Props: hammer, umbrella, charkha, teddy bear, some artificial flowers, sketch pens etc.)Create an ad against cruelty towards animals. (Props: hammer, umbrella, charkha, teddy bear, some artificial flowers, sketch pens etc.)

Re-enact a scene from a classic movie and relate it to a current scenario. (Material given: magazine, a bunch of chart papers, sketch pens etc.)

Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA)Topics of 2012

There was a group exercise (GE) instead

National Games: Costly affair for a poor countryNational Games: Costly affair for a poor country

What can Indians learn from the Egyptian revolution?What can Indians learn from the Egyptian revolution?

Capitalism in Sports: Good or BadCapitalism in Sports: Good or Bad

Indian Education Bill - step in the right directionIndian Education Bill - step in the right direction

Impact of social networking sitesImpact of social networking sites

Medical reforms in India- Why and How?Medical reforms in India- Why and How?

Will newspapers be able to cope up with mobile technology?Will newspapers be able to cope up with mobile technology?

Govt regulation on telecom sector unjustified milestoneGovt regulation on telecom sector unjustified milestone

Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI)Topics of 2011

Come up with "communication tools" for the age-group of 2 to 5 year olds to reduce the consumption of chocolates and candies.

Design an innovative selection method for radio jockeysDesign an innovative selection method for radio jockeys

Select a member from your group to stand for the elections in Bihar legislative assembly, and create a pictorial speech for the deaf people. Half the team members are from the same faction as the leader, and half are from the opposing faction

Select a member from your group to stand for the elections in Bihar legislative assembly, and create a pictorial speech for the deaf people. Half the team members are from the same faction as the leader, and half are from the opposing faction

Create and enact an ad campaign for early detection of cancer (in a humorous way).Create and enact an ad campaign for early detection of cancer (in a humorous way).

Enact a TV commercial for promoting primary education using a horror theme.Enact a TV commercial for promoting primary education using a horror theme.

Topics of 2011


Make a model/chart to show what Mahatma Gandhi would have given in his message to the world in the year of 1977, 1987, 2000, 2008, and 2020.Make a model/chart to show what Mahatma Gandhi would have given in his message to the world in the year of 1977, 1987, 2000, 2008, and 2020.

Design a chain of corporate washrooms for executives using chart papers, scissors, glue, magazines.Design a chain of corporate washrooms for executives using chart papers, scissors, glue, magazines.

What message Swami Vivekanand would have conveyed if the world was ending in the years 1977, 1987, 2000, 2008, 2020..?What message Swami Vivekanand would have conveyed if the world was ending in the years 1977, 1987, 2000, 2008, 2020..?

Come up with "communication tools" for the age-group of 2 to 5 year olds to reduce the consumption of chocolates and candies.

Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA)Topics of 2012


Draw a city layout to show strategic positioning of your aids awareness campaigns. (Candidates were given chart paper, pens, and a glue stick.)Draw a city layout to show strategic positioning of your aids awareness campaigns. (Candidates were given chart paper, pens, and a glue stick.)Create a model of a living room of a house. Identify and place various media and communication gadgets in the room to optimise their utility.Create a model of a living room of a house. Identify and place various media and communication gadgets in the room to optimise their utility.

Construct a tall tower using 50 plastic cups, pins, sketch pens, piece of cloth 50x50cm, and paper clipsConstruct a tall tower using 50 plastic cups, pins, sketch pens, piece of cloth 50x50cm, and paper clips

Prepare an action plan for an emergency situation involving fire in a mall.Prepare an action plan for an emergency situation involving fire in a mall.

Make a model of a garden for the youth targeting health, harmony, greenery and value systems using chart paper, sketch pens, tape, plants (small), and grass.

Make a model of a garden for the youth targeting health, harmony, greenery and value systems using chart paper, sketch pens, tape, plants (small), and grass.

Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA)Topics of 2010There was a group exercise (GE) instead:

Government jobs provide no job satisfaction.Government jobs provide no job satisfaction.

Intellectual Property is absurd and should be abolished.Intellectual Property is absurd and should be abolished.

High population is good or bad.High population is good or bad.

Will Walmart coming to India spell doom for the retail sector?Will Walmart coming to India spell doom for the retail sector?

Democracy is a luxury in India.Democracy is a luxury in India.

In democracy, is the foreign partnership in print media necessary?In democracy, is the foreign partnership in print media necessary?

Good managers are not always engineers.Good managers are not always engineers.

Faculty of Management StudiesTopics of 2010

Gandhi and his principles are not practical in the modern world.Gandhi and his principles are not practical in the modern world.

Access to Education should be a Fundamental Right.Access to Education should be a Fundamental Right.

Trade unions will continue to play an important role in democratic India.Trade unions will continue to play an important role in democratic India.

Beauty and love are not related to each other.Beauty and love are not related to each other.

Indian MNCs are a threat to western MNCs.Indian MNCs are a threat to western MNCs.

In a democracy, foreign media participation should be allowed.In a democracy, foreign media participation should be allowed.Globalization is not the answer to world's problems.Globalization is not the answer to world's problems.Uneducated and unskilled population is a liability to the nation.Uneducated and unskilled population is a liability to the nation.Whether foreign publications should be allowed in the media space for a democracy like India?Whether foreign publications should be allowed in the media space for a democracy like India?Privatisation of higher education will lead to the commercialisation.Privatisation of higher education will lead to the commercialisation.Justice is a rarity in corrupt India.Justice is a rarity in corrupt India.Have foreign TV channels demystified the Indian culture?Have foreign TV channels demystified the Indian culture?Medical research using animals should be banned.

Subsidies are not useful to economy if they compromise on macro-economic fundamentals of India.Subsidies are not useful to economy if they compromise on macro-economic fundamentals of India.

Strikes have lost their significance.Strikes have lost their significance.

Medical research using animals should be banned.


The questions/tasks give us an idea that group exercises in MICA are generally fun and creative while institutes like FMS and IIM Lucknow offer very generic topics for group discussion. Case studies of IIM Shillong, Amity Business School, NMIMS and VGSOM, IIT Kharagpur are almost always strategy-based, while SJMSOM, IIT Bombay have been coming up with HR-related case studies for GD. XLRI offers GD topics that force students to think about broader perspectives of reforms and legislations.

ManyMany B-schools choose to set up Group Exercises (GE) or group tasks as a preliminary round before Personal Interviews, instead of holding Group Discussions. Aspirants are assessed on their leadership skills, communication skills, tactfulness, problem-solving abilities, and ability to stay focused and get the task done in the designated time.

Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA) comes up with interesting group exercises every year. From re-enacting a scene from a classic movie and relating it to the current scenario, to preparing a TV commercial for men's luxury watch brand to coming up with right communication tools for 2 to 5-year-olds to reduce their consumption of chocolates and candies, MICA group exercises can be fun and tricky at the same time!


Symbiosis Centre for Management and Human Resource Development (SCMHRD), Pune, also uses Group Exercises as an assessment tool while selecting students for its postgraduate programmes. There are two case studies given to each group. Students get five minutes to go through the case study and 15 minutes to discuss and reach a consensus. In 2012, the MBA aspirants at SCMHRD were given following topics as group exercises:

First task was a case study about the recent failures of the Indian cricket team in England and Australia. Six possible reasons of failure were given. The group had to rank them in descending order of importance.

First task was a case study about the recent failures of the Indian cricket team in England and Australia. Six possible reasons of failure were given. The group had to rank them in descending order of importance.

Second task was another case study about an MBA college which needed changes in curriculum and evaluation methods to make students more industry-ready.

Second task was another case study about an MBA college which needed changes in curriculum and evaluation methods to make students more industry-ready.

In a group exercise, you dont always have to play the leader. It does not pay to dominate the group. Be assertive, not aggressive.In a group exercise, you dont always have to play the leader. It does not pay to dominate the group. Be assertive, not aggressive.

If you make good and sensible suggestions in a confident and clear manner and contribute well, it is enough. The idea is to accomplish the task while avoiding conflicts.

If you make good and sensible suggestions in a confident and clear manner and contribute well, it is enough. The idea is to accomplish the task while avoiding conflicts.

You can help the group by seeking the views of quieter members and encouraging them, being the ice-breaker when the group is having a dull or quite moment or being diplomatic while dealing with a bully. Use your opportunities well.

You can help the group by seeking the views of quieter members and encouraging them, being the ice-breaker when the group is having a dull or quite moment or being diplomatic while dealing with a bully. Use your opportunities well.

Hitesh Gossain, an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad, suggests:

Sharad Seth, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore says, "There are simply two types of people in a group ones who take things forward and ones who stall things. B-schools are looking for positive people with passion to do big things in life.

Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.

Sharad Seth, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore says, "There are simply two types of people in a group ones who take things forward and ones who stall things. B-schools are looking for positive people with passion to do big things in life.

He suggests these positive roles that you can play in a group:

Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.0 Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.Stay focused and keep an eye on the watch. Summarising everyones views in the end might help in accomplishing the task better and drawing a consensus.

LeaderKeep things on-track, coordinate resources and people well, and take initiatives. Recognise the skills of others and put them to good use. However, be careful that you do not turn out to be domineering.


0 LeaderKeep things on-track, coordinate resources and people well, and take initiatives. Recognise the skills of others and put them to good use. However, be careful that you do not turn out to be domineering.


MotivatorBe enthusiastic or use light, funny comments to break tensions.MotivatorBe enthusiastic or use light, funny comments to break tensions.0 MotivatorBe enthusiastic or use light, funny comments to break tensions.MotivatorBe enthusiastic or use light, funny comments to break tensions.

Team-builderDraw out shy people, ask their views and make them feel comfortable. Create a congenial environment and learn to compromise.


0 Team-builderDraw out shy people, ask their views and make them feel comfortable. Create a congenial environment and learn to compromise.


VisionaryCome up with creative and innovative ideas to solve a problem. You can be original and radical, if not always practical.


0 VisionaryCome up with creative and innovative ideas to solve a problem. You can be original and radical, if not always practical.


SummariserIf you are calm and cool, and a good observer, you can help in clearing out group objectives, work as a mediator, and tie-up loose ends.


0 SummariserIf you are calm and cool, and a good observer, you can help in clearing out group objectives, work as a mediator, and tie-up loose ends.


RationaliserLogical, analytical and objective, a rationaliser points out the practical points in implementation of a solution or idea. You can play quite an important role in crucial decision-making stage.


0 RationaliserLogical, analytical and objective, a rationaliser points out the practical points in implementation of a solution or idea. You can play quite an important role in crucial decision-making stage.


Negative roles you must not assume in a group exercise are:

Do not be a Hitler. Do not expect that everyone will bow down to your ideas.Do not be a Hitler. Do not expect that everyone will bow down to your ideas.

Do not show off or interrupt others. Give others a chance to state their views and opinions.Do not show off or interrupt others. Give others a chance to state their views and opinions.Do not make negative comments. Remember, everyone in the group is your peer and successfully cracked the entrance exam too.Do not make negative comments. Remember, everyone in the group is your peer and successfully cracked the entrance exam too.Do not be shy or choose to show no involvement in the group task. Find a way to contribute.Do not be shy or choose to show no involvement in the group task. Find a way to contribute.Do not lose focus and do not distract others from the topic.Do not lose focus and do not distract others from the topic.

If you do suggest a negative side of an idea or argument, be ready with the alternatives.If you do suggest a negative side of an idea or argument, be ready with the alternatives.Do not shout. Keep your tone in check. Speak clearly and confidently.Do not shout. Keep your tone in check. Speak clearly and confidently.

Do not play the victim. Here is a group competing with you. It is not there to nurse your self-confidence or ego issues.Do not play the victim. Here is a group competing with you. It is not there to nurse your self-confidence or ego issues.

In the end, if you are preparing for a group exercise round, be prepared to back up your arguments with logic and defend your actions with logic during the PI round.

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