What is the CAT Group Discussion?

A Group Discussion (GD) is a discussion by a group of people which involves an exchange of thoughts and ideas.

Group Discussions are largely used by institutes where there is a high level of competition, and is used as a tool for evaluating candidates.

The number of participants in a group may vary from 8 to 15 people.

In most cases a topic or a situation is given to the group and the members have to discuss it within a given period of time. Keep in mind, this is a simulated exercise, where you cannot suddenly put up a show..

Do’s

Be as natural as possible.

Be yourself.

A group discussion is your chance to be more vocal. The evaluator wants to hear you speak.

Take time to organize your thoughts. Think of what you are going to say.

Seek clarification if you have any doubts regarding the subject.

Work out various strategies to help you make an entry: initiate the discussion or agree with someone else’s point and then move onto express your views.

Always be polite – Use phrases like: “I would like to share my views on…” or “One difference between your point and mine…” or “I beg to differ with you.”

Brush up on your leadership skills and be a gate keeper; motivate the other members of the team to speak.

Be receptive to others’ opinions, show interest, and fully engage in listening to their comments.

Be aware of your body language – your gestures and mannerisms are more likely to reflect your attitude than what you say.

If you have a group of like-minded friends, you can have a mock group discussion where you can learn from each other through giving and receiving feedback.

Don’ts

Don’t try and be someone you’re not.

Don’t start speaking until you have clearly understood and analyzed the subject.

If you do not give valuable insights during the discussion, all your efforts of initiating the discussion will be in vain.

Do not dominating – try to maintain a balanced tone in your discussion and analysis.

Don’t lose your cool if anyone says anything you object to. The key is to stay objective: Don’t take the discussion personally.