Tips and Strategies to handle a GD A group discussion is based on variety of topics which can be broadly classified into- 1. Factual 2. Abstract. Given below is the strategy to tackle these two types of GD topics: 1. Factual: These topics are based on static or dynamic components of the environment (such as social, political, economical, etc.). In other words, these topics check your general knowledge as well as understanding of current happenings. The first step towards approaching a factual topic is to analyse the topic from multiple angles. Try to explore the history of the topic- find the people/events that triggered the issue. Discuss the pros and cons from various perspectives. Give examples to justify your viewpoint. Find the stake holders in the given issue- figure out the elements that are going to lose or benefit from the issue. Generally, the factual topics belong to the following areas- education, sports, social, political, economics, IT, environment, national & international events etc. Examples of factual topics- The Euro crisis: issues and challenges, Genesis of Caste System in India etc. 2. Abstract: These topics assess your perception and interpretation on wide-ranging subjects. The way you look at the topic decides your subsequent participation and performance in a GD. The challenge here is to put forth multiple implications of the topic and then evoke a discussion on some of them. Idea generation and ability to add a tangible angle to an otherwise abstract topic are essential to ace such kind of GDs. Think creatively on the topic and then translate that thinking into concrete ideas and words. A creative idea is best justified if it is supported with facts or linked to a current event. Pay attention to other candidates’ points so that they can be developed further. These topics have a wide scope. So, try to explore them from various aspects. 6 Use POPBEANS approach for idea generationPeople, Objects, Place, Behaviour, Event, Actions, Nature, Society. Examples of abstract topics: Smart work v/s Hard work, Modernization is not westernization, Red, Borderless world – a myth/reality? etc.
