GD english group discussion topics-pdf.pdf

Group discussion

1. © Oxford University Press 2011
Group DiscussionsGroup Discussions

2. Definition

Formal discussion among six to fifteen participants

About a particular topic or case study given by the
interviewers

Duration -40-45 minutes
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3. GD is used to judge

Professional skills

Behavourial and attitudinal responses
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
Decision making qualities

4. What happens there

Exchange of ideas

Argument
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
Analysis

Making of decision

5. Differences between GD and
debate

No predetermined stand

Speak either in favour or
against
GD Debate
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
Flexible and open to
different opinions

Impromptu responses

Firm on his/her stand

Syllogism is prepared
beforehand

6. Reasoning Ability

Rational and convincing speech

Real world data contributes to the substantiality
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7. Leadership

Ability to shape GD constructively

Check digressions

Coordinate the entire group
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
Lead the conversation to a definite goal

8. Openness

Head over the heart

Analysis of all the pros and cons of the issue
irrespective of a particular stand
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
Should not show a peremptory attitude

Opinions should be qualified

9. Assertiveness

Emphasis on his/her own stand

Exudes confidence while delivering

Positive body language
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
But remember to be humble enough to respect others’ values
(e.g., CD)

10. Initiative

Should be careful about his/her knowledge

Prejudice is a strict no no

Express your thoughts and opinions in regular
interval
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interval

11. Motivation

It is all about encouraging others to speak

Should be an uniformity in the mode of discussion

No group within the group
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12. Attentive Listening

Helps to understand the others in the group

Enriches your own reasoning
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13. Awareness

Being updated about everything

Having a perspective supported by definite reasons
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14. Variations
Topic Based
Factual topics
Abstract topics
Controversial topics
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Case Based

15. Factual Topics

The most common one among the three

Socio-economic, environmental topics fall under this
category
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category

16. Abstract Topics

Generally given at the higher level

Intangible in nature

Should have an innovative approach
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(Examples: Blue is better than green; Money makes you poor, etc.)

17. Controversial Topics

Meant to make differences

Are given to judge a candidate’s control on his/her
temper
(Examples: Women should not be recruited in military
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(Examples: Women should not be recruited in military
services, Reservation should be abolished)

18. Mastering the Skill
Each of the three components should be given equal
importance
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19. The Beginning
Kick-start with enthusiasm supported by evidences from
real world happenings and an attitude to gracefully
tolerate the views which are opposite to that of yours.
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20. The body of arguments, counter-
arguments, reasons, examples
Be articulate enough to express your thoughts clearly
and convincingly but at the same time patiently lend
your ears to others as well.
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21. The conclusion
Wholesomeness is important. Incorporate all the
major points raised in the discussion. No new point
should be raised at this point.
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22. Do’s and Don’ts

Sit comfortably

Keep track of time
Share time fairly

Be in a hurry

Be silent

Dominate vocally/physically
Do’s Don’ts
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
Share time fairly

Encourage participation
from others

Rope in the
reticent/diffident ones

Listen to the topic

Organize ideas

Speak at the earliest

Dominate vocally/physically

Assume the role of the
chairperson

Be belligerent

Take extreme stance

Look at evaluators

Appear to be
impatient/restless

23. Do’s and Don’ts
continued

Allow supporters to back

Get emotional
Do’s Don’ts
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
Allow supporters to back
your ideas

Sound cogent and
convincing

Avoid skirmishes and heated
debates

Get emotional

Use slang

Throw all ideas at one shot

24. Questions
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