Simplicity & Clarity of Thought is the Key to Written

Supriya Batra is an alumna of English Journalism from Jammu Campus of 2013-14 batch. She has graduated from Hans Raj College, University of Delhi and has interned in the editorial dept. of India Today, New Delhi. Currently working as Correspondent cum Sub- Editor in World Consulting and Research Corporation magazine via Campus Placement.

A year ago, while reading the various blogs full of tips and advices of “do’s and don’ts” at the IIMC Counseling Website, I had never imagined that I would be writing something like this for the aspirants of IIMC so soon!

Last year in the month of April, when I was graduating from Hans Raj College and the question of “what- next” was on everybody’s lips, I was firm about studying in a Journalism school, learning the nitty-gritty of reporting and editing and becoming a journalist. After all, it had been a childhood dream and this was ShowTime. So anything and everything required to crack the entrances was to be done in very less time.
On the one hand, there was nostalgia and emotions; the innumerable farewells in University of Delhi, final exams and on the other, the entrance examinations piled up along with the pressure of getting admission in a good mass communication college.

Getting into the reputed ‘Indian Institute of Mass Communication’ was no less than a dream and I’m sure all those who are reading this right now have the same kind of passion for reading and writing as I possessed. Cutting the long story short, I would suggest that those appearing for the exam on 31st May must keep in mind that simplicity in language and clarity of thoughts are the two key points for getting through the first round. One must remember that short sentences and use of crisp language creates a longer effect on the examiner’s mind in the written exam.

As you must have glanced through the various previous year question papers on the website by now, IIMC written exam is no rocket science. It is a combination of current affairs, general knowledge and general English language testing questions. You will be required to answer some essay-type questions on current affairs such as the role of the Aam Aadmi party in 2014 Elections, the challenges which lay ahead for Modi- Sarkaar, importance of campaigning via social media in elections, IPL tournament, world-affairs like the Russia- Crimea conflict, etc. For answering all such questions it is utmost required that you read up a newspaper everyday (one would be more than enough I believe) and tune to some news channels regularly.

Apart from the essay type questions, there will be a few questions testing your English grammar skills and some on the famous personalities who have been in news recently (or in the past one year). There is no requirement of any kind of coaching classes, if you go by my example. One should be able to express his or her thoughts in a presentable manner and keep it as simple as possible.

Writing more would not help getting any bonus marks, so kindly avoid it. There is a specific word limit given in the question paper for each answer and strictly following the instructions would prove to be a great help. Also, try writing on the current issues and don’t just state facts, instead try to give out opinions about what you feel without taking sides. Clearing the written examination is the most important as it carries high weight age in the selection procedure and is the basis of deciding your future.

Lastly, I would insist that you read the question paper at least twice before you answer it excitedly. Try and keep your answers short and to-the-point.

Good luck to all the aspirants. Keep reading and write as clearly and simply as possible. Remember, this is your stepping stone towards a ten- month journey …full of learning and fun!

For further queries, if any, feel free to contact on reachsupriya.batra@gmail.com