ISB WAT Preparation

ISB WAT Preparation: A Comprehensive Guide with Sample Questions

By admitStreet Team

The Written Ability Test (WAT) is a key component of the ISB admission process, assessing your ability to analyze, articulate, and present arguments coherently and concisely.

There are typically 2 WAT questions, and the time duration is 20 min. There is no word limit for your responses.

To ace this test, one must focus on both content and presentation. This guide will help you understand the nuances of the WAT and prepare effectively.

Strategies to Excel in WAT

1. Understand the Topic Thoroughly:

  • Clarify the scope of the topic
  • Rephrase it mentally to ensure focus and relevance

2. Structure Your Essay:

  • Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the topic and a clear thesis statement
  • Body: Use 2-3 paragraphs to discuss key points supported by examples or evidence
  • Conclusion: Summarize the key arguments and reinforce the thesis

3. Be Concise and Clear:

  • Avoid unnecessary jargon
  • Edit out redundant sentences

4. Practice Regularly:

  • Write essays under timed conditions on diverse topics
  • Seek feedback to identify areas of improvement

5. Stay Updated on Current Affairs:

  • Follow credible news sources
  • Analyze issues critically to form balanced opinions

6. Focus on Grammar and Syntax:

  • Proofread to eliminate grammatical errors
  • Use appropriate vocabulary to convey ideas effectively

7. Develop a Unique Perspective:

  • Incorporate insights from personal or professional experiences
  • Analyze the topic from various angles to add depth to your essay

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Lack of Structure: Disorganized essays can confuse the reader. Always start with a clear outline
  2. Overgeneralization: Avoid sweeping statements without evidence
  3. Going Off-Topic: Stick to the main argument; avoid tangential discussions
  4. Weak Conclusions: Ensure your essay ends with a strong, lasting impression

5-Step Guide to Writing a Winning Essay

Step 1: Identify the Core and Analyze

  • Dissect the topic to uncover the central issue
  • Frame your response by identifying the essential elements
  • Highlight the nuances and implicit dimensions of the topic

Step 2: Acknowledge the Counterargument

  • Demonstrate awareness of alternative perspectives
  • Highlight any potential oversimplifications in your argument
  • A balanced approach demonstrates critical thinking

Step 3: Support with Real-World Examples

  • Use concrete instances to illustrate your points
  • Examples can be drawn from recent events, history, or personal experiences
  • Leverage examples that are relevant and impactful

Step 4: Suggest Alternative Approaches

  • Where relevant, propose practical solutions or strategies
  • Highlight their feasibility and potential impact
  • Address the possible challenges in implementing these solutions

Step 5: Conclude Effectively

  • Summarize your key arguments succinctly
  • End with a compelling remark that leaves a lasting impression
  • Reinforce the significance of your viewpoint in a broader context

Sample WAT Questions

  1. You are at an MBA internship, and your employer offers high-value gifts. What would you do?
  2. Your colleague’s stress is affecting team performance. How would you address this?
  3. In a group project, you made a mistake. Would you tell your teammates?
  4. In a group project, someone made a serious mistake, and the professor has asked to replace the person. What would you do?
  5. In your group, if one person is not contributing, how will you handle the situation?
  6. You have a PPO from a company, and that company gives you an expensive gift. How would you react?
  7. One of your high-performing groupmates is stressed and unable to attend group meetings. How will you handle the situation?
  8. You were doing a group project, and your teammate suggested showing inflated results for better grades. What would you do?
  9. You are part of a student committee selecting a vendor, and one is a family friend. How do you avoid conflict of interest?
  10. You need to provide feedback to a sensitive peer. How will you proceed?
  11. You work part-time in a company, and your friend wants data from your company for their project. How would you approach the situation?
  12. A team member is dissatisfied with others’ contributions during a PPT review. How would you resolve this?

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the WAT requires a combination of analytical thinking, structured writing, and ethical clarity. By practicing regularly, staying informed, and reflecting on your own experiences, you can develop compelling arguments that stand out.

Remember, the key is not just to write well but to think critically and present your perspective effectively. With consistent effort and a strategic approach, you can excel in the WAT and leave a positive impression on the evaluators.

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