About CAT Written Ability Test
Written Ability Test is referred to as WAT. Writing an essay takes 20 to 30 minutes and is a crucial component of the admissions process for many MBA programs, especially at the top Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other esteemed B-schools.
As the name implies, the candidate must write an essay on a specified topic under a predetermined word count in this round.
Why are WATs conducted by IIMs?
The essay writing test evaluates your abilities to write, analyze critically, and communicate effectively. It usually takes place following your successful completion of an entrance exam, such as the Common Admission Test (CAT) for IIMs. Typically, the test consists of writing an essay on a certain subject in 15–20 minutes.
Managers and business leaders are expected to possess strong verbal and written communication skills to make effective presentations and proposals. While verbal communication skills are assessed during the Personal Interview, written communication skills are evaluated by IIMs through the Written Ability Test (WAT).
Written Ability Test (WAT) – Myths vs Reality
The Written Ability Test or WAT is highly misunderstood as to what it requires and expects from a candidate.
- It’s not just about English skills: The WAT is not designed to measure your English proficiency. You don’t need to use complicated words or write a lot. If your language skills aren’t perfect, don’t worry—you won’t be at any disadvantage.
- Focus on structure and clarity: Since the WAT isn’t about language skills, it focuses on how well you organize your thoughts and express them clearly. The key is to present your ideas in a logical and understandable way.
Evaluation Parameters For IIM Written Ability Test
The following significant criteria will be used to evaluate your work when you write the WAT:
- Clarity of Thought: Candidates must express their ideas clearly and coherently, ensuring that their argument is easy to understand.
- Robustness of Reasoning: Responses should be backed by logical reasoning and relevant examples that demonstrate the candidate's critical thinking skills.
- Coherence and Structure: An essay should be well structured in order to make it seem it has been well thought with a proper logical flow.
- Grammar and syntax: In order to make a good impression on the evaluator, grammar and syntax should be given utmost importance and thorough grammar check should be conducted after completing the WAT.
The format of the Written Ability Test (WAT) round can vary slightly depending on the specific program or institution, but here's a general overview of what to expect:
- Time Limit: The WAT typically lasts for 20-25 minutes, though some programs may allocate slightly more or less time.
- Number of Prompts: You will usually be given one essay prompt to write on. Some programs might give you two prompts and ask you to choose one.
- Prompt Type: The prompt can be anything from a current affairs topic to a general management principle to an abstract concept. It's important to be prepared for anything
- Word Limit: Although the WAT typically has no set word limit, most essays are between 250 and 350 words long. Try not to ramble or veer off topic, but write enough to thoroughly explain your views.
- Writing Supplies: For the WAT, you will often be given a pen and paper. Although it's not always the case as some programs might let you use a laptop. Make sure to review the particular program guidelines in advance.
Grading Criteria
The WAT is typically graded on a variety of factors, such as:
- Content: The relevance and depth of your response to the prompt.
- Critical thinking: It is the ability to examine, evaluate, and comprehend information in order to make decisions or form judgments.
- Communication skills: These include writing clarity, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Structure: This refers to the overall flow of your article.
WAT Preparation Tips
Preparing for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) can significantly enhance your performance and boost your confidence. Here are some simple tips to help you prepare effectively:
- Understand the format: Get acquainted with the WAT format is equally important which includes composing an essay or passage on a certain subject. You shouldn't spend more than 25-30 minutes on the same.
- Regular Reading: A regular reading routine can help you gain knowledge regarding different topics; this, in turn, will make you more worldly-wise and expand your vocabulary.
- Practice Writing Prompts: To enhance your capacity to express ideas on a variety of topics, challenge yourself with varied writing prompts. Ask mentors for input to improve your writing.
- Work on Clarity and Conciseness: Focus on expressing your ideas clearly and concisely. Avoid unnecessary complexity and ensure that your thoughts flow logically.
- Brush up on grammar and vocabulary: Refresh your knowledge of grammar and vocabulary to improve the overall caliber of your writing. Make sure your broad vocabulary fits the topic of your work.
- Keep Up to Date with Current Events: A lot of WAT subjects have something to do with current affairs or concerns. Staying up to date with current affairs and global events can help your essays become more in depth and significant.
- Establish a Writing Timetable: A writing schedule should be planned out in order to ensure consistent practice which in turn will increase your writing speed.
- Write Mock Essays: Take practice WAT tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual test scenario. Review your performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Be Authentic in Your Writing: Develop your own writing voice as you practice as authenticity gives your essays a more intimate feel.
WAT Preparation: Structure Of Writing The Perfect Essay
Although there are other approaches to essay structure, the most dependable and successful one consists of these three components:
- Introduction: In this section, you present your topic and key point.
- Body: In this section, you will provide your argument's key points, supporting details, and examples.
- Conclusion: This is the final section that summarises the main points of the essay and defines the decision reached by the writer. It's the last statement that brings the essay to a logical close.
Writing a compelling WAT essay requires a strong structure that guides your arguments and impresses the B-school admissions committee. Here are two effective frameworks you can choose from, each with its strengths:
Opinion > Reason > Significance (ORS):
This framework is ideal for essays where you need to take a clear stance on a topic and support it with logical arguments and evidence. It follows a clear progression:
- Opinion: This is your clear stance or viewpoint on the issue at hand.
- Reason: This section offers rational arguments and proof for your viewpoint, frequently in the form of facts, figures, or professional analysis.
- Significance: In this section, you describe why your viewpoint is important and how it might affect a particular circumstance, academic discipline, or larger social environment.
Problem > Effect > Cause > Solution (PECS):
The above framework can prove to be useful when you need to analyze a problem and propose a solution. It follows a cause-and-effect approach and helps in essay writing:
- Problem: Use vivid descriptions and examples to clearly articulate the issue you want to tackle and illustrate its seriousness and impact.
- Effect: Describe the negative effects of the problem. Show how it affects individuals, society, or the business school environment.
- Causes: Examine the underlying reasons for the situation. This exhibits critical thinking and a knowledge of the problem's complexities.
- Solution: Propose a practical and well-thought-out solution to the problem. Explain its possible benefits and how it can address the stated issues.
Choosing the Right Framework:
The best framework for your essay depends on the specific prompt and your chosen approach.
Use ORS if:
- The prompt asks for your opinion or stance on a specific issue.
- You want to convince the reader of your point of view, and you have a compelling argument.
- You wish to draw attention to your opinion's wider ramifications.
Use PECS if:
- The prompt highlights a particular issue or difficulty.
- You want to show that you can think critically and comprehend cause-and-effect linkages.
- You want to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and offer a solution.
Remember
- Adaptability is essential. Don't hesitate to modify these frameworks to meet the prompt's particular requirements.
- Clarity and conciseness are essential. Avoid repetition, make use of powerful transitions, and keep the ideas flowing naturally.
