Like all management entrance exams there are some important points you should remember while taking the test. Since XAT has negative scoring, it is crucial for you to be cautious while answering the questions.

NNE is providing you with some important guidelines to crack the XAT.

• Take as many mock tests as possible. This will give you a clear picture of your strengths and weakness.
• Like most tests, the thumb rule is to begin with the section that is your strong area. It will boost your confidence level.
• For XAT time management is very important as there are no sectional time limits. Divide your time uniformly so that you do not end up spending more time on one section and left with little for the other section.
• XAT always throws up some surprises for the candidates. So be mentaly prepared for it.
• Don’t make wild guesses in XAT as XAT has negative marking and the price could cost you your seat.
• Give equal importance to all the sections.
• Though your essay paper might not count that much for interview calls but it is used as a yardstick in the interview process.
• Like all exams, you should stay cool and not panic.

IMPORTANCE OF THE ESSAY IN XAT
The essay brings out the ethical and social values within a student. XLRI lays a lot of stress on such assets of a student. XLRI uses the essay to delve into the mind of the student. It is also used as a pre-interview yardstick.

HOW TO DEAL WITH THE ESSAY
 

• Analyze the topic
  Study the topic carefully before rushing to write on it. You get 20-25 minutes to write the essay, a good enough time if you have collated your thoughts. Understand whether you have to present the pros and cons of the topic or critically analyse the essay. Your approach towards an argumentative essay, a factual essay or an abstract topic would be different. The tone would vary with the topic. YOu can add humor or comic elements within your essay but avoid strictly if it is a serious topic.
  Note down the important points once you have a clear understanding of the topic.

• Introduction
  Beginning with a quote is a good idea but only if it is relevant and relates to the topic. Just do not use a quote because your essay will look good and always remember to write the correct quotation with the name of the person. If you have the slightest doubt, do not write the quote. A good introduction can help you set the pace of your essay.
   

• Body of the essay
  You must provide your essay with supporting ideas written effectively in two or three small paragraphs. Support your essay with relevant facts, examples and arguments and even from your own personal experiences. This will reflect your understanding of the topic.  However, you must remember to be politically correct but with concrete examples.
   

• Conclusion
  Just like you need a good introduction to start the essay, you need an equally strong conclusion to end the essay. Do not leave your essay hanging in the middle without a concrete conclusion.

HOW TO WRITE THE ESSAY
Keep the following factors in mind while writing the essay:
 

• Grammar and sentence structure
  Write in correct sentences with proper choice of words and correct grammar usage. You must adhere to the basic principles of grammar. Use short sentences as far as possible to avoid mistakes. An essay with neat writing is always pleasant to read.
   

• Coherence and flow of thoughts
  You should maintain smooth flow of your thoughts without beating round the bush. Write in paragraphs which are short and bring will help in bringing out the meaning explicitly.
   

• Proofreading
  Proofread your essay for wrong spellings and incorrect grammar use. Avoid jargons, slang and abbreviations. Always use a quotation with the name of the person.
   

IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF YOUR ESSAY

• Thought clarity
• Effective use of language
• Flow of ideas
• Correct understanding of the topic
• Facts and examples

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE ESSAY

• Read the newspaper everyday for at least 15-30 minutes
• Take note of important facts like GDPs
• Keep yourself updated on the latest financial developments in the global perspective
• Practice writing essays at home and discuss with your teachers, friends and family
• Brush up your basics of grammar

ESSAY TOPICS OF PREVIOUS YEARS