Anuradha Mandal

Communication Coach and Author

MBA or EMBA

MBA or EMBA : Which is Better Choice For Successful Career?

9 Comments / Management / / / , , , , , , , ,

There are hundreds of business degree programs offered across the globe, but choosing the best out of the rest seems to be a challenging job.

 

Before drawing a conclusion with your choice, it is imperative for you to do thorough research on this.

 

 

There are many deciding factors on choosing the best business programs.

 

 

This article will help you in drawing a clear picture in choosing an MBA or an EMBA.

 

 

To deep dive further, lets us first understand the program in a concise way :

 

 

Master of Business Administration referred to as MBA is a general management degree. This can be one year or two years and both tend to be full-time degrees.

 

 

 

Executive Master of Business Administration referred to as EMBA is also a general management degree. This can be done part-time, taking around two to four years of time to complete.

 

 

Some EMBA is even designed in two forms, can full-time as well as part-time. Usually, the full-time EMBA is for a duration of 12-15 months and part-time EMBA is for 2-3 years.

 

 

Generally, the defining difference between the MBA and the EMBA is the time schedule, but there are many others factors that need to consider.

 

 

In this article, I will discuss the difference between MBA and EMBA under the following bullet headline mentioned :

 

MBA EMBA
MBA_EMBA

 

1. Overview of the MBA and EMBA program

Master of Business Administration is designed for those who have recently graduated or for middle-level career professionals.

 

This will help them in getting deeper knowledge, help in skill enhancement, and also them in exploring various other career opportunities.

 

EMBA is developed for working professionals. This is designed for enhancing their knowledge, managerial abilities, and leadership capabilities.

 

2. Average Age

The simple difference between the MBA and EMBA is the profile of the students.

 

MBA aspirants are generally younger with an average age of 28 years with around 3-5 years of working experience.

 

While EMBA students have more years of professionals and working experience.

 

The average age of the EMBA aspirants is 38 years with a working experience of more than 5 yrs.

 

3. Application Requirement

Mentioned below is the general application requirement for most colleges and Universities. Many universities have extra requirements, which should be checked before applying in those places :

 

                       MBA

  •         Bachelor’s degree in any field
  •         Transcript of records
  •         At least 3 years of professional work experience
  •         GMAT exam score
  •         GRE exam score
  •         IELTS Academic 6.0, TOEFL iBT 70, PTE Academic 60
  •         Letters of recommendation
  •         Resume/CV

                

                       EMBA

  •         Bachelor’s degree in any field
  •         Transcript of records
  •         A minimum of 3-5 years of work experience
  •         GMAT or GRE test scores
  •         IELTS Academic 6.5, TOEFL iBT (80), or PTE Academic (60)
  •         Letter of motivation
  •         Letters of reference

 

4. Tuition costs

The tuition cost depends upon the school and the location where you are going.

 

Usually, the EMBA program is more expensive when compared with the traditional MBA program.

 

 

The average cost of the MBA degree

  •         In the U.S the tuition cost is around 50,000 USD
  •         In the UK, the tuition cost is around 15,000 GBP
  •         In the rest of Europe, the tuition cost is between 36,000 and 65,000 USD.
  •         There are other MBA programs within universities in Europe that cost between 15,000 and 36,000 USD.

The average cost of the EMBA degree

  •         In the U.S, the tuition cost is around 160,000 USD
  •          However, you can also find EMBA programs with tuition that cost 50,000 USD.
  •         In the UK, the tuition cost is around 18,000 GBP
  •         In the rest of Europe, the tuition cost is between 21,000 and 29,000 EUR

 

5. Company Sponsorship and Funding

MBA is generally self-funded across the globe.

 

There are various scholarships and financial packages, loans available to the business schools themselves.

 

EMBA is generally employee-funded across the globe.

 

The fund can be partial or full depends on the decision of the employee and the employer.

 

There has been a trend of self-funding in EMBA in recent years. There are various scholarships and financial packages, loans available to the business schools themselves.

 

6. Workload and Lifestyle

The student’s lifestyles will be very different on the basis of the program they have opted for.

 

Full-day MBA will a rigorous and stringent, who will spend more time with the classmate in the classroom, in the library, or at networking and MBA events on evenings and weekends.

 

EMBA students, have to balance a significant and continuous work balance alongside their academic schedules, courses, and a 9 to 5 job.

 

In short a balance between work and studies needs to be maintained.

 

7. Program Duration

The course duration of an MBA is two years.

 

While the duration of EMBA is 1 year to 4 years depending on the kind of program one has chosen.

 

8. Curriculum

MBA: The classes are more thus it makes them difficult to get along with any other activities.

 

The curriculum is more or less the same with similar skills but the flexibility is more choosing the electives.

 

A regular MBA is like a Marathon.

 

EMBA is a part-time program because of which they can either go for the online as well as the offline classes.

 

Offline classes are generally scheduled on weekend or evening depending on the kind of format the students has selected.

 

The curriculum is quite similar but with a lesser number of electives.

 

EMBA is like a Sprint

 

9. Salary

The MBA graduates get a significant monetary return after completion of the program.

 

While the salary increment for the EMBA is less than MBA. But they get the opportunity of more job responsibility and good promotions.

 

10. Opportunities

MBA: There are several opportunities that an MBA graduate gets. Some of them are mentioned below

 

  1. To start an accelerating career
  2. To shift their career to the next level, if you are already having experience
  3. To foster an innovative perspective
  4. To add extra brand value to yourself
  5. To magnify personal growth
  6. To start a business or become an entrepreneur
  7. Improve leadership skills
  8. Network and create connections
  9. Manage critical situations
  10. Make tough calls at the right time

 

EMBA: There are several opportunities that an EMBA graduate gets. Some of them are mentioned below 

 

  1. Get the ability and the skill to apply immediately into your job
  2. Increased scope of personal and professional networking
  3. Accelerate your career exponentially
  4. Increase the leadership qualities and skills

 

MBA_EMBA
MBA_EMBA

 

Here are a few universities and B-Schools where you can apply for an MBA or EMBA :

 

  •         London School of International Business
  •         EMAS Business School
  •         Sabanci University
  •         PSB Paris School of Business
  •         Walden University
  •         Hult International Business School
  •         Montpellier Business School
  •         Maastricht School of Management
  •         IE Business School
  •         Bocconi School of Management
  •         Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad
  •         Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad
  •         Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore
  •         Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Calcutta
  •         Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow
  •         Xavier School of Management (XLRI), Jamshedpur

My Suggestion

 

Coming back to your question of.” Which is a better choice for a successful career MBA or EMBA”.

 

I think here the answer is very subjective and depends on what a person wants to make out of their MBA degree.

 

 

There is nothing better or best between the two because the answer lies in your situation.

 

 

Comment below with your feedback on the article.

 

 

All the very best for your Skyrocketing Career.

 

content Writing 3

 

 

 

 

 

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Content Writing

How to become a Good Content Writer with NO experience?

9 Comments / Content Writing / /

This is one of the most asked questions.

 

The answer lies in the question itself.

 

You cannot be good at anything without experiences?

 

You have to immerse yourself to be good in that.

 

This reminds me of the story of one of my friends way back in 2008, she was looking for a job. She left no stone unturned in searching for a job.

 

But, she could find it. Rather, could not get it.

 

She had a dream company from her college days, as most of us have.

 

While her job hunt was on, she started writing in her diary.

 

She started writing about her dream company, her job roles in her dream company, her contribution to the company.

 

This continued for many months in a row.

 

Seven months later, she got a job, but her passion for writing for her dream company developed more.

 

She enjoyed writing instead of getting a decent job.

 

Today, she is working in her dream Company.

 

Anyone can become a Content Writer.

 

Becoming a Content writer is not a very difficult task, but you have to have that passion and focus on whether you want to become that or not.

 

There are certain myths, which hold back many to dive into this beautiful ocean.

 

There is a phrase that says “ Dress for the job you want, not the job you have,”

 

This holds very true for writing.

 

This article will help you understand content writing and how an individual with no experience can become a CONTENT WRITER.

 

 

What is Content?

 

Content is any form of information that will educate, infuse, motivate, inspire, convince a set of your targeted audience.

 

 

Content Writing
Content Writing

What is Content Writing? 

 

The act of creating content for the internet by planning, writing, and editing web content. It provides solutions for particular problems for a certain set of audiences.

 

Content refers to be as a very broad term where you have to convey your message through words.

 

For Example, a digital marketer sets up a brand new website. He wishes to showcase his product and services, with their unique features and USP.

 

It will be his content that will help him in positioning his brand and create an image.

 

Content can be in various forms like blog posts, emails, scripts of the videos, podcasts, eBooks, infographics, and many more.

 

Some of the examples of content writing:

 

  1. Website pages
  2. Blog post
  3. Email Campaign
  4. Social Media Pages

 

Content writing is very important in today’s era. This provides value and information to the audience.

 

 

This, in a way, increases the traffic to the website also.

 

 

Content is everywhere, so the need for Content writers is also increasing every second.

 

 

With the increasing demand for content writing, the scope and opportunity of the content writers is increasing at a very pace.

 

Benefits of Becoming a Content Writer

 

 

Content writing is becoming a lucrative career choice for many. Thus, the demand for Content writers is constantly increasing.

 

 

Highlighted below are some of the benefits of becoming a content writer:

 

  1. Become a Blog writer or Article Writer
  2. Become a Full-time or Part-time Content writer in a company
  3. Become an SEO Content writer
  4. Become a freelancer.
  5. Become an Author and many more.

 

After reaching this part of the article, I am sure you want to know how to become a content writer.

 

The answer is very straightforward and simple.

 

 

Anyone can write if one has a passion for it.

 

 

Bruce Lee — ‘If you want to learn to swim jump into the water.

 

 

The same holds for Content Writer.

 

 

The first step to becoming a content writer is the ability to write.

 

 

If you are given a copy or blank page with a topic to write. You may find it difficult to write on the first go.

 

 

You need to jot down your thoughts, knowledge, and ideas. This will come once you start writing and keep doing this religiously.

 

 

Over the period of time, it will come naturally.

 

 

So, it is advised to write a lot to become a good writer. 

 

 

The following pointers will throw some light in becoming a good content writer:

 

A. Choose your niche and start writing.

Select any type of content writing as per your interest:

 

The reach and scope for content writing are huge.

 

 

There are various formats and styles of content writing.

 

 

You can be a blog writer, email writer, landing page writer, social page writer, copywriter, website writer, and so on.

 

 

Millions of articles and posts get published on the internet every day across the globe. Your content should be worth enough of the rest.

 

 

Come up with good content headlines and ideas. A good headline is of utmost importance.

 

 

Some of the useful tools are :

 

  • SEO Tools: Semrush, Ahrefs, Google Keyword Planner
  • Headline/Idea Generator: Hubspot, Sumo, Portent

 

B. Research and then Write

 

The Internet is an ocean full of information in the form of content.

 

 

You have to research a lot before writing on any idea or topic.

 

 

Do proper keyword research and find the scope and reach of these keywords.

 

 

Set your audience base and figure out your customer avatar rather than targeting everyone.

 

 

Do not write for a very broad topic, it is better to focus on the sub-topis or micro sub-topics.

 

 

C. Draw an outline of your Content

 

The outline of the content will work as a framework for you to share the information in a systematic order.

 

 

First, choose a good headline for the content. This acts as a magnet and will attract the reader.

 

 

Second, come up with an intriguing introduction. This can have any story, anecdotes, or the statistic related to the topic.

 

 

Third, express the what factor of the article. The “What factor”,  can be the problem your audience is facing and how you are looking for solutions.

 

 

Fourth, share the reason for your writing this article. Provide solutions and information through your writing.

 

 

Fifth, inform the reader on how this article and help and solve their problem or query.

 

 

Last, but not least, conclude the entire outline.

 

 

D. Publish your content to the Public

 

The majority of writers never publish their content.

 

 

Always make a point to publish your content to the public. This will help you in improving and gaining confidence.

 

 

Distributing and publishing your content to a different platform and across different social media channels is very important.

 

This will help you in gaining online visibility.

 

 

  • Self-publishing platform: Medium, Tumblr.
  • Social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

 

Different Course for Content Writing

 

There are various courses available for becoming a content writer. Free as well as paid courses are available, which can give a kick start to your content writing journey.

 

Below mentioned are some of the best training providing platforms for content writing

 

  1. Hubspot
  2. Skillshare
  3. Udemy
  4. Coursera
  5. MOOC

 

To be a successful and good content writer, you have to give time to reading, writing, watching videos, and immerse yourself in that ecosystem.

 

Once you start this journey, you will enjoy the rhythm.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Content Writing
Content Writing

 

This is a well-known fact, that everything takes its own time to be the best version.

 

This is also the same with Content writing, this will take time.

 

Make this journey more fulfilling by practicing the below-mentioned mantras:

 

  • Read Read and Read, make this your habit.
  • Learn and keep learning, to be the best.
  • Write and write even more to put your thoughts into words.

 

 

How did you like the article?

 

 

Also, share your content writing journey in the comment sections below.

 

 

content Writing 3

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MBA Preparation

Brainstorming- Is It A Must Exercise For Future MBA Graduate

5 Comments / Management / / / , , , , , , , ,

What do you think when it comes to becoming an MBA Graduate?

 

There is a natural tendency to follow the crowd.

 

But the question is whether you should always follow the crowd?

 

At times it may work.

 

But there is a wise saying that “ The person who follows the crowd will go no further than the crowd”.

 

This holds very true for pursuing and getting an MBA graduate degree.

 

The buzz for MBA graduates is so powerful, that the aspirants go and dive into it without even knowing, the in and out MBA graduate program.

 

You may have often come across the saying that “ If you have nothing to do, then go and get an MBA degree”.

 

Everything comes with its Goodness and Badness.

 

It all depends on how to go with it. 

 

Therefore, it is very important to analyze both sides and then jump to any conclusions.

 

The same holds for “ The Future MBA Graduate Students”.

 

Before you make a mind to become an MBA Graduate, it is very important and imperative to brainstorm yourself.

 

This article will give you an insight into the MBA graduate program in respect to different entrance examinations, exam patterns, syllabus, list of B-Schools, and the plan and strategy to crack the CAT exam.

 

Master of Business Administration commonly known as MBA is considered as among one of the most popular graduate degrees in the world. This Comes with various advantages as well as some disadvantages.  

 

Among the benefits of an MBA degree, the Job Security, High Pay Packages, Increased Leadership possibilities, Discover different Careers, Expands Entrepreneurship possibilities, Increased Professional Network, and many more.

 

MBA Entrance Examinations

 

Gateway for an MBA degree comes with some of the most promising entrance examinations. Future MBA aspirants will have to go through these exams as mandatory screening steps.

 

Some of the highly sought out entrance examination for MBA graduate degree are mentioned below:

National Level MBA Entrance Exam

  • CAT
  • CMAT
  • MAT
  • XAT
  • NMAT
  • SNAP
  • ATMA 
  • GMAT

State Level MBA Entrance Exam

 

  • MAH-CET
  • PGCET
  • TSICET
  • KMAT
  • TANCET

 Some of the other Entrance examinations are IBSAT, IRMASAT, IIFT, FMS, etc.

 

 

CAT Notifications, Exam Pattern & Syllabus

Common Admission Test, commonly called CAT is a national-level common aptitude test conducted for admission to management courses in the Indian Institute of Management and other top B-schools across India.

 

Indian Institute of Management started this exam to select the students for business administration programs MBA or PGDM).

 

This exam is conducted every year by anyone IIMs based on the rotation policy.

 

Different Courses offered in IIM

 

There are different courses offered by IIMs namely the Post-graduate, Doctoral, and Executive education programme.

 

Some of the institutes even offer Fellowship Management Program (FPM) which is equivalent to Ph.D. But their flagship program is two years residential post-graduate program.

 

Find below the list of courses offered by IIM.

 

Course Name

Degree
Post Graduate Program in Management PGP
Post Graduate Program in Management in Food and Agriculture Management PGP-FAM
Post Graduate Program in Management in Enterprise Management PGPEM
Post Graduate Program in Management in Public Policy Management PGPPM
Executive Post Graduate Program in Management EPGP
Post Graduate Program in Management in Sustainable Management PGPSM
Post Graduate Program in Management in Management for Working Executive PGPWE
Post Graduate Program in Management in Business Management PBPBM
Fellow Program in Management FPM

Highlights of CAT Examination

 

Features of CAT Exam

Details
Exam Name Common Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting Body Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
Exam Level National
Exam Frequency Once a year
Exam Mode Computer-Based (Online)
Exam Pattern MCQ and Non-MCQ Format
Exam Duration 3 hours
Exam Syllabus ·         Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

·         Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

·         Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Exam Language English
Exam Purpose Admission into IIMs, SPJIMR, MDS, FMS, IMT, and other top B-Schools.
Courses Offered MBA-PGDM
Number of IIM 20
Number of Registration 2 Lakh+
Official Website https://iimcat.ac.in

CAT EXAM – Proposed Month

 

Event

Tentative Month
CAT Notification July
CAT Admit Card October
CAT Exam November
CAT Result January

Eligibility Criteria of CAT Exam 

 

MBA Eligibility
MBA Eligibility

 

  • Age limit of CAT Exam: There is no age limit set for appearing in the CAT exam.
  • Educational Qualification of CAT Exam

The candidate must have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized University or equivalent with a minimum of 50% or equivalent CGPA (45 % or equivalent CGPA for SC, ST, PWD/DA category) aggregate mark.

 

Candidates who have completed a professional course like CA/CS/ICWA with a minimum percentage are also eligible to appear for the exam.

 

Appearing and result-awaited candidates are also eligible to appear for the exam.

 

CAT Exam Pattern

 

Particulars

Details
Exam Mode Computer-Based Exam (Online)
Number of Sections 3
Duration of the exam 3 hours.

4 hours for PWD Category
Sectional duration of the exam 60 minutes.

80 minutes for PWD Category
Number of questions 100
Marking Scheme 3 marks awarded for every correct answer.

1 mark deducted for every wrong answer
Panel color indication Red: Question not answered nor marked as review.

 

Green: Question answered but not marked as review.

 

Grey: Question neither viewed nor visited.

 

Violet: Question marked for review but not answered.

 

Violet with green tick: Question marked for review and answered

 

CAT Exam Section-wise

Section

TITA Question

MCQ Question

Total Question

Duration
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) 7 27 34 60 minutes (80 minutes for PWD)
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) 8 24 32 60 minutes (80 minutes for PWD)
Quantitative Aptitude (QA) 11 23 34 60 minutes (80 minutes for PWD)
Total 74 26 100 3 hours (4 hours for PWD)

Best B-School

 

Getting into The Holy Trinity of the Indian Institute of Management is a dream come true experience.

 

IIM Ahmedabad IIM Bangalore IIM Calcutta

If you cannot make it in the top three Indian Institute of Management.

 

The next best are the IIM Bangalore,  IIM Lucknow, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Calcutta, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Indore) generally referred to as “BLACKI”.

 

OLD-Indian Institute Management
Name of Institute Founding Year
IIM Rohtak 2009
IIM Ranchi 2010
IIM Raipur 2010
IIM Trichy 2011
IIM Kashipur 2011
IIM Udaipur 2011

 

Baby IIM: Out of 20 IIMs, Newly 7 are called the baby IIMs.

 

 

BABY- Indian Institute Management
Name of Institute Founding Year
IIM Amritsar 2015
IIM Bodh Gaya 2015
IIM Nagpur 2015
IIM Sambalpur 2015
IIM Sirmaur 2015
IIM Visakhapatnam 2015
IIM Jammu 2015

Top B-school except for IIMs

 

  • Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi accepts the CAT score and the course offered is MBA with an intake of 287 seats.
  • S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai accepts CAT, XAT, GMAT scores and offers a PGDM course with an intake of 240 seats.
  • Xavier School of Management (X.L.R.I), Jamshedpur accepts XAT, GMAT score and offers a PGDM course with an intake of 180 seats.
  • Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies( JBIMS), Mumbai accepts MAH-CET, CAT, CMAT, MAT, ATMA offers MMS courses with an intake of 120 seats.
  • Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi accepts IIFT scores and offers MBA courses with an intake of 420 seats.
  • Symbiosis Institute of Management, Pune accepts SNAP and offers an MBA course with an intake of 180 seats.
  • Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai accepts NMAT and offers an MBA course with an intake of 540 seats.
  • Mudra Institute of Communication (MICA),  Ahmedabad accepts MICAT, CAT, XAT, GMAT and offers courses like PGDM/PGDM-C with an intake of 216 seats.
  • National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE), Mumbai accepts CAT scores and offers a PGDM course with an intake of 540 seats.
  • Indian School Of Business (ISB), Hyderabad accepts  GMAT scores and offers PGPM courses with an intake of 886 seats.
  • Management of Development Studies (MDI), Gurgaon accepts CAT scores and offers courses like PGPM/PGP-HR/PGP-IN with an intake of 420 seats.
  • Shailesh J.Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), IIT Mumbai accepts CAT scores and offers an MBA degree, and has an intake of 120 seats.
  • Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad accepts the score of CAT/XAT/GMAT and offers a PGDM course, and has an intake of 660 seats.
  • Vinod Gupta School of Management (VGSoM), IIT Kharagpur accepts the score of CAT and offers courses like MBA and has an intake of 140 seats.
  • Department of Management Studies (DoMS), IIT Madras accepts CAT scores and offers courses like MBA with an intake of 68 seats.
  • DMS, IIT Delhi accepts the CAT score and offers an MBA degree with an intake of 115 seats. 
  • Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB), Bhubaneswar accepts XAT/CAT/GMAT score and offers a degree of MBA, and has a seating capacity of 480.
  • Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), Gujarat accepts CAT/XAT scores and offers a PGDRM course, and has an intake capacity of 180 seats.
  • T.A.Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal accepts the score of CAT/XAT/GMAT and offers PGDM with an intake of 420 seats.
  • Foundation for  Organizational Research and Education (FORE) School of Management, New Delhi accepts the score of CAT/XAT/GMAT and offers the PGDM, and has an intake of 180 seats.
  • GIM (Goa Institute of Management), Goa accepts the score of CAT/XAT/GMAT and offers PGDM, and has an intake of 60 seats.

 

Strategy to Crack CAT Exam

 

MBA Entrance Exam
MBA Entrance Exam

 

CAT is considered to be one of the most demanding and tough competitive entrance examinations which require proper planning and hard work.

 

 

Many aspirants devote years and years of time to crack this exam, but this is not needed.

 

 

One can easily crack CAT if some of the aspects are kept in mind and are implemented properly. They are enumerated below :

1. Self-Preparation or Taking Coaching

 

Every individual is their own judge to gauge their own capability and potential. Therefore, students are advised to self-assess before jumping to conclusions.

 

Whether they can complete the syllabus in time or not is one big question. 

 

After assessing and analyzing their level the student can take a call, whether one should join a good coaching institute or they can go for self-preparation.

 

2. Early Starter 

 

If you are planning to crack the CAT exam, it is always advised to start early with the preparation.

 

Generally, it takes six months to one year to prepare, and complete the examination on the very first attempt. 

 

Early preparation will give ample time to the students to revise well and they will be not struggling at the last moment.

 

3. Know your Exam and Syllabus 

 

First thing first before starting the preparation for CAT, it is strongly recommended to go through the exam pattern and the syllabus of the CAT.

 

The next step is to make a comprehensive plan to start with the preparation.

 

This can be done by going through the previous year’s question papers and getting to know about the topics and sub-topics. 

 

According make a plan and stick to it. Set a micro-target of a week and try to achieve it.

 

A better understanding of the syllabus will help in the preparation in the right direction.

 

4. Strategy for  Examination  paper

 

The exam paper is divided into three sections. Each section has its own importance, therefore students should make a strategy for each section on the basis of their expertise. 

 

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension(VARC) sections – this section consist of grammar, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and verbal reasoning. VR and RC require their own strategy and approach to crack. 
  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) section -This section consists of different types of charts, graphs, etc. This generally tests the analytical and logical reasoning of the students.
  • Quantitative Aptitude (QA) –This section mainly consists of math, algebra, geometry. This requires lots of calculation and formulas and is quite a rigorous section.

 

5. Take Mock Tests Paper

 

Taking mock tests is the key to cracking the CAT. Once the basic preparation is done, start taking mock tests.

 

Start with 1-2 mock tests in a week and then increase the number to 4-5 mock tests in a week.

 

This will help you understand weak and strong areas.

 

6. Analyze Yourself and Improve

 

Analyze your result after each test and find out the weak and strong areas by doing a SWOT analysis.

 

Focus on the sectional and overall time limit and practice accordingly.

 

7. Time Management, Confidence, and Motivation

 

Six months to one year time is enough to crack CAT in the first attempt.

 

Therefore, students should divide the time before starting the preparation.

 

Be confident and motivated with your approach.

 

Stay connected with your buddy and mentor who can support and boost you.

 

The future MBA graduate makes are the future of the developing nation.

 

Therefore, it is advisable for all future MBA graduates to go through the article properly.

 

All the very BEST to all the Future MBA graduates.

 

MBA EXAM
MBA EXAM

 

 

 

 

 

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Indian Administrative Services_UPSC

IAS -The toughest Competitive Examination of India

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Why Indian Administrative Services (IAS) – The toughest examination in India of 2021.

 

This exam has been one of the toughest examinations in India for several years and the story remains the same for this year also.

 

This article will highlight the structure, pattern, and screening process. It will also make you go through the entire journey of an IAS aspirant.

 

Indian Administrative Services is commonly referred to as IAS.

 

Indian Administrative Services is one of the three arms of the Indian Services along with the Indian Police Services (IPS) and the Indian Forest Services(IFS).

 

Indian Administrative Services (IAS)  is considered to be the hardest competitive examination in India. This is conducted by Union Public Service Commission(UPSC) for the recruitment of the officers in All India Administrative Civil Service. IAS was formerly known as the Imperial Civil Service(ICS).

 

It was founded in 1858 as Imperial Civil Service.

 

Later in 1950, it was changed to Indian Administrative Service.

 

The Indian Administrative Services (IAS) is the top-ranking administrative civil service of the Government of India.

 

The IAS exam is conducted every year by the central recruiting authority, Union Public Service Commission(UPSC).

 

IAS exam is popularly called as Civil Services Examination(CSE). Hierarchy-wise, IAS is the highest post among the other 24 services like IPS, IFS, etc.

Highlights Of Indian Administrative Services

 

Every year, UPSC conducts the Civil Service Examination(CSE) for more than 24 services, such as IAS, IPS, and IFS, by shortlisting the candidates.

 

More than nine lakh candidates register for the IAS exam and almost five lakh candidates appear for the examination.

 

The selection process goes through several screenings starting with the preliminary exam, main examination, and interview.

 

Selection is a year-long process that starts in the month of June and ends in April, and the final list comes in the month of May.

 

 

Name of the Exam Civil Service Examination
Organizing Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Exam Level National
Exam Mode Paper and Pen-based( Offline)
Number of Vacancies Approx. 900
Number of Services 24
Number of Attempts 6 times
Number of Registrations Approx. 9Lakh
Admit Card Online
Official Website https://www.upsc.gov.in/

 

UPSC IAS Exam Notification & Important dates

The UPSC generally releases the date of the Civil Services Examinations notification in the month of February. Aspirants willing to appear for this All Indian Services along with other services can apply online by visiting the official website of UPSC.

 

Notification Month
Civil Service Examination Advertisement February
IAS- Online Application Form February to March
IAS- Preliminary Admit Card 2nd Week of May
IAS- Preliminary Exam October
IAS- Preliminary Result November
IAS-Main Exam January
IAS-Main Result February
IAS-Interview March to April
IAS-Final Result May

Eligibility Criteria for an Indian Administrative Services

Indian Administrative Services_Eligibity

Nationality 

The candidate must be a citizen of India to be eligible for the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) and The Indian Police Service (IPS), and for other services, the candidate must be either of the following        

 

 

The candidate must be a citizen of India

 

 

The candidate must be a citizen of Nepal or a subject of Bhutan.

 

 

The candidate must be a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, for settling permanently in India.

 

 

Candidates must be a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Burma, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Myanmar, Uganda, Malawi, Tanzania, Vietnam, Zaire with the motive to settle permanently in India.

 

 

Educational Qualification

 

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from any of the recognized universities. There is no minimum percentage required in graduation.

 

Candidates who have appeared for the qualifying exam and are awaiting results are also eligible.

 

 

Candidates with professional and technical qualifications by recognized universities or their equivalent are also eligible to apply.

 

Age Limit & Number of Attempts

A candidate should be a minimum of 21 years and a maximum of 32 years to appear for the Civil Service Examination.

 

The maximum age mentioned above is relaxable for the following candidates :

 

  1. Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST): 5 years
  2. Other Backward Classes(OBC) : 3 Years
  3. Defense Service Personnel : 3 years
  4. Ex-servicemen and ECOs/SSCOs who have served at least 5 years in Military Service as on 1st of August of the Notification Year: 5 years
  5. Blind, Deaf-mute and physically handicapped person: 10 Years.

 

Category Maximum Age Limit No of Attempts
General 32 Years 06
Other Backwards Castes (OBC) 35 Years 09
Economically Weaker Section(EWS) 32 Years 06
Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) 37 Years Till the age limit
Physically disabled candidates 42 Years For General and OBS candidates = 9

For SC/ST Candidates = Till age limit

 

IAS Officer: Roles & Responsibilities

 

The role of an Indian Administrative Services officer is challenging and it demands a lot of perseverance and responsibility.

 

IAS officer is mainly responsible for maintenance of law and order and administration of the area assigned.

 

Following are the main roles and responsibility of an Indian Administrative Service officer :

 

 

Handling the affairs of the Government consisting of framing, implementation, supervising, and reviewing of the policies.

 

Management and disbursement of the funds from the central government to different schemes.

 

Responding to the emergencies such as riots, natural disasters, accidents, curfew, and coordinating for the relief activities.

 

Responsible for overall expenditure, for which they are answerable to the Parliament and the State Legislature

 

Bestowed the power to manage the holistic development of the area assigned and ensuring the law and order are maintained in any circumstances.

 

The responsibility and function differ at different levels of career.

 

IAS officer joins initially at the sub-divisional level as Sub-divisional Magistrate.

 

Responsible for the overall development of the area under their control by coming up with the new innovation and strategic plan and programs.

 

The District Officer also known as the District Magistrate, District Collector is one of the reputed and respectable posts, which come with some years of experience.

 

They are also appointed in the State Secretariat or Public Sector Undertaking.

 

At times they also serve in different State and Central Departments through deputation.

Career Graph of Indian Administrative Service Officer

 

The highest position, an Indian Administrative Service officer can desire is the rank of Cabinet Secretary of India. At the State level, they can go up to the post of Chief Secretary of States. The following is the career path of an IAS Officer after the probation period:

 

 

ü  Training at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA)

 

ü  Training at the district level in the assigned cadre.

 

ü  Training at LBSNAA that includes some attachment with the foreign and India’s Diplomatic mission functioning abroad.

 

ü  Posted as Sub Collector/ Joint Magistrate/ SDM

 

ü  Posted as Municipal Commissioner, DDO/CDO

 

ü  Posted as Collector/DM

 

ü  Posted as Director/Joint Secretary at the State Secretariat.

 

ü  Posted as Principal/Additional Secretary in the State Secretariat or Central Secretariat.

 

ü  Posted as Chief Secretary of a State.

 

ü  Posted as Cabinet Secretary.

Indian Administrative Service Exam Pattern

 

UPSC conducts the  Indian Administrative Services exam in three levels as mentioned below.  The candidate has to clear all the 3 exams successfully to get the offer letter from Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

 

1.Preliminary Test

2. Main Exam

3. Interview.

 

Stage One-Preliminary Test (400 Marks) 

 

o   The Preliminary Exam consists of GS (General Studies) & CSAT (Civil Service Aptitude Test).

 

o   Both the papers are objective type (Multiple Choice Question)

 

o   The question papers are set in Hindi and English language.

 

o   Blind candidate gets an additional 20 minutes of time for both the paper.

 

o   Candidate appearing in the preliminary test must qualify for the cut-off score to get oneself eligible for the mains exam.

 

o   There is a negative marking associated with the question asked in the exam.

 

Paper Type Number of Questions Total Marks Negative Marking Duration
General Studies I Objective( MCQ) 100 200 Yes 2 Hours
General Studies II (CSAT) Objective( MCQ) 80 200 Yes 2 Hours

 

Stage Two-Main Examination (2025 Marks)

 

Ø  Candidates who qualify for the preliminary test are called for the Main Exam.

 

Ø  Main exam consists of 9 papers.

 

Ø  Paper A & B are qualifying in nature (Highlighted below)

 

Ø  The candidate needs to obtain at least 25% in each of the Paper I to Paper VII to be given weightage to the Main Exam.

 

Ø  Paper A is not compulsory for the candidate belonging to the State of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim as well as the candidate from hearing impairment provided the fact that they have been exempted from such  2nd or 3rd language courses from their board or university.

 

Ø  The language paper consists of the languages included in the 8th schedule of the Constitution.

 

Ø  All the paper is bilingual – Hindi & English except for the language papers.

 

 The written exam consists of the following papers

 

Paper Subject Type Duration Total Marks
Paper A One of the Indian Language Descriptive 3 Hours 300
Paper B English Descriptive 3 Hours 300
Paper I Essay Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper-II General Studies I Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper III General Studies II Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper IV General Studies III Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper V General Studies IV Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper VI Optional I Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Paper VII Optional II Descriptive 3 Hours 250
Sub Total Marks 1750
Interview Marks 275
Grand Total Marks 2025

 

The subject which is covered in the General Studies in Main Exam is mentioned below :

 

General Studies I General Studies II General Studies III General Studies IV
Indian Heritage and Culture Governance Technology Ethics
History and Geography of the World Constitution Economic Development Integrity
Society Polity Biodiversity Aptitude
  Social Justice Environment  
  International Relations Security and Disaster Management  

 

The list of the Optional Paper VI and VII of the Main Exam is enumerated below:

 

Agriculture Chemistry History Geography Mathematics
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science Political Science and International Relations Mechanical Engineering Commerce and Accountancy Electrical Engineering
Anthropology Psychology Statistics Physics Economics
Botany Sociology Law Medical Science Geology
Zoology Philosophy Civil Engineering Public Administration Management
Literature can be opted from any of the following languages: Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit,  Santhali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu and English.

 

 

Stage Three- Interview (275 Marks )

 

The candidates who qualify for the mains exam of the Indian Administrative Services are called for the interview process.

 

This is the last and final stage of the recruitment cycle before the results are declared. The maximum mark in the interview is 275 thus accruing the total marks in the merit list to be 2025.

 

UPSC board takes the interview which consists of the competent panelist, who would judge the candidature on the following grounds :

 

v  Mental Attentiveness

 

v  Critical power of understanding

 

v  Clear and Logical Interpretation

 

v  Balance of Judgement

 

v  Ability of social solidarity and leadership

 

v  Intellectual and virtuous integrity

 

Career Planning plays an important role in shaping your career, so is the planning to choose the best suitable option for yourself. You need to focus on various aspects before jumping into a final decision.

 

Career path analysis helps you in getting the best road map. Get your career assessment test by appearing for the free student profiling process. https://eduxact.edumilestones.com/

 

Study_Abroad
Study_Abroad

 

Click the link below and get an exhaustive career report and book for a free counseling session.  For Studying abroad in 15000+ across 20+ Countries visit the mentioned link.

 

Click: Start Study Abroad Profiling to get access to 15000+ Universities across 20+ Countries

 

Please share your valuable inputs regarding the article. Also, help me develop other information guides by giving your suggestions.

 

You can comment in the section below for sharing your thoughts.

 

 

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Content-Writing

The Fundamentals of Content Writing : A Quick Overview for 2021

8 Comments / Content Writing / /

Some topics create an urge to learn more about the very topics. But, when the same topic comes with several questions, the curiosity level increases exponentially.

 

 

And, this has happened to me, when I got a call from one of my friends and she bombarded me with lots of questions related to Content Writing like,

 

 

What is Content Writing?

 

 

Why is Content writing important?

 

 

How to learn Content Writing.

 

 

Her words kept haunting me for several days. 

 

 

In fact,  I was so puzzled, that I started collecting information related to Content Writing. 

 

 

While I was gathering answers to reply to my friend, I thought to myself that there might be many others who might be in such situations, and maybe my piece of information can be a help to others as well. 

 

 

So, I came up with an article on “The Fundamentals of Content Writing: A Quick Overview”

 

 

Let us first understand the meaning of Content. A fair understanding of Content can help us in understanding the concept of Content Writing.

 

 

According to Wikipedia, Content is Information and experiences created by individuals, institutions, and technology to benefit audiences in contexts that they value.

 

 

Content is also “ something that is to be expressed through some medium, as speech, writing or any of various arts”.

 

What is Content Writing?

The act of creating content for the internet by planning, writing, and editing web content. It helps in providing solutions for particular problems for a certain set of audiences.

 

 

Often Content is referred to be as a very broad term where you have to convey your message through words.

 

 

 

For Example, a digital marketer sets up a brand new website. He wishes to showcase his product and services, with their unique features and USP.

 

 

It will be his content that will help him in positioning his brand and create an image.

 

 

Content can be in various forms and can be used by blog posts, emails, scripts of the videos, podcasts, eBooks, infographics, and many more. 

 

 

Content writing has several formats like,

A. Academic Writing Formats

  1. Case Studies
  2. CV Writing
  3. Literature Reviews
  4. Book Reviews

B. Copywriting Formats

  1. Headlines
  2. Web Pages & Blog Posts
  3. Email Subject lines
  4. Ads

C. Technical Writing Formats

  1. Lab Reports 
  2. Engineering Design Reports
  3. Project Reports
  4. Quotation
  5. Brochures

D. Business Writing Formats

  1. Memos
  2. Emails’
  3. Meeting Agenda
  4. Business Reports

Why is Content Writing important?

content-is-king
content-is-king

 

Informative and valuable content attracts the visitor to your site, which engages them with the value they are receiving.

 

 

This value creation and problem solution further increase their interest and trust, which ultimately converts them to becoming your customers. 

 

 

Content is a very powerful skill showing promising results for a blog, website, or business as a whole.

 

 

The demand for content writing is increasing significantly in India. This is one main reason why Content writing jobs in India have taken a leap.

 

 

There is this new buzz on How to become a content writer and what are the most relevant scopes and opportunities 

Opportunities of Content Writers

 

You will be surprised to know, that the scope and opportunities are humongous. You get a platter full of career choices and options.

 

Some of the career options available in India and across the globe are :

 

  1. Copywriting: This is going to become the most highly paid job in digital marketing.
  2. SEO Content Writers: SEO Content over content is more preferred.
  3. Blog and Websites: You can set up your own blog and websites.
  4. Sell your articles and Private Labels Rights (PLR) packages.
  5. Freelancing: Start freelancing and become a Freelancer
  6. Get Job: Become a Full-time or Part-time Content writer.
  7. Start your own Agency
  8. Write and Publish your own book
  9. Offer courses and Internship programs.

 

You may have got some sense of the scopes and the opportunities of Content Writing. 

 

 

Now, let’s understand how to become a content writer and what are the skills needed to become a good Content Writer.

 

 

A good content writer should possess and enhance the listed skills to make them look the best out of the rest.

 

1.Good Content writer should be good at different writing styles 

Different services, products, and businesses have different needs and requirements. The writing style should relate to the respective services or business.

 

Blogging is commonly opinionated and friendly.

 

White Papers are long and descriptive. Ad copy is short and crisp. Sales copy is focused and persuasive. Press Releases are AP style.

 

2.Good Content Writer cannot choose any subject and start writing

Choosing the best subject matter can be done by Ideation. Ideation is a process of finding a subject, title, and outlook to write about. They have to :

 

Understanding their Audience: This is of utmost most importance.

 

Proper Keyword Research: This can be done by several tools available like Ahrefs, Semrush, Google Keyword Planner, and many more.

 

Competition Analysis: This cannot be neglected and can be done by many tools available.

 

Catchy title: Come up with a catchy title to attract the reader.

 

3.Good Content writers are original 

 

Every work of a writer should be original and come out from their own thoughts.

 

Their own style and perspective make them unique. Plagiarized content is bad for the organization, even more, bad for SEO, and worst for you.

 

It is your own image that is at stake if you are not original with your own piece of content.

 

4.Good Content writer should have some basic Computer and Internet Skills

 

You don’t have to be an expert, just the basics of computer, internet, layout and formatting skills will be more than enough.

 

This can be in any of the forms like :

  • Online Research
  • Blog and website design
  • Logo design
  • Cover Page and eBook design
  • Proofread 
  • Search Engine Optimization
  • Keyword Research

 

The skills mentioned will help you become a good content writer. Nevertheless, there are some more ingredients that can add to a better taste. These can act as a catalyst to make you more focused and specific.

 

Choose your Niche: Niche selection is predominantly done, on the basis of talent, passion, and market opportunities.

 

Build your authority: The best and the easiest way to do this is to run your own blog.

 

Build your social proof: Be active on forums, community and groups and start sharing your content. Provide value to gain social proof for yourself.

 

Start Freelancing: There is a huge demand and at the same time immense opportunity in freelancing.

 

The gig economy is flourishing and it soon will be dominant in India as well.

 

Upwork, Fiverr, Gigzoe, etc. are some of the few platforms for freelancers and gig workers.

 

Courses and Certification for Content Writing

 

If you want to kick start with this program, you can definitely go with the for short-term and certification courses.

 

There are many courses available online as well offline in India and across the globe. To name some: 

 

  1. Content Writing Mastery Program by Sanjay Shenoy
  2. Udemy Content Writing Course
  3. IIEDM, Mumbai
  4. Coursera Content Writing Course
  5. TBS The Brand Salon, Mumbai
  6. Inventaq, Bangalore.

 

 

Becoming a better version of yours takes time, the same goes with Content Writing.

 

 

Even the diamond goes through fire to be the best version of it.

 

What you have to do is,

 

  • Read Read and Read, make this your habit.
  • Learn and keep learning, to be the best.
  • Write and write even more to put your thoughts into words. 

 

These are the simplest mantras you should follow and imbibe.

 

Content is King
Content is King

 

 

 

I consider this quote from one of my mentors to be very promising. “Content without context is Useless”.

 

This article of his will definitely makes you understand the content in a better way.

 

Last but not the least, Content writing is just one element of Digital Marketing.

 

You should have a fair knowledge of digital marketing to become a successful content writer.

 

Join this magical program with just a CLICK.

 

Career Planning plays an important role in shaping your career, so is the planning to choose the best suitable option for yourself. You need to focus on various aspects before jumping into a final decision.

 

Career path analysis helps you in getting the best road map. Get your career assessment test by appearing for the free student profiling process. https://eduxact.edumilestones.com/

 

Study_Abroad
Study_Abroad

 

Click the link below and get an exhaustive career report and book for a free counseling session.  For Studying abroad in 15000+ across 20+ Countries visit the mentioned link.

 

Click: Start Study Abroad Profiling to get access to 15000+ Universities across 20+ Countries

 

Please share your valuable inputs regarding the article. Also, help me develop other information guides by giving your suggestions.

 

You can comment in the section below for sharing your thoughts.

 

 

Content Writing
Career Counselling

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Fundamentals of Content Writing : A Quick Overview for 2021 Read More »