The NIFT entrance exam is your gateway to India’s premier design institution. With its competitive nature, strategic preparation is key. Here are 10 expert tips to help you ace both CAT (Creative Ability Test) and GAT (General Ability Test):

1. Understand the Exam Pattern Thoroughly

Before diving in, study the syllabus, marking scheme, and time allocation for CAT and GAT.

2. Practice Sketching Daily

Strong observational and imaginative skills are essential for CAT. Practice freehand sketching, perspective drawing, and storytelling visuals.

3. Time Management is Key

Learn to manage time during mock tests. GAT especially requires speed with accuracy across sections like English, Math, and GK.

4. Enhance Your General Knowledge

GAT includes current affairs, fashion trends, and cultural history. Read newspapers, magazines, and design blogs regularly.

5. Build a Visual Vocabulary

Be aware of design trends, color theory, famous artists, and fashion designers to strengthen your creative ideas.

6. Solve Previous Years’ Papers

It helps you understand the question style, identify patterns, and manage time efficiently.

7. Think Out of the Box

In CAT, originality is valued more than technique. Surprise the evaluator with unique concepts and storytelling.

8. Work on Mental Math & Verbal Skills

Prepare for GAT’s logical reasoning, quantitative ability, and English comprehension regularly using mock tests and quizzes.

9. Review & Reflect on Your Work

Always critique your own sketches and answers. Ask: is this fresh, clear, and expressive?

10. Stay Calm and Believe in Your Creativity

Trust your intuition and stay consistent. Confidence can set your creativity free.

“Design is not just how it looks, but how it works — prepare smart, not just hard.”