If you’re coming from a non-design background and aiming to crack entrance exams like NID PG (National Institute of Design) and CEED (Common Entrance Exam for Design), the task might seem daunting. But don’t worry! With the right strategy, resources, and practice, it’s absolutely possible to excel in these exams, even without prior design experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through this journey:
1. Understand the Exam Structure
Before diving into preparation, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the structure of both NID PG and CEED:
NID PG: The NID exam consists of two stages—Prelims and Mains. Prelims includes objective and subjective questions focusing on general design aptitude, creativity, and analytical skills. The Mains is a studio test where you have to demonstrate hands-on creativity, model making, and design thinking.
CEED: CEED consists of two parts—Part A is objective (MCQs) and tests visual and spatial ability, design thinking, and general awareness of design concepts. Part B involves sketching and problem-solving and tests your creativity, drawing skills, and design problem analysis.
2. Leverage Your Strengths from Non-Design Background
While you may not have formal training in design, your non-design background can bring a fresh perspective. Use this to your advantage by focusing on problem-solving, analytical thinking, and developing an eye for design by observing day-to-day objects and how they’re designed.
For example:
- Engineers might have an advantage in product design because of their technical knowledge.
- Humanities students can excel in conceptual thinking, critical analysis, and storytelling.
3. Focus on Drawing Skills and Creativity
A major component of both NID and CEED is sketching. If you aren’t comfortable with drawing, start with the basics:
- Practice Observational Drawing: Draw simple objects around you like cups, chairs, or phones. Focus on proportions, perspectives, and shading.
- Creativity Exercises: Do exercises like “doodle challenges” or practice generating creative solutions for random objects. This helps boost your imaginative thinking.
- CEED Drawing Material: One great resource is Anjali’s YouTube channel, where she provides step-by-step tutorials on drawing, design thinking, and portfolio preparation.
4. Utilize Online Learning Platforms
There are plenty of online platforms offering courses specifically geared towards design exams. Here are a few to consider:
- Design Thinking Courses: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on design thinking, which is crucial for CEED and NID. Understanding how to approach a problem creatively is essential.
- YouTube Channels: Channels like Anjali’s provide free content on drawing, portfolio preparation, and design problem-solving.
5. Create a Strong Portfolio (NID Mains)
For NID Mains, you will need to present a portfolio of your work. Even if you come from a non-design background, your portfolio can be built around projects that demonstrate your creativity, problem-solving, and conceptual thinking.
- Include Diverse Projects: You don’t need to have traditional design projects. Projects showcasing your creativity—like DIY crafts, photography, or even engineering prototypes—can be featured.
- Document Your Process: Don’t just showcase the final output. Include your process—sketches, research, and iterations. NID appreciates the thinking behind the work.
- Experiment with Different Mediums: Try digital art, model-making, and crafts. Experimenting with a variety of media will show your versatility.
6. Master the Objective Part (CEED and NID Prelims)
The objective parts of these exams focus on design aptitude, visual reasoning, and general awareness of design. For this:
- Solve Previous Year Papers: Practice solving CEED and NID PG previous year questions to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and types of questions.
- Visual Reasoning Puzzles: Work on puzzles and visual reasoning exercises to sharpen your problem-solving skills.
- General Design Awareness: Stay updated on design history, famous designers, and current trends in design.
7. Focus on the Studio Test (NID Mains)
For the NID Mains studio test, you will be required to build models, create products from given materials, or solve hands-on design problems. Here’s how to prepare:
- Practice Toy Making: Many students have reported that NID often asks candidates to create toys or models from basic materials during the studio test. Practicing these types of activities will give you an edge.
- Develop 3D Thinking: Work on small DIY projects that involve spatial awareness, like model-building or craftwork, to help you think in three dimensions.
- Group Study/Workshops: Join workshops or communities of design aspirants to practice hands-on tasks.
8. CEED-Specific Tips
If your focus is on CEED and cracking IITs like IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, or IIT Guwahati, CEED emphasizes creativity and technical drawing:
- CEED Drawing Practice: In Part B, you’ll be required to visualize and create solutions to given problems. Keep practicing storyboard sketches, product redesigns, and visualizations.
- Time Management: Practice sketching with time constraints, as CEED is time-bound and expects fast but detailed sketching.
9. Mock Tests and Self-Assessment
- Mock Tests: Give regular mock tests to simulate the exam environment. This will not only improve your time management but also help you assess your strengths and areas to improve.
- Analyze: After each test, evaluate where you went wrong. Whether it's sketching skills, creative ideas, or accuracy in solving objective questions, this will help you refine your preparation.
10. Consider Coaching for Guidance
While self-study can get you far, joining a good coaching center can provide structure and access to mentors who understand the exam pattern. Some recommended options:
3DesignThinkers: Many aspirants recommend this coaching for CEED and NID preparation. They offer curated material and help with portfolio building.
Workshops and Bootcamps: Short-term bootcamps for design thinking and studio tests can give you hands-on practice.
11. Stay Inspired
Design is a creative field, so surround yourself with inspiring content:
- Follow Design Blogs and Instagram Pages: Look at works by famous designers and keep up with trends in UI/UX, product design, and fashion.
- Visit Exhibitions: If possible, visit design exhibitions, art galleries, and museums. This will expose you to a variety of styles and creative approaches.
Final Thoughts
The journey from a non-design background to cracking exams like NID PG and CEED can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. Stay consistent, practice daily, and embrace your creative side. Remember, NID and CEED don’t just look for people who can draw—they want people who can think, solve problems creatively, and innovate.
Good luck with your preparations!