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How to Prepare for NID 2025: Preparation Tips & Strategy

How to Prepare for NID 2025: Preparation Tips & Strategy

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on May 08, 2024 05:21 PM IST | #NID DAT

NID(National Institute of Design) is one of the most prestigious institutes in the field of design. The NID conducts the national-level entrance exam called DAT(Design Aptitude Test). The NID exam is one of the most difficult design entrance exams. So in or to perform well in this exam. the candidate must get his NID preparation strategy right.

The NID exam preparation includes choosing the right NID study material, making a study schedule, studying and doing one's exercises regularly, solving model papers and taking notes. Also, leading up to the NID DAT exam, especially in the last few weeks, the candidate will have to take a few NID mock tests. So the students should take the NID mock test online to simulate the exam conditions. It will help to perform well in the exam as well.

Stages of NID Exam - Prelims and Mains

Well, the students who preparing for the NID 2025 exam well in advance will have the best chance of passing it with ease. The NID DAT 2025 competition is fierce. Thus, you must exert maximum effort.

There are two steps in the NID admissions process: NID DAT Prelims is where candidates must first appear. The candidates are narrowed down for the NIT DAT Mains, a studio test, based on their prelim results.

How To Crack NID Entrance Exam 2025 - Stages of Preparation

Aspirants need to qualify for the NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT) to gain admission to NID campuses. Those aspirants who make up their minds to appear in the NID DAT exam should go through on how to prepare for the NID entrance exam thoroughly. It will help you while in NID exam preparation. In this article, Careers360 offers a set of top-notch suggestions on how to prepare for NID 2025. The list of preparation tips are as follows.

1. Understand the NID DAT exam pattern
Before beginning the NID DAT preparation, one must be thorough with the exam pattern. However, In the NID 2024 exam, significant changes have been made in the exam pattern. Since NID DAT is conducted in 2 stages Prelims and Mains. The NID DAT prelims now feature an altered structure, notably with an increase in the drawing section and a decrease in the aptitude portion. Previously, the total marks for the Aptitude and Drawing sections were 25 and 75, respectively. Primarily, the NID DAT 2024 exam included a total of 23 questions. These modifications represent a realignment of focus and temporal distribution among sections to efficiently evaluate candidates' competencies.

2. Know your NID Syllabus 2025

Get yourself familiarised with the NID entrance exam syllabus. Get to know the list of important topics and then create a study plan.The list of important topics are as follows Students can refer to the article NID DAT Syllabus 2025 PDF (Prelims and Mains) in detail where they can find all the list of important topics for Prelims and Mains of BDes and MDes program separately. It will make students NID DAT preparation effectively.

3. Create a Study Plan
Every person has a different amount of preparedness depending on their study habits and capacity for critical thinking and problem - solving approach.Hence, there are few things that students should keep in mind when they study.

  • Analyze your strengths and weaknesses first.

  • Second, categorize the list of important topics from NID study material according to their weightage.Divide them into most and least significant topics.

  • Third, begin by studying simple topics for the NID DAT preparation and gradually advance to more challenging ones.

  • Maintain a regular study schedule because consistency is the key

  • Continue to practice the questions and take the mock exams on a regular basis.

WUD | Design Admissions 2024

International tie-ups | Project based learnings | Attractive Scholarships | State of the art infrastructure | Last Date to Apply: 23rd May'24

Pearl Academy B.Des Admissions 2024

No. 1 Design & Fashion Institute by ASSOCHAM, India Today, Outlook and The Week rankings | Last Date to Apply: 5th June

4. Solve Previous Year's Question Papers

Solve all previous years' question papers for NID DAT to boost your preparation. After that, give daily mock tests.For more practice you can also download NID DAT Bdes Prelims eBook from our website in which you can find 10 free mock test series of NID DAT Prelims exam.

Preparation Strategy for NID DAT Prelims 2025

The Prelims exam is conducted in two parts, Part A and Part B. Given below is the effective preparation strategy for NID DAT Prelims. To study more in detail please refer to the article How To Prepare For NID DAT Prelims

  • Visual Perception and Memory - Practice drawing from memory and observation to strengthen these skills.

  • Creative Thinking and Problem Solving - Engage in creative exercises like brainstorming, idea generation, and concept development.

  • General Knowledge and Current Affairs - Stay updated with design-related news, innovations, and global trends.

  • Drawing Skills - Regularly practice sketching, rendering, and illustration to improve your drawing abilities.

  • Sketching and Drawing Techniques - Master freehand sketching, shading, perspective drawing, and rendering to express ideas effectively.

  • Color Theory and Application - Understand color combinations, contrast, harmony, and application techniques to enhance visual appeal.

  • Design Principles - Learn about balance, rhythm, proportion, emphasis, and unity to create aesthetically pleasing compositions.

  • Practice Mock Tests - Take timed mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.

NID vs NIFT - Which is better
This eBook helps the students to compare the NID and NIFT, admission process, courses offered in each of the institutions.
Download EBook

Preparation Strategy for NID DAT Mains 2025

To NID-Studio Test is the advanced stage of evaluating admission at NID in different streams. It further evaluates an aspirant's Sensory Reflection, Agility, and Problem-Solving Skills. The questions in the studio test are practical and situation-based, where one needs to respond immediately to a given scenario. It is usually doable within the time limit if one has meticulously followed the above-shared advice for prelims.

There is no fixed format for questions, but it is doable if you have trained your senses well, no matter the challenge.For example, remember the 10-15 sounds, which you must identify and note in your answer sheet. (Purely Sensory and Cognitive Evaluation).

Additional Tips for NID Mains/Studio Test

Since the Studio Test is very crucial in NID exam. So here are some additional tips for how to prepare for NID Studio Test effectively.

  • Avoid multiple colours in Studio Test: It is advised to keep the sketches minimalist, looking at the time limitations, using mostly pencil for sketching and pencil colours for colouring where only required. Try to communicate using the idea through shading and highlights only.

  • Avoiding Complex Solutions/Ideas: For a given situation or question, try to keep your response as practical and simple as possible with clarity of the use case scenario. Evaluators are looking for a skill set capable of generating solutions that seem practical and doable by looking only.

  • Time Management: It is one of the most common advice given to any aspirant since time management is the key to scoring well in any exam.Distribute time equally to all the questions, without being carried to any one single question.Try to attempt most questions, while attempting one should always begin with the one where you feel most confident.

  • Thumbnail Technique: Before attempting to answer any question on the answer sheet, generate a thumbnail overview of the solution in your mind on a rough sheet. This empowers an individual to think clearly and visualise the proposed solution's requirements.

UPES B.Des Admissions 2024

Ranked #52 amongst Universities in India by NIRF | Ranked #9 in India by QS University Rankings 2023 | Last Date to Apply: 31st May

Unitedworld Institute of Design B.Des Admissions 2024

100% Placement Assistance | Global approach | Industry visits | International visits | Live projects

Recommended Books For NID Preparation 2025

Given below is the list of NID preparation books that can help in your NID dat preparation.

Book Name

Author Name

NID (B.Des) Entrance Book and Test Series

AFAINDIA

Basic Rendering

Robert W.Gill

NID Mock Test Series 2019-20

Bhanwar Rathore and Alumni Ahmedabad

NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide

RPH Editorial Board

NID DAT Books

R.S Aggarwal (Aptitude Section)

Design Drawings

Francis D.K.Ching

NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide

Surendra

NIFT, NID, IIFT Entrance Examination

Dharmendra Mittal

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What is the mode of the NID prelims exam?

NID DAT preliminary exam was conducted in pen and paper mode in 23 cities across the nation on December 24, 2023.

2. Can I apply for NID DAT in offline mode?

NID DAT 2024 registration could be done online only by visiting the official website - admissions.nid.edu. Candidates are advised to check the NID DAT eligibility criteria 2024 before applying for Design Aptitude Test. 

3. I am from a science background. Can I apply for NID DAT 2024?

Aspirants who have passed the 10+2 exam or appearing for the board exam in 2024 from any discipline can apply for NID DAT exam.

4. What is the minimum qualifying Criteria to clear NID DAT 2024?

NID DAT Minimum Qualifying Criteria;

  • Open/ EWS/ Overseas - 65
  • OBC-NCL - 55
  • SC/ ST/ PwD - 45
5. How to prepare for NId Mdes entrance exam?

To prepare for the NID M.Des exam, focus on enhancing your creativity and observational skills. Practice sketching and familiarize yourself with the exam pattern by solving past papers. Remember, passion for design is key.

6. How to Prepare for NID 2024:

Candidates can prepare for NID 2024 by following these:

  • Know the Exam: Understand NID DAT's pattern, syllabus, and marking. Tailor your strategy accordingly.

  • Plan Smartly: Create a structured study plan covering all subjects. Focus on weaknesses and revise strengths.

  • Gather Resources: Collect books, online materials, and past papers for varied perspectives.

  • Practice Regularly: Practice sample papers, mocks, and past questions to grasp the pattern and manage time.

  • Sharpen Observation: Enhance object analysis skills for visual perception questions.

  • Sketching Practice: Improve drawing and visualization with regular freehand and perspective sketching.

  • Stay Updated: Keep up with design trends, tech, and culture for better awareness.

  • Boost Creativity: Develop creative thinking through brainstorming and unique exercises.

  • Manage Time: Practice under timed conditions to ace the time-bound exam.

  • Prioritize Health: Maintain physical and mental well-being for enhanced focus and productivity.

7. Is the NID DAT Exam Very Difficult to Crack?

The NID DAT exam is very tough as only 3% of B.Des and 10% of M.Des applicants get admission to NID.  It is a competitive exam that assesses your creativity, problem-solving skills, and design aptitude. With proper preparation, dedicated practice, and a focused approach, many candidates have successfully cracked the exam. Hard work, consistent practice, and a positive mindset can help you overcome challenges and perform well.


8. Is it Possible to Crack NID DAT 2024 Without Coaching?

Yes, it is possible to crack the NID DAT exam without coaching. Many aspirants have achieved success through self-study and dedicated practice. The key is to understand the exam pattern, syllabus, and develop a comprehensive study plan. Utilize online resources, study materials, sample papers, and mock tests to simulate the exam environment. However, coaching can provide structured guidance and expert insights, so the choice depends on your learning style and self-discipline.

9. Which Are the Best Books for NID Entrance Exam?

There are several books that can aid your NID DAT preparation. Some recommended titles include:

  1. "NID (B.Des.) Entrance Books" by Ramesh Singh
  2. "NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide" by Surendra Kavimandan
  3. "NIFT/NID/NATA Entrance Examination 2024" by Dharmendra Mittal
  4. "NID: Mock Test Series" by Ravi Sharma
  5. "NID (B.Des.) Entrance Books" by Arihant Experts
10. How to Clear NID Entrance Exam:

To clear NID entrance:

  1. Concepts: Grasp design fundamentals - color, composition, form, perspective.

  2. Practice: Sketch regularly with diverse techniques for better drawing.

  3. Samples: Solve papers for pattern understanding and time management.

  4. Creativity: Brainstorm, explore unique design ideas.

  5. Portfolio: Craft strong portfolio showcasing projects.

  6. Update: Stay informed on design trends.

  7. Mocks: Simulate conditions for speed and accuracy.

  8. Time: Allocate wisely during the exam.

  9. Confidence: Stay positive, believe in yourself.

  10. Review: Regularly revise, learn from errors.

11. How can I prepare for the NID DAT Interview?

Candidates can check these tips to help you prepare for the NID Interview:

  • Keep a smile on your face and a positive demeanor throughout the interview.
  •  Make sure your responses are concise and to the point
  • Be on time for the interview.
  • Dress appropriately and maintain etiquettes.
  • Do not use slangs and maintain eye contact.
  • Carry your Portfolio.
  • Do your homework and avoid conventional answers.
12. How can I improve my sketching skills for NID DAT?

Candidates can check these tips to improve their sketching skills for NID DAT:

  • Don’t worry if your sketching is poor, NID seeks a diverse set of skills.
  • Be ready to face unexpected queries that demand exceptional inventiveness
  • Use coloured pencils and pastels, avoid sketch pens and watercolours.
  • Practice more NID drawing questions and develop your own sketching style.

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Questions related to NID DAT

Have a question related to NID DAT ?

Hello,

If you forgot to write the question paper code and date on your NID DAT prelims OMR sheet, contact the exam authorities immediately. They may have procedures in place to handle such situations. According to me there should be no problem for you even if you have not filled paper code as you filled all the other necessary details.

Hope this helps you,

Thank you






Hello aspirant,

The National Institute of Design (NID) has not yet made the NID DAT 2024 exam's official syllabus public. But you can check the important topics for this exam on our site by clicking on the link given below.

https://design.careers360.com/articles/nid-dat-syllabus

Thank you

Hope this information helps you.

Hello Student,

I Hope you are doing well.

UCCEED-> Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design

Conducted by- Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

UCEED conducts exams to get students for IITs and some design colleges also. IITs have seats reserved for the students coming through UCEED.

NID->National Institute of Design

Conducted by-> National Institute of Design Ahmedabad

NID Design Aptitude Test is conducted for admission in the prestigious National Institute Design (NID) campuses in Bachelors of Design (B. Des)course.

Some of the best coachings for NID and UCEED-:

AFAindia i s among the leading coaching institutes.

In India, there are many coaching programmes accessible, however in my opinion, creativity doesn't really blossom in a coaching programme.


The secret to passing NID, NIFT, and CEED is creativity; you may do this without depending on coaching sessions. I would advise going on a tour or travelling instead of paying hefty fees to teaching centres. If not, simply take in your surroundings. Every morning, take a stroll and study the textures and patterns of the surroundings. Try to observe and see things from your perspective wherever you go. Try to consider and analyse the issues!

I hope this helps you.

Hello Aspirant,

You have a good chance of getting a National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. You have a good enough score for this college if we see last year cut off. But the cut-off changes every year depending on the difficulty level of the paper, the total aspirants who took the exam, the reservation, individual score of each person who took the exam. Nevertheless, you have a good chance of getting into this college as your score is good.

NID Design Aptitude Test generally recognized as NID DAT is a dual-level design entrance test that comprises a prelims exam and the main exam.

The entrance test is administered every year at the national level to assign students for B.Des and M.Des admission offered by NIDs campuses.

It is administered to evaluate candidates' proficiency, ability, and behavioural aptitudes. NID entry is a completely established aspirants' achievement in NID DAT.


The 4-years BDes programs are given at NID Ahmedabad, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam and 2-years MDes programs are given at NID Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Bengaluru.

Regards.

Dear student,

Best Prepration Books for NID DAT/ AIEED are listed below.

••NID DAT book by R.S. Aggarwal - For Aptitude

••Guide for NID

••Success Master - For NID Entrance Exam

••Design drawing by author Francis D.K.Ching

••NID Mock Test Series

••NID - Entrance Books and Test Series

••NID Workbook

••Basic Rendering from Robert W.Gill Guide - For NID Entrance Exam

To get more information about NDA DAT prepration tips, go through below mentioned link.

https://design.careers360.com/articles/how-prepare-for-nid-dat

NID DAT exam will be conducted in two phases i.e Preliminary Exam and Mains Exam. Both the exams are for 3 hours. There will be maximum of 100 marks in each phase of exam. It is a paper and pen based examination. There is no negative marking. The medium of exam is English.

To get more information about Study Material for NID DAT go through below mentioned link.

https://design.careers360.com/articles/nid-dat-study-material/amp

May this information was helpful to you.

All The Best!!



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