Summary: If you are taking MBA entrance exams, it's crucial to understand “how important is GK for MBA entrance exams?" before you start with your preparations! 

Embarking on a journey to obtain a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) is a significant step towards business and managerial success. 

The gateway to this journey often involves getting through rigorous MBA entrance exams that test a myriad of skills. 

Among these skills, General Knowledge (GK) is one that often tends to be overlooked.

This article explores the critical role of GK in MBA entrance exams and its overall importance in a business education context.

Let's understand "How important is GK for MBA entrance exams?"

Download FREE Study Material for CAT Exam 2024 by SuperGrads

How important is GK for MBA entrance exams?

1. Most MBA entrance exams, such as the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), incorporate a General Knowledge section. 
2. However, note that MBA exams like Common Admission Test (CAT) and the Symbiosis National Aptitude (SNAP) test do not incorporate a GK section. 
3. The GK section evaluates candidates' awareness of current affairs, the business economy, and general happenings around the world. 
4. The weightage of the GK section varies across different exams, but it is usually a crucial differentiating factor, especially when candidates have similar scores in other sections.

How important is GK for MBA entrance exams?: Importance

GK is not merely an additional section in the entrance test. It's a reflection of a candidate's comprehensive understanding, analytical thinking, and ability to connect disparate pieces of information.

CAT 2023 Exam is just around the corner! Get an insight into difficulty level, questions asked and (BONUS!) percentile predictions from experts LIVE on November 26 here.👇

VIEW CAT 2023 EXAM ANALYSIS NOW

MBA Selection Process

During the selection process, especially in group discussions and personal interviews, the knowledge of current affairs and world events can provide candidates with an edge.

Conversations in these scenarios often veer towards recent happenings, and a good grasp of GK allows candidates to contribute meaningfully and stand out.

Check: How to get good scores in the CAT entrance exam?

MBA GK Section Weightage

It's important to note that these percentages might vary slightly based on the year and the organizing body.

Exam Name	Weightage of GK
Common Admission Test (CAT)	No GK section
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)	25% of Paper 2
Symbiosis National Aptitude (SNAP) Test	No GK section
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Exam	Approx. 15%
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)	20% (40 questions out of 200 total)
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)	25% (20 questions out of 100 total)
Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test (TISSNET)	40 marks are allotted as part of the 'General Awareness' section

It's recommended that MBA aspirants check the latest test pattern from the official exam websites, as the pattern might be subject to change.

Refer to the previous year's MBA question paper to understand the type of GK questions for MBA entrance exams. 

Sections in the MBA exam

Furthermore, other sections of the MBA entrance exam – like reading comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning – often include questions based on current socio-economic issues. Hence, a strong foundation in GK indirectly aids in tackling these sections as well.

How General Knowledge is Tested in MBA Entrance Exams?

• GK questions in MBA entrance exams usually come in a multiple-choice format.
• They cover a wide array of areas, including but not limited to business economics, politics, sports, science and technology, and social issues.
• A review of past years' papers reveals a trend towards questions that not only test the candidates' awareness of facts but also their understanding of underlying issues and implications.

Advantages of Having Strong General Knowledge Beyond MBA Entrance Exams

The benefits of possessing a sound GK extend far beyond clearing MBA entrance exams.

• In the business world, leaders with a well-rounded general knowledge can make informed decisions, foresee market trends, and better understand the global business environment.
• Additionally, a good GK base enhances communication skills, as it allows individuals to engage in a wide variety of conversations.
• On a personal level, it contributes to shaping a well-informed, empathetic worldview.

Check: Participating institutes of IIM

Strategies to Improve General Knowledge for MBA Entrance Exams

How to prepare for GK for MBA entrance exams?

• Improving GK is not a one-day task; it requires consistency and curiosity.
• Regularly reading newspapers, listening to news podcasts, and following credible online news sources can significantly enhance GK.
• Aspiring MBA students can also refer to yearbooks and quizzes for factual information.
• A balanced study plan should include dedicated time for GK, just like for Quantitative Ability or Verbal Ability.

Check: How Many Students Give CAT Exam?

Books for General Knowledge for MBA Entrance Exams

Here's a list of recommended General Knowledge (GK) books that could help MBA aspirants prepare for their entrance exams:

GK books for MBA entrance exams:

1. Manorama Yearbook: This book is a compilation of current affairs, general knowledge, and important events of the year. It covers a wide range of topics, from science and technology to sports and economics.

2. Pratiyogita Darpan: This monthly magazine is an excellent resource for current affairs, the economy, and other areas of GK. It also provides practice questions that can help in MBA preparation.

3. The Pearson General Knowledge Manual: This is a comprehensive book covering static GK and current affairs. It is well-organized and easy to understand, making it a favourite among aspirants.

4. Lucent’s General Knowledge: This book covers a vast range of topics and is known for its easy-to-understand language and layout.

5. India Year Book: Published by the Government of India, this book provides extensive coverage of the country's progress in various fields.

6. Competition Success Review Year Book: This is another useful book for MBA GK preparation. It gives a broad outlook on many topics and has a specific focus on current affairs.

7. Business Standard Year Book: This is a great resource to update yourself with recent business happenings, economic trends, and major corporate events.

8. Newspapers and Magazines: Regular reading of newspapers like The Hindu, The Economist, The New York Times, and magazines like Business Today and Forbes can also help in enhancing and updating your GK.

CAT Preparation Books

Remember that the best approach to GK preparation is not just reading but also regular revision and taking quizzes to retain and test your knowledge.

Visit the official website of the respective MBA entrance exam and download to practise the GK questions for MBA entrance exams pdf. 

Check: CAT Exam Marking Scheme

Conclusion

In conclusion, GK for MBA entrance exams plays a vital role and extends its significance into the business world. It is not merely a test section but a measure of a candidate's awareness, analytical ability, and preparedness for the diverse and dynamic world of business.

As future business leaders, MBA aspirants must give GK the attention it deserves in their preparation journey. Remember, the business world values not just specific expertise but also broad knowledge and understanding of the world.

Check: CAT Exam Cut Off 2023