The Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) is a highly competitive test for admission to postgraduate design programs in India, such as M.Des (Master of Design) at top institutes like IITs, IISc, and other premier design schools. Preparing for CEED requires a combination of creativity, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively:
Step 1: Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The CEED exam has two parts:
Part A: Objective Section (1 hour)
Topics Covered:
Visualization and Spatial Ability
Environmental and Social Awareness
Analytical and Logical Reasoning
Language and Creativity
Design Thinking and Problem-Solving
Observation and Design Sensitivity
Part B: Subjective Section (2 hours)
Topics Covered:
Drawing and Sketching
Creativity and Problem-Solving
Communication Skills
Design and Innovation
Scoring: Part A is used to shortlist candidates for Part B evaluation. The final merit list is based on the score of Part B.
Step 2: Create a Study Plan
Divide Preparation into Phases:
Phase 1 (Foundation): Build basic skills in drawing, observation, and creativity.
Phase 2 (Concept Mastery): Focus on specific CEED topics like design thinking, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving.
Phase 3 (Practice): Solve previous years’ papers, mock tests, and refine time management.
Dedicate 2–3 hours daily for preparation. Increase focus on weak areas.
Step 3: Build Your Core Skills
1. Drawing and Sketching
Practice freehand drawing, shading, and perspective.
Focus on human anatomy, object proportions, and 3D forms.
Work on quick sketching techniques for conceptualization.
Resources: Perspective Made Easy by Ernest Norling, YouTube tutorials.
2. Creativity and Ideation
Develop out-of-the-box thinking for problem-solving and design challenges.
Practice brainstorming new ideas for everyday objects and situations.
3. Visualization and Spatial Ability
Solve puzzles related to patterns, shapes, and 3D objects.
Practice interpreting 2D shapes into 3D models.
4. Observation Skills
Pay attention to details in everyday surroundings.
Practice observational sketches of street scenes, nature, and products.
5. Design Thinking
Understand user-centric design processes.
Learn about ergonomics, aesthetics, and usability in design.
6. Communication and Storyboarding
Learn to communicate ideas through visual storytelling.
Practice storyboarding for concepts, events, or processes.
Step 4: Study Materials and Resources
Books:
Design Drawing by Francis D.K. Ching
Creative Workshop: 80 Challenges to Sharpen Your Design Skills by David Sherwin
A History of Design: From the Victorian Era to the Present by Ann Ferebee
Online Platforms:
NID Entrance Exam YouTube channels for sketching tips and design challenges.
Online courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Domestika for design fundamentals.
CEED Coaching Centers (Optional):
BRDS, Silica, or DesignKeeda for guided preparation.
Step 5: Solve Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests
Download past CEED question papers from the official CEED website.
Practice time-bound mock tests for Part A and Part B.
Analyze mistakes and focus on improving weak areas.
Step 6: Stay Updated with Design Trends
Follow design blogs, YouTube channels, and online communities.
Explore topics like sustainable design, minimalism, and futuristic designs.
Step 7: Build a Portfolio (Optional but Helpful)
Start documenting your best sketches, design ideas, and creative projects.
While not mandatory for CEED, a strong portfolio can help during M.Des interviews.
Step 8: Focus on Time Management
Allocate specific times for sketching, solving papers, and reviewing theory.
During the exam, ensure you balance time between Part A and Part B.
Step 9: Take Care of Your Health
Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise to maintain focus and creativity.
Practice stress management techniques like meditation or yoga.
Step 10: Register for the Exam
Check the official CEED website regularly for updates on registration, exam dates, and syllabus changes: http://www.ceed.iitb.ac.in.
Key Tips for Success
Practice daily, especially sketching and creative thinking.
Analyze solutions to design problems from different perspectives.
Stay motivated and consistent throughout your preparation journey.