How to Prepare for NID B.Des Design Aptitude, Syllabus, Books, Concepts, Sample Questions

Published by Shikha Kumari on Jan 16, 2025

Bachelor of Design (B.Des) is pursued by many aspirants who are aiming to secure admission into reputed institutions like NID. To achieve this, one must clear the DAT exam. This year, the main exam is scheduled for April 2025. The Design Aptitude Test focuses on areas such as analytical reasoning, spatial visualization, color theory and application, data interpretation, and pattern-making. Candidates must prepare thoroughly to solve these questions within the allotted time. This guide includes a detailed syllabus structure, insights from previous aspirants regarding drawing, strategies for the last 14 days of preparation, and recommended preparation materials, including mock tests, to enhance candidates’ readiness.

How to prepare for Design Aptitude Test Syllabus

The syllabus is divided into two parts: Prelims and Mains, with distinct weightages. The Prelims round is objective and accounts for 40% of the total weightage, while the Mains round is subjective and carries 60%. For design aptitude specifically, candidates must have strong pattern-making skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and conceptual thinking. Thinking outside the box is essential when it comes to designing, and this applies significantly to the design aptitude section of the exam.

14 Day Challenge for Design Aptitude PDF

We have prepared a 14-day preparation model for design aptitude, available in a downloadable PDF. Follow the daily plan provided in the PDF to improve your preparation effectively.

Previous Aspirants views for Design Aptitude | Quora

As per multiple Quora answers from previous aspirants and converted students, one person mentioned that you don’t need to be a great artist to crack the NID Design Aptitude Test (DAT), as creativity, common sense, and idea communication are key. Another respondent highlighted that while drawing helps, it’s not essential, as the test focuses on creativity and problem-solving.

A BFA graduate shared that drawing skills are useful for certain courses but not required, as design is more about how you communicate ideas. Lastly, a MDes student pointed out that most of their batchmates, who came from engineering backgrounds, weren’t particularly good at drawing either, emphasizing that drawing skills aren’t a major factor.

Design Aptitude Test Sample Papers with Answers PDF

Design aptitude tests assess critical skills and the candidate’s perception of various aspects. These tests help evaluate the potential of the candidate. There is no definite set of answers in design, however, to improve skills, candidates should consistently take mock tests and seek feedback. 

Question: The image shows a technical drawing of a chair concept, emphasizing proportions, perspective, and structure. Design a new chair inspired by the concept in the image, targeting a one user group

1. Students (B) Professionals (C) Elderly.

Include considerations for functionality and aesthetics in your design. Provide a detailed description of how your chair addresses the needs of the chosen user group, considering materials, features, and usability.

Question: The image illustrates a visual representation of divergent thinking, characterized by multiple paths branching out from a central point. Based on this concept, design a creative brainstorming process to generate innovative solutions for a real-world problem, such as reducing plastic waste in urban areas.

The difficulty level of these questions can vary, ranging from easier to more challenging, in the actual exams. Candidates can access free online Design Aptitude Tests to further enhance their abilities. We have provided sample paper in PDF in below table:

Recommended Preparation Books

To strengthen design aptitude, it’s important to move beyond traditional methods and use books specifically made for design preparation. You can purchase these books online. Additionally, many free resources, including Design Aptitude Test preparation books in PDF format, are available online for candidates to use.