Design Aptitude Test (DAT), About DAT, Eligibility, Admission Process, Sample Papers

Design Aptitude Test (DAT) : The Design Aptitude Test (DAT) is a critical component of design exams aimed at evaluating candidates' creative abilities and design thinking skills. It serves as a benchmark for assessing how well candidates can conceptualize and execute design solutions under pressure. Successfully navigating the DAT section within a limited timeframe is demanding and necessitates more than just theoretical knowledge. Candidates must possess practical skills in drawing, sketching, and the ability to quickly generate innovative design ideas.

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What is DAT?

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Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Eligibility Criteria

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Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Admission Process

• Registration: Start by registering for DAT online.
• Email Verification: Verify your registration through an automated link sent to your email.
• Application Form: Complete the application form with all required details.
• Submission: Accept the declaration and submit the application form online.
• Payment: Pay ₹3000/- + tax per program using: Net banking/ Credit card / Debit card/Demand Draft
• Hall Ticket: Upon acceptance of your application, a hall ticket will be issued. Take the DAT at various exam centers across India.
• Studio Test: Shortlisted candidates will attend a Studio Test at Avantika University in Ujjain or MIT ID in Pune.
• Evaluation: Selection is based on DAT and Studio Test scores, as well as 10th and 12th board exam results.
• Call Letters: Only shortlisted candidates will receive call letters via their registered email IDs.

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Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Questions

1. Drawing/Sketching Questions:
   • Candidates are required to draw or sketch based on the provided instructions.
   • They must also explain the concept behind their drawing or sketch in a paragraph or more.
   • For example:
   • Draw a woman holding a child, depicting sadness, with detailed background. Use black and white only.
   • Illustrate a real-life scenario representing "All that is gold does not glitter" meaningfully. Interpret and explain in five lines without using color.

General Aptitude/Logical  Reasoning Question

1. A) 24 B) 40 C) 48 D) 56

1. When the figure above is cut along the solid lines, folded along the dashed lines, and taped along the solid lines, the result is a model of a geometric solid. This geometric solid consists of 2 pyramids each with a square base that they share. What is the sum of number of edges and number of faces of this geometric solid?

1. 10 B. 18 C. 20 D. 24 E. 25

How to Prepare for Design Aptitude Test (DAT)?

• Observe your surroundings, including leaves, tables, chairs, and cars, drawing inspiration from them. Practice spot drawing or still sketching regularly with a sketchbook and pencil.
• Think innovatively and create sketches that capture the mood, appearance, and essence of the subject.
• Establish a structured timetable dedicating at least 3 hours daily to DAT practice and related topics.
• Enhance your understanding of 3D concepts, scale, proportion, detailing, perspective, and spatial design.
• Explore paper folding and origami techniques to expand your creative repertoire. Online resources like YouTube tutorials can be valuable for learning these skills.
• Solve previous years' DAT papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and boost confidence.
• Practice time management during drawing, sketching, or model-making exercises. Aim to complete tasks within a specified timeframe, typically 90-120 minutes per DAT question.

Skills Tested in Design Aptitude Test (DAT)

Design DAT Practice Questions

Design Aptitude Test (DAT) Sample Papers ( Download Here)