Students aspiring for professional courses have to often face the test of group discussions.Though much has been discussed about it in this article,at the end students are often not quite sure how to go about it.This is because of the highly extempore nature of this mode of public speaking.In  group discussion,you do not have any time to prepare when  you join the group for the discussion.Then what are your ways and means to contribute to the discussion,in case you do not know much about the subject? .The means are your preferences, your presence of mind,your general knowledge, skill to listen to others in the group, instant learning from  other's  points , creativity to open a new perspective to the issue at hand,and demonstration of your leadership quality bby helping a convergent discussion.One need not have all the qualities,but should be able to combine what he has or knows,and the confidence to start speaking .In most cases ,points will then start flowing ;but make sure that points are logically placed.You can gain your skill for extempore discussions by regular participation  in group meetings, debates and moot practice,form a group of like minded students and practise by choosing any of the topics from forgoing list or from any other  source .A group of 4 to 5 students will be ideal group for  moot practice.

Few key points for group discussion:::

1.Try to grasp the core issue of the topic.

2.Open  your discussion with a short but emphatic statement.

3.While expanding your points ,stay centred on the issue being discussed.

4.Try to think differently and creatively.

5.Don't challenge someone or create a row during discussion.If you don't agree with someone's view ,say politely and modestly.You can be assertive without  offending.

6.It is not enough to start well, you must also finish well.Try to summarise your points most effectively.

7.Finally ,practise as much as you can , and untill you are satisfied with yourself .That is the only way to learn and grow.

 Learning points......

1.Group discussion , debate and seminars are not the same .

2.Purpose of group discussion is primarily focussed on evaluating one's effective communication skill, clarity of thoughts ,and power of logical reasoning.

3.Ending your discussion well-known in both group discussion and seminars -is as important as a good beginning.