Design Aptitude Test (DAT) M.Des. NID
National Mock Test Paper 3 No. of Questions: 70 Difficulty Level: EASY
1 / 70
Which country is known for originating the martial art ‘Taekwondo’?
Taekwondo originated in Korea and is characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. It combines combat and self-defense techniques with sport and exercise. Taekwondo became an Olympic event in 2000 and has been a popular martial art around the world.
2 / 70
Why is ‘Colour Psychology’ important in branding and marketing?
‘Colour Psychology’ is crucial in branding and marketing because it influences consumer emotions and behaviors. Different colors can evoke different feelings and responses. For example, red is often used to create a sense of urgency or excitement, while blue can convey trust and reliability. Brands carefully choose colors in their logos and advertising to align with the message and emotion they want to communicate.
3 / 70
Who is known as the “Iron Lady” of British politics?
Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990, was nicknamed the “Iron Lady” for her uncompromising politics and leadership style.
4 / 70
Which art movement is characterized by a focus on light and movement, often using pointillism?
Impressionism is an art movement characterized by a focus on capturing the effects of light and movement. Artists often used techniques like pointillism, where small, distinct dots of color are applied in patterns to form an image. This technique creates a vibrant, dynamic impression, as seen in works by Claude Monet and Georges Seurat.
5 / 70
What is ‘Focal Point’ in Principles of Composition?
A Focal Point in composition is an element that draws the most attention. It’s often used to emphasize a certain part of the design, leading the viewer’s eye to a particular area. This can be achieved through contrast, color, size, or shape. For example, in a poster, a bold headline or a bright image can serve as a focal point, immediately catching the viewer’s eye.
6 / 70
In design, what does the principle of ‘Contrast’ typically involve?
Contrast in design typically involves using elements that are opposite in nature, such as complementary colors, to enhance their differences. For example, pairing blue with orange creates a striking visual effect that draws attention.
7 / 70
Who wrote the epic poem “The Odyssey”?
“The Odyssey” is an epic poem attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer. It is a sequel to his earlier work, “The Iliad.” This epic narrates the journey of Odysseus, a Greek hero, as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War and the trials and tribulations he faces on his journey. The poem is fundamental in the modern Western canon and is the second-oldest extant work of Western literature.
8 / 70
The United Nations replaced which international organization?
The United Nations was established in 1945, replacing the League of Nations, an organization founded after World War I to prevent future conflicts but was unable to prevent World War II.
9 / 70
Which event marked the beginning of the Great Depression in the United States?
The Wall Street Crash of 1929, also known as Black Tuesday, is widely accepted as the beginning of the Great Depression, a severe worldwide economic depression that took place mostly during the 1930s.
10 / 70
In the context of design thinking, what does ‘ideation’ involve?
Ideation in design thinking is the process of generating a wide range of ideas and solutions. It involves brainstorming, sketching, and exploring various possibilities without immediate constraints or criticism. This stage is crucial for innovation, allowing designers to think outside the box and consider multiple perspectives before narrowing down to the most viable solutions.
11 / 70
Which designer is known for the concept of ‘Democratic Design’?
Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA, is known for the concept of ‘Democratic Design.’ This approach focuses on creating high-quality, functional, and well-designed products that are affordable and accessible to the masses. It emphasizes five key elements: form, function, quality, sustainability, and low price.
12 / 70
The novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”, dealing with the issues of racism and injustice, was authored by whom?
“To Kill a Mockingbird” was written by Harper Lee. This novel is renowned for its warmth and humor, despite dealing with serious issues of rape and racial inequality. The story is set in the Depression-era South and follows the journey of young Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus, a lawyer who is appointed to represent a black man accused of raping a white woman. The book is a critical exploration of moral nature and a classic of modern American literature.
13 / 70
What is the primary purpose of ‘Foreshortening’ in art?
The primary purpose of ‘Foreshortening’ in art is to create a sense of depth and realism. It involves depicting an object or figure in a way that makes it appear to recede into the background. For example, in a drawing of a hand reaching out, the fingers will appear shorter than they are in reality, as they are angled towards the viewer.
14 / 70
In architectural design, ‘passive solar design’ refers to:
Passive solar design in architecture involves designing buildings to capture, distribute, and store natural sunlight for heating purposes. This approach uses the building’s windows, walls, and floors to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. It’s a sustainable practice that reduces reliance on artificial heating and lighting, enhancing energy efficiency.
15 / 70
What is the primary purpose of a ‘Mood Board’ in design?
A Mood Board is used to convey a specific style, theme, or concept through a collage of images, materials, and text. It serves as a visual tool to communicate the essence of a design idea, often used in the early stages of a project to establish its aesthetic direction.
16 / 70
What is the role of ‘ergonomics’ in product design?
Ergonomics in product design is the study of how to design products that fit the human body and its movements. The goal is to improve comfort, efficiency, and safety in the use of products. Ergonomics is not primarily concerned with aesthetics or environmental sustainability, but rather with how a product interacts with the human body, ensuring that it is comfortable and easy to use, thereby enhancing user experience and productivity.
17 / 70
What was the primary purpose of the Marshall Plan post-World War II?
The Marshall Plan, officially the European Recovery Program, was an American initiative passed in 1948 to aid Western Europe, in which the United States gave over $12 billion (approximately $128 billion in current dollar value) in economic assistance to help rebuild Western European economies after the end of World War II.
18 / 70
How is ‘Rhythm’ created in a design composition?
Rhythm in design is created by establishing a visual pattern through the repetition or alternation of elements. This could be a repeated shape, color, or line that creates a sense of movement and flow. For example, a series of arches in architecture or a repeating geometric pattern in wallpaper can establish rhythm, guiding the viewer’s eye across the design.
19 / 70
What is a primary consideration in sustainable design?
Environmental impact is a primary consideration in sustainable design. This approach involves creating products and services in a way that reduces their ecological footprint, such as using renewable resources, minimizing waste, and considering the product’s life cycle. For instance, using recycled materials in product design to lessen environmental harm.
20 / 70
In landscape architecture, what is the main purpose of ‘xeriscaping’?
Xeriscaping in landscape architecture is a design approach that promotes water conservation in landscaping. This practice involves using drought-resistant plants, reducing lawn areas, and employing efficient irrigation methods to create sustainable landscapes that require minimal water. The focus is on environmental sustainability, particularly in regions with water scarcity, rather than on visual complexity or exotic species.
21 / 70
In the context of sustainable fashion, what does ‘zero waste design’ entail?
Zero waste design in sustainable fashion involves creating clothing patterns that leave no fabric waste. This approach is a response to the excessive textile waste in the fashion industry, where traditional cutting methods often result in leftover materials that are discarded. Zero waste design challenges designers to think creatively about pattern making and fabric usage to eliminate waste.
22 / 70
What is ‘Contrast’ in the context of design elements?
Contrast in design refers to the difference in visual properties that makes an object or elements within a composition distinguishable from others. It can be achieved through color, shape, size, and texture. For instance, a black text on a white background creates a stark contrast that enhances readability.
23 / 70
‘Sustainable urban drainage systems’ (SUDS) in urban design aim to:
Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) are designed to manage rainwater runoff in urban areas in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. They aim to reduce the risk of flooding, improve water quality, and often include features like permeable surfaces, swales, and rain gardens. SUDS contrast with traditional drainage systems by emphasizing natural processes and surface-level solutions, contributing to urban green infrastructure and resilience.
24 / 70
“Pride and Prejudice”, a novel about manners and marriage in early 19th century England, was authored by whom?
“Pride and Prejudice” was authored by Jane Austen. This novel is one of the most beloved works in English literature, revolving around the character of Elizabeth Bennet, a witty and independent woman, and her relationship with the affluent and proud Mr. Darcy. The novel explores themes of love, reputation, and class in the society of the Georgian era.
25 / 70
In typography, what does the term ‘kerning’ refer to?
Kerning refers to the adjustment of space between individual letters in typography. Proper kerning prevents letters from appearing too close together or too far apart, ensuring readability and aesthetic balance in the text. For example, adjusting the space between ‘V’ and ‘A’ in a word to prevent visual overlap or excessive spacing.
26 / 70
The painting “Starry Night” is a famous work by which artist?
“Starry Night” is one of Vincent van Gogh’s most famous paintings. Painted in June 1889, it depicts the view from the east-facing window of his asylum room at Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, just before sunrise, with the addition of an idealized village. It is admired for its swirling skies, and it’s a prime example of the artist’s innovative and bold use of thick brushstrokes and vivid colors.
27 / 70
What is the significance of ‘Color Psychology’ in design?
Color Psychology in design is the study of how colors affect perceptions and behaviors. Different colors can evoke different feelings and responses; for instance, blue can convey a sense of calm and trust, red can create a sense of urgency or passion, and green often represents nature and tranquility. This understanding is crucial in design, as it helps designers choose colors that align with the message and tone they want to convey in their work.
28 / 70
In design theory, what is the significance of ‘Golden Ratio’?
The Golden Ratio is a mathematical ratio, approximately 1:1.618, considered to be aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. This proportion is frequently observed in nature, art, and architecture. For instance, the Parthenon in Greece and many of Leonardo da Vinci’s works are believed to have been designed using the Golden Ratio, providing a natural sense of balance and order.
29 / 70
What role does ‘Colour Terminology’ play in understanding light and shade?
Colour Terminology is crucial in understanding how light and shade affect the perception of color. Terms like ‘tint’ (color + white), ‘shade’ (color + black), and ‘tone’ (color + grey) describe how the addition of light or darkness changes a color. For example, the same color can appear differently under various lighting conditions, affecting its perceived value.
30 / 70
What is the primary fabric used in making a Kanjeevaram saree?
Kanjeevaram sarees, originating from the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, are renowned for their high-quality silk and durability. Made from heavy silk and adorned with intricate designs, these sarees are a cultural icon and a coveted bridal wear in South India.
31 / 70
The principle of ‘dematerialization’ in design focuses on:
Dematerialization in design refers to the process of reducing the amount and variety of materials used in the creation of products. This principle aims to minimize waste and resource consumption, focusing on creating more efficient and sustainable designs. It involves simplifying products and using fewer materials, which can lead to reduced environmental impact and a smaller ecological footprint, contrasting with the traditional emphasis on material abundance.
32 / 70
Which Indian city is known as the ‘Pink City’?
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is famously known as the ‘Pink City’. This nickname comes from its distinctive pink-colored buildings, which were originally painted this color to welcome the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria in 1876. It reflects the traditional color of hospitality.
33 / 70
Who was the first athlete to run a mile in under 4 minutes?
Roger Bannister, a British athlete, was the first person to run a mile in under 4 minutes, achieving this feat on May 6, 1954. This achievement was a significant milestone in the field of athletics and broke a barrier that was long considered unbreakable. It opened the door for many other athletes to aim for and achieve similar feats.
34 / 70
What does ‘Saturation’ refer to in color theory?
Saturation in color theory refers to the purity or intensity of a color, without the addition of white, black, or a complementary color. High saturation colors are vivid and eye-catching, while low saturation colors appear more muted and grey. For example, neon colors have high saturation, whereas pastel colors are less saturated.
35 / 70
In ‘Colour Theory,’ what is a ‘Tertiary Color’?
Tertiary Colors in Colour Theory are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. These colors, such as yellow-green or red-violet, provide more nuanced color options in design and art. They help in creating more complex color schemes and palettes.
36 / 70
Which designer is known for the ‘Egg Chair’ and ‘Swan Chair’?
Arne Jacobsen is renowned for designing the ‘Egg Chair’ and ‘Swan Chair,’ iconic pieces of modern furniture. These chairs are celebrated for their unique, organic shapes and comfortable design, blending form and function. Jacobsen’s work in furniture design is noted for its innovation and influence on the modernist movement, leaving a lasting impact on design aesthetics.
37 / 70
What does ‘Value’ in color terminology indicate?
‘Value’ in color terminology indicates the brightness or darkness of a color. It is crucial in creating contrast and depth within a design. For example, in a monochromatic painting, using different values of the same hue – from light grey to dark grey – can create a dramatic and dynamic composition.
38 / 70
The concept of ‘wayfinding’ in design primarily helps in:
Wayfinding in design refers to the set of architectural or design elements that help people orient themselves and navigate from place to place within a space, especially complex environments like urban centers, healthcare facilities, or educational campuses. It involves the strategic placement of signage, landmarks, and other visual cues to assist in navigation, thereby enhancing the usability and accessibility of spaces.
39 / 70
Which of the following materials is most commonly used in sustainable architecture for its low environmental impact?
Bamboo is increasingly used in sustainable architecture due to its low environmental impact. It’s a fast-growing, renewable resource with a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a durable yet eco-friendly building material. Bamboo’s versatility allows it to be used in various architectural contexts, from structural elements to decorative features, contributing to greener building practices.
40 / 70
What is the significance of ‘Natural Form’ in design?
The significance of ‘Natural Form’ in design lies in deriving inspiration and forms from the natural world. This includes shapes, textures, patterns, and colors found in nature. For example, a building with a façade that mimics the organic curves of a leaf or a chair design inspired by the branching of a tree are applications of natural form in design.
41 / 70
In the principle of ‘Balance’ in design, what is ‘Asymmetrical Balance’?
Asymmetrical Balance in design involves creating a composition where the visual weight is uneven yet still balanced. This can be achieved by using different elements that have equal visual impact. For example, a large image on one side of a page can be balanced by a smaller, more colorful image on the other side.
42 / 70
What is the primary theme of Rajasthani Miniature paintings?
Rajasthani Miniature paintings, which originated in the royal courts of Rajasthan, primarily depict themes related to royalty, including scenes from battles, hunting expeditions, royal processions, and court life. These paintings are known for their vivid colors, intricate details, and miniature size, and they often include real gold and silver.
43 / 70
How is ‘Symmetry’ applied in Design Theory?
Symmetry in Design Theory involves arranging elements so that they are mirrored on either side of an axis. Symmetrical designs are perceived as harmonious and balanced. This technique is often used in classical architecture, logos, and other forms of design where balance is a key element. However, it can sometimes lead to designs that are perceived as static or less dynamic.
44 / 70
What principle does ‘Hierarchy’ in design refer to?
Hierarchy in design refers to the organization and presentation of elements in a way that clearly shows their order of importance. This is achieved through various means such as scale, color, and placement. For example, in a poster, the most important information might be made larger and more colorful to draw attention, thereby guiding the viewer’s perception of its importance relative to other information.
45 / 70
“Hamlet”, a tragedy about the Prince of Denmark, was written by which playwright?
“Hamlet” was written by William Shakespeare, arguably the most famous playwright in English literature. This tragedy tells the story of Prince Hamlet’s quest for revenge against his uncle Claudius, who has murdered Hamlet’s father, the King, and then taken the throne and married Hamlet’s mother. The play is known for its exploration of themes like treachery, revenge, incest, and moral corruption.
46 / 70
The Ajanta Caves are famous for their:
The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, are famous for their Buddhist paintings and frescoes. These caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE, are masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with figures of the Buddha and depictions of Jataka tales.
47 / 70
Which of the following is a key element in ‘Perspective Drawing’?
Perspective Drawing is a technique used to represent three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface realistically. It involves techniques like vanishing points and horizon lines to create the illusion of depth and space, such as in architectural renderings or landscape drawings.
48 / 70
The Bolshoi Ballet is a world-renowned ballet company based in which city?
The Bolshoi Ballet is based in Moscow, Russia. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet companies in the world. The Bolshoi Ballet is known for its colorful, dramatic performances, and its school, The Bolshoi Ballet Academy, is among the world’s leading ballet schools. The Bolshoi Theatre serves as the company’s primary performance venue.
49 / 70
What does ‘Harmony’ in design aim to achieve?
Harmony in design aims to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing arrangement of various elements. It involves the thoughtful combination of colors, textures, and shapes to achieve a cohesive look. For instance, a room with a consistent color scheme and complementary furniture materials displays harmony, creating a unified and inviting space.
50 / 70
In Design Theory, what is meant by ‘Negative Space’?
Negative Space refers to the empty or background areas around and between the subjects of an image. It’s an important element in design as it helps to define the boundaries of positive space and brings balance to a composition. An effective use of negative space can make a design more readable and can subtly convey additional meaning, as seen in the FedEx logo, where a right-facing arrow appears between the letters E and X.
51 / 70
What is the importance of ‘Imagination & Doodling’ in the creative process?
Imagination & Doodling play a significant role in the creative process by facilitating free-flowing, spontaneous creativity. This process allows the mind to wander and generate innovative ideas without constraints. For example, doodling can lead to the unexpected discovery of new concepts or solutions in design and art.
52 / 70
The concept of ‘design activism’ involves:
Design activism is the practice of using design to promote social or environmental change. It involves creating projects that challenge the status quo, raise awareness about social or environmental issues, or propose innovative solutions to societal challenges. This approach moves beyond traditional commercial or aesthetic considerations, using design as a tool for advocacy and social change.
53 / 70
In terms of ‘Drawing Fundamentals’, what is ‘Perspective’ used for?
Perspective in drawing is a technique used to represent three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface in a way that looks natural and realistic. It creates an illusion of depth and distance. There are different types of perspectives like one-point, two-point, and three-point, each offering a different angle and depth illusion. This technique is crucial for architectural and landscape drawings, where conveying depth is essential.
54 / 70
How does the concept of ‘Foreshortening’ contribute to perspective drawing?
Foreshortening contributes to perspective drawing by accurately depicting the distortion that occurs when objects recede in space. It alters the dimensions of the closer part of an object to appear larger than the farther part. For example, in a drawing of a stretched arm, the hand closer to the viewer appears larger than the shoulder.
55 / 70
In which sport is the term ‘Grand Slam’ used?
The term ‘Grand Slam’ is predominantly used in tennis. It refers to the achievement of winning all four major championships—the championships of Australia, France, the United Kingdom (Wimbledon), and the United States—in the same calendar year. In golf, the term also refers to winning all major tournaments in a year, though it’s less common.
56 / 70
The “Long March”, a significant event in Chinese history, is associated with which leader?
Mao Zedong led the “Long March” (1934-1935), a strategic retreat by the Chinese Communist Party to evade the pursuit of the Kuomintang (Nationalist Party) army.
57 / 70
The practice of ‘design thinking’ in problem-solving emphasizes:
Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that emphasizes a human-centered methodology. It involves understanding the user’s needs, redefining problems, and creating innovative solutions through a process of ideation, prototyping, and testing. This approach goes beyond traditional design conventions or aesthetic considerations, focusing on empathy, creativity, and practicality to develop solutions that are effective and user-friendly.
58 / 70
In color theory, what is the term for colors directly opposite each other on the color wheel?
Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, cancel each other out, producing a grayscale color like white or black. They are positioned directly opposite each other on the color wheel. This relationship is vital in design for creating contrast and visual interest. For example, blue and orange are complementary, and using them together can make each color appear more vibrant.
59 / 70
How does ‘Asymmetrical Balance’ function in design?
Asymmetrical balance in design involves balancing different elements that have equal visual weight, but are not identical. This type of balance creates a more dynamic and interesting visual experience. For example, a large image on one side of a page might be balanced by a bold, but smaller text on the other side, creating equilibrium without symmetry.
60 / 70
The Battle of Stalingrad was a turning point in which war?
The Battle of Stalingrad (1942-1943) during World War II is considered a major turning point due to the significant Soviet victory over Nazi Germany, marking the decline of the Axis powers on the Eastern Front.
61 / 70
In color psychology, why is blue often used in healthcare settings?
In color psychology, blue is often used in healthcare settings to evoke feelings of calmness and trust. This color is associated with serenity, stability, and cleanliness, making it a suitable choice for places where a peaceful and reassuring atmosphere is essential. For example, many hospital walls and logos use blue for its calming effect.
62 / 70
What distinguishes Art Nouveau from other art styles?
Art Nouveau is distinguished by its use of organic, flowing lines and elegant, natural forms. It often incorporates floral patterns, curved lines, and sinuous forms, reflecting a desire to harmonize art with the natural environment. This style contrasts with the more rigid and geometric forms of styles like Art Deco, offering a unique aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of nature.
63 / 70
“Bharatanatyam” is a classical dance form originating from which Indian state?
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form that originates from Tamil Nadu, a state in South India. It’s known for its grace, purity, tenderness, and sculpturesque poses. Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form is considered the God of this dance. This dance form was nurtured in the temples and courts of southern India since ancient times and is one of the most popular and widely performed dance styles in India.
64 / 70
Which Indian monument is predominantly made of white marble?
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is predominantly made of white marble. It’s an iconic symbol of India’s rich history and is known for its stunning architectural beauty. The white marble used in its construction was sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
65 / 70
What does the term ‘visual hierarchy’ refer to in graphic design?
Visual hierarchy in graphic design refers to the arrangement of elements in order of importance to guide the viewer’s eye through the design. This is achieved through variations in size, color, contrast, and placement. For example, in a poster, the most critical information (like the event name) is often the largest and most noticeable element.
66 / 70
In the context of ‘Ornaments & Motifs’, what is the primary purpose of a ‘Frieze’?
A Frieze in architectural ornamentation is a decorative band, usually found near the ceiling or on the exterior of a building. Its primary purpose is to enhance aesthetic appeal, often featuring intricate patterns or sculptures. Historical examples, like the frieze on the Parthenon, depict scenes from mythology or important cultural narratives, adding both beauty and storytelling to the structure.
67 / 70
What is the significance of ‘social innovation’ in design?
Social innovation in design refers to the development of new strategies, concepts, ideas, and organizations that meet social needs of all kinds — from working conditions and education to community development and health — and that extend and strengthen civil society. This approach in design focuses on creating solutions that have a positive impact on society, addressing challenges like inequality, accessibility, and community development.
68 / 70
In the context of ‘Foreshortening,’ what is its primary purpose in art?
The primary purpose of foreshortening in art is to depict objects realistically as they recede in space. This technique involves the distortion of the object, making parts of it appear shorter than their actual size to create an illusion of depth. For example, in a drawing of a hand reaching towards the viewer, the fingers will appear shorter and larger than the rest of the arm, enhancing the 3D effect.
69 / 70
What does ‘Natural Form’ refer to in the context of design?
‘Natural Form’ in design refers to forms that are derived from or inspired by nature. This includes shapes, patterns, textures, and colors found in the natural world. For example, a building with a wavy, undulating facade might be inspired by the form of waves in the ocean.
70 / 70
The classical dance form ‘Odissi’ is associated with which state?
Odissi is a classical dance form that originates from the Eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is distinguished by its fluidity of movement and sculptural poses, drawing inspiration from the state’s Hindu temples’ dance traditions and sculptures. It is one of the eight recognized classical dance forms of India and has a rich and ancient history.
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