Is there any particular seating arrangement which is favorable to the participant?

If participants are asked to sit in a circle or a semi-circle, one position is as good as any other. But if you are asked to sit on either side of a rectangular table, then try to choose a position as close to the centre as possible.

Should we begin the GD by appointing a leader amongst ourselves?

No, you should not (unless asked to). Leadership in a GD is established implicitly through one's performance in the GD.

Should we distribute the total time available to all the participants to ensure that everybody gets a chance to speak?

Since a GD is not like a debate or elocution, the participants should not resort to the strategy of distributing time amongst themselves. If you have more points to speak on and elaborate, go ahead. However, it takes a good degree of listening skills to have patience when others are taking time to give their valuable opinions.

Can we take a definite stand right away, and then later on during the GD, switch over to the other side of the argument?

No. Starting a GD with a stand or a conclusion works against the participant. Be flexible and try to give points from both the perspectives in a GD. Listening to others' opinions and contributing requires a good degree of patience and listening skills.

If we do not understand the meaning of the topic, should we ask the Moderator to explain it to us?

No. You cannot ask the Moderator the meaning of the topic. Instead of displaying your ignorance in this manner, it is better to wait for some other participant to explain the meaning of the topic. So listen to the discussion carefully for the first three or four minutes, and when you have gained some idea about the topic, participate in the discussion.

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