📋 Written Ability Test (WAT) / Essay Analysis Guide
Topic: Can Economic Protectionism Shield Domestic Industries from Global Competition?
🌐 Understanding the Topic’s Importance
Economic protectionism plays a pivotal role in discussions on global trade and national policies. It is a critical topic for B-schools as it intersects with policy-making, economics, and corporate strategies.
🕒 Effective Planning and Writing
- Time Allocation:
- Reading & Planning: 5 minutes
- Writing: 20 minutes
- Review: 5 minutes
✨ Introduction Techniques for Essays
- Contrast Approach: “While protectionism can shield industries, its long-term effects may hinder global competitiveness, raising questions on sustainability.”
- Case Study Approach: “The US-China trade war exemplifies how protectionism reshapes industries, often with unintended consequences.”
📊 Structuring the Essay Body
- Achievements: Provide data-backed evidence of successful outcomes (e.g., India’s growing manufacturing sector).
- Challenges with Comparative Analysis: Highlight risks like trade retaliation using examples (e.g., US-EU disputes).
- Future Outlook: Discuss sustainable protectionism models like phased support for industries.
📌 Concluding Effectively
- Balanced Perspective: “Protectionism, when strategically implemented, can support industries but must be time-bound to avoid stagnation.”
- Global Comparison: “Balancing protectionism with globalization is key, as seen in South Korea’s transition to open markets.”
📝 Sample Short Essays
- Balanced Perspective: “Protectionism offers a cushion for industries to adapt but risks creating inefficiencies if overused. A phased approach can combine benefits of shielding and open competition.”
- Solution-Oriented: “Strategic protectionism, supported by innovation incentives, ensures industries thrive while preparing for global competition.”
- Global Comparison: “From South Korea to the US, protectionism has driven industrial growth. However, integrating lessons from these examples is crucial for sustainable outcomes.”