Fundamental
The aim of the event is to present witty theories that may or may not be scientifically correct by utilizing laws, numeric data, pictures, and analytical diagrams in order to validate an occurrence.
With absolutely no restrictions on the theory that can be used, be prepared to expect wild trajectories of thoughts from why dosas are round to why cats sprint out of the room for no apparent reason.
The event is structured in a way that will baffle the participants with unbelievably crazy ideas that demand a scientific explanation.
Prize money INR 25,000
Deadline for abstract Submission is 7th March 2020
On-Campus Round Date: 15th March 2020
Round 1:
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Teams will need to submit an abstract of their theory in a minimum of 500 words.
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Graphs and diagrams along with the abstract will be appreciated.
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Ten teams will be shortlisted based on the judging criteria.
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The deadline to submit the abstract is a month before Pragyan and it should be uploaded as a PDF.
Round 2:
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Every team must explain its theory with a presentation.
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The presentation can be in any format - PPT, Prezi, video, audio, etc.
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Each team will have 8 minutes for stage presentation.
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The time limit will be strictly enforced.
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Audio and video facilities will be provided.
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When questions are asked, participants will need to defend their theories.
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The Q&A session will go on for 1-3 minutes.
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The shortlisted candidates must submit their final presentation a week before the event.
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The teams will be judged, and 5 teams will be shortlisted based on judging criteria.
Round 3:
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Each team will be provided with an option to choose one of the chits provided by the organisers.
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Each team will have to either prove or disprove the myth with the help of scientific laws, mathematics, etc.
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Only chalk and board will be provided to the teams.
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The time limit for this session will be 6 minutes.
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When questions are asked by judges or audience, teams will be needed to defend their theories.
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Evaluation will be based on the judging criteria.
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Teams can have a maximum of 3 members.
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Reproduction of previous theories is not allowed.
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Profanity is strictly prohibited.
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Major changes from the abstract will not be tolerated.
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The decision of judges will be final.
Judging Criteria:
The initial selection of teams will be based on the following criteria:
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Force of Science - the amount “scientific” information displayed by the participant (graphs, real citations, “research” etc).
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Artistry - the unpredictability and shrewdness of the idea and good command over presentation delivery.
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Parsimony - the simplest theory that explains the most data.
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Strength of Defence - how well the theory is defended in front of the judges.
FAQs:
1) Do I need three people in my team to participate?
A team can have a maximum of three participants. Thus, teams with fewer members are permitted.
2) Is there a restriction on the eccentricity of my theory?
If you can phrase it, you can use it. There is no limit to your imagination.
3) What will I need for the event?
- A theory, and the necessary presentation you have made, to support the same.
- Necessary materials you intend on using while presenting.
- You need yourself, plus the friends or foes that may speak for or against you.
- And definitely, you will need imagination with a dash of scientific mumbo jumbo.
4) What should be the format of the presentation?
It can be anything - a presentation, a play, a stand-up piece, audio, video, etc. The necessary technical infrastructure will be provided. Please inform us of the format of the presentation and your requirements for the same, beforehand. Also, ensure that you present it within the allotted time and make it as interactive as possible.
5) Can I use media files in my presentation?
Yes. You are free to use any form of media files. Please ensure that all media files are compatible and in working condition, before presenting on stage.
6) How long do I get to speak on stage?
8 minutes is the maximum time allotted for each team to present their theory, followed by a Q&A session with the judges.
9) Can I use humor in what I present?
Yes, please. Use of humor is definitely encouraged.
10) Is it compulsory for all the team members to be from the same college?
No such restriction exists. All you need are Pragyan IDs.
11) Can UG and PG Collaborate?
Yes, they can. A team may consist of anyone pursuing their U.G., P.G., or even Ph.D.
12) What does this event test?
The event tests the following:
- Creativity of the participants - how unexpected or simple the idea is
- Scientific accuracy of the principle and supporting theories.
- Power of rationalization and substantiation.
- Presentation skills.
13) Can I submit more than one idea?
You can submit as many ideas as you like.
14) When will I be informed if I am selected for the next round?
If you are selected for the next round you will receive a mail 10 days before Pragyan with details of your participation. May the odds be ever in your favour.
Contacts:
1) Deepak Rawat: 89200 06985
2) Abhishek: 95216 00969