Mastering the Writing Ability Test for IIM Admissions
The Writing Ability Test (WAT) is a crucial component of the IIM admissions process that can significantly impact your overall selection. With weightages ranging from 520% across different IIMs, your performance in this 20-30 minute essay writing exercise can be the differentiator that sets you apart from other high-scoring candidates.
ESSENTIAL GUIDE
Understanding the WAT in IIM Admissions
The Writing Ability Test is an integral part of the selection process at top IIMs including IIM Lucknow IPMX (10% weightage), IIM Bangalore EPGP, and IIM Bangalore PGPEM. The Analytical Writing Test follows a similar format and purpose. This comprehensive guide explores what the WAT entails, why it matters, and proven strategies to excel in this critical assessment.
As an aspiring IIM candidate, mastering the WAT requires understanding both the technical requirements and the strategic approach to crafting compelling essays under time pressure. This guide provides everything you need to succeed.
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What is the Writing Ability Test?
The Writing Ability Test is a short essay writing exercise conducted by IIMs during their selection process. Typically taking place after shortlisting results are announced and during the Personal Interview round, candidates receive a topic and must present a coherent, structured, and insightful essay within 20 to 30 minutes.
Format
20-30 minute timed essay on assigned topic
Topics
Current affairs, abstract ideas, social issues, or business scenarios
Word Count
Typically 250-400 words depending on institute
This on-the-spot essay writing test requires candidates to demonstrate clarity of thought, structured argumentation, and strong written communication skills under pressure. Mastering the writing ability test is essential for IIM admissions success.
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WAT and AWT Process at 2-Year MBA Programs
The Written Ability Test (WAT) and Analytical Writing Test (AWT) have become integral components of MBA admissions at India's top business schools. Following their reintroduction in the 2023 admission cycle after pandemic discontinuation, these assessments now carry 5-20% weightage in final selection decisions.
Unlike the Personal Interview which evaluates communication skills, WAT/AWT specifically assess structured written communication, analytical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex ideas under time pressure. This section provides an institution-by-institution breakdown of processes, evaluation frameworks, and topic categories relevant to 2-Year MBA admissions.
WAT vs AWT: Foundational Distinctions
Written Ability Test (WAT)
WAT is a timed essay-writing assessment conducted by most top Indian business schools to evaluate written communication skills and critical thinking.
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Format: 150-300 word essay (typically 250-300)
Structure: Opinion-based or issue-analysis framework
Focus: Clarity of thought, structured argumentation, persuasive communication
Approach: ORS or PECS framework
Institutes: IIM Bangalore, Calcutta, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Indore, XLRI, SPJIMR, MDI, IIFT
Analytical Writing Test (AWT)
AWT is IIM Ahmedabad's distinctive case study-based analytical assessment designed to evaluate problem-solving approach.
Duration: 30 minutes (standard)
Format: Business caselet or real-world problem scenario (1-2 pages)
Structure: Problem-centric diagnosis with root cause analysis
Focus: Structured analytical thinking, problem identification, solution orientation Approach: Objective analysis without assumptions
Institute: IIM Ahmedabad exclusively
Fundamental Difference: WAT asks "What do you think about this?" while AWT asks "What is the problem here and why?"
IIM Ahmedabad: AWT Model
1
Stage 1
Preliminary screening based on CAT and academic records
Weightage
in Final Selection
2
Stage 2
Shortlisting for AWT & PI based on composite score
3
Stage 3
Final selection post-AWT & PI
IIM Bangalore PGP: WAT Model
Stage 1
First shortlist based on minimum CAT percentile requirements in all sections
1
Stage 3
Final selection post-WAT & PI
2
Stage 2
WAT-PI based on pre-PI score (CAT 55%, academics 30%, work experience 10%, diversity 5%)
3
Final Selection Weightage
Personal Interview
IIM Calcutta PGP: WAT Model
Stage I
Minimum CAT percentile cut-offs (Open: 80% VARC, 80% DILR, 75% QA, 85% Overall) 02 Stage II Shortlisting for PI & WAT (85 points: 56% CAT, 10% Class 10, 15% Class 12, 4% Gender Diversity)
Weightage in Final Selection
IIM Kozhikode PGP: WAT Model
Selection Stages
Registration
Minimum eligibility: 60% graduation, CAT positive scores all sections
Shortlisting
50% CAT, 15% Class X, 20% Class XII, 10% diversity, 5% work experience
Final Selection
Post-WAT & PI evaluation
Critical Insight: IIM Kozhikode assigns the highest WAT weightage (20%) among IIMs, reflecting its emphasis on written communication skills alongside interview performance.
IIM Lucknow: WAT Model
Stage 1
Minimum CAT percentile cutoffs (MBA: 90%, MBA-ABM: 85%, MBA-SM: 85%)
Stage 2
Shortlisting based on composite score (60% CAT, 10% Class 12, 10% Graduation, 10% Work Experience, 5% Diversity)
Stage 3
Final selection post-WAT (30 min, 300 words) & PI (20-25 min, minimum 12/40 to qualify) Weightage in
IIM Indore & IIM Udaipur Models
IIM Indore (WAT Model)
Selection Stages:
1. Shortlisting for PI (39% Class 10, 20% Class 12, 35% CAT, 6% Diversity)
Eligibility via CAT percentile cutoffs (Open: 80% all sections, 90% overall)
2. Final selection post-PI3.
Final Selection Weightage:
PI Score: 45%
CAT: 20%
10th & 12th marks: 10%
Diversity: 5%
Note:IIMIndore's2025-27batchdocumentdoesnotexplicitlymention WATinfinalselectioncriteria,suggestingemphasisonPIscoring.
IIM Udaipur (CAP Coordinated)
Selection through IIM Bodh Gaya-Coordinated CAP 2026: 57%
Normalized CAT Score 21%
Personal Appearance WAT & PI 22%
Profile Academics + diversity
Critical Detail: Uses normalized CAT score (candidate's score ÷ max score × 100) rather than percentile, differentiating it from other IIMs.
Non-IIM Institutions: XLRI,
SPJIMR, MDI
XLRI Jamshedpur
Process: XAT-based admission with GD and PI as primary assessment tools. WAT integrated in some selection rounds.
Weightage: GD/PI together: 25%; CAT: 60%; Other factors: 15%
SPJIMR Mumbai
Process: Profile-based shortlist → PostCAT shortlisting → WAT (20 minutes) + Group Interviews (2 rounds)
Weightage: CAT/XAT: 40-50%; Interview Performance: 20-30%; Academic Record: 20-25%; Work Experience: 10-15%; Diversity: 5-10%
Distinguishing Feature: Profile-based shortlisting allows strong candidates to receive calls at lower CAT percentiles (85 vs. standard 90+)
MDI Gurgaon
Process: Two-stage selection with new Behavioral Assessment Test (BAT) for 2026-28
Final Selection: CAT: 35%; PI: 20%; GD: 10%; WAT: 5%; Graduation: 5%; Work Experience: 10%; BAT: 5%; Diversity: 7.5%
Notable Addition: Behavioral Assessment Test introduced in 2026-28 cycle
WAT Topic Categories and Examples
TOPIC FRAMEWORK
WAT topics at Indian B-schools typically fall into five distinct categories, each assessing different cognitive competencies:
Current Affairs & Socio-Political
Evaluate awareness of real-world events, analytical thinking on governance and policy matters
Impact of AI on employment in India
Digital Rupee as innovation vs. surveillance
Climate commitments: genuine or political?
Business & Economics
Assess understanding of market dynamics, business trends, and economic policy impacts
Will AI create more jobs than it eliminates?
India's startup valuations: justified or inflated?
Remote work: productivity vs. professional ethics
Abstract & Philosophical
Test lateral thinking, ability to handle ambiguous prompts, originality of thought
"Red is red, blue is blue—never the two shall meet"
What if one rupee equals one dollar?
Think globally, act locally
Social Issues & Ethics
Assess awareness of social challenges, empathy, ethical reasoning, business responsibility
Infrastructure vs. healthcare and education investment
Surveillance: protection or privacy violation?
70-hour work week: productivity or harm?
Technology & Innovation
Evaluate understanding of technological disruption, adoption barriers, societal implications
5G impact on global economy
AI-driven decision-making: pros and cons Blockchain and cryptocurrency future
WAT Evaluation Criteria and Scoring
Standardized Evaluation Rubric
Across IIMs and top B-schools, WAT responses are evaluated on the following parameters:
Relevance to TopicEssay directly addresses the prompt without deviating; maintains focus on core issue
Clarity & StructureLogical flow (intro-body-conclusion), coherent organization, smooth transitions
Critical ThinkingDepth of analysis, multiple perspectives, originality, balanced arguments with evidence
Assessor Profile
Faculty members trained on standardized rubrics; typically 1-2 assessors per response
Scoring Scale
Usually 0-10 or normalized to candidate pool
Time Constraint Assessment
Clarity under pressure valued; rushed or incoherent writing penalized
Grammar vs. Ideas Grammatical errors result in deductions, but content depth is primary criterion
What Evaluators Look For
Positive Indicators ✓
Immediate Topic Clarity
First sentence indicates understanding of the prompt
Structured Argument
Introduction states position; body supports with 2-3 welldeveloped points; conclusion reinforces thesis
Balanced Perspective
Acknowledging counterarguments strengthens response (65% of top-scoring essays included both views)
Common Pitfalls
Generic responses lacking specificity or depth
Stream-of-consciousness writing without paragraph structure
Excessive verbosity to fill word limit without substantive content
Grammatical errors creating comprehension difficulties
Off-topic tangents or failure to directly address the prompt
Real-World Examples
Specific examples or data-driven references enhance credibility
Professional Tone
Business-appropriate language without informal colloquialisms
Logical Coherence
Each paragraph connects to thesis; ideas flow sequentially without logical gaps
Weak or absent conclusion
Unsubstantiated claims without supporting reasoning
AWT-Specific Framework (IIM Ahmedabad)
PROBLEM-CENTRIC APPROACH
AWT fundamentally differs from WAT in its methodology. Rather than opinion-based analysis, AWT demands objective diagnosis of business problems.
Expected Response Structure
Problem Identification
Identify the core issue distinct from symptoms. Example: If case states "declining sales," determine if root cause is market saturation, poor product quality, or pricing strategy
Root Cause Analysis
Dissect causal chains: What factors contribute to the identified problem? Build cause-effect relationships using information provided in case. Avoid external assumptions
Evidence & Logic Assessment
Evaluate strength of supporting evidence in the case. Identify gaps or contradictions. Distinguish assumptions from facts
Solution-Oriented Conclusion
Propose structured solutions addressing root causes. Acknowledge implementation constraints mentioned in case. Focus on feasible alternatives
Key Evaluation Differences: AWT vs WAT
Foundational Question"What do you think?""What is the problem?"
Information SourceExternal knowledge + opinionProvided case data only
Evaluation FocusPersuasion & argumentationDiagnosis & analytical reasoning
StructureOpinion → supporting points → counterargumentsProblem identification → root cause → solutions
SubjectivitySubjective perspectives valuedObjective analysis prioritized
Example UseSupporting thesis with real-world examplesCase-specific data only
Depth of ReasoningBreadth of perspectiveDepth of causal analysis
Sample AWT Response Approach
Case Scenario: "Amanufacturingcompany'sprofitmarginshavedeclined15%overtwoyearsdespite8%revenuegrowth.Productioncostshave increased12%,butthecompanyhasnotraisedpricesduetocompetitivepressure."
Flawed Response (Opinion-Based -WAT style):
"I believe the company should focus on cost reduction. Automation is the future. They should also expand to new markets..."
✓ Strong Response (Problem-Diagnosis -AWT style):
"The core problem is a cost-profit mismatch: revenue growth (8%) is outpaced by cost growth (12%), compressing margins. Root causes appear to be: (1) input cost inflation not absorbed by price increases due to competitive constraints, and (2) production inefficiency. Solutions must address cost control before market expansion."
Comparative Analysis: Top B-Schools' WAT Weightages
The following table provides a comparative overview of final selection weightages across major 2-Year MBA programs:
Key Insight: IIM Kozhikode assigns highest WAT weightage (20%), while IIM Indore emphasizes PI (45%) with minimal explicit WAT mention. This variation reflects institutional philosophies: Kozhikode values written communication excellence, while Indore prioritizes verbal articulation.
Preparation Strategies and Frameworks
Structured Frameworks for WAT
ORS Framework
Opinion-Reason-Significance
Content Strategy by Topic Type
For Current Affairs Topics
Stay informed via business newspapers (Economic Times, Business Today, Financial Express)
Maintain awareness of policy announcements, economic trends, geopolitical events
Practice connecting news to business implications
Prepare 3-5 recent examples for major topic areas
For Business & Economics Topics
Build understanding of market structures, supply-demand dynamics, competitive advantages
Study case studies of companies navigating similar challenges
Know basic economic indicators and their meanings (GDP, inflation, employment rate)
Avoid jargon without explanation; clarity over verbosity
For Abstract Topics
Practice lateral thinking by exploring unconventional angles
Create practice prompts testing philosophical reasoning
Build comfort with ambiguity; recognize multiple valid perspectives exist
Focus on logical coherence despite lack of factual anchoring
Time Management During WAT
1 Minutes 0-3
Read prompt carefully, identify topic type, brainstorm 5-7 key ideas
2 Minutes 3-5
Outline structure (intro-3 body points-conclusion)
3 Minutes 5-25
Write draft with topic-relevant content
4 Minutes 25-28
Review for grammatical errors, coherence, off-topic tangents
5 Minutes 28-30
Final proofreading, ensure conclusion is present
Critical Principle: Prioritize structure and clear communication over attempting sophisticated vocabulary or length.
Why WAT/AWT Matters: Institutional Context
Role in MBA Selection Process
WAT/AWT serves multiple functions beyond simple skill assessment:
Differentiator Among HighScorers
Candidates with similar CAT percentiles (95-98) are distinguished by WAT performance, as PI assessment remains subjective. WAT provides objective, comparable measure.
Replacement for Group Discussions
Most IIMs replaced GD with WAT post-2023 because GD suffers from group dynamics bias. WAT ensures equal opportunity for individual expression.
Business School Perspective
For IIMs, particularly IIM Ahmedabad with AWT:
Assessment of BusinessCritical Skill MBA curriculum, consulting projects, and managerial work demand clear written communication. WAT directly assesses this fundamental competency.
Evaluation Under Pressure
Time constraints replicate workplace scenarios where professionals must communicate clearly despite tight deadlines. This stress-tested assessment reveals candidate's true capability.
AWT assesses alignment with case study-based pedagogy; strong AWT performance predicts success in case method learning
WAT performance correlates with classroom participation quality and written assignment performance Institutions use WAT/AWT to ensure selected cohort possesses articulate leadership potential
Recent Trends and 2026 Admission Cycle Updates
2026 UPDATES
CAP 2026 (Common Admission Process)
Seven IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Indore, Udaipur) participate in CAP, coordinated by IIM Bodh Gaya.
Unified Assessment
Common WAT and PI conducted across multiple cities simultaneously with unified infrastructure and assessment standards
Individual Merit Lists
Each IIM prepares separate merit lists based on unified WAT/PI scores using their own weightage criteria
Introduction of Behavioral Assessment Test (BAT)
Multiple Offers
Candidates receive multiple offers if shortlisted by different IIMs, providing greater choice and flexibility
MDI Gurgaon introduced Behavioral Assessment Test (5% weightage) in 2026-28 cycle, replacing earlier academic weightage emphasis. This signals industry trend toward assessing soft skills, emotional intelligence, and behavioral attributes alongside cognitive abilities.
Continuing Emphasis on Diversity
All IIMs and major B-schools maintain diversity factors (academic background, gender, regional representation) worth 5-15% of final score, reflecting commitment to inclusive excellence. www.goalisb.com | Shruti P | ISB, IIM, MBA Expert | contact@goalisb.com | https://www.youtube.com/@Goalisb
Which Programs Conduct WAT for One Year MBA?
The programs that conduct the WAT test for one year MBA in India are:
IIM Bangalore EPGP
Executive Post Graduate Programme with comprehensive WAT assessment
IIM Ahmedabad PGPX
Extempore version of analytical writing test
IIM Lucknow IPMX
Multiple phases: 30th November 2024, 7th December 2024 (Phase 1) and 1st-2nd February 2025
Learn more about Indian MBA Programs and find the best fit for your goals through our comprehensive guides on MBA Best Colleges in India, Getting to Top MBA Colleges in India, and Best MBA Colleges in Delhi.
Our mentors at GOALisB help you shortlist the right programs and create a winning strategy for your MBA applications.
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Why is the IIM WAT Important?
While your CAT/GMAT or GRE score, academic record, and work experience are vital components of your IIM application, the WAT provides the admissions committee with a glimpse of your ability to think critically, structure arguments, and express yourself clearly under time constraints.
IIM Ahmedabad PGP Final Selection Breakdown
Personal Interview
Communication skills, clarity of thought, personality
CAT Score
Aptitude and analytical skills foundation 15%
Academic record, work experience, achievements 10%
Application Rating
The IIM WAT Tests Skills Crucial for MBA Success
Analytical Writing Test
Written communication and critical thinking abilities
Critical Thinking
The ability to analyze a situation, identify key issues, and propose solutions
Communication Skills
The clarity and coherence with which you present your ideas
Time Management
The ability to organize your thoughts and write effectively within a limited time frame
Excelling in the WAT can set you apart from other candidates and strengthen your overall application. Don't leave it to chance—get guided writing feedback from IIM alumni mentors and improve your WAT performance before interview day.
How to Excel in the IIM Writing Ability Test
KEY STRATEGIES
Understand the Topic Thoroughly
Before you start writing, take a moment to fully understand the topic. If it's a current affairs topic, ensure you're clear on the facts. For abstract or opinion-based topics, consider different angles from which the topic can be approached.
Tip: Rephrase the topic in your mind to clarify what is being asked. This will help you avoid deviating from the core issue.
Structure Your Essay
A well-structured essay is easier to read and understand. MBA essay writing should follow this format:
Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic and state your thesis or main argument
Body: Divide into two or three paragraphs, each addressing a specific point. Use examples, statistics, or real-world scenarios
Conclusion: Summarize key points and restate your thesis
Tip: Spend a couple of minutes outlining your essay before you start writing. This will save time and ensure logical flow.
Be Concise and Clear
Given the time and word constraints, it's essential to be concise. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences. Focus on making your points clearly and effectively.
Tip: If a sentence doesn't add value to your argument, consider removing it. Every word should serve a purpose.
Practice Regularly
Like any skill, writing improves with practice. Regularly write essays on a variety of topics to hone your ability to think and write quickly.
Tip: Time yourself when practicing. This will help you get accustomed to writing within the time limits of the WAT.
Stay Updated on Current Affairs
Many WAT topics are drawn from current events, so staying informed about global and national issues is crucial. Read newspapers, follow reputable news sources, and engage in discussions on current topics.
Tip: Practice writing essays on current affairs to develop your ability to form quick, informed opinions.
Focus on Grammar and Syntax
While content is king, poor grammar or awkward syntax can undermine the strength of your arguments. Ensure that your writing is grammatically correct and that your sentences are well-constructed.
Tip: After writing, if time permits, quickly proofread your essay to catch any glaring errors.
Develop a Unique Perspective
The admissions panel reads numerous essays on similar topics, so standing out is crucial. Try to offer a unique perspective or insight that sets your essay apart.
Tip: Draw from your personal experiences or professional background to provide a fresh viewpoint on the topic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in IIM
WAT
Lack of Structure
A disorganized essay can confuse the reader and dilute your arguments. Always outline your essay before you begin writing.
Overgeneralization
Avoid making sweeping statements without supporting evidence. Be specific in your arguments.
Going Off-Topic
Stay focused on the core issue presented by the topic. Avoid digressions that don't add value to your main argument.
Ignoring the Conclusion
A weak conclusion can leave a negative impression. Always ensure you summarize your key points effectively.
Talk to GOALisB admissions experts to explore GOALisB's Personalized Essay Review Service where expert mentors give detailed feedback on your structure, clarity, and argument strength. Get Expert Feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the WAT process for IIM?
The WAT in IIM admissions is a 20330 minute essay-writing round where shortlisted candidates write on a given current affairs, business, or abstract topic, used to assess clarity of thought, analytical ability, and written communication. Topics include current affairs, business issues, or abstract ideas. Evaluation focuses on coherence, quality of arguments, language, grammar, and originality. WAT + PI together carry 30350% weightage in final admission score.
3
What is required for admission in IIM?
Admission to IIMs requires a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories), a valid CAT score, and success in WAT and PI rounds, along with consideration of work experience and academic profile. Final selection weightage varies: CAT Score: 25350%; WAT + PI: 30350%; Academics + Work Ex + Diversity: 103 25%.
5
Is there a WAT in XLRI?
No, XLRI does not conduct WAT; instead, its admission process includes the XAT exam (with essay writing), followed by a Personal Interview and Group Discussion or case discussion. The XAT exam includes a compulsory essay writing section (reintroduced in 2022), which serves a similar purpose to WAT. Shortlisted candidates appear for group discussions or case analysis and personal interviews.
7
Which IIM does not consider work experience?
All IIMs accept freshers with no work experience, but IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Calcutta, and IIM Kozhikode place relatively less weight on work experience compared to IIM Bangalore, IIM Lucknow, and newer IIMs. Work experience is not mandatory for admission to the flagship PGP/MBA programs at any IIM. If you are a fresher, IIM Ahmedabad, Calcutta, and Kozhikode are often the most favorable options.
9
Can I enter IIM without a CAT?
Yes, you can enter IIMs without CAT through certain programs4 One-year MBA (accepts GMAT/GRE), PhD (accepts GRE/GATE/UGCNET), and short-term certificate courses4but for the flagship PGP/MBA program, CAT is mandatory. For experienced professionals or international students, GMAT/GRE provides an alternate route.
Which IIM takes WAT?
2
All IIMs conduct WAT as part of the MBA/PGP selection process. IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, and IIM Indore are especially known for using WAT along with the personal interview. Newer IIMs (e.g., IIM Trichy, Udaipur, Ranchi, Rohtak, Shillong) also use WAT. Earlier, GD was common, but most IIMs have now replaced GD with WAT for fairer assessment.
4
How to prepare for WAT for IIMs?
To prepare for WAT at IIMs, focus on improving writing speed and clarity, practicing essays on current affairs and abstract topics, structuring answers with intro-body-conclusion, and reading newspapers and editorials daily. Practice 132 essays daily on trending issues. Work on structure using Introduction → Main Body → Conclusion format. Time management: Practice completing essays within 20 minutes. Use simple, professional language with data/examples.
6
How to write a WAT test?
To write a strong WAT test essay, analyze the topic quickly, structure your response into intro-body-conclusion, use examples and data to support points, and keep language clear and concise within 2503 400 words. Read & Analyze (132 min), Plan Structure (132 min), Introduction (334 sentences), Body (233 paragraphs with examples), Conclusion (334 sentences), and leave 2 minutes to proofread.
8
What is the CAT cut off 2025?
The CAT cut off 2025 varies by IIM, category, and section. For IIMs & top B-schools, the expected overall CAT percentile cutoff is in the 97399+ range for the General category. For newer IIMs, cutoffs may be in the 85395 percentile band. For IIM Ahmedabad, the qualifying cutoff for 2025 has been set at 95 percentile for General/EWS category. For the IIM CAP participating IIMs, the overall CAT cutoff for General category is 95 percentile.
10
Are there different types of WATs?
Yes, in IIM admissions, WAT topics can be of three main types: current affairs-based, opinion/argument-based, and abstract/creative, each testing different aspects of thinking and writing. Current affairs-based tests awareness and critical analysis. Opinion/argument-based tests logical reasoning and structured arguments. Abstract/creative tests creativity, interpretation, and originality. Some B-schools may present case-based WAT with short case studies to analyze.
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Your journey to IIM success starts with the right preparation. Master the Writing Ability Test, and you'll be one step closer to your dream business school. Good luck! www.goalisb.com | Shruti P | ISB, IIM, MBA Expert | contact@goalisb.com | https://www.youtube.com/@Goalisb
