So, it’s been suggested that we present a simplified overview of the recent essays (linked below) that I co-wrote with respected analyst Hanna Kahlert, of renowned London-based MIDiA Research, which covered so much territory of interconnected concepts that all affect the current and future viability of the music industry. This summary eschews the essays’ “$10 words,” (with the exception of using “eschews” here!) with which some have struggled, and is shared in the bite-sized, more digestible form of a survey and petition in combination with this summary/bullet point preface of some of the most salient points. The survey and petition presents the essence of our thesis in the uncomplicated context of a proactive social impact campaign format.
First, let me explain. I grew up in a Long Island suburb town (about thirty miles outside New York City) during the “English Invasion” of music. I’d first hear new releases on my FM clock radio tuned to stations that prided themselves on finding the “cool stuff” first. It was a time when we were met almost every day with another astounding, mind-blowing record and artist to discover, often with something worth thinking about and culturally significant. Sometimes these releases would even be life-changing. Many of these recordings would become iconic — classic evergreens with songs covered endlessly. Yes, like today, there were also dismissable records then. The difference would seem to be that there are more songs about nothing today, replete with de rigeur profanity that only further detracts and is anything but “cool." While there are some very imaginative productions and impressive singers, there are few records now that demand a cerebral, emotional response, and there is a dearth that will be remembered as moving the needle at all, so to speak. Even customary love themes are largely just recycled imitations of the greats.
Since I also relate to the sensitivity of empaths — someone attuned to the deep feelings of those around them at a personal level — I tend to gravitate to music with a message that connects with us viscerally, that which touches the soul. Especially in our currently fraught times, there clearly is a need for thought-provoking music and for more attention given to the evolution of this genre of what was once deemed “protest songs.” Socially poignant music is a category that disguises protest in metaphors and yet is just as potent. It will create community and superfans, lift spirits, and engender a large movement of positive social advocacy. I established Socially Driven Music to develop and market #Music4APurpose. The concept resonated with Hanna Kahlert and we set about to co-write what we envision.
While developing our conclusions towards offering actionable, viable value-propositions for the music industry, we took several months to sort our ideas, research, digest and assimilate the daily deluge of information about changes battering the music industry. While I wasn’t aware that Mark Mulligan, MIDiA’s Founder and Managing Director, was developing his “Bifurcation Theory,” it is validating to be in sync with his thinking and to be presenting what I consider to be the roadmap to implementing that theory. I am excited about offering takeaways that will hopefully propel many away from feelings of helpless, hopeless despair and towards optimism and positive activism through the enrapture we seek from our music and the communities built around it.
Socially driven music has traditionally been a powerful way to raise awareness about issues across the board, such as Discrimination, Climate, Democracy, Mental Health, Bullying, Substance Abuse, Antisemitism, Equality, Homelessness, Veterans, Suicide,Terrorism, Gun Control, Women’s Productive Rights, Food and Clean Water Insecurity, Cancer and other illnesses, Animal Rights/Protection, Environmental Justice, Oceans, LGBTQ+ rights, etc. Our mandate recognizes the crucial difference of a sustained campaign animated by a song.
Above all, we must always remember and honor “The Greatest Generation” (and all Veterans) who fought and died upholding ideals that they expected us to continue to respect. Political affiliation is most often indoctrinated and not questioned individually. Support traditional Republican philosophy if you must, but #MAGA is not the antidote to Democrats and is authoritarian and dangerous to our democracy!
All causes, including music rights, are affected by the influence of a common denominator — politics. Each social cause group is a large community which can be further grown and energized with the natural evolution of fans to music superfans. Compelling socially thematic music enraptures and beckons fans to demonstrate their proud commonality and membership in a next generation fan club that can actually impact society with its fervor and political influence.
Socially Driven Music, the #Music4APurpose consultancy brand, powers extraordinary reciprocal benefits for artists and songwriters when integrated with the community of fans, causes, supportive brands and empathetic politicians ! [info@sociallydrivenmusic.com](mailto:info@sociallydrivenmusic.com)
A list of many social impact causes can be found in the dropdown menu here.
We are thrilled and very appreciative to have been invited to talk with some of the most highly regarded podcast and webinar programs which will include delving into why major record labels discouraging artists espousing political views is anachronistic, irrelevant and no longer a barrier.
As you work through the survey and petition in this post, you’ll likely have an “aha moment.” We look forward to working with you and our fast growing interactive coaltion who share a passion for energizing positive changes in causes that matter to us all.

Join us. Democracy is a big issue in 2024 and one we can influence together! (The correct local and national choices will influence the rest.)

ONE:
The Survey
TWO:
The Petition
THREE:
Connect With Your Senators and Representatives
Identify your Senators and Congressional Representatives with this link and website tool, below, and let us know in the above survey for what purpose you’d like to collaborate with them. Socially Driven Music’s mandate is to facilitate a potent music-fan-cause-brand-political influencer consortium for positive social impact.
Raise your hand in the survey if you are an artist who might want to volunteer at a voting polling station or actually volunteer to help a campaign with calling voters (and meet some new fans).
PS: Although this piece is focused on how music can influence American politics and the fraught issues it impacts, this same template can be applied worldwide. Talk to us!
And here is the epitome example of what we aspire to create:
Paul Simon wrote the masterpiece “American Tune” in 1973 and it applies 51 years later even more to today’s troubled times. This is one of the best examples of the socially poignant music that we contend is so important to create again today, and a brilliant example of a copyright that will live on forever.
The first link is Rhiannon Giddens with Paul at the Grammy Salute evening for him. The second link is Paul’s original.
The song will bring the listener to tears as it describes a societal hopelessness and yet compels the listener to fight through the despair. It perfectly summarizes the emotion powering Socially Driven Music and I hope helps convey what this written summary is trying to articulate.
https://youtu.be/67pyIglP79U?si=ICl2pDKJgTMwcXTT&t=85
Democracy, #Election2024, #MAGA, #MusicIndustry, #MusicBusiness, #Music, #SocialImpact, #SocialGood, #Biden, #Trump, #Vote2024, #ActBlue, #Veterans, #JohnLennon, #YokoOno

Hey people. I wanted to share my long ass story about how nitrous used to be one of my most favorite things in the world and now my relationship with it is complicated and twisted.
A lot of this will tackle interpersonal relationship dynamics, but I’m trying to illustrate to the reader the progression of how this drug took my ex’s mind. This is more of a thorough essay about my experience than a rant. When I was going through what I went through at the time, I wished there was a story like this out there to help me know better and understand. This is how I watched the love of my life melt away his brain on this drug.
I will try and keep this brief, but it probably won't be. I wish to convey the addictiveness this drug can have and the toll it can take on your mind and body. In the summer of 2022 I met my then bf who introduced me to the rave scene and drug scene he was a part of. He really only used K and Nitrous (which I will refer to as N going forward). He told me about his 1.5 years of being addicted to K, but did not inform me of his also 1.5 years (at the time) addiction to N. He told me after meeting me he didn’t want to abuse K anymore so as far as I knew when we started dating he got better about that.
It all started very early in the relationship. We went to a weekend festival together and both found doing N together was so fun. We continued on using and abusing N every weekend, and sometimes many weekdays. Probably going through 6 or 8+ tanks a week, this went on for like 3 months. Sadly, I do look back on those days fondly, despite what would happen later down the line. We had so much fun together and yes sadly it bonded us in this weird way. Using it causes you to feel more open and positive in the beginning, and we had so many heartfelt and deep conversations. And it felt like a little special world we could go into together.
At the time I had no clue how much those small-medium sized tanks cost ($65 and up for just one where we live). And he never told me how much they cost, and didn’t ask me to chip in, so I had no idea he was throwing himself into financial ruin buying them all the time. Looking back I have no idea why I didn’t ask, I just figured they were only $25 or something, or his friend was giving them to him, and I was aware it was probably a poor financial decision, but figured he could bounce back after the summer. You have to understand I thought I had him figured out, but I didn’t really know him that well at this point, or know about the drug scene at all. Before this I really only drank and smoked weed with the occasional cid or shrooms trip.
Three months into us dating and abusing N we come to the conclusion we just need to stop and take a break from N as this had all become quite excessive. Still he doesn’t explain to me how much debt he is in from buying all of those tanks over the summer. Two months into the break and he’s starting to crack, asking for me to be okay with us using it regularly. I tell him that I think it’s okay for us to just do it once and awhile. It was hard to not cave in because truthfully I missed it as well, I myself was starting to feel the addictiveness of this drug, so I reserved it so that I only ever did it with him. We go back to doing it occasionally on the weekends. Over the span of 1 month my bf started to constantly complain of having nerve issues, his feet and legs and hands were numb, I also noticed that he seemed really depressed. This is when he started to experience the vitamin B deficiency, although both me and him didn’t realize this at the time.
Around this time is when he finally and unceremoniously reveals to me how much these things actually cost. This is the tricky aspect of his personality I would go on to experience more of. It was clear he was resentful towards me, that I had no idea how much money he was spending, but the reality is if I had known how much those things cost I would have ended it a lot sooner. I didn’t even understand how he had the ability to spend so much money, I don’t even want to do the math. I would find out later he would just take out credit cards and max them out. In addition to him doing them with me occasionally, he was also doing them behind my back, which I had caught him doing several times and was always forgiving over this.
So, because of this constant spending he was in a substantial amount of debt. What he told me at the time was around $6,000. Knowing him, this was probably a generous assessment. This is definitely a point in the story where I should have left him. Clearly he was developing this addiction towards N and spent an ungodly amount of money that was beyond even my comprehension. But, I was head over heels and believed that he could figure this out. People go into debt all the time, I would tell myself. But I told him, this all needed to outright stop. No more N, not even occasionally. Unfortunately while he of course agreed to my face I have to suspect now, he was doing it behind my back all the time. Around this time he wouldn’t come home from work until 7 or 7:30 which didn’t make sense as his hours at work would fluctuate from time to time, but he was usually always off at 5. He would lie and say his work was very busy and made him stay later, which I believed at the time.
Maybe about a month later we are in bed together sleeping, it’s the middle of the night. He wakes me up and explains he literally cannot feel his feet or legs and has been having trouble walking for the past several days. I take him to the ER that night. This night and the following weeks after were some of the most heartbreaking and emotionally terrifying times of my life so far. At this time neither of us had any idea or reason to suspect N was the reason for this. We actually talked to the doctor there and ran tests for over 3 hours, he got an MRI and a spinal tap which was so hard to watch being done to him. It wasn’t until I desperately did research on my phone in the hospital room and suddenly see all of these remarks and reddit posts and studies about N causing paralysis and nerve damage. I tell my bf and the doctor and they have no trouble assessing that is what is causing this. They give him a regiment of vitamin B shots as you typically do in this situation. The doctor even said that they hope they can stop permanent damage from happening, because if not he may lose control of his legs and it may spread to his pelvic area (IE dick don’t work) etc, he had to do physical therapy and see a drug counselor.
The following days and weeks after I was constantly on edge worrying and wondering if my bf and love of my life would lose his ability to walk. Thankfully, the treatment took and he didn’t even end up needing physical therapy. This is when I truly believe or would like to hope he actually quit and wasn’t doing N behind my back. Unfortunately it wouldn’t matter, as I’ve learned, a lot of symptoms of N abuse don’t show themselves until after you stop. Shortly after this event is when our relationship took a nosedive. He had also ditched the drug counselor. To compensate for no N he was drinking so often. He started to become aggressive and violent. I remember it all started in a fight where he got real close and in my face and stared me down to try and intimidate me. In a way it was both terrifying and laughable (because he’s only a few inches taller than me), I couldn’t even comprehend the kind of person he had turned into. After that came the months and months of never ending name calling, insults, degradation, and constant arguments over every little thing I did. He became so addicted to the high of his power trip of making me feel small and weak he would find any excuse to fly into a rage at me, even when we were tripping on mushrooms together.
Nothing was ever the same after that. We didn’t go out, didn’t do dates, and every activity together felt like it was all a big chore to him. I could look in his eyes and see he was constantly thinking about N, and when he would do it next. He really changed, and what I am now realizing is he was probably starting to experience the effects of pure brain damage. My close friends who knew him even agree with me that there is a huge change in his demeanor around this time in April of 2023.
I also want to add more info about his bizarre behavior. He started to develop an unhealthy obsession with social media, scrutinizing what I posted and what he posted. He started to obsess over current events of any kind, any breaking story or ongoing conflict and he would rant and rant about the current state of the world and destruction of humanity all the time. He started to get obsessed with mental health and psychology and pathologize me and himself and other people in our lives. He would send me 10 videos everyday about mental health and relationships and expect me to reply and have a response for every single one like a book report. This obsession with the destruction of humanity turned into a paranoia about the world, he would often say no one understands him, and he is all alone. He turned on his best friends of several years because he was paranoid they were racists or had bad morals (they were all pleasant and nice people who enjoy edgy humor from time to time). There was no more middle ground for anything, you either loved something fully, or hated it fully. Somewhere down the line he actually got his account banned on Instagram for the craziest reason. He couldn’t stop or control himself from having heated arguments with random strangers in comments sections, of almost any video of any topic. He would insult people there constantly.
Here is another big mistake I made.I allowed him to live with me, and we moved in together. At this point we had been dating for a year. Before this I lived on my own and didn’t want to renew my lease, and he was living with his dad who was abusive and financially took advantage of him. At the time I was convinced that this bad behavior would go away if he could get away from his dad and his toxic household. Well the toxicity only followed. That summer we went to another weekend festival and he revealed to me when we got there he had purchased N and brought it. I was so conflicted as I myself had missed it quite a lot, and I had to deny myself my healthy regulated usage of it in order to not trigger him. I caved again and said we could do it only for this weekend. You may not at all be surprised to learn it didn’t end that way.
After the festival everything truly fell apart. He continued to buy tanks of N and do them behind my back constantly. He would say he was just going to his car to talk to his friends, or his mom, and be gone for hours. Because he was totally abusing me and I had no idea because I was under his spell of manipulation, I had no recourse. Any comment of mine asking why he was gone for so long, why can’t he just talk to his friends inside our apartment, I’ll go in the other room for privacy, was only met with complete indifference. These questions only pissed him off. He would say it’s because I was so exhausting and demanding he needed a break from me. When I would call him when he’s on one of these “excursions,” he would every so often mute the call while I was talking or in a silent moment. I eventually realized he was hitting the tank every time he muted himself. When I finally called him out on this he gaslit me and told me he just does this all the time because he coughs and clears his throat, fyi he had never done this before in our relationship. Because I had no recourse I just had to agree and move on. And because his mind was deteriorating more and more each day he would go on to make randomly muting himself in calls as a common, thing so as to keep up the facade he told me. Actual crazy behavior.
He even started doing K again, he would clearly be f-ed out of his mind by both K and N, and stumble around our apartment with crazy red bulging eyes and again and again tell me he was just drunk. Around this time is when he finally divulges to me not only had he been abusing K for the 1.5 years before he met me, he had also been abusing N for 1.5 years before he met me. And it wasn’t actually the case that he only “began” to become addicted to N when we started dating and doing it together. This really started to put a lot into perspective for me, and it made sense how he had almost paralyzed himself over this, now at this current time 3+ year addiction to these substances, and it made me realize how psychologically and cognitively he was failing based on changes in his personality. You also have to understand he explained to me before he met me, he was doing 1.5-2 grams of K or more and N, EVERYDAY.
And still at this time the name calling, insults and manipulation continued. He of course was no longer experiencing any true “high” from the N anymore, it would just simply dull his senses. It was like a stereotypical violent alcoholic husband comes home from the bar and berates his wife, kind of situation, except with N. And I became obsessed with figuring out how to get him to stop and go back to the loving person I remembered meeting and loving. I began to do very toxic things, going through his backpack, going through his car, and constantly always finding tanks and balloons and all kinds of paraphilia everywhere. I would find tanks in our recycling bin, like he actually thought I wouldn’t notice. I would come home late from being with friends and catch him passed out on the couch with an empty tank in his hand. He couldn't be left alone anymore. If he wasn’t with me, 100% of the time he was sitting in his car doing N. At this point in time there was no forgiveness, I was completely broken. I would yell and scream at him or wake him up and demand he stop and choose me or the drugs, all terrible things to be doing. I know that.
Eventually it got so bad I felt I had no other recourse other than to call and inform his mother of his behavior and what he had been doing all this time. Me doing this is probably what saved his life, as there was never anyway I was going to get through to him myself. But it did not save his mental health. Even having his mother involved didn’t stop any of it. He still went out and bought it behind my back like nothing happened. Another painful painful aspect of how his personality had changed is he would constantly have crazy back and forth mood swings, one minute showing me the sweet man I had fallen in love with, thanking me and praising me for having stepped in and put a stop to this, the next minute he hated me and I was the worst thing in his life and I could never tell what was even real anymore.
But did I leave, oh no, that would have been the smart thing to do.Instead at the time I was seeing a therapist who also specializes in couples therapy. I get us started with counseling and during our second session he gets called out by my therapist and yells and screams and berates her, it was actually insane. That is when things really ended between us. He moved out and moved into his moms apartment 30 minutes away that night. Even though the breakup was traumatizing and painful I still had hope that even if he isn’t with me, now he will receive help from his mother. Well, she didn’t place him in any special drug counselor program or rehab, she just severely cut off his finances so that he could pay off his debts, which she had bought back from several banks so it would not gain more and more interest. I do believe now his debt may be somewhere in the $10,000-$20,000 range. So now he, as an almost 30 year old man, needs to ask his mother in order to buy or purchase anything. Somehow, despite all of this I would learn he was continuing to do N and K.
Amazingly, we still tried briefly to even make our relationship work after he moved out. At this point he has mastered the art of manipulation and being fake, and convinced me he was getting better, he had even started to look better too, but he was still up to his old BS. He came over to the apartment once for us to have a mini date. Because he went on and on about how he was getting more and more into walks he said he was going to take a quick stroll around the block to get some fresh air. Well a quick stroll turns into 30 minutes, and I start to notice his car is gone from our street. I call him and he says now he is sitting in his car talking to his mom, I tell him I don’t see his car and it’s been a long time, he clearly had left to buy N. He becomes irate and claims he simply moved his car down the block for “reasons” and I was in the wrong for being accusatory and not trusting him. P.S. I went down the block and he just was not there. This guy is either absolutely crazy or thinks I’m some kind of imbecile, or both. It basically ended from there.
We tried to be civil, but he cannot control himself from completely going ballistic on me anymore, or his mother. And it is so painful when he is remorseful and doesn’t remember all the things he said to me. At this point I have had to realize I am basically talking to and trying to reason with a mentally disabled person. The fun loving, easy going, creative, altruistic, thoughtful, smart and attentive man I met doesn’t exist anymore, and I don’t think he will ever come back. All that remains is the shell of a confused and angry person.
Some small things to address, how it came to be that he abused these drugs all the time before he met me is because his best friend was a drug dealer and in the beginning would give him all of these things for free. Once he was hooked and doing it everyday it seemed he would stop at no end to spend money and buy them. Yes K was definitely a contributor into his mild psychosis but I still think it would have happened even from the N abuse alone, based on research I’ve been doing lately. And yes I have to admit I think he had bad and malignant psychological traits before abusing drugs, and doing that made it all worse.
So that is the story of how I watched this man ruin his life, and scare away maybe the only person who could withstand experiencing all of his BS and still wanted to love and help him. There are SO MANY things I too should have done differently. There is also an age gap between us of 3 years, so I naively thought he had a better handle on his life than he really did. I do find it hard to understand how people can be so addicted at times, but in the end like my ex, everyone is trying to chase some kind of feeling or experience that came with it, rather than the drug itself.
Thank you for reading if you made it to the end.
TLDR: Two years ago I started dating a guy who wasn’t honest with me about his 1.5 years of Nitrous abuse before we started dating. He was a sweet and honest and caring man when I met him. Sadly most of our relationship was spent on doing lots of Nitrous together. He eventually developed health problems like a vitamin B deficiency and even almost got paralysis and permanent nerve damage, which was hard for me to watch and witness. His health issues didn’t deter him away from Nitrous and he was constantly buying tanks and doing it behind my back. The more he abused Nitrous the more abusive towards me he became as a person. Our relationship crumbled and not even getting his mom involved helped. He was also clearly experiencing psychosis and mental deterioration. We broke up because he yelled and screamed at my therapist and he had to move in with his mom. Moving in with his mom didn’t stop his addiction even though she cut off his finances.
Even when we tried to make the relationship work he still abused it anyway. I would now consider him a mentally disabled person and I don’t recognize who he even is anymore after 3+ years of abusing Nitrous almost everyday. Please use Nitrous responsibly or don't at all.

DAY: DAY: MAY 11, 2024

• 5-11-2024WHY DANCING IN SYNC BRINGS US CLOSER TOGETHER Silent discos started back in the 1970s as a convenient way to get around noise restrictions. In those days that meant everyone bringing their own music loaded onto a Walkman. Later, DJs would set up their own radio channels to allow everyone to listen to the same playlist. These events gained popularity in the early 2000s, when music festivals began to host silent gigs with lots of artists streaming on different channels. At a regular disco or nightclub, everybody experiences dancing together in time to the same music.
• 5-11-2024HOW DO EMOTIONS HELP CONSTRUCT OUR CULTURAL IDENTITY IN MUSIC FESTIVALS? 2022 was a record year for music festivals in Spain, hitting historic highs just two years after the entire country was locked down due to the pandemic. Spain boasts close to a thousand music festivals and a live music industry that earned 459 million euros in ticket revenue alone in 2022. This is almost 200% more than the previous year,
• 5-11-2024WHY DO METAPHORS OF SPACE HELP US UNDERSTAND TIME? Space-time projections, ego-moving perspective. Expressions linking space to time are a common part of our day to day lives. You might say the morning “flew by,” or that school exams are “fast approaching.” Right now, you might say summer is “just around the corner,” while anyone with the vaguest awareness of Game of Thrones will have heard the phrase “winter is coming.”
• 5-11-2024THERE ARE NO GOOD OR BAD OIL CROPS, ONLY GOOD AND BAD PRACTICES There are no good or bad oil crops. Credit: Borneo Futures When shopping, have you considered the social and environmental impacts of your vegetable oil purchases? Most products offer limited information on these effects. Labels like “No Palm Oil”—linked to environmental damage and threats to orangutans—or “Fair-trade” are familiar, but many ingredients go unmentioned. How reliable are these claims, and what unseen impacts are we responsible for with our choices?
• 5-11-2024ART-BASED APPROACHES CAN ENCOURAGE FRESH PERSPECTIVES ON THE FUTURE Art can contribute to futures thinking in various ways, such as inspiring alternative futures through mediums like science fiction in films and literature, encapsulating future scenarios through artistic illustrations, and posing thought-provoking questions that challenge our perceptions and understanding of the future. As a multidisciplinary field, futures research borrows approaches from different disciplines. However, it often ignores the potential of the arts on a large scale, even though the arts embrace creativity and often depict and narrate imagined futures.
• 5-11-2024‘DOING YOUR OWN RESEARCH’ CAN MAKE FAKE NEWS SEEM BELIEVABLE While it’s healthy to question what we see and hear in the media, those quick internet searches to fact-check news stories can unexpectedly backfire and lead people to believe false stories, according to the director of the University of Oregon’s undergraduate journalism program. As more people tune into the press for the upcoming election cycle
• 5-11-2024CONTRADICTORY THOUGHTS LEAD TO MORE MODERATE ATTITUDES, PSYCHOLOGISTS FIND Researchers present rhetorical tools that can help to reduce the polarization of discussions. When discussing controversial issues such as migration or measures against global warming, strongly opposing positions often clash and discussions become emotional. The polarization that can be found here is primarily driven by people with extreme attitudes.
• 5-11-2024CAN SCIENCE EXPLAIN WHY COUPLES BREAK UP? THE MATHEMATICAL ANATOMY OF A FALL French director Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall,” winner of the 2023 Oscar for best original script, reconstructs a fatal fall in order to dissect the collapse of the romantic relationship between the film’s leading couple, Sandra Voyter and Samuel Maleski. Far from an exception, breakups of the sort depicted in the film are commonplace: global data shows high levels of marriage failure, with a marked increase towards the end of the last century.
• 5-11-2024WHEN CHOOSING CO-FOUNDERS, ENTREPRENEURS HAVE A GENDER GAP One of the most important decisions an entrepreneur can make when launching a business is choosing the right co-founder. Should compatible personalities guide the choice? Or should the priority be someone who brings resources to the startup? How do entrepreneurs make this decision if they must choose between these two options? New research from Texas McCombs finds there’s a gender gap in making this choice.
• 5-11-2024COMPASSION DOESN’T HELP ALL COUPLES, FINDS STUDY More compassion = a better relationship. This is an obvious rule of thumb for couples. But it doesn’t apply to everyone, as a study shows. Some people prefer to do without it. Whether irrevocably estranged or merely bored with the daily routine: “Couples counseling can improve communication and the quality of the relationship. And it has a positive effect on mental health
• 5-11-2024WOMEN IN RICH COUNTRIES ARE HAVING FEWER KIDS, OR NONE AT ALL. WHAT’S GOING ON? A recent report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows US fertility rates dropped 2% in 2023. With the exception of a temporary increase in the fertility rate at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US fertility rate has been falling steadily since 1971. Australia exhibits a similar pattern. Fertility has declined since 2007 despite government attempts to invest in a “baby bonus” to encourage women to have more children. Taking a more global perspective, we can see similar patterns across other industrial nations: Japan,
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP NEW AI TOOL FOR FAST AND PRECISE TISSUE ANALYSIS TO SUPPORT DRUG DISCOVERY AND DIAGNOSTICS A team of scientists from A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS) and Bioinformatics Institute (BII) has developed a new AI software tool called “BANKSY” that automatically recognizes the cell types present in a tissue, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, and fat cells. Going a step beyond conventional AI tools, which can group cells together into clusters if they contain similar molecules
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHEDS LIGHT ON CANCER CELL ‘TUG-OF-WAR’ Two malignant mixed mullerian tumor explants on collagen network. Both tumor pieces adhered to the collagen network and started pulling on the collagen fibers, which prompted extensive collagen displacements and alignments, alongside cell escape of cells with a dominant stress fiber-based contractility. The sharp and smooth boundary structure of both pieces further indicates a strong tissue surface tension that hinders cell escape for cells with a dominant cortical contractility.
• 5-11-2024STUDY UNDERSCORES NEW STRATEGIES TO FIGHT DRUG-RESISTANT BACTERIA
• 5-11-2024BIG DATA HELPS DETERMINE WHAT DRIVES DISEASE RISK
• 5-11-2024NEW STUDY POINTS TO STOCHASTIC CHANGES IN CELLS
• 5-11-2024CHANGES IN PIG FARMING IN THE 20TH CENTURY SPREAD ANTIBIOTIC-RESISTANT SALMONELLA AROUND THE WORLD, FINDS STUDY
• 5-11-2024HOW CLIMATE CHANGE WILL AFFECT MALARIA TRANSMISSION
• 5-11-2024TEAM DEVELOPS TECHNOLOGY FOR PRODUCING BIOPLASTICS FROM AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD BYPRODUCTS
• 5-11-2024STUDY DISCOVERS CELLULAR ACTIVITY THAT HINTS RECYCLING IS IN OUR DNA
• 5-11-2024WANT TO SHOW TEACHERS APPRECIATION? THIS TOP SCHOOL GIVES THEM MORE FREEDOM
• 5-11-2024HOW LIKELY ARE ENGLISH LEARNERS TO GRADUATE FROM HIGH SCHOOL? STUDY SHOWS IT DEPENDS ON RACE, GENDER AND INCOME
• 5-11-2024SELF-CRITICAL PERFECTIONISM GNAWS ON STUDENTS’ WELL-BEING ALREADY IN LOWER SECONDARY SCHOOL, SAYS STUDY
• 5-11-2024STUDY EXPLORES WHETHER PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL WILL HELP WITH WORK ENGAGEMENT IN TOUGH MOMENTS
• 5-11-2024NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS RAISE CONCERNS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE REPORTING
• 5-11-2024EXPELLING STUDENTS FOR BAD BEHAVIOR SEEMS LIKE THE OBVIOUS SOLUTION, BUT IS IT REALLY A GOOD IDEA?
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHER ANALYZES 3,356 SIGNS TO SEE HOW LANGUAGE USE IS CHANGING IN THREE LATINO NEIGHBORHOODS IN PHILLY
• 5-11-2024WHO ARE THE IMMIGRANTS COMING TO THE US ON HUMANITARIAN GROUNDS, AND HOW CAN THEY BE SUPPORTED?
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHOWS FEMALE GAMERS ONLY LABEL HALF OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT INCIDENTS THEY EXPERIENCE AS SUCH
• 5-11-2024RISING KNIFE CRIME IN LONDON IS LINKED TO AUSTERITY CUTS TO YOUTH SERVICES—HERE’S THE EVIDENCE
• 5-11-2024USING AI TO PREDICT GRADE POINT AVERAGE FROM COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAYS
• 5-11-2024DISADVANTAGED ENTREPRENEURS OFTEN FEAR SUCCESS, BUT NEW RESEARCH CAN HELP
• 5-11-2024FEW TENURE-TRACK JOBS FOR ENGINEERING PH.D.S, STUDY FINDS
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHERS SEARCH FOR SOLUTIONS TO CONSTRUCT A COMPREHENSIVE WORKFORCE
• 5-11-2024HOW TO TELL IF A CONSPIRACY THEORY IS PROBABLY FALSE
• 5-11-2024AN ANALYSIS OF SECURITY IN RELATION TO THE VALUES OF WELL-BEING, FREEDOM AND EQUALITY
• 5-11-2024CONSUMERS REPORT SIGNIFICANT RISE IN DIET SATISFACTION SINCE JANUARY
• 5-11-2024THE SPREAD OF MISINFORMATION VARIES BY TOPIC AND BY COUNTRY IN EUROPE, STUDY FINDS
• 5-11-2024I INTERVIEWED MOMS WITH FIVE OR MORE KIDS—WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT WOMEN WHO ARE QUIETLY GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN
• 5-11-2024ANALYSIS OF MILLIONS OF POSTS SHOWS THAT USERS SEEK OUT ECHO CHAMBERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
• 5-11-2024HONG KONG UNIVERSITY TESTS AI PROFESSORS
• 5-11-2024EXTREME VIEWS ABOUT WOMEN ARE INFILTRATING AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLS—WE NEED A ZERO-TOLERANCE RESPONSE
• 5-11-2024GROWTH MINDSET TEACHING HELPS STUDENTS MAKE THE GRADE
• 5-11-2024WORKER RIGHTS ARE ONE OF THE LEAST PROTECTED HUMAN RIGHTS, NEW RESEARCH REVEALS
• 5-11-2024DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU BELONG AT WORK? HERE’S WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT FOR YOUR HEALTH, HAPPINESS AND PRODUCTIVITY
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHER EXPOSES CHILD LABOR TRAFFICKING AS A HIDDEN CRIME AFTER INVESTIGATING 132 VICTIMS
• 5-11-2024AI KNOWLEDGE GETS YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR FOR JOB INTERVIEWS, SAYS STUDY
• 5-11-2024STUDY EXPLORES EFFECTS OF OVERSEAS BUSINESS ACTIVITY THROUGH EXPERIENCES OF EXPATRIATES
• 5-11-2024STUDY IDENTIFIES LARGE INTEREST GAPS IN US LABOR MARKET
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHOWS AI CONVERSATIONAL AGENTS CAN HELP REDUCE INTERETHNIC PREJUDICE DURING ONLINE INTERACTIONS

MAY 11, 2024

• 5-11-2024WHY DANCING IN SYNC BRINGS US CLOSER TOGETHER
• 5-11-2024HOW DO EMOTIONS HELP CONSTRUCT OUR CULTURAL IDENTITY IN MUSIC FESTIVALS?
• 5-11-2024WHY DO METAPHORS OF SPACE HELP US UNDERSTAND TIME?
• 5-11-2024THERE ARE NO GOOD OR BAD OIL CROPS, ONLY GOOD AND BAD PRACTICES
• 5-11-2024ART-BASED APPROACHES CAN ENCOURAGE FRESH PERSPECTIVES ON THE FUTURE
• 5-11-2024‘DOING YOUR OWN RESEARCH’ CAN MAKE FAKE NEWS SEEM BELIEVABLE
• 5-11-2024CONTRADICTORY THOUGHTS LEAD TO MORE MODERATE ATTITUDES, PSYCHOLOGISTS FIND
• 5-11-2024CAN SCIENCE EXPLAIN WHY COUPLES BREAK UP? THE MATHEMATICAL ANATOMY OF A FALL
• 5-11-2024WHEN CHOOSING CO-FOUNDERS, ENTREPRENEURS HAVE A GENDER GAP
• 5-11-2024COMPASSION DOESN’T HELP ALL COUPLES, FINDS STUDY
• 5-11-2024WOMEN IN RICH COUNTRIES ARE HAVING FEWER KIDS, OR NONE AT ALL. WHAT’S GOING ON?
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHERS DEVELOP NEW AI TOOL FOR FAST AND PRECISE TISSUE ANALYSIS TO SUPPORT DRUG DISCOVERY AND DIAGNOSTICS
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHEDS LIGHT ON CANCER CELL ‘TUG-OF-WAR’
• 5-11-2024STUDY UNDERSCORES NEW STRATEGIES TO FIGHT DRUG-RESISTANT BACTERIA
• 5-11-2024BIG DATA HELPS DETERMINE WHAT DRIVES DISEASE RISK
• 5-11-2024NEW STUDY POINTS TO STOCHASTIC CHANGES IN CELLS
• 5-11-2024CHANGES IN PIG FARMING IN THE 20TH CENTURY SPREAD ANTIBIOTIC-RESISTANT SALMONELLA AROUND THE WORLD, FINDS STUDY
• 5-11-2024HOW CLIMATE CHANGE WILL AFFECT MALARIA TRANSMISSION
• 5-11-2024TEAM DEVELOPS TECHNOLOGY FOR PRODUCING BIOPLASTICS FROM AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD BYPRODUCTS
• 5-11-2024STUDY DISCOVERS CELLULAR ACTIVITY THAT HINTS RECYCLING IS IN OUR DNA
• 5-11-2024WANT TO SHOW TEACHERS APPRECIATION? THIS TOP SCHOOL GIVES THEM MORE FREEDOM
• 5-11-2024HOW LIKELY ARE ENGLISH LEARNERS TO GRADUATE FROM HIGH SCHOOL? STUDY SHOWS IT DEPENDS ON RACE, GENDER AND INCOME
• 5-11-2024SELF-CRITICAL PERFECTIONISM GNAWS ON STUDENTS’ WELL-BEING ALREADY IN LOWER SECONDARY SCHOOL, SAYS STUDY
• 5-11-2024STUDY EXPLORES WHETHER PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL WILL HELP WITH WORK ENGAGEMENT IN TOUGH MOMENTS
• 5-11-2024NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS RAISE CONCERNS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE REPORTING
• 5-11-2024EXPELLING STUDENTS FOR BAD BEHAVIOR SEEMS LIKE THE OBVIOUS SOLUTION, BUT IS IT REALLY A GOOD IDEA?
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHER ANALYZES 3,356 SIGNS TO SEE HOW LANGUAGE USE IS CHANGING IN THREE LATINO NEIGHBORHOODS IN PHILLY
• 5-11-2024WHO ARE THE IMMIGRANTS COMING TO THE US ON HUMANITARIAN GROUNDS, AND HOW CAN THEY BE SUPPORTED?
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHOWS FEMALE GAMERS ONLY LABEL HALF OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT INCIDENTS THEY EXPERIENCE AS SUCH
• 5-11-2024RISING KNIFE CRIME IN LONDON IS LINKED TO AUSTERITY CUTS TO YOUTH SERVICES—HERE’S THE EVIDENCE
• 5-11-2024USING AI TO PREDICT GRADE POINT AVERAGE FROM COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAYS
• 5-11-2024DISADVANTAGED ENTREPRENEURS OFTEN FEAR SUCCESS, BUT NEW RESEARCH CAN HELP
• 5-11-2024FEW TENURE-TRACK JOBS FOR ENGINEERING PH.D.S, STUDY FINDS
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHERS SEARCH FOR SOLUTIONS TO CONSTRUCT A COMPREHENSIVE WORKFORCE
• 5-11-2024HOW TO TELL IF A CONSPIRACY THEORY IS PROBABLY FALSE
• 5-11-2024AN ANALYSIS OF SECURITY IN RELATION TO THE VALUES OF WELL-BEING, FREEDOM AND EQUALITY
• 5-11-2024CONSUMERS REPORT SIGNIFICANT RISE IN DIET SATISFACTION SINCE JANUARY
• 5-11-2024THE SPREAD OF MISINFORMATION VARIES BY TOPIC AND BY COUNTRY IN EUROPE, STUDY FINDS
• 5-11-2024I INTERVIEWED MOMS WITH FIVE OR MORE KIDS—WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT WOMEN WHO ARE QUIETLY GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN
• 5-11-2024ANALYSIS OF MILLIONS OF POSTS SHOWS THAT USERS SEEK OUT ECHO CHAMBERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
• 5-11-2024HONG KONG UNIVERSITY TESTS AI PROFESSORS
• 5-11-2024EXTREME VIEWS ABOUT WOMEN ARE INFILTRATING AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLS—WE NEED A ZERO-TOLERANCE RESPONSE
• 5-11-2024GROWTH MINDSET TEACHING HELPS STUDENTS MAKE THE GRADE
• 5-11-2024WORKER RIGHTS ARE ONE OF THE LEAST PROTECTED HUMAN RIGHTS, NEW RESEARCH REVEALS
• 5-11-2024DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU BELONG AT WORK? HERE’S WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT FOR YOUR HEALTH, HAPPINESS AND PRODUCTIVITY
• 5-11-2024RESEARCHER EXPOSES CHILD LABOR TRAFFICKING AS A HIDDEN CRIME AFTER INVESTIGATING 132 VICTIMS
• 5-11-2024AI KNOWLEDGE GETS YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR FOR JOB INTERVIEWS, SAYS STUDY
• 5-11-2024STUDY EXPLORES EFFECTS OF OVERSEAS BUSINESS ACTIVITY THROUGH EXPERIENCES OF EXPATRIATES
• 5-11-2024STUDY IDENTIFIES LARGE INTEREST GAPS IN US LABOR MARKET
• 5-11-2024STUDY SHOWS AI CONVERSATIONAL AGENTS CAN HELP REDUCE INTERETHNIC PREJUDICE DURING ONLINE INTERACTIONS

I just want to say before I start rating the classes that everyone is different in a way, some people find some classes easier than others and I just want to give a rating that reflects on what I think was hardest classes I’ve taken to ones where I think were the easiest. This can give you a general understanding of what you can expect from the class. I’ll also be sharing what professors I’ve had and rate the class on a scale from 1-10 in terms of difficulty and list the from the hardest to the easiest. I’ll also list when I took the class (fall 23 or spring 24), credits hours, core class or not, and say whether it a full semester class or half a semester class.
Alright here are my rankings:

1. Civil engineering 274 (Statics), core class, 3 credits, full semester, fall 23, professor: Harntaro Wibowo. Difficulty: 9.5/10 All I can say is listen to the rumors about this class. When I was in CE 160 everyone was saying that statics is going to be the hardest class you’ll ever take at ISU, even the TA’s were telling us that. I have always been optimistic and never really thought of it until I took the class. I mean what can I say, first 80% of your grade are the exams and the other 20 is homework, Top-hat etc. Second the material of this class especially in the beginning is kind of hard to keep up with as everything builds up with each other but you do get used to it. When I tell you that you can’t fuck up one exam you really can’t, it’s almost impossible to get a good grade if you fuck up one of them. You’ll have 3 midterms and 1 final, 4 questions on each exam and 90 minutes. The exams are not impossible to solve obviously but they do try to trick you by for example finding the mass instead of weight, unit conversions, and complex wording. Pros about this class is platoons are really helpful for this class (TA’s giving out examples and showing you how to solve them, once per week for 50 min) and if you do go to all of the platoons you do get 2% extra on your final grade. Also SI was helpful as she did give out a lot of examples from previous exams and would recommend going to them. Wibowo wasn’t a bad professor he does recommend printing out the practice example sets before each class because that’s what he goes over the whole class period but I wouldn’t say he is the best at all in terms of 1 on 1 conversations. Also the graders of this class in my opinion are kind of harsh when grading your exams, they can deduct you up to like 5 points for wrong units or wrong answers which I found ridiculous. Overall be prepared for this class, get up to date with 3D related material,Fy,Fx, and moment equations, and a lot of trigonometry.
   
2. Civil Engineering 206 (Engineering economic analysis and professional issues in civil engineering), core class, 3 credits, full semester, spring 24, professor: Jon Matthews Rouse, difficulty: 8.7/10 If you told me back when I was applying for this class at the end of fall that CE 206 was going to be hard as fuck I would’ve laughed at you, but holy fuck it is. Firstly I want to get this out of the way, I wanna say that some classes are hard not because the material is hard but because the professor makes it hard. CE 206 falls into that category where the material is basically high school maths with plugging and chugging numbers into formulas but holy fuck does Matt make it ridiculously hard in his exams. Matt is a great guy and an excellent professor (top 5 coolest professors I’ve ever met), gives dad vibes when you meet him, but he is no joke in his exams. Some of his questions are ridiculous where he really tries to trip you up with the wording and his work out problems are really long and tedious. He also admitted that he does plug numbers into a calculator to see where students might trip up (like squaring your answer when you’re supposed to multiply) and puts the number as one of the multiple choices. He also doesn’t post anything on canvas at all which I found ridiculous since the first page of each exam is solving true and false questions, full in the blank, definitions, etc..Oh yeah you only got 55 minutes for the midterm exams, which I found hard to even see how you could ever finish both the midterm exams (especially the second one) on time. His second exam was so bad, 60-70% failed the exam, and had to curve it by 10%. The homework’s weren’t bad but his graders are really tough graders, I mean I never got a full mark on any of the homework’s and I had 13 homework sets. No wonder why this class is the 5th dropped class at ISU, it’s literally impossible to finish both midterm exams on time, graders for the homework are tough, and no room for extra credit (beside doing only extra credit homework but still).
   
3. Engineering mechanics 324 (mechanics of material), core class, 3 credits, full semester, spring 24, professer: Oleg Zarechnyy, difficultly: 7.7/10 The content in this class is arguably way harder than what you take in statics but when it comes to grading and overall the class structure, this class is not bad. If you take it with Oleg (great professor) his method of teaching is TBL (team base learning) and the class structure is to watch the lecture videos before attending the class, as what you do in class is 2 top-hat questions on the material you watched at home. He also recommends to do the homework before each lecture but I never did and it was fine. The team you are with the whole semester are picked at random and you sit in the same place during the semester. The top hat questions aren’t tricky but if you did not watch the videos you won’t get the answers right. Each question is about 25 min, the first 12 min you do it alone, then the remaining 13 min you discuss your answers with your teammates and submit them together. You do also submit your answers when you do it alone. Exams are easier than statics exams by a mile, I mean some of the questions they give you the moment of inertia, sometime they give you the forces, etc… basically all the calculations that you might trip up they will give you. The formula sheet is essential to this class, so understand where everything is. There are 3 midterm exams, 3 questions, and 90 min (30 min avg each question), very doable. They never try and trick in any of the questions like in statics and it’s pretty straight forward. The final will have 4 questions but you got 120 min so again doable. You have also 3 homework’s each week due Monday, Tuesday, and Friday on Willyplus. Overall a very doable class (class avg on each exam was about 75-80%) and shouldn’t be hard to pass.
   
4. Deferential equations 266 (differential equations), not a core class, 3 credits, half a semester, spring 24, Professor: Domenico D’Alessandro, difficulty: 7/10 Out of the math classes I’ve taken so far at ISU, Calc1, calc2, and Def eq 266, I would say that def eq is definitely the easiest out of the 3 I have taken. This class is supervised by the one and only Steve butler so I already knew it wasn’t going to be batshit hard like the calc department but don’t think it’s a walk in the park type of class. For me this class is all about proving that a certain problem is right by proving it with a set of equations. What I like about this class is 3 things, first and most importantly is that the exams are fair not ridiculously hard like the calc exams but not easy to the point where you didn’t have to study, second you could theoretically not attend a single lecture like I did 99% of the time and just go to the quiz review (more on that in a moment) and try and understand what they are talking about (which wasn’t hard to comprehend) and do well enough on the quizzes to be ready for the exams, and thirdly there’s a fucking formula sheet thank god. If it wasn’t for the formula sheet I promise you this class would be 10x harder cause you do need a lot of equations for this class. Exam wise there will be 2 for 266, 6 questions each, and 75 minutes, which I think is fair considering some questions are really easy and fast to solve and some do take time but I wouldn’t say it’s like a 20 minute question more like 7-8 minute question. For me quizzes were the best as like in calculus you have a weekly quiz 25 min, 2 random questions from the practice quiz you have to solve, and as I said if you go the quiz review and understand what is happening it’s Literally a free 10/10. Exams are 60%, quizzes are 25%, Homework are 12% (you only need to do 3 questions form the sample set to get full credit), and the remaining 3% is basically free points if you do the weekly review where it asks how are doing in class, recommendations, etc. overall very doable class with a lot of chances to get a good grade as he does drop your lowest 2 exam questions, 1 quiz, and 4 homework sets. I can’t tell you if the professor is solid or not as I rarely went to class besides doing the quizzes but from what I gathered he is ok.
   
5. Statistics 305 (Engineering statistics), not a core class, 3 credits, full semester, spring 24, instructor: Troy Meyers, difficultly: 6.7/10 This is the exact reverse of CE 206, the content here is hard, in my personal opinion, but Troy makes his exams really easy. First off I wanna say that Troy is one the funniest professors I’ve ever met, he tells us cool and funny stories, he really wants you to succeed in this class by helping and asking questions, and he really is passionate about statistics. The material is hard but his exams are literally the example material he posts on canvas along with of the homework questions. I mean if you can memorize the practice material on canvas you’ll be just fine as most of the time he doesn’t even change the numbers in the exam (keeps it the same). The first 2 exams were really easy, the third exam I failed it just because I stoped going to lecture and didn’t even go to the exam, but the avg was really high just don’t be a dumbass like me, the final is recycled material from the 3 midterms along with questions from post 3rd exam. The homework is really easy if you understand what you are doing. Honestly this class could be hard if you don’t take it with Troy. Oh yeah DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS ONLINE! I heard they make the online sections of this class ridiculously hard, just take it with Troy he teaches like 7 sections of this class, so you should find more than enough seats to be in his sections.
   
6. Chemistry 167 L (chemistry 167 lab), not a core class, 1 credit, full semester, fall 23, Instructor: Krishna Suresh, difficulty:6.2/10 This class for 1 credit is absolutely bullshit. Firstly the “professor” for this class is named Sarah Pistolesi but you never actually meet her or even talk to her ever, even if you tried to send an email she will never respond. So what you have is a post graduate instructor and about 15 other students in a laboratory doing chemistry. What I was hoping for this class is to do dope ass chemistry experiments and overall have a chill and easy time but nope this class is the literal definition of aids. You do about 13 experiments throughout the semester and I would classify 1 experiment as cool and rest absolutely ass, you have to do a fat ass report on your experiment, and you also have 3 in class experiment exams throughout the semester, you have a pre lab quiz, post lab quiz, and post lab EXAM each fucking week (all online though). I mean all that for 1 credits is insane and they weren’t easy quizzes or exams nah they were the ones where you actually had to read the lab manual thoroughly and do the labs precisely to do well on them. The pain in ass really was the lab reports, some of my lab reports were like 8-13 pages long as they ask you a shit ton of questions about the experiment you did that week along with a review on what you did, you had to make graphs from excel, and solve stoichiometric questions which as I said before is insane for a 1 credit class. I mean I put more effort into this class than fucking Calc 1 and that’s not even a joke. Now the instructor (Krishna Suresh) is really cool though and does understand our pain for this class I mean this was her first time teaching this class and was astonished by the amount of work you had to put for 1 credit. She did her best and did sometimes allow us to go early because for some reason there is no fucking chairs to sit on and the lab was 3 hours long so you had to stand up to 3 hours straight with no breaks at all. Smh that class was a joke on god and unless you are a chem major you aren’t going to get an A on this class, also some of the questions were ridiculously hard to solve unless you know chemistry for real for real.
   
7. Speech com (Speech communication), not a core class, 3 credits, full semester, fall 23, Professor: Michael Wettengel, difficulty: 5/10 Out of all the classes on this list this class is the dullest class I’ve taken so far. In fact it’s so dull I can’t even tell you how the grades were distributed because he goes off by points, and not by percentage but what I can tell about this class is that you have to put effort into your speeches. In this class you will have 3 major speeches, 3 or 4 mini speeches, lots of homework, and in class activities. For your mini speeches all you have to do is write a speech 2-4 min long on a index card-s and read it to your fellow classmates, obviously it’s not that straightforward as you need to come up with the plot and stuff but that wasn’t bad. For the major speeches you had to make a PowerPoint for your first two speeches along with references and research to prove on what you are taking about and obviously a rehearsed speech you have to prepare and present to the class. You got a lot of homework you have to do but honestly they were just stepping blocks for the presentation and speech you were going to give for your major speeches so it wasn’t bad. Finally the in class activities weren’t bad but they were silly especially at the beginning. Oh yeah for this class you have attend as there is attendance points and also for the in class activities you had basically each class. The main speeches were an informative, persuasive, and special occasion. The first one (informative) was in my opinion the most annoying one as you had to do a lot of research for your topic along with pictures, slides, references, etc. The second (persuasive) was actually not bad as you would want to keep the same topic from the informative one and just persuaded on why your topic is important. For the third one (special occasion) it was the easiest as no research was needed and you can really talk about anything you want. For the first two speeches you had to get your topic approved by the professor but the third one you don’t have to as long as you and another class mate aren’t talking about the same topic. Michael wasn’t a bad professor at all, he actually made the class quit fun it was just the material and over overall speech com is boring. He is a tough grader though and does take the speeches seriously and will deduct points accordingly to the speeches rubric. Honestly the only reason I give this class a 5/10 in difficulty is the amount of effort you have to for this class and not because the material is hard.
   
8. Civil engineering 170 (Graphics for civil engineers), core class, 2 credits, full semester, fall 23, professor: Stuart Nielsen, difficulty 4.25/10 What made this class instantly easier than the rest of the civil engineering classes is that the class is online and even if it wasn’t I think it would easier than the other civil engineering classes. Firstly no exams in this class which is already great, secondly it’s easy to follow up in this class meaning you don’t have to watch the lecture videos multiple time to understand what’s happening you can watch it once and easily see what he is talking about. There are 12 homework sets, and 2 projects that’s it. The homework sets are: first 2 weeks you do sketches, 2D, and 3D drawings with building objects. You also learn how to draw thing on a side view, top view, etc in 2D and 3D. The next 5 weeks you will use AutoCAD learning how to use it and using its tools, a bit surveying, etc.., then 1 week to do the final project on AutoCAD which is literally what you did on the app for the last 5 weeks compressed into a final project. The the next 5 weeks you do Revit which was actually really fun in my opinion, you learn how to design and build a building on Revit, floor plans, put objects, sceneries, etc…, and then 1 week to the final project which was basically to build a house with a few requirements. Honestly this class is really easy and I would say the hardest thing about this class was the AutoCAD final project was a bit tricky but once you get used to AutoCAD it’s only honestly cake. Revit is in my opinion easy and simple to understand, its tools are not complex and the rendering on the app is great. Stuart is a great guy and although you don’t really meet him he does put a lot of effort into his videos and does respond to emails.
   
9. History 202 (Introduction to western civilization), not a core class, 3 credits, half a semester, spring 24, professor: John Monroe, difficulty: 3.6/10 I never thought I would enjoy learning about history and this class did not disappoint. It’s a fun class to learn about European history (Napoleon, French Revolution, WW2) and John’s videos are fun to watch. It does get boring sometimes but that’s when some of the history was boring but I wouldn’t say I slept or anything like that. You do quizzes weekly but honestly if you do watch the lecture videos then you shouldn’t have any problems. You might not take an A on this class as some of the questions are detailed (you need to read the questions carefully) but you will definitely enjoy the class.
   
10. Anthropology 230 (globalization, and the human condition), not a core class, 3 credits, half a semester, fall 23, professor: Sedi Azirani, difficulty: 2.8/10 Im going to make this short and simple, watch the lecture videos, do the weekly quizzes, do a essay every 2 weeks, review the course for the final exam, take the final exam and you’ll get an easy A. The only tricky part about this class is the essays as you have to watch a video (usually there will be 2 to choose from) get a reference source and write an essay about the video topic. Quizzes are easy if you watch the videos and look at the slides, and the final exam is easy if you review the material. Honestly an easy A.
    
11. English 250 (written, oral, visual, and electronic composition), not a core class, 3 credits, full semester, fall 23, professor: Paul Kimumwe, difficulty: 1/10 If you have taken any english class from ISU you should know that they are an easy A. I put literally 0 effort into this class and still got a 98% on it. You literally do 4 or 5 major essays of your liking as long as you follow their simple requirements and you do 1 power point slide towards the end of the semester explaining your future plans with your degree and I would say thats about it. I mean the only way to fail this class is literally not to submit anything but you really do need a free A from time to time to boost your gpa and luckily this class is a requirement for any degree you take here.
    

Final thoughts:
This year, I tried to get out of the way the bullishit classes like my SSH electives, and the easy classes so I can get to the good stuff in the future without a annoying and unnecessary class that I’m forced to take that literally isn’t a engineering class, so I would say that this year was a smooth sailing but probably won’t be next year as I’m going to take some tough ass classes. I hope I have given y’all some insight to these classes if y’all ever gonna take them especially for future Civil engineers.

Demographics

• Gender: Male
• Race/Ethnicity: White
• Residence: South
• Income Bracket: $100-130K
• Type of School: Public
• Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): N/A

Intended Major(s): Environmental Science, MoleculaEvolutionary Biology, International Relations
Academics

• GPA (UW/W): 4.00/4.85
• Rank (or percentile): 3/~600
• Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: 10 honors, 11 APs, 15 IB (full diploma), 10 DEs (online)
• Senior Year Course Load: Chemistry HL, Biology HL, English HL, History HL, Enviro SL, Physics SL, Theory of Knowledge, AP Calculus BC (online), DE Stats (online), AP CSP (online)

Standardized Testing

• SAT I: 1540 (740RW, 800M)
• ACT: 32 (did not report)
• AP: reported 7/9 scores; mix of 4s and 5s submitted
• IB: French B SL (7), Math SL (6), Biology SL (6)

Extracurriculars/Activities

1. Environmental Activism (redacted org name) - chapter foundenational director team that uplifts network of ~70K activists; climate ed resource creation (9, 10, 11, 12)
2. Students for Enviro Action and Environmental Competition (same as Honor #1) - co-led 100+ students at meetings and coastal cleanups; co-coordinated 21 competitors (9, 10, 11, 12)
3. SSP Biochemistry - applied TO even though it wasn’t TO at the time! (wooooops); honestly feels like a fever dream (12)
4. Foreign Language Organization - as Founder, led team of ~18; tutored in French and created extensive lesson materials (10, 11, 12)
5. Key Club International - member of District Board; directed 12 clubs; co-designed a few graphics for 22K youth (9, 10, 11, 12)
6. District National Honor Society - president of 10-15 HS chapters; led community-wide environmental and educational projects (11, 12)
7. Environmental Research @ local college - explored MATLAB in context of seagrass health (11, 12)
8. Local Environmental Nonprofit - Front Desk Staff and Microplastic Citizen Scientist (9, 10, 11, 12)
9. Boy Scouts - Eagle Scout, held many many positions, earned 70+ merit badges (21 needed for Eagle)
10. Wind Ensemble and Marching Band - multiple distinctions on 3 instruments; self-explanatory; uhh I had to leave after 3 years because my directors were remarkably toxic (9, 10, 11)

Awards/Honors

1. 4th Place - team-based environmental competition (international)
2. ISEF Finalist in Plant Sciences (international)
3. Service Project Award - sorry for being vague - top 0.045% (national and regional)
4. Statewide recognition in STEM - designated top STEM student in district by school board (state)
5. Recognition for work in service organization - approx. 400 hours in this position (international)

Letters of Recommendation
Environmental Science Teacher: 100/10, he told me that it was “glowing” and I knew I would ask him for a LOR since sophomore year. I’ve known him for all four years of high school, taken 2 classes with him, gave him science fair guidance (for his son), and have continuously shared personal climate activism updates with him; he also coaches my Activity #2 (co-captain and senior officer)→ Honor #1.
IB English/AP Lit Teacher: 9/10, she and I would have heart-to-heart discussions (and sometimes rants about some ppl…oops) regarding politics and literature. I loved connecting our texts in class, such as one by Toni Morrison, to systemic issues (unfortunately no one else really cared). We also share a wicked love for the outdoors and exploring uncharted places! The only reason I say 9/10 is because I got a 4 on the exam and had a decent amount of absences in her class, however, she fully understood my personal circumstances.
School Library Specialist/Aide: 9/10, she is undoubtedly my school “grandma" who I share all of my updates and personal adventures with. I sometimes help her sort books, organize equipment in the library, and tutor students from time to time. I read her rec and it said “[my name] ranks among the most compassionate, driven, motivated, and dedicated volunteers I've encountered in my years at [my high school]".
Interviews
Harvard: 10/10, it was amazing and I clicked immediately with my interviewer. It honestly felt like a casual conversation where I also detailed various projects/initiatives; it was nice hearing him talk abt different traditions and house pride at Harvard. The first question asked by him was “do you think we can save the world?"
Yale: 8/10, I didn’t prep much, but I loveddd talking with my interviewer about his experiences at Yale, my interests in science and government, and how multidisciplinary Yale is. He sent me the sweetest message after getting in, which honestly made my day.
\Note: Both interviewers were in their 60s/70s and my virtual interviews were requested by the alumni very last minute with a 1 to 2-day turnaround time.**
Essays
Personal Statement: 9/10, connecting personal growth with scientific exploration - an estuary near my house inspired me to conduct my ISEF project alongside other pursuits - tried to also keep it light-hearted
Supplemental Essays: Harvard - 9/10 (honestly, I'm super proud of them :,)), Yale - 8/10, Stanford - 8/10 (wrote in 1 day..shhhhh)
Additional Information: 10/10, really helped highlight/reinforce parts of my application - mentioned semifinalist/finalist for programs like Coke Scholars and Senate Youth; elaborated on international recognition for work on the climate (e.g. travelling to DC for a funded event); discussed my burning love for languages (from a Chinese program to my Venezuelan friend helping me learn Spanish). In a parallel universe, I would undoubtedly major in linguistics and help indigenous language preservation efforts (sorry, ling is so fcking cool but bio/enviro currently has my heart).
Decisions (indicate ED/EA/REA/SCEA/RD)
Acceptances:

• Squidward Community College (SCC) - with a clarinet scholarship!
• Vanderbilt (RD) - Chancellor’s Scholarship!
• FSU (RD) - Honors/Presidential Scholars
• UF (RD) - Honors/Research Program
• Yale (RD)
• Stanford (RD)
• Harvard (REA)!!!

Waitlists:

• Touching Grass State University (TGSU)

Rejections:

• N/A :,)

Additional Information:
Initially, I wasn't going to make this post but a friend suggested I do so—I feel like the past four years have been a wild ride—filled with exhilaration, frenzy, stress, love, and growth (as an activist, student, researcher, and human being). There are a bunch of things that I would change, if I could go back, but—as many people say—EVERYTHING WILL WORK OUT IN THE END. I have listed a few brief (p.s. you should study for your AP and IB exams...lol) pieces of advice:

• Do what genuinely interests you! This is a cliché statement, but it couldn't be closer to the truth. Want to make a language in your own script? Want to develop a CS model to identify plastic wastes? Want to pour your heart out into playing the guitar? Want to write a blog analyzing your favorite Laufey song? Want to create a mural in your community made with recycled materials?
• Please do not take a quadrillion classes indiscriminately. I was obsessed with class rank in 10th and 11th grade, so I would naturally take online AP and DE classes on top of a full IB Diploma courseload. Uhhhh it was also crazy taking 4 sciences my senior year. Please. Do. Not. Do. This.
• Try not to compare your personal circumstances with others! Everyone is on their own path coming from different socioeconomic backgrounds, medical histories, etc. Be the best YOU.
• Appreciate your teachers. Yes, it's hard to reflect on your teachers when you have 6 others equally piling on assignments—as you also try to balance ECs. However, they have helped shape who you are and are (for the most part...yes some just suck) really interesting individuals.

tl;dr; I think Tesla is going to release an internal combustion engine.
A little background. I'm in my 40s and studied Alfred Chandler extensively as an undergrad business student in college. Where most business schools teach about maximizing shareholder wealth, and business school graduates often get hired on as financial advisors, usually with the kid thinking he's gonna turn into the next Jordan Belfort, when really the hiring is focused on determining the parents' assets and it's worth the churn and burn hire to capture the parents' accounts by the hiring company, I had a brilliant professor, Dr. Roy Simerly, for strategic management who threw everything we'd learned up until his class out the window. He referred to the idea of "maximizing shareholder wealth" as "rubbish". 5 of the 17 students in our class failed and were unable to graduate, disrupting their plans. He gave zero f*cks. Dr. Simerly and I became and remained friends until he passed away.
I was 19 when I graduated and grew a company to $24M/yr at 21 as a software developer. I'd moved from NC to Florida with $2000 to my name with no friends in Florida and no job prospects. 9/11 happened six days after I went incorporated. I quit that job at 23 (wasn't my company) and six months later they went under and 60+ people lost their jobs. This has been a recurring theme in my life.
Simerly summarized Chandler's Logic as this:

The Logic of the Managerial Enterprise is the making of necessary investments in management, production and distribution in order to achieve economies of scale and/or scope, benefit from the learning curve, with the strategic intent of dominating a portion of an industry.

Here's an essay by Chandler that I share frequently as an introduction: https://hbr.org/1990/03/the-enduring-logic-of-industrial-success
The thing that impresses me about Tesla is how simple their supply chain is compared to the traditional auto manufacturers, not to mention their level of vertical integration. In traditional vehicles, every button on the dash needs a mold, a manufacturing process and a supply chain, for every culture the vehicle gets exported to -- e.g., there needs to be a mph and a km/h speedometer. Buttons needs to be available in different languages, et cetera. Every bearing, spring, bolt, transmission synchronizer, gear, et cetera has its own supply chain.
With a Tesla, they have a touch screen, a couple motors, wiring harnesses and some axle shafts. I consider their powertrain to require the supply chain that might equal what it requires Audi to make a TorSen differential, a starter and an alternator (castings, precision gears and motor windings). I have significant experience in weapons and circuit board manufacturing, and I know the castings, machining, heat treating, et cetera, of the components in the supply chain are far more intensive than making circuit boards and, especially, updating firmware.
I've also notice that owners cannot buy out their leases. More on that in a bit.
It takes less than 70 hp under all circumstances to maintain highway speed. This post on Quorum does a nice job explaining it: https://www.quora.com/How-much-horsepower-is-needed-to-move-a-car-forward-at-highway-speeds-60-mph
Now for some Art of War:

When a country is impoverished by military operations, it is because of transporting supplies to a distant place. Transport supplies to a distant place, and the populace will be impoverished.
Those who are near the army sell at high prices. Because of high prices, the wealth of the common people is exhausted.
When resources are exhausted, then levies are made under pressure. When power and resources are exhausted, then the homeland is drained. The common people are deprived of seventy percent of their budget, while the government's expenses for equipment amount to sixty percent of its budget.
Therefore a wise general strives to feed off the enemy. Each pound of food taken from the enemy is equivalent to twenty pounds you provide by yourself.
So what kills the enemy is anger, what gets the enemy's good is reward.
Therefore, in a chariot battle, reward the first to capture at least ten chariots.
Change their colors, use them mixed in with your own. Treat the soldiers well, take care of them.
This is called overcoming the opponent and increasing your strength to boot.

We are seeing this in the competition. Tesla was not taken seriously as EVs were not taken seriously by the traditional manufacturers. Now they're trying to play catch up, but it's impossible as there is no manufacturer other than Tesla that understands software development. I know this because I know several people who work for Tesla, and I know nobody who works for any of the traditional auto manufacturers and some of those who I know that now work for Tesla left traditional supply chains to work for Musk. As a developer, I would find it impossible to accomplish anything under the way the traditional organizations operate. They don't get it.
Aluminum takes something like 10% of the resources to recycle as it does to refine from Bauxite. I suspect the reason we cannot buy out Tesla leases is that the materials, including the rare earth materials for batteries, will lower the cost of the vehicles further through recycling. Yes, I'm aware that what's said publicly is that recycling Lithium-Ion batteries doesn't yield economies, but I think back to how Napoleon used aluminum utensils at his table when everyone else used gold because Aluminum was far more expensive at the time. Processes changed that and now aluminum is cheap. I suspect that Musk's engineers may have solved the rare earth recycling to increase economies. Motor recycling may present advantages, and perhaps that single-piece die-cast frame could be efficiently recycled as well.
Here's what I'm thinking, given the long introduction. One revenue center for Tesla is selling carbon credits (I would have to guess that those are sold to the supply chain of their competition). The subsidies benefit Tesla far more than the other manufacturers and, as Tesla is not entrenched in the political donor class like, say, Chrysler, I suspect these subsidies to end in response to it not helping the donor class as expected, and when they do and as Tesla already has a vastly simplified supply chain, and that their powertrain does not need direct mechanical coupling between the motive source and the traction source, my gut tells me that they could get away with a much smaller battery pack and a small engine. The reduction in weight means the amount of material used to support the vehicle drops. The small battery pack can be used to provide rapid acceleration when it's needed. It may even be possible to use one of their existing motors that's used as a regenerative source, or, if not, to use a variant of the motor as a charging generator and, combined with a small engine ( < 100hp) to make an APU and now have an ICE-powered vehicle that leverages their simple supply chain and powertrain. There still would be no transmission, drive shaft, et cetera. If it were me, I would not be using sheet metal for the body panels, but that's as far as I can go without violating an NDA.
Tesla just dropped their supercharger team, which supports this theory as well.
One final note, unrelated to Tesla, but related to economies of scale and scope. I remember when I first toured the Gulfstream 650 line (we'd just bought one, so they showed me around) thinking that Gulfstream was positioning themselves to own aviation outside of cabin class business jets in their fly-by-wire technology. Their design cycle times used to be several years. The G550 was a variant of the GV and it was several years before the 650 was released. But after they developed their fly-by-wire technology, they quickly developed the 500, the 600, the 280, the 700 and the 800. And whether they can continue on their current trajectory without General Disaster screwing things up is yet to be seen.

My name is Alex. I'm 23 years old. I have autism and ADHD (among other things). I have an Associates Degree in Arts and I'm nearly done with a Bach Degree in Cybersecurity from Purdue Global. Not to mention graduated high school with honors. My IQ is 132.
It's not that I can't work hard or am lazy. It's that I can't multitask AND work hard at the same time, all while jobs that should take an entire team an entire fricking day are put on me to finish in an hour. I can't handle a job that's fast paced AND complicated AND difficult. I can handle two of those at once but not all three.
I recently got a job at a Casey's gas station as kitchen staff. Which I promptly lost in three days after I realized I couldn't manage an entire kitchen on my own. My autism has never allowed me to do a million things at once. Making pizzas, preparing sandwiches, dishes, cleaning, moving boxes, and a million other tasks that need to be done every hour with me being the only person in a kitchen that should have 7 or more staff members. All while dealing with a hip injury (AVN) that prevents me from doing certain tasks. If my job had consisted of making pizzas all day nonstop from 8-4, no question I'd have thrived there. Or doing dishes from 8-4. Or making sandwiches from 8-4. I quit that job by making up an excuse that it was too hard on my hip (even faked a hip fracture, which cost my parents hundreds of dollars in MRI fees) so my parents wouldn't get mad at me. Luckily they were willing to write it off as an honest mistake rather than a carefully calculated scheme to quit yet another job.
Walmart was a success for a while (from late 2022 to early 2023), as you were doing one thing for a half hour to an hour. I had a lot to do for sure and the work was hard, but my attention was able to be focused on one thing for an extended period of time. I would start the day with trash pickup, for example, and do that for a half hour to an hour. Until I hit the three month mark and they suddenly decided I was ready to be pushed around. One minute I'd be told to load plastic recyclables into a trash compactor, then the next minute a manager would be b1tching about how I didn't clean up a spill I was nowhere near at the time. That is what set me off, and I quit my job that day.
Sodexo (the school lunch company) was a similar success (from Sept 2021 to January 2022), until it wasn't. Though it took a while to understand exactly what was expected of me, once I got it down I thrived in that job because one thing was expected of me: dishwashing from the morning to late evening. I'd be doing roughly the same thing at 6PM as I was at 12:30 PM. Having a routine ensured that I thrived in that job... right up until they switched out the nice manager for this utter Shaniqua who rubbed me entirely the wrong way. She was breathing down my neck constantly criticizing me for things I would've done last week and been congratulated for. I ended that job by throwing a massive fit and rage quitting.
Jewel Osco got rid of me after two freaking days without even bothering to try and train me. But I probably wouldn't have lasted there anyway.
McDonalds was a failure similar to Jewel, but lasted much longer. I went into that job without any practical knowledge of how to do it (thanks Mom and Dad, and the garbage public school system that doesn't teach you S@it even in Independent Living Class). But I did my best, and lasted about a month and a half there largely thanks to the fact that the front lobby was under renovation, saving me a crap ton of "extra" tasks on top of the giant workload already offered. Once that front lobby opened up I utterly crashed and burned. At least when I lost this job it wasn't because I rage quit, it's that I was fired for not knowing how to do a job they never even bothered trying to teach me how to do in the first place.
If school (high school or online college) was any indicator of how I'd function in the real world, then I'd be a mid level manager at Jewel by now. I have never gotten a grade below a C in a class in my entire life. I graduated high school with honors and a 3.8 GPA. College isn't quite as much of a breeze but I pass my classes. I don't expect to have any student debt because of a fat scholarship that covered much of my college career, my choice to go to community college for my associates degree, and my parents' deep pockets. All three of my current classes are A's right now. And I'm taking CYBERSECURITY. I only have one regular term remaining after my current term (the Purdue Capstone, which is basically an essay). After that it's off to find two twelve week internships, which I have high hopes for because they're work-from-home.
Here's the thing though: in school you can pass with a 70% and be considered a good student, and I've always gotten more than that. I have been known to strategically skip on assignments and still pass. In the real world if you don't perform at 100% efficiency and accuracy constantly, you're fired. In school you have a strict routine and are doing one thing at a time. The workforce is chaotic and disordered, and you're expected to multitask well or be fired. In school and even in college you're seated most of the time. In the workforce if you sit down for a brief moment, they fire you. In school if you finish your assignments for the hour, you're assigned harmless busy work with no effect on your life, given time to complete your homework, or you're allowed to chill out. In the workforce if you finish your tasks quicker than everyone else, they give you more tasks. In school if you mouth off, you get detention. If you mouth off in the workplace, you're fired.
If you want someone to blame, blame my parents. They never taught me any real-world skills, such as how to make pizza, flip burgers, or multitask while physically exerting yourself. I was expected to perform well in school, and that was it. No preparation for the real world.
If someone could give me some advice, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Read this in continuation of the 2022 CSAT post so that you realise how tricks repeat even if the questions don’t.
To make the most of this post, read just the tricks, solve 2023 paper and then refer to explanation of every question. Reading the explanations directly will not help you much.
The general tricks are to remove 1. Extreme statements 2. Too specific statements 3. Counterintuitive/illogical statements 4. Statements no where mentioned in the passage 5. For “assumption” questions, read comment section. 6. To find crux of passage — follow this example. Suppose passage talks about how melting of polar caps is leading to sea level rise. Then the passage is NOT talking about global warming leading to melting of polar caps and it also NOT talking about afforestation to stop the melting. Often the cause/effect/solution of the passage are mentioned in the options for a question on the crux of the passage, however, we know these things from our general knowledge and not what the passage is talking about. So in crux, only restrict to what is mentioned in the passage and not what we know from our general knowledge. Usually when what is IMPLIED is asked, then sometimes a solution not mentioned in the solution apply. But that solution directly addresses the problem or cause mentioned in the passage. For example, the passage is about how air pollution is causing global warming, then “implementing emission standards to control air pollution” can be an implication of the passage because it directly solve a problem mentioned. (Refer Q2 to better understand this)
There are 27 questions in total, even if you get 22 right and 5 wrong, you can score 50 in this section alone!
As per Set A —
Q1) The passage is about water allocation, so the action required should also be about water allocation which is mentioned in Option A. Option B (interlinking), Option C (water transfer) and Option D (sectoral demands) are not even mentioned in the passage. Moreover, option B is extreme as it says ALL river systems to be interlinked. Option C can’t be right it cannot be an IMMEDIATE action as required by the question. Same for Option D. So while Option B, C, D might make sense in general, they are not related to the passage.
Q2) Observe how the options use words from the passage, but not in the context, the passage uses them. For example, it says “For an economy that will be more dependent on highly skilled workers, this poses a significant challenge. Here “this” is referring to how malnutritioned children have poor cognitive ability (mentioned in the line before it). It’s not talking about skill development program is the need (Option B) or health and nutrition of only skilled workers to be improved (Option C). Option C is also extreme as it says ONLY skilled workers. Similarly it doesn’t talk about education system or rural areas (Option A) — both these keywords are nowhere mentioned in the passage. The entire passage talks about how poor health and nutrition leads to (1) Less productivity today and (2) less potential tomorrow by reducing cognitive ability of malnourished children. So if the problem is health and nutrition then the IMPLICATION has to be something that solves this problem of health and nutrition (Option D). So again, while option A, B, C make sense in general, they are not related to the passage.
Q3) Option A is wrong because it puts major responsibility on the government — when the passage only talks about what government can do, not that it has the main responsibility for adaptation and mitigation. Option B is wrong because land use patterns nowhere mentioned. Option D is wrong because extreme – mitigation is NOT possible, also not what passage is talking about. Option C is the only suitable one — refer to last line of the passage.
Q11) Similar to Q2, observe how the options use words from the passage, but not in the context, the passage uses them. Passage says “Businesses” who fail to hedge will fail, NOT “Businesses” who causes emission need to close down/pay (Option A). Option B is opposite to what passage is saying. Passage is saying technological change may or may not help, so it can’t be the only solution. Moreover, ONLY solution is too extreme to be correct. Now, Refer to trick 5 on crux of message. Option D is talking about a solution when the entire passage is based on a problem. Solution ki toh baat hi nahin kari. “Renewable energy sources” nowhere mentioned in the passage. Option C is correct because passage talks about how technological change may or may not help and businesses that do not hedge against this uncertainty will fail. Option C is just reiterating this – you can’t wait until technology improves ie you have to hedge.
Q12) Edit after the official answer key To find rational assumption, check every option to see if the passage can be true even if the assumption is false. Initially I thought Option C is right but making this change after the official answer key. I think Option C could be wrong based on the fact that it sounds a bit too extreme with “even if environmental problems go unattended” Option B is wrong because government is nowhere mentioned, the passage is about individual efforts. Option D is wrong because western values are nowhere mentioned.
Q13) In crux message, eliminate anything not mentioned in the passage — Universal Basic Income (Option A), GM crops (Option B), Fortifying (Option D). Moreover the line “Part of the reason nutrition is under threat worldwide is that our food systems are not properly responding to nutritional needs”. So food systems must respond to nutritional needs, that is, food waste nutrition should be focused, which is given by option B.
Q21) Implication of the passage = solve a problem that the passage directly mentions, and not a problem, we know from our general knowledge. Passage talks about the need for a scientific and reliable information and not arbitrary actions because they won’t make a difference. Option a wrong because not mentioned in the passage. Option C wrong because driving without periodic pollution test is not a problem the passage mentions. Option D wrong because no reason has been mentioned as to why administration tends to make Arbitary decisions, the only thing that has been mentioned is that they are unfair. Option B is correct because it’s picked from the last line of passage. Scientific and reliable information = evidence based approach, knee-jerk reaction = Arbitary decisions.
Q22) Passage is talking about how rapid growth in international markets have made corporate governance and economic/political agenda. Then it talks about how effective corporate governance leads to more external financing by investors because it leads to standards of disclosure, timely and accurate, financial reporting etc. Option A is wrong because corporate governance has become an important agenda and not access to good external financing (line 2 of passage). Like 2 also talks about how rapid growth in international capital markets has led to corporate governance being an agenda of discussion and not necessarily GOOD corporate governance. Option D is wrong because robber supply chain, nowhere mentioned in the passage. Option B is right from last line of passage.
Q23) Passage is talking about what elephants do is also helping other species. It is not talking about only the Home range of elephants to be vast area of rich biodiversity (Option A) because home range ke bahar bhi ho sakta hain. Option C is wrong because it is too extreme – CANNOT be maintained without elephants. Passage Bol raha hain ki elephants are important and not necessary. Option D is wrong because it is too specific – regenerate forests with species AS PER THEIR requirement, aisa toh kuch bola hi nahin passage ne. It only says elephant apne liye karta hain cheezein (not as per other species requirement) and woh bas baakiyon ke kaam aajati hain. Option B is correct because it says elephants benefit biodiversity which is what the passage is about.
Q31) Both assumptions aren’t related to the passage because it does not talk about government/private sector. There are only 2 problems mentioned — segregation is rare, recycling, mostly with informal sector rather than formal sector (could be private/public, doesn’t matter), only small budget left for processing/resource recovery. So private ya govt karein, uski baat hi nahin hain.
Q32) Option a is wrong because cost of energy generation not mentioned in the passage. Option B is wrong because it is extreme – most ideal way, the passage only says biomethanation offers a major solution and not that it is the only/most ideal one. Option D is wrong because the last line gives biomethanation as a solution for the biodegradable component of municipal solid waste, so it cannot be inadequate. Option C is correct because it is directly mentioned in the passage – “waste to energy fit in the chain AFTER SEGREGATION, collection, recycling…..”
Q33) Option A wrong because the first line itself says that “a claim (or assumption, as asked in the question) is that organic farming is inherently safer and healthier” Option B is correct because it directly solves a problem mentioned in the passage — “FARMERS AND CONSUMERS ARE NOT ONLY CONFUSED…”, so they need to be educated.
Q34) Option A, B and D are wrong because they are too extreme and counter logic, moreover the passage is about how organic farming lacks awareness about best use and NOT that it is inherently not a good idea. This awareness issue is addressed by option C – “farmers need to be guided”
Q35) Eliminate options not mentioned in the passage. Option A goes against last line “intensive, monoculture agriculture practises can perpetuate food and nutrition security”. Option D — subsidies are nowhere mentioned as a cause. Option B and C are more generic and directly related to the passage.
Q41) Edit after official answer key The answer is A ie Assumption 1 is correct. I am unable to justify that, if anyone can, please it up in comments. Here’s the original explanation I gave — This is a relatively tougher question to comprehend, so in case you are not able to solve it during exam time, better to leave it and move to easier questions. Option A is wrong because global warming as a cause is nowhere mentioned. in fact, no cause has been mentioned only the impact of early and longer spring. Option B is wrong because the only thing the passage mentions is that as the ice melts earlier, the birds don’t return – it talks nothing about it, not being good for bird populations.
Q42) The passage talks about poor nitrogen use efficiency and its harmful impact on the environment. It doesn’t talk about any solution like switching to crops that do not require excess nitrogen (Option C) and replacing conventional agriculture (Option D). Agar passage mein problem poor nitrogen use efficiency hain toh solution should also address nitrogen use efficiency which is done by Option A. Option B is wrong because it is too extreme.
Q43) Option B, C and D are not even closely discussed in the passage. And Option A is directly addressed in the line "The crucial question in the next few years will be how resources, technologies and REGULATIONS are used to support the victims of climate change”
Q51) Option A wrong because too extreme — food, yielding trees cannot just replace other trees. Option B wrong because passage only talks about how food from non-conventional agriculture helps in food security, and NOT that without conventional agriculture, food security cannot be ensured. That just becomes too extreme. Option C seems probably but notice “To help the poor” in the end, which makes it too specific and poor as a section haven’t been mentioned in the passage. Option D is the most general statement that goes with the theme
Q52) Passage is about how pollution from antibiotic factories. It’s NOT about environmental awareness among people (Option B). Then Option C and D are wrong on two fronts — (1) they talk about solutions when the entire passage is just highlighting a problem and (2) they are both very extreme extreme solutions that don’t make logical sense. option A is correct because it gives solution to the problem that is mentioned in the passage. Problem mentioned is pollution from antibiotics, factories and solution is proper effluent treatment protocols taaki pollution release hi na!
Q53) Passage ka point hain pehle fundamental padhai at primary level karo to build a base, tabhi toh uske upar higher education ki skills learn kar payenge. Similar to Q2 and 11, observe how the options use words from the passage, but not in the context, the passage uses them. Compare how knowledge economy has been used in passage v. How it is used in Option B. Option C is counter intuitive to what the passage is talking about. Passage bol raha hain build foundational skills, while Option C is saying build higher education skills. Option D is wrong because parents ki baat hi nahin huyi.
Q61) Option A wrong because “societal structure” nowhere mentioned. Option B wrong because the passage is talking about confusion due to many choices and not uncertainties around those choices. Option C wrong because again, it is about having too many choices that impaired our decision making ability due to this plethora of choices and not because someone is influencing our opinion. Option D is the only suitable answer that talks about what is directly mention in the passage
Q62) Edit after Official Key Only those solutions will work that directly address a problem mentioned in the passage, not solutions that would work in general sense. So problems mentioned in the essay are (1) onerous bureaucracy (2) scepticism of organised financial institutions (3) lack of basic information about which of the services and providers is best for each family (4) how one can make the transition between them if necessary (iska matlab hain transition between the physical assets they invest in and the financial products the passage wants them to invest in). So all problems mentioned here are on the consumehouseholds side. So solutions must also be addressing the household side exclusively on the 4 problems mentioned. Now coming to the solutions mentioned in the question — Option 1 one is correct because it addresses problem (4), that is, only if there is a flexible environment, can households make a transition from physical assets to financial assets. Option 2 is correct because it addresses problem 3 by providing information on what is best for each family (customised solutions). Option 3 is correct because it talks about a generic solution which encompasses the above two.
Q63) Passage talks about pros and cons of patents. Nowhere it is mentioned about dependence on other countries (countries ki toh baat hi nahin huyi) ie Option 2. Similarly, Option 3 is talking about a solution when the essay only mentions the pros and cons of a patent. Since the option is about pros and cons, Option 4 talks about finding a balance between the two, and thus it’s correct.

AI written articles are a godsend for small business owners. They’re short, informative and usually free. However, like with everything else, AI has its drawbacks. It cannot generate 100% factually correct, engaging articles that are SEO friendly. Another thing it cannot do is post it to your website with formatting and images included.
I am here for that. I'll fix your AI generated articles, optimize them for search engines, and post them to your website – all for $25/hr. I can usually edit 1000 words an hour, to give you an idea of the cost.
I’m also a writer with 7+ years of experience, and my rates range from 7-12 cents/word.
WHAT I CAN WORK ON
I can work on just about anything. I usually don’t write essays, poetry and super technical articles, but editing those isn’t a problem.
COMMUNICATION CHANNELS
I can communicate through Reddit and email. I usually send files in .docx format, however, so email is preferred. I may require a phone call (via Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts) before finalization.
RATES AND PAYMENT METHOD
My rates for editing and publishing range from $25-30/hr, and for writing they range from 6-12 cents per word. It all depends on how much work is involved, and how long-term the project is.
I accept payment through PayPal, credit cards, and direct bank transfers. I accept US dollars, and payment must be made upfront. Happy to send you an invoice if needed. I usually need recurring clients to sign a contract – this protects both you and me, and ensures there are no misunderstandings.
WRITING SAMPLES
Here are a couple:
https://cuddl.com/babies/what-should-my-baby-eat-age-by-age-guide-to-feeding-your-baby/
https://flewidfriendly.com/canada-plastic-ban-edible-straws/
https://springnaturals.com/blogs/dog-cat-nutrition-blog/the-link-between-shedding-and-your-pets-diet
https://mcgregorbenefits.com/individual-family-health-insurance/dental-insurance/
https://lakewashingtonwindows.com/windows/garden-windows/
https://faitaveccoeur.com/blogs/fait-avec-coeur-blog/plastic-usage-in-the-skincare-and-beauty-industry-all-you-need-to-know-for-sustainable-living
https://faitaveccoeur.com/blogs/fait-avec-coeur-blog/recycling-isn-t-the-solution-to-our-waste-problem
https://boise.social/
https://wormbucket.com/blogs/worm-composting-resources/how-to-harvest-worm-castings
https://hubpages.com/health/Phobias-what-how-why
https://www.initiatelift.com/digital-detox-for-business-owners/

AI written articles are a godsend for small business owners. They’re short, informative and usually free. However, like with everything else, AI has its drawbacks. It cannot generate 100% factually correct, engaging articles that are SEO friendly. Another thing it cannot do is post it to your website with formatting and images included.
I am here for that. I'll fix your AI generated articles, optimize them for search engines, and post them to your website – all for $25/hr. I can usually edit 1000 words an hour, to give you an idea of the cost.
I’m also a writer with 7+ years of experience, and my rates range from 7-12 cents/word.
WHAT I CAN WORK ON
I can work on just about anything. I usually don’t write essays, poetry and super technical articles, but editing those isn’t a problem.
COMMUNICATION CHANNELS
I can communicate through Reddit and email. I usually send files in .docx format, however, so email is preferred. I may require a phone call (via Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts) before finalization.
RATES AND PAYMENT METHOD
My rates for editing and publishing range from $25-30/hr, and for writing they range from 6-12 cents per word. It all depends on how much work is involved, and how long-term the project is.
I accept payment through PayPal, credit cards, and direct bank transfers. I accept US dollars, and payment must be made upfront. Happy to send you an invoice if needed. I usually need recurring clients to sign a contract – this protects both you and me, and ensures there are no misunderstandings.
WRITING SAMPLES
Here are a couple:
https://cuddl.com/babies/what-should-my-baby-eat-age-by-age-guide-to-feeding-your-baby/
https://flewidfriendly.com/canada-plastic-ban-edible-straws/
https://springnaturals.com/blogs/dog-cat-nutrition-blog/the-link-between-shedding-and-your-pets-diet
https://mcgregorbenefits.com/individual-family-health-insurance/dental-insurance/
https://lakewashingtonwindows.com/windows/garden-windows/
https://faitaveccoeur.com/blogs/fait-avec-coeur-blog/plastic-usage-in-the-skincare-and-beauty-industry-all-you-need-to-know-for-sustainable-living
https://faitaveccoeur.com/blogs/fait-avec-coeur-blog/recycling-isn-t-the-solution-to-our-waste-problem
https://boise.social/
https://wormbucket.com/blogs/worm-composting-resources/how-to-harvest-worm-castings
https://hubpages.com/health/Phobias-what-how-why
https://www.initiatelift.com/digital-detox-for-business-owners/

TL;DR Focus practicing MBE questions, aim for at least 1500 but ideally get into the 2000 to 2500 range. I recommend Adaptibar but they're all recycling the same NCBE questions anyways. Also, flash cards for general concept review. Finally, some practice MPT and MEE but focus more on the 'ideal' answers your jurisdiction has released for past exams. These things are nothing if not rote, so just regurgitate their shitty writing style and formatting back at them.
_____________________________________________________________
Hello all,
Just sharing my experience and study methods as a data point. I failed July 2023 by 7 points and passed February 2024 by 9 points.
For July, I did the usual thing and did a full course of bar prep after graduation. I picked Barbri. I did like them overall, and the outlines were helpful for February as well, but obviously I failed using them so take that with a grain of salt. I completed about 70-80% of the course, but in the hindsight I focused too much on the videos and not enough on practice questions.
For February, my strategy was to hard focus practice MBE questions and flash cards. I didn't buy a full bar prep course, in part because I was working full time, and instead I bought Adaptibar. Between July and going hard in February, I ended up doing all but one or two hundred questions out of Adaptibar's full 2500-3000 question library.
I think this is the thing that carried me the most, as once you do so many of the questions your brain starts to treat it like a game. I highly recommend doing something in the range of this many questions, as you will start catching key words, red herrings and trick questions that they love to recycle.
For MPT and MEE, I focused mostly on the flash cards in Adaptibar which was fairly useful in reinforcing core concepts. A couple weeks out from February I did do some practice essays, but truthfully I only wrote out a few and outlined the rest in my head. More importantly, I compared my answers to the sample answer New York provides, and while I can't remember specifically I can definitely say some of the questions from both July and February were slight variations on older questions. I didn't pay for the sample answers, I got a big library from a coworker, but I'm pretty sure they're posted publicly for free anyways.
EDIT: Forgot to mention, I did questions and studied while working, but I took two weeks off leading up to the exam to study full time. If you're able I'd recommend the same so that you can cram questions; I think at least 1500 of the MBE questions I did were in those final weeks.
I hope this helps, and remember: whether you're taking it for the first time or the twentieth, just remember that this thing is a bullshit scam that you just need to play along with long enough to actually do the work you want to do.

Demographics
Gender: Male
Race/Ethnicity: Asian
Residence: SoCal
Income Bracket: 200K+
Type of School: Competitive Suburban Public
Hooks: none
Intended Major(s): Computer Science/Data Science
Academics
GPA (UW/W): 3.5/3.7
Rank (or percentile): school doesn't rank
# of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc.: 11 APs
Senior Year Course Load:
Fall: AP Physics 1, Machine Learning, English 12, AP Gov/Econ
Spring: AP CSA, Orchestra, AP Physics 2, AP Stats
Standardized Testing:
SAT 1550
ACT: 33
AP/IB: Calc AB 5, Chem 3, Calc BC 5, Psych 5, CSP 5
Extracurriculars/Activities
List all extracurricular involvements, including leadership roles, time commitments, major achievements, etc.
#1 Independent research on environmental impact from climate change
#2 Volunteer at a local soup kitchen
#3 Vionist at my school orchestra for 2 years
#4 Volunteer at a computer recycling center
#5 Coached elementary school students in Science Olympiad competition
#6 CyberPatriot cyber security competition semifinalist
#7 Big Data online bootcamp with UC Berkeley
Awards/Honors
List all awards and honors submitted on your application.
#1 Presidential Volunteer Service Award Bronze
#2 Seal of Biliteracy
#3 CM level 10 (Violin)
#4 NM Commended
#5 AP scholar with distinction
Letters of Recommendation
Physics teacher: 5/10, not very close w/ this teacher and she didn't really like me
AP CSP teacher: 6/10, very nice guy, but not very close w/ this teacher as well
Research Advisor: 8/10: very close relationship, cool guy, had lots of good things to say about me
Interviews
Waterloo: 5/10, interview required me to record myself answering some questions but answered pretty badly and ran out of time for some questions
Essays
7/10, I'm not a good writer
Decisions
Acceptances:
University College London
Univ of Toronto
Purdue
Univ of British Columbia
Northeastern (London)
Univ of Maryland
McGill
Texas A&M
Ohio State
Univ of Minnesota
UC Merced
Univ of Manchester
Penn State
CP Pomona
Rutgers
SUNY (Stony Brook)
Michigan State
Rochester Inst. Tech.
Univ of Pittsburgh
Indiana Univ
Arizona Sate Univ
Oregon State
Univ of Central Florida
Waitlists:
Virginia Tech
Univ of Mass (Amherst)
Rose-Hulman
UCSC
UC Riverside
Rejections:
Oxford
Carnegie Mellon, ED2
Berkeley
Cornell
Imperial
Univ of Illinois (Urbana)
Georgia Tech
UCLA
Univ of Texas (Austin)
Johns Hopkins, ED1
UCSD
Univ of Sourthern California
NYU
WashU
Univ of North Carolina
UCI
Univ of Wisconsin (Madison)
UCSB
Case Western
UC Davis
CP SLO
SDSU
SJSU
Not heard from:
Waterloo
King's College London
Additional Information:
At first I was worried at my chances for top colleges b/c of my (relatively) low gpa, so I applied to a bunch of schools, US and international, and it was pretty interesting to experience the application process for schools in other countries
for example uk schools don't care too much about gpa and instead have admissions tests that are much harder than the sat
canadian schools only care about mainly 11-12 grade gpa
in the end it all worked out for me so don't worry if your gpa is too low b/c you still have options as long as you are flexible w/ where you want to study

TL;DR: Performed in line with my stats, got lucky with CLS and will be attending!!
Stats: 3.mid, 17low, nKJD / 2Y WE , URM asf
Application process: When it came to picking schools I knew I was aiming for the T14 because I’m an overachiever and prestige whore, so my top choices were ones in the northeast and relatively close to home, except for Yale bc their admin office gave me bad vibes and I want to study abroad in law school and they don’t have that option and also New Haven, yuck. That meant HLS, CLS, NYU, Penn. I added other T14s for which I felt I could write their optional/additional essays without too much effort.
Safeties/targets were Fordham, Temple and Howard, which were all schools I felt I’d be happy attending in a worst case scenario, especially Howard which has a stellar reputation.
The hardest part of applying was getting my essays together since I’d already taken the LSAT in undergrad. I spent a few months from Sept-Dec working on the two statements for HLS, and for the most part recycled them to fit the PS and optional essays for other schools.
Reflections Overall, I’m a little disappointed with my cycle. I am confident that I had a solid application and thought that the rest of my materials would be enough to offset my admittedly very weak GPA- I don’t know if my addendum was all that effective though. I am so sure that if I had had even a 3.8, my cycle would have looked very different. As it is, I think my materials showed an applicant who was competent enough that most of the T14s waitlisted me in case their diverse admits with better stats didn’t work out. Chicago interviewed me and I thought it went okay, not great, and yea I got WL’d.
Temple and HUSL both admitted me with full tuition scholarships, which I was and am very grateful for!!! I attended HUSL’s admitted students day and thought the faculty/admin was incredible, as well as really enjoyed the vibe of the student body and their alumni network is legendary. I appreciate Temple’s strong PI reputation and Japan campus (I am a huge weeb), but as much as I like Philly I’m a little wary of how little they place graduates outside of the city. So if it had been between the two of them I would have picked Howard.
I received a CLS interview invite early april which was a dream come true, and I spent a weekend preparing intensely for it. I think this interview is what got me the A, given everything else. I showed a ton of passion (coughdesperationcough) for the school, and a genuine desire to be in NYC long term and I think both those things are probably what carried me across the finish line. I am eternally grateful that I had that opportunity to add more color to my application.
I have no idea how much financial aid I’ll be receiving if any. I’m a little nervous about passing up the ride from Howard because its outcomes are so good and I’m starting to have nightmares about all the debt I’m about to incur, but there are a couple reasons why I’m going with CLS- CLS is simply better resourced, with way larger career services across all sectors, I love NYC, and I believe I will have more support and opportunities to explore different paths at CLS as opposed to having to potentially fight/create those opportunities for myself at Howard. I know people do all the time there and have great outcomes, but I don’t got it in me🥲 Also, this sub acts like CLS has a nightmare culture, but everybody I met (fellow admits, current students, admin) at the admitted students event was actually really lovely and helpful and I’m looking forward to being on campus.
I think it’s crazy that I still haven’t heard from NYU or Fordham. I won’t be withdrawing because on the off chance I get an A from either I’d like to leverage it for hopefully more aid.
I will not be removing myself off waitlists because I’m lazy and I don’t think it’ll make a difference for other applicants, but I didn’t write LOCIs for most of them anyway so I don’t think it matters.
I am so sad about withdrawing from Howard tho idk why or how to explain it🥹
But anyway thanks for reading all this and thanks to this community for all the support. It might be a little unhealthy but I personally loved having a place to be neurotic with people who could relate, and a place to celebrate as well. To anybody else going to CLS, see you in the fall!!🩵🩵

Comprehension —
This is a very scoring part once you are able to get a knack of it. To make the most out of this post, attempt the questions and then refer to the comment I have made for every question. 100% of them are doable. Feel free to ask clarification on any explanation :)
Instead of doing multiple tests from coaching centres, solve PYQs
The general trick is to remove 1. Extreme statements 2. Too specific statements 3. Counterintuitive/illogical statements 4. Statements no where mentioned in the passage 5. To find crux of passage — refer explanation for Q41.
There are 27 questions in total, even if you get 22 right and 5 wrong, you can score 50 in this section alone!
As per Set A — Q1) Expansion of recycling leading to unustainability is illogical (Option 3) and Option 1 is obvious and directly mentioned, so you get the answer.
Q2) Passage mentions what developed countries have done right and why developing can’t do that thing. So that would mean that any help from developed to developing will be either to help them imitate their own success (point 2) or solve developing’s challenge in doing what developed have done (point 1). Point 3 has only been mentioned as a cause of the problem and not something developed countries have solved, so how can they help developing in it? To put it simply, passage says developed have been able to expand recycling/invest in public transport. And developing have been unable to do these 2 things because of high costs/low availability of clean energy. Ab developed ussi cheez mein toh help kar sakte hain jo unhone khud solve karli which is option 1 and 2. Yeh toh kahin mentioned hi nahin that they have been able to change their production and consumption patterns. It’s only mentioned as a cause of unsustainability.
Q3) Passage mentions degradation of land not depletion/shortage, so point 2 removed
Q11) The passage says we should look for wise people (refer its last line). It doesn’t define being wise as trained in administration. Thus you remove option 2 for being too specific and so option 3 is the most suited here.
Q12) Option 4 is the only thing mentioned in the passage, all others are unrelated to the passage.
Q13) Only option 1 mentioned in the passage.
Q14) Option 4 is too specific and extreme (restricts human choice “permanently”). Passage doesn’t talk about Option 2 and 3.
Q21) Statement 1 is extreme. Passage only says most tech in developed country, not that it’s confined only to developed. Statement 2 is contracted by the line in the passage “techniques develop developed in the west, are being adapted in some places” and moreover, passage talks about what happens if technologies are not adapted in developing countries and NOT stating a fact that they are not being adapted.
Q22) passage only mentions that better infrastructure can increase food availability for humanity not that developed countries have better infrastructure. The only point mentioned with respect to developed countries is their agricultural technology.
Q23) Corporate Farming is nowhere mentioned in the passage.
Q24) Statement 2 is extreme – “ALL existing species would get extinct”
Q25) Option 2 is directly from passage
Q33) Statement 3 is extreme – “explains ALL the natural phenomena”. Statement 2 is wrong because passage directly mentions more than 90% have gone extinct in the past, not that more than 90% are in danger of getting extinct.
Q34) Passage mentions how every change has resulted in increase in water consumption, so out of the 4 solutions mentioned, the one resolving water problems is the most suitable
Q41) This is a good passage to understand that you should focus on connections or causal effects in a passage. This means if it’s given Falling X leads to rising Y, then crux of a passage in not rising Y but how falling X is leading to rising Y. Now the passage talks about how working too much has left little time for man in which he doesnt WANT to work on his spiritual welfare. The essay IS NOT about how he cannot work on his spiritual welfare but how after a long day at work, he has less time left, so he’d rather chill than work on his spiritual welfare. That’s why Option D is not the answer but Option B is. Overworking is the “X” here and Spiritual Welfare is the “Y” here.
Q42) Same as above. Passage bol raha hain, kaam mein itna time chala jaata hain ki ghar aakar jo time bachta hain usmein insaan apna chill karna chahta hain naaki spiritual welfare par kaam. So Option 2 would be wrong because uske paas thoda time toh bachta hain, but he would rather spend that time on entertainment or amusement. (Option 4)
Q43) Pretty straightforward and easy
Q44) Passage is talking about Demographic dividend CAN help in economic growth by boosting savings and how Education, Skills, Human Development will help reap the benefits of Demographic dividend.
It’s NOT talking about Demographic Dividend being ESSENTIAL for rapid growth, just that it can help it through saving rate, as evident in Ireland and China. Essential would mean iske bina ho hi nahin sakti — not something mentioned in the text. So Statement 1 wrong. Similarly, passage talks about how education can help improve the quality of demographic dividend not its connection with economic growth and definitely not its essentialist. So statement 2 wrong.
Q51) Read the last line — Agar leisured population (because machines kaam kar rahi hain ab inka) ko happy hona hain, then it MUST be an educated population and kaise educated ho? MUST be educated with a view to enjoyment + direct usefulness of technical knowledge. Iska matlab ki aise educate karo population ko ki unhe enjoy karna aana chahiye aur jo new technology aayi hain, usse use karna aana chahiye. Overall passage bhi yahi bol raha hain ki leisure is tedious (boring and long) except for people who have intelligent activities and interests. So Option A is most suitable. Option B isn’t mentioned in passage. Option C is also not mentioned because it only says educated youth can help in enjoying life of leisure, nothing about HAPPINESS is mentioned. Infact happiness as a word hasn’t been mentioned in the passage.
Q52) In this, while the passage does seem a bit tricky, the options to the questions make elimination easy. Option A Is too extreme – NOT POSSIBLE? Iski toh baat hi nahin kari. Option C is wrong because author has given a few reasons as to why adults don’t feel thrilled. Option D is wrong because no where mentioned.
Q53) Same as above, incorrect options don’t make sense/are unrelated to the passage
Q61) First line of the passage says majority people who fail to accumulate money for their needs get easily influenced by opinions of others. So it’s saying out of people who don’t accumulate money majority get easily influenced. It’s NOT saying majority people aren’t accumulating money sufficient for their needs, it’s just saying out of those who aren’t accumulating it (chahe woh minority bhi ho), unmein se majority are getting easily influenced. To simplify it, let’s say there are 100 people in total. 90 accumulate money, 10 don’t, but out of these 10, a majority, say 7, get easily influenced. So people who don’t accumulate money are not a majority (Statement 1 wrong). Similarly, it does not say that most people never fail to accumulate money, it could be 90 fail to accumulate and 10 don’t buy out of those 90, most are easily influenced. So majority part is not on accumulating money but on getting influenced.
Q62) Option 4 is extreme (“any opinion at all”). Option 2 and 3 are not mentioned in the passage.
Q63) “Social order is a sacred right which is BASIS OF ALL OTHER RIGHTS”. This means social order hoga toh hi baaki rights possible ho payenge (Statement 2). “This right does not come from nature and must therefore be founded on conventions.” This means nature/bhagwan nahin banata yeh social order, humein khud through social conventions isse bana hota hain, so conventions determine social order which in turn determines other rights (Statement 1)
Q71) Refer line “ scientific research is probably never completely useless” in passage. Also all other options are too extreme.
Q72) All but Option C are extreme
Q73) Passage bol raha hain ki problem hain kuchh months bahaut zyada baarish hain aur kuchh months bahaut kam. So a solution would be to store when there is extra supply for the times when there is under supply (option 4). Options 2 would be wrong because cropping patterns ki toh baat hi nahin kar raha. Similarly, interlinking is nowhere mentioned in the passage. Option 1 while also talking about storage tanks and canals, sounds less environment friendly than Option 4 and is a bit too specific with “across the country”

Info about me: Asian Female Private school 4.0 unweighted, 4.68 weighted, 1460 SAT
PLEASE SEE MY PROFILE, IM DECIDING IN BETWEEN TWO AND I REALLY NEED FEEDBACK
Accepted: - Northwestern Feinberg CounterAct Fellowship ($17/hr, 8 wks, medical dermatology/immunology focus, 5 accepted) - City of Hope Eugene and Ruth Roberts Academy ($4000 stipend, 10 wks, cancer focus, 2% acceptance rate) - Emory Winship SSRP ($1600 stipend, 6 wks, cancer focus, ~10% acceptance) - LAPS Eve and Gene Black Program ($500 scholarship, 2 wks) - Camp CHLA Health Care Exploration (free, 2 wks) - UCLA Pre-Med Summer Scholar program (costs $1200, 5 days) - JHU Global Health Leaders Conference
Waitlist (sorta) BU RISE; moved to matching phase to find mentor but have not been matched yet (applied under medical sciences and neuroscience)
Reject - SSP (womp womp) - Duke STAR (interviewed —> reject) - Cedars Sinai CIRM SPARK (interviewed —> reject) - HOPP MSK (got the top 15%/2nd phase email —> reject) - Cedars-Sinai INSPIRE - RSI - SIMR - Stony Brook SSRP - Rockefeller SSRP - UCSF SSRP - GMU ASSIP - Naval SEAP - Lillehei Heart SRSP - UCSF CURE - Dartmouth Health HS Foundations - Houston Methodist Summer Internship - Stanford STARS Internship - LA-HIP CHLA - Duke University Neuroscience Experience (DUNE) - NIH STEP-UP - OHSU Molecular Imaging Internship
Haven’t Heard Back (probably rejected though, idk) - Texas Tech Clark Scholars - Princeton LLP - Georgetown Lombardi Cancer Summer Research Volunteer - Coriel Medical Summer Experience
Didn't finish application/miscellaneous - Fred Hutch Cancer Research - Project STRIDE - NASA GeneLab - Scripps STRI - UC Davis YSP - Hoftra HUSSRP - Iowa SSTP - NIH-SIP
Takeaways (dm for more detailed questions): prepare for interviews but also be yourself; reduce, reuse, recycle essays; celebrate your wins; patience is key; be nice to your teachers/recommenders (they probably hate me now)

I liked this movie. A lot, actually. But I do have mixed feelings about it. First the main negatives for me:
First, I was a bit underwhelmed by the fight choreography and action scenes. For my taste nothing was outright badly executed. The fighting and action was all decent. But it lacked the wow factor that the audience has come to expect from Zack. We’ve grown accustomed to jaw dropping action and fight scenes from this director. And in that aspect this PG13 cut was mid tier. In the back of our minds the bar is set high. We’re hoping for action of the caliber of that famous continuous long shot of Leonidas tearing through the enemy on the battlefield, the assassination of Comedian, Superman battling Kryptonians, Batfleck’s Batmobile chase and warehouse scene, the DC trinity versus Doomsday, and so on.
Anyway, getting back to PG13 The Scargiver, it’s interesting to note… the fight choreography was actually better for me in PG13 Child of Fire!
It was far from ideal that Zack took on being both director and DP. That’s mostly what I attribute the mid tier fight and action visuals to. Zack Snyder’s films are at their peak visually for action (and overall) when Larry Fong is his DP. He had strong DPs also with MoS and ZSJL but those films were not as visually stunning as his work with Fong. I mean good lord: 300, Watchmen, BvS... gorgeous! Of course Zack had to keep Rebel Moon within budget. But the price for that is that the movie can’t be all that it can be. That’s the cost of the director trying to do more than what is reasonable to take on. Same thing happened with AotD. (By the same token if this was the only way to get Rebel Moon made, so be it! I can live with it.)
Second, I expected more of Jimmy and I was a disappointed I didn’t get that. On the other hand, I’m aware that in the director’s cuts Jimmy gets more development. Or at least we know from the novelization of Part 1 that’s the case. And presumably we will get more of James in director’s cut of Part 2 as well—in fact, likely more than Part 1 director’s cut gives us. Hardcore fans will find out shortly, once the novelization for The Scargiver ships.
Third the score was for me unremarkable. I actually noticed some motifs that felt recycled from ZSJL. It was serviceable. But again no wow factor as was the case for MoS, BvS, and ZSJL.
I guess that’s mainly it for disappointments… Nothing else really stands out for me personally. I’ll see what else emerges in subsequent rewatches. Anyway, they’re not dealbreakers for enjoying the movie. But they’re there.
Having said that, I understand that the PG13 cuts take an originally very expansive story with a buckwild artistic vibe and strip it down to bare bones. And from Zack’s description, it sounds like aesthetically the PG13 versions are in some ways trying to meet what Zack apparently perceives to be a kind of generic, “normie” taste for sci-fi/fantasy. I.e., something more in what he recently referred to as the “focus group” sort of direction anyway. This is something that I will critique later in this essay.
Edit: I’m hungry, gonna go grab some breakfast! To be continued, obviously. I’ll return to complete this after I eat.
Ouch! I wrote a really long continuation and it looked like it successfully posted but then disappeared. Probably too lengthy. I should have copied/saved it before I tried to post it. Oof! Oh well. I'll try again but compose it outside of reddit, lol.
For the time being, a super short version for the positives:

1. I really like the story and universe! I like the characters. I want to see it develop. It’s fun. I’m very much into the characters and the mythology of it.
2. It got me thinking about how Star Wars has aged from the experience I had of it when it first released in 1977. This took me down into a whole rabbit hole of associations about the sci-fi/fantasy genre and its evolution. How it started from pulps and 1930s and 1040s movie serials, to cheesy 50s, 60s, and 70s TV and shows B movies, to something relatively sophisticated today. And I think Rebel Moon creatively and provocatively plays with that. And I appreciate it greatly for doing that. But it's also kind of uncomfortable as well!

I'm gonna come back to this and build this out this evening and tomorrow. Apologies that until then it looks mostly negative. Because it's actually mostly positive, by far!

Alright, my fellow content crusaders, let's veer off the beaten path of the tired old "create great content and THEY will come!" mantra, because let's face it - the internet is a wild, untamed beast! It's a virtual jungle out there, and you need more than just a pretty piece of content to survive in the digital wilderness.
Have you noticed how digital marketing, especially the often overlooked gem that is content marketing, doesn't get the respect it deserves? It's like the quirky cousin at the family reunion - everyone knows they are cool, but they don't always get a seat at the grown-up table. While other industries have textbooks thicker than a an old-school phonebook, digital marketing seems to get shoved aside like last year's iPhone model. But this might change, for I am on a noble quest to change that narrative.
My new book, Clickonomics, is here to hopefully shake up the status quo with fresh ideas, innovative frameworks, and tools that will not only revolutionize how we approach internet marketing but will also make the skeptics sit up and take notice. I will take some extracts from the book and post them here.
First new idea: Simba's Five Forces
Picture yourself as Simba the Lion King on the digital savannah. The sun beats down on the pixelated landscape, and beneath the buzzing of social media notifications, you hear it: the distant roar of competition. Other businesses, content creators, and aspiring influencers are circling like hungry hyenas, all vying for attention within the vast expanse of the World Wide Web. This, my friend, is the thrilling, chaotic, and sometimes cutthroat realm of marketing on the internet or as we clickonomists say, competing for attention.
But fear not! For you are no helpless little cub, destined to be left behind by the relentless stampede of online trends. You, the savvy content marketer, have stumbled upon a powerful tool – your survival guide to navigating the online jungle.
Ladies and Gentlemen I present to you Simba's Five Forces.
Now, before you start groaning and rolling your eyes at the mention of another marketing framework, let me assure you - this isn't just some dusty theory cooked up by academics who still think Myspace is the latest social media craze. No, no, my friend, Simba's Five Forces are inspired by something far more exciting than your average business school jargon. We are talking about the OG of business strategic thinking here - the one and only Porter's Five Forces. Simba's Five Forces (SFF for short) is not just standing on the shoulders of giants, it's practically riding on their backs like a boss! I mean, Porter's Five Forces has been the backbone of business strategy since Michael Porter decided to grace us mortals with his wisdom back in 1979 in that Harvard Business Review article “The Five Competitive Forces that Shape Strategy?” Pure gold!
This isn't your run-of-the-mill marketing fluff; this is the real deal. We are talking about competitive forces that can make or break a business, shaping strategies and defining success on the internet. And hey, if it's good enough for Michael Porter and legions of fortune 500 businesses, it's definitely worth a second look.
Think of it this way: the internet is its own kind of ecosystem. It has its predators (established brands with massive followings), its scavengers (those who recycle trendy content), and its adaptable survivors (the ones who roll with the punches and evolve with the ever-changing digital landscape). To thrive in this environment, you need a strategy that taps into both the primal instincts of a lion and the clever resourcefulness of a meerkat.
So, what exactly are these mystical forces?

Force #1: The Threat of New Content – Outsmarting the Deluge on the Internet Jungle
In the kingdom of Clickonomics, the battle for attention is as fierce as lions vying for a prime cut of an antelope. You might think you have crafted a masterpiece of content – a perfectly polished blog post, a hilarious meme, or a viral-worthy video. But wait! Before you unleash your creation into the wild, remember this: the digital savannah is teeming with hungry competitors, constantly churning out fresh content designed to steal your precious audience.
We live in the age of the content deluge. It's estimated that over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are created every day, much of that in the form of online content. That's the digital equivalent of a hippo stampede, with each new post, video, or tweet threatening to trample your own carefully crafted work into obscurity.
Think of it like this: you are a skilled hunter on the savannah – you have honed your skills, stalked your prey (aka your ideal audience), and prepared the perfect snare. But just as you are about to make your move, an entire pack of newcomers bursts onto the scene, their noisy and haphazard methods scaring away your potential catch. Frustrating, isn't it?
This relentless flood of new content is both the greatest challenge and the greatest opportunity on the internet.
The first rule of surviving the content deluge? Never, ever be a mere copycat. In the oversaturated digital jungle, mimicking what everyone else is doing is a surefire way to be ignored. Remember, back in the glory days of the early internet, a simple text-based web page might have cut it. These days, that's the digital equivalent of showing up to a cocktail party in sweatpants – technically, you are dressed, but you are definitely not making an impression.
​
Instead, your mission is to offer something unique, a piece of content that stands tall like a majestic giraffe against the backdrop of the digital plains. Embrace the power of niche – focus on becoming an expert in a specific area, providing the kind of in-depth knowledge your audience craves. Carve out your specialized watering hole, and soon, your thirsty audience will flock to you.
It might be tempting to panic and think, "I need to churn out content faster!" But resist the urge to sacrifice quality for speed. Think of the infamous tortoise and the hare fable. Slow, steady, and strategic wins the race in the online world too. One thoughtfully written insightful article can leave a longer-lasting impact than ten hastily thrown-together social media posts.
Instead of aiming to be everywhere at once, select a few key content platforms at first, and focus on creating content that truly shines there. Remember, your audience would rather see one truly remarkable piece of content per week than mediocre filler content on a daily basis.
Understanding the rhythm of your audience is vital to content mastery. Imagine yourself as a zebra at a watering hole. Visit at the wrong time, and you might find it dried up, or worse, swarming with lurking crocodiles. Similarly, posting the most amazing article at 3 AM when your audience is fast asleep is a recipe for digital crickets.
Analyse when your target audience is most active online. Tools for social media analytics are your best friend here. Publish strategically, so your content has a fighting chance against the deluge, instead of getting swept away unnoticed.
The best news? Not all content is destined to be swept away by the tides of the internet. Invest in creating 'evergreen' content – content that remains valuable long past their publish date. Think in-depth guides packed with practical tips, curated resource lists, or thought leadership pieces that tackle timeless problems in your industry. These are your content workhorses, attracting new audience members long after they are first created.
Of course, even evergreens need some maintenance. Periodically revisit your best-performing older content. Update any statistics, add fresh examples, or improve the formatting. This demonstrates that you are invested in providing the most up-to-date value, earning you serious trust with your audience.
Let's address the big elephant in the digital room: AI content generation tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Co-Pilot and Google’s Gemini. These have the potential to revolutionize the content creation game, giving smaller businesses and solo content creators a fighting chance against big business. AI can help you generate ideas, whip up attention-grabbing headlines, create image variations, and even draft scripts for videos – it can do so much more!
However, as with any powerful tool, AI in the wrong hands can be dangerous. It's tempting to fall into the trap of churning out generic, AI-written content en-masse. But here is a word of caution: the inhabitants of the digital savannah are getting smarter. Audiences can sniff out soulless, AI-generated content a mile away. And worse, search engines like Google are cracking down on sites that overuse these tactics.
The key to harnessing AI lies in using it as your intelligent assistant, not your creative replacement. Let AI handle some of the grunt work, giving you the building blocks that you then enhance with your unique insights, expertise, and brand voice.
Standing out and creating timeless content is essential, but so is the ability to stay nimble in the fast-paced digital world. Trends emerge and disappear faster than a chameleon changing colours. Ignore them at your peril, but don't become a slave to them either.
Think strategically. Can you leverage a trending topic in a way that aligns with your brand and niche? Is there a way to put your unique spin on a viral challenge in a way that feels authentic? Don't be afraid to experiment, just make sure there is always a method behind your choices (or madness!).
Let's step back for a moment and ponder this: we are living in an age where everyone's vying to create and share the latest and greatest thing, yet our attention spans are notoriously short and getting shorter. It's a paradox: we crave constant novelty, yet, at the same time, we are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of it all.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to navigate this contradiction. Become a digital curator – the one who sorts through the chaos, providing a carefully selected set of high-quality content that truly resonates with your audience. By offering value instead of simply adding to the noise, you become an oasis in the vast desert of information overload.
The threat of new content is a constant force in the realm of Clickonomics, but it's one you can learn to wield to your advantage. Remember: there is always space for content that offers genuine value, that cuts through the clutter, and provides your audience with experiences they wouldn't find anywhere else on the internet.
So, channel your inner Simba. Understand the landscape of this digital savannah, be both fierce and strategic in your content creation, and never underestimate the power of high-quality contributions that stand the test of time. Do this, and you won't just survive the content deluge, you will reign supreme as a king or queen of your digital domain.

Force #2: Threat of Different Type of Content – The Content Chameleon, Adapting to the Buffet of Consumer Preferences.
In George Orwell's thought-provoking masterpiece, Animal Farm, the animals were all gung-ho about the whole 'equality for all' gig. They even had a snazzy placard with the catchy slogan "All Animals Are Equal." But lo and behold, as soon as the pigs got a taste of power (and probably some delicious apples), that placard magically transformed into a new and improved version: "All animals are equal BUT some animals are more equal than others." Talk about a classic case of equality taking a nosedive straight into the realm of irony!
Yes, yes, we all know that "content is king." But let's not forget that in the vast kingdom of the internet, some types of content are like the royals of the British royal family. With over a hundred different flavors of content to choose from – blog posts, videos of all shapes and sizes, podcasts, infographics, memes, quizzes, you name it – it is no wonder we are all swimming in a sea of choices. Sure, all content should be engaging and attention-grabbing, but let's face it, some types of content are just born to rule the internet like the content monarchs they are. So, whether you are into dissecting the stats of Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi in a 10,000-word essay or prefer a 15-minute video reel of Cristiano and Messi dancing their way to greatness on the football pitch, remember, not all content is created equal – some are just destined for internet stardom!
Imagine yourself at a digital buffet, tables overflowing with every conceivable type of content: long-form blog posts that go deep into complex topics, bite-sized infographics perfect for a quick information fix, hilarious memes that make you snort-laugh in public (not ideal, but hey, we have all been there). This is what its like on the modern internet – a land of abundance and overwhelming choice for your target audience.
Here is the challenge: in this content smorgasbord, simply creating good content isn't enough. You need to become a master content chameleon, adapting your approach to suit the ever-evolving preferences of your audience. Remember the mantra of Simba's First Force: Content is King. But here is the twist: in the realm of Clickonomics, all content is indeed royalty, but some content types reign more supreme than others.
Let's face it, the internet has spoiled us rotten. We crave constant stimulation, flitting from one engaging type of content to another like a hummingbird between flowers. Statistics don't lie: studies show that our attention spans have shrunk to the size of a goldfish (cue Dory's voice: "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!"). This means that long-form content, once the undisputed king of the internet, now faces stiff competition from its more concise cousins: listicles, infographics, and – the undisputed champion of the short attention span – the mighty short-form video.
Think about it this way: would you rather spend an hour poring over a dense blog post analysing the philosophy of The Lion King, or watch a 5-minute video filled with hilarious clips and insightful commentary on the same topic? For most internet users, the answer is clear – short, engaging video wins every time (unless you are a die-hard text fiend, in which case, kudos to your dedication!).
But hold on a second, Simba! We wouldn't want to paint the internet with one broad brush. Not everyone craves the same content format. Understanding your target audience goes beyond demographics like age and location. Delving deeper, you need to understand their content consumption habits. Are they avid podcast listeners who crave in-depth conversations? Or perhaps they are visual learners who get lost in the world of infographics?
Here is where the Customer Ikigai and web analytics become your secret weapons. These tools tell you a fascinating story about how your audience interacts with your content. Did your latest blog post get crickets? Analyse which format performed best with past audiences and consider repurposing the content into another content format. Perhaps a captivating video summary could breathe new life into the topic.
Repurposing your content isn't about laziness; it's about strategic efficiency. Imagine crafting a captivating blog post – it took time, research, and a hefty dose of creative energy. Now, picture the untapped potential this content holds beyond the written word.
Embrace the content chameleon spirit! Here is where Simba's Content Matrix comes into play (you will learn more about this ingenious tool later, stay tuned!). This matrix helps you map your existing content across different formats, transforming your blog post into a captivating infographic, a bite-sized social media post, or even the script for a short, engaging video.
By repurposing your content, you cater to the diverse preferences of your audience, ensuring your message reaches the right people in the format they crave. It's like serving the same delicious meal on different plates – some might prefer a fancy five-course experience, while others just want a quick and satisfying snack.
This abundance of content formats presents both a challenge and an opportunity. It forces you to be more strategic, to understand your audience on a deeper level, and to constantly adapt your approach. However, it also empowers you to reach a wider audience than ever before.
Think of it this way: in the pre-internet era, a marketer's message was limited by traditional media formats. They had to choose between print ads, radio commercials, or expensive television slots. Now, the internet offers a buffet of possibilities, allowing you to tailor your message to resonate with specific audience segments.
But here is another secret sauce that binds all these formats together: the power of storytelling. Regardless of whether you are crafting a lengthy blog post or a short video, weaving a narrative into your content is the most potent way to capture and hold your audience's attention. After all, humans are wired for stories. They transport us, educate us, and evoke emotions in a way that dry facts and figures simply can't.
In the grand scheme of storytelling, a history textbook might as well be the plain oatmeal of narratives - bland, forgettable, and lacking that certain spice that makes you want to come back for more. It's like trying to sip on a lukewarm cup of tea when you could be sipping on a tropical cocktail with a little umbrella in it. And when it comes to the epic showdown between Simba and Scar, well, let's just say a bullet-point recounting is like ordering a cheeseburger with no cheese, no burger, and just a random slice of lettuce on a plate.
But, oh, watching that battle unfold on the screen? It's like biting into a juicy, perfectly cooked steak - it's savory, it's satisfying, and it leaves you wanting more. The drama, the suspense, the heart-pounding music swelling in the background - that's the stuff that makes your hair stand on end and your heart race with excitement. So, if you had to choose between reading about Simba's triumph in a textbook or watching it all play out in vivid animation, well, let's just say Hakuna Matata wouldn't be in your vocabulary if you missed out on that cinematic experience.
The ever-changing landscape of the internet demands a relentless spirit of experimentation. Don't be afraid to try new content formats, analyse how your audience responds, and pivot your strategy accordingly. Remember those meerkats from the Pride Lands? They are always vigilant, testing out new routes and keeping an eye out for both predators and tasty snacks. That same sense of adventurous curiosity should guide your content strategy.

Force 3: Threat of Competition – The Roaring Crowd, standing out in the Internet’s Coliseum
Welcome back to the Clickonomics arena, where the battle for attention plays out with the ferocity of a gladiator duel in the Colosseum. Here, the roar of the crowd isn't measured in decibels, but in clicks, shares, and that coveted social currency – engagement. And guess who you are competing against? Not just your direct competitors, but a cacophony of voices vying for the same precious commodity: attention.
In the brick-and-mortar business world, competition often follows a clear line: you versus the company across the street offering similar products. But the internet mercilessly shatters these boundaries. Here, the playing field is vast and the competition is fierce, often coming from unexpected corners of the internet.
Remember the wise words of Gary Vaynerchuk, the social media guru himself: "And I’m terribly sorry for the biggest advertisers in the world wasting all their money because they are taking the consumer’s attention for granted.” This statement rings especially true online. Take HSBC, one of the biggest banks founded by a thrifty Scot, for example. They might think their biggest competition is another bank like JP Morgan or Citigroup. But on the internet, a single personal finance blogger churning out content about financial freedom could pose a far greater threat. Why? Because that blogger is capturing the very thing HSBC desperately craves – the attention of potential customers.
This abundance of options online presents a fascinating paradox. What entrepreneurs and businesses traditionally perceive as "competition," internet users simply see as "choice." They have the luxury of filtering through a vast sea of voices, choosing the ones that resonate with them most.
Here is a counterintuitive truth: competition online isn't about eliminating your rivals; it's about carving out a distinct space within this crowded marketplace. It's about understanding what makes your brand unique, what value proposition you offer, and how to communicate that message in a way that cuts through the digital noise.
Think of a lion stalking its prey on the savannah. It blends into its surroundings, using its natural camouflage to remain undetected. But then, it pounces – a burst of power and agility that sets it apart from the rest of the herd. That's the essence of differentiation in the digital world.
Now, here is a surprising twist: those seemingly fierce internet competitors can actually be a valuable source of knowledge. Analyse their digital marketing strategies, see what content resonates with their audience, and identify any gaps you can exploit. Remember, the internet isn't a zero-sum game. Learning from your competitors, and constantly iterating on your own approach, is what leads to long-term success.
Let's not forget the power of disruption. The internet thrives on innovation. Think of companies like Airbnb and Uber – they challenged established industries by offering fresh perspectives and disrupting the status quo. Could your brand take a similar approach? Is there a way to shake things up in your niche and capture the attention of a weary audience tired of the same old strategies?
In the digital coliseum, the roar of the crowd isn't a threat, but an opportunity. It's the sound of potential customers, waiting to be captivated by a brand that stands out from the rest. Embrace the challenge of competition, leverage the insights it offers, and most importantly, never stop refining your roar. That is how you transform competition into a catalyst for growth, attracting your ideal audience and establishing your dominance in your digital corner of the internet.
Remember, Simba didn't win the battle for Pride Rock by simply copying his father. He learned from Mufasa's wisdom, embraced his own strengths, and ultimately, found his own roar.
And most importantly, remember that the battle for clicks isn't about crushing your competitors; it's about connecting with your audience in a meaningful and authentic way. Carve out your unique niche, understand your audience's roar, and make sure your message resonates across the digital savannah.
The internet, with its boundless opportunities and fierce competition, offers an exhilarating and ever-evolving marketing landscape. While the battle might feel overwhelming at times, equipped with Simba's Five Forces, you have a powerful arsenal of strategies and insights to navigate this vibrant yet often chaotic ecosystem.
So, channel your inner lion, stand tall among the digital crowd, and let your brand's unique roar resonate through the internet, attracting the right audience and securing your rightful place in the Clickonomics kingdom!

Force #4: Bargaining Power of Content Platforms and Content Creators.
Ah, the shimmering oasis of the internet – a place teeming with content creators, each vying for a coveted sip from the well of audience attention. But hold on a second, Simba! This digital watering hole isn't quite as democratic as it seems. In the realm of Clickonomics, a complex dance unfolds between content platforms and creators – a delicate tango where power dynamics shift like desert sands.
Cast your eyes upon the digital horizon. You see them, don't you? The towering figures – Google, YouTube, Facebook – the content platforms that dominate the internet landscape. These digital behemoths hold immense power, controlling the algorithms that determine who gets seen, who gets heard, and who fades into the background noise.
Imagine a bustling marketplace where shopkeepers (the content creators) vie for customers' attention. But here is the twist: the market square is owned by a single, all-powerful landlord (the content platform). This landlord decides which shops get prime locations, sets the rent (through algorithm manipulation), and ultimately controls the flow of foot traffic (audience attention).
Now, don't get us wrong. Content platforms offer incredible opportunities for creators. Imagine having access to a global audience with just a click (or a well-placed hashtag). The potential for building a loyal following and amplifying your message is truly astounding.
But here is the paradox (yet again!): content creators need platforms to reach their audience, but platforms rely on content creators to create captivating content to attract users in the first place. It's a symbiotic yin and yang kind of relationship, a delicate dance where both parties hold a modicum of power.
Think of it like Simba and Nala in their playful cubhood days. Nala, with her adventurous spirit, pushes Simba to explore beyond the boundaries of Pride Rock. Without Nala's encouragement, Simba might never have discovered the world beyond the familiar. Yet, Simba brings his own strength and potential to the table, ensuring their adventures are exciting and memorable.
Content creators fuel the engines of these platforms. But creators also hold the power to walk away, taking their talents elsewhere. A mass exodus of popular YouTubers, for instance, could be a major blow to the YouTube's viewership and advertising revenue.
The algorithm – the mysterious gatekeeper in the digital marketplace – deserves its own paragraph (or perhaps an entire book!). These complex sets of rules determine how content is ranked, displayed, and ultimately, discovered by audiences. Understanding how algorithms work is crucial for any content creator or business hoping to navigate the power dynamics of Clickonomics.
But there is a catch: algorithms are constantly evolving, shrouded in a veil of secrecy by the platforms themselves. It's a game of cat and mouse, where creators try to decipher the algorithm's preferences to optimize their content, while platforms refine their systems to stay ahead of the curve.
Now, let us not paint a picture of complete content creator disempowerment. In today's digital world, creators with large, engaged followings wield significant power. Think of Mr Beast or PewDiePie on YouTube – they are celebrities in their own right, attracting billions of views and commanding hefty advertising fees. These "superstars" have the leverage to negotiate better deals with platforms, ensuring a fairer share of the digital pie.
The bargaining power dynamic between platforms and creators and businesses that want a piece of the attention pie is constantly in flux. New content platforms emerge, established giants fall, and the dance continues.
However, there is a growing trend – the rise of decentralized content platforms (…ahem, blockchain enters stage right!). These decentralized content platforms promise greater autonomy for creators, challenging the stronghold of the established players. Could this shift the balance of power in the future, leading to a more creator-centric ecosystem? Only time will tell.
In the realm of Clickonomics, understanding the interplay between Content platforms and creators is essential for forging a successful path. It's a game of chess – not checkers. Play the long game, focus on quality content, build your community, and navigate the shifting sands of algorithms.
While the content platforms wield immense power, remember the vital role you – the content creator – play in the success of the digital landscape. Your creativity, passion, and connection with your audience are what ultimately drive the engines of these platforms forward.
So, channel your inner lion! Recognize the power dynamics at play and use your own unique voice and talent to carve a place for yourself in the digital savanna. In the ever-evolving world of Clickonomics, the interplay between platforms and creators is a dance of both dependence and defiance, a struggle for visibility and the potential to reap the rewards of your hard work.

Force 5: Bargaining Power of Internet Users – Understanding the Power of the People in Clickonomics.
Amidst the noise of content and the allure of clicks on the internet, one force often gets overlooked: the power of the people themselves – the internet users, the consumers, the silent (but very much clicking) majority we call the Clickocracy.
In the realm of Clickonomics, we spend a lot of time dissecting algorithms, crafting content strategies, and analysing click-through rates. But sometimes, we get lost in the numbers game, forgetting the most crucial element – the human beings behind the clicks!
Think of it this way: imagine Simba, all grown up and ruling Pride Rock. He can have the wisest advisors (digital marketing specialists), the most loyal lionesses by his side (brand ambassadors), and the juiciest antelope herds (high-quality content) at his disposal. But if the pride itself (your target audience) loses faith in his leadership (your brand), well, that reign might come crashing down faster than you can say "Hakuna Matata."
The internet has empowered its users like never before. They have an abundance of choices at their fingertips – a million websites to browse, countless social media platforms to scroll through, and an endless stream of content creators vying for their attention. This, my friend, is the paradox of choice.
On the one hand, it's fantastic for users. They have the power to be discerning, to choose brands that resonate with their values, and to actively shape the digital landscape with their clicks and online behaviours. But for entrepreneurs and marketers like you and me, it presents a significant challenge. How do you stand out from the digital din and capture the attention of a fickle, ever-connected audience?
In this age of algorithm manipulation and sponsored content, one marketing force remains timeless: word-of-mouth marketing. Remember the days of blockbuster movies (RIP Blockbuster!) fuelled by positive reviews and enthusiastic chatter amongst friends? The internet thrives on a similar principle.
Think about the last time you bought something online. Did you blindly add it to your shopping cart, or did you scour review sections, check social media mentions, and maybe even watch a few unboxing videos? Chances are, you relied heavily on the opinions and experiences of your fellow internet citizens.
This phenomenon is rooted in something fundamental – trust. We, as humans, are wired to value the opinions of others, especially those we perceive as similar to ourselves. A glowing Amazon review from someone with similar interests holds far more weight than a perfectly crafted sales copy.
The Clickocracy isn't a silent majority; it's a vocal, engaged audience with the power to make or break your digital presence. Embrace the challenge, prioritize building trust, and focus on creating value for your audience.
Remember, it's not about manipulating clicks but about forging genuine connections. When you empower the Clickocracy, you don't just gain customers; you gain a community of loyal advocates who will champion your brand message far and wide across the vast digital savanna.
So, dethrone the outdated marketing tactics of the past. Welcome the Clickocracy era, understand the power of the people, and watch your brand ascend the ranks in the ever-evolving realm of Clickonomics. Remember, Simba didn't win the hearts of the Pride Lands by brute force. He earned their respect, their loyalty, and ultimately, their clicks (well, roars in this case) through trust, authenticity, and a genuine connection with his fellow lions.
The balance of power in the digital sphere is constantly shifting, but one thing is certain: the Clickocracy's influence will only continue to grow. With the rise of social media platforms, review sites, and the democratization of information, internet users have more power than ever before.
This presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses and creators in the realm of Clickonomics. Those who understand the evolving needs and expectations of the Clickocracy, who prioritize building trust and delivering genuine value, will be best positioned to survive and thrive on the internet.
This digital age we live in is a customer-centric one. It's no longer about blasting out sales pitches into the ether, but about cultivating a two-way dialogue, where businesses listen and respond to the voices of their audience. It's an era where businesses can build meaningful, lasting relationships with customers through digital channels, forging a bond that extends beyond mere transactions.
Remember as you navigate the vast landscape of the internet, never underestimate the power of the people on the other side of the screen. Their clicks may seem small, but collectively, they have the power to shape industries, launch brands into the stratosphere, and ultimately, determine the winners in the ever-evolving game of Clickonomics.

What does scrappy mean to you?
Join us as writers share how they interpret "scrappy," and how they embody this in their writing lives, personal lives, love lives, and any other type of life they are living.
Experience the true intersection of grit + glamor, trash + treasure.
Also enjoy the current exhibit, Through a Plastic Lens: Art Made From What We Leave Behind by local artist Lenore Solmo, which features recycled "scraps" transformed into beautiful sculptures, wall hangings, and chandeliers. The art exhibit was featured on NY1 and is pending feature in the NY Post.
Inspired by the master's series course, Scrappy: How To Build an Alternative Literary Life (offered by Off Assignment and led by Chloé Caldwell), Brooklyn writer Farah Faye began this series to bring together published and unpublished writers who are scrappy AF.Walk away inspired to infuse your own life with the scrappy spirit. Admission is free, scrappiness required.Space is limited - register to attend!

READINGS BY:

Chloé Caldwell is the author of four books: the essay collection I’ll Tell You in Person, the critically acclaimed novella, Women, Legs Get Led Astray, and The Red Zone: A Love Story. Chloe’s next book, TRYING, is forthcoming from Graywolf Press in 2025. Her novella Women will be reissued by Harper Perennial on June 4th, 2024.Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, Bon Appétit, New York Magazine’s The Cut, The Strategist, and half a dozen anthologies including the forthcoming, Sluts. She lives in Hudson, NY and is co-founder of Scrappy Literary.
Catherine LaSota is the Associate Director of Social Practice CUNY, a Mellon-funded initiative that supports socially engaged artists who work and study in the City University of New York network. She is a creativity coach and the founder of the Resort writing community, the Cabana Chats podcast on writing and community, and the LIC Reading Series. For the past twenty-five years, Catherine has written, sung, and made art in New York City, and she currently lives with her husband and two young kids in Queens. Follow her adventures @catherinelasota.
Farah Faye is an emerging writer living in Brooklyn, NY. Her work has appeared in Business Insider and her feminist Substack, Art Monster Magazine. You can find her on Instagram @whoisfarahfaye.
Mia Arias Tsang is a writer and freelance editor based in New York City. Her work explores themes of queer desire, intimacy, and disconnect. A Tin House Summer Workshop alum, her work has appeared in Copy, Autostraddle, Half Mystic Press, Fatal Flaw Magazine, and Broad Recognition Magazine, among others. She lives in Queens with her cat, Peanut, and is currently working on a novel. You can find her on Instagram @mia.arias.tsang.
Maggie T Garry is an emerging writer living in Red Hook, Brooklyn with her daughter, her dog and her partner, James. She has a degree in Creative Nonfiction from Dartmouth College.
Register here!