Starting on time:
The best way to initiate a GD is to start on time i.e. the moderators will give the topic and announce the time for GD, the preparation and thinking time is also defined. Sometime the topic is so abstract that the start becomes difficult, it is always advisable to introduce youself and introduce the topic and speak for 20-30 secs.

Being the first speaker
Being the first speaker is a high risk, high return strategy. If you can make a good opening statement, which is relevant and sets the tone for the GD, it will go in your favour. If you do this well, you may automatically become the group leader. However if you bungle it up (by speaking for the sake of speaking, not really having anything pertinent to say), it will be remembered and will go against your favour.

For good results:

The recommended way to initiate a GD is to start with

• Quote
• Definition
• Question
• Fact figures and statistics
• Short Story
• General & Specific statements on the topics

It is important to make your mark in the first 2-3 mins of the discussion. It will be difficult for most of you to get a chance to speak where a number of people are involved. The best way to jump in a GD is to Keep track of the intensity of the discussion i.e. look for lows & highs in the GD and jump in whenever there is a low. Jump in when the person is over with his point- do not cut the point of the other person. Make sure that you jump in an agreeable manner.. 

Emotional outburst

• Never deviate from the subject
• Treat the discussion as a forum and don’t involve your personal view.

• Assessment is not only on your communication skills but also on your ability to be a team player.
• Evaluation is based on quality, and not on quantity. Your contribution must be relevant.
• The mantra is "Contributing meaningfully to the team's success." Domination is frowned upon.

Egotism Showing off

• Exercise restraint in anything. You will end up being frowned upon if you attempt showing-off your knowledge.
• Facts and figures need not validate all your statements.
• Its your analysis and interpretation that are equally important - not just facts and figures.
• You might be appreciated for your in-depth knowledge. But you will fail miserably in your people skills. Such a behavior indicates how self-centered you are and highlights your inability to work in an atmosphere where different opinions are expressed.

Get noticed - But for the right reasons

• False starts are extremely expensive. They cost you your admission. It is very important to listen and understand the topic before you air your opinions.
• Spending a little time analyzing the topic may provide you with insights which others may not have thought about. Use a pen and paper to jot down your ideas.
• Listen! It gives you the time to conceptualize and present the information in a better manner.
• Some mistakes are irreparable. Starting off the group discussion with a mistake is one such mistake, unless you have a great sense of humor.

Managing one's insecurities

• Your personality is also being evaluated. Your verbal and non verbal cues are being read.
• Remember, you are the participant in the GD; not the evaluator. So, rather than evaluating others and your performance, participate in the discussion.
• Your confidence level is being evaluated. Decent communication skills with good confidence is a must to crack the GDs.
• Focus on your strengths and do not spend too much time thinking about how others are superior or inferior to you. It is easy to pick up these cues from your body language.