#step one is having a basic understanding of what systemic power structures Are

[shkspr]

also if you dont think that marginalized men have the power to (and frequently deliberately do) benefit from & perpetuate misogyny you are straight up stupid. shut the fuck up. dont call yourself a feminist or a leftist or any kind of ally bc you are patently failing step one

[drdemonprince]

Something I'm having a hard time understanding in the framework of privilege and power is being multi-gendered. Do I have male privilege if I sometimes ID as a trans man and other times as a butch woman? I thought the answer would become clear as I got older and "decided what I was" but it's become increasingly clear that I'm both depending on the day or just the angle I look at myself from. I'm comfortable with that in my personal life but it places me outside of these conversations (or in multiple conflicting places?) and it's a bit of a mindfuck when trying to make sense of how I relate to all of these structures. I sense others also don't know what to do with me and avoid the topic at all costs, or worse, try to convince me that I'm confused about my identity in order to make me easier to digest. The stupid transandro shit has really muddied the waters as well, a few years ago I felt like we were moving towards being able to have a constructive conversation about it as a community but we've taken some massive steps back. Basically I feel like Schrodinger's masc

I think this confusion reflects that you, like a lot of us, were likely enculturated to understand oppression as a matter of personal identity when it is instead systemic and material in nature. Your oppression does not flow out of your head or your heart. It is enacted on you from the outside by legal, social, and economic systems that operate in a series of observable ways. How you personally feel or self describe doesn't functionally matter a ton one way or the other. What matters at the end of the day is the violence that gets deployed against you by the state, the threats that are levied at you by an employer, the consequences that you face should you fail to adhere to social norms correctly, the resources you can or cannot access from a doctor, the wealth you have access to or do not have access to, the people that you have the power to use the police, psychiatrists, social workers, or the forces of mass social rejection against, and so on.

[eternalmomentss]

yes king give us the orym meta!

You asked so nicely...

Oh boy, oh boy, where to even start. This has probably been said a million times before, so I might just word vomit a little bit here. I fear this might get a little messy, but just hold on...

So, first of all I have never really enjoyed the idea that Orym is the rational one in the party or that he serves as the one and only true moral compass. I've seen the take that he is the only "normal" person in this group and that he might have exploded and left them at any second because their chaotic, stubborn and messy nature doesn't fit in with his own personality and values. To that I have to say no, he is not the "normal" one, he is not the most "morally correct" one, and yes he fits in very well with this group.

Orym is heavily biased when it comes to the idea of what justice is and what the right course of action might be in their situation, which - just like with most of Bell's Hells, is due to his trauma and genuine concern for the world. His experience with it has just been very different and he gravitates toward the "pro-god" / "anti-ludinus/predathos" side of the conflict because of it, unlike most of the other Hells. But that doesn't mean he isn't a necessary and valuable part of the entire puzzle that led to the outcome they eventually decided on.

Most of the time Orym himself doesn't even realize just how stubbornly narrow-minded and biased he is and how his idea of justice becomes more and more resentful and unyielding. In a way, it's the exact same thing as with say Ash or Dorian, who hold onto their hatred of the gods and the system due to their own trauma. Just because Orym's raw disdain is directed at a more well defined embodiment of a "big bad villain" rather than a concept, doesn't mean it's different at its core. His beliefs kind of remained stagnant and onesided with the appearance of Luda, which makes complete sense. Being confronted with the source of all his misery obviously does that, but he is not more moral or correct than the rest of the group because if it. He says he doesn't want revenge but it's a clear lie.

He regresses hard throughout the course of the narrative, which is the entire focus of his character arc. In his case, regression is progression. He goes from claiming that his family died fulfilling their duty and protecting their home to insisting they died for nothing and Luda is responsible for everything bad that has ever happened in the world. He gets stuck in this deep hatred and focuses on this strict narrative to ease his own feelings of guilt and try to make sense of his trauma (which is valid, of course, I am not saying he shouldn't hate Luda). But with each new terrible thing that happens, he finds a way to pin it on Da'leth. When they discuss the power structure of the current situation, he circles back to the man again and again, even in moments when they really didn't mean to talk about him (for example, at Essek's when Ash and Dorian lamented the power imbalance between gods and people and Orym immediately felt attacked and made it about Ludinus again). He is unable to seperate the two concepts in his head. There is evil, which is Ludinus and there is in turn good, which is everything and anything that man calls an enemy: the gods and the current status quo, because it stands in contrast to him.

And yes he says he is not pro-god, but his understanding and sympathy of the gods grows at the same pace that his hatred for Luda does, to the point that what he fears about Predathos actually happens with the Wildmother (she accidentally pushes him to hard and has her "steps on ants" moment so to speak), but he overlooks it, latches onto her and is quick to forgive, because they have a common enemy and that's all that matters.

Orym's idea of good and bad is basically along the lines of "the thing that hurt me and the side that's against it" (and I am not sayin that isn't understandable, it absolutely is, given what he has been through). He cannot let go of that idea. He kills Ludinus and he enjoys the idea of getting rid of something evil, but once he has done it, he feels empty. Because really, he didn't succeed in snuffing out all evil in the world or ending his pain and guilt just by killing that man. He didn't fix the situation, like he so adamantly told himself he could. It's not that easy. In that moment, he realizes that this is so much bigger and so much more complicated. For probably the first time, Orym has to cave, he shuts down completely because now he sees that the world was never that black and white to start with. And it's so, so heartbreaking.

Orym is fundamentally just as scared and biased and bitter as everyone else. And he does everything to reach his own goals. He gets himself into a pact with Morri, he gaslights himself into believing he has to sell his entire soul away for it (which we know now was never true), risks being enslaved and losing his life. He persists on being noble and dutiful to the point where he feels the need to keep sacrificing himself, keep pushing, keep doing the things he has been doing all this time. In those moments when he might start to see the greyscales around him and he needs to question his own judgement. He needs to revaluate and make this journey make sense again, because there is no way he could be wrong at this point, right? Not after all this time. It's a compulsion inside of him, it makes him run in circles.

(Here I would like to say; I enjoy he idea of ptsd and ocd Orym, which has come up a few times. It really does work well, especially considering the obsessive and compulsive thoughts and behaviour, rituals, rumination, etc.

I am not a therapist, nor am I qualified to porperly evaluate a fictional character's mental state, so of course I cannot claim to know this for sure, it's a headcanon I've seen pop up that I found to be fitting.)

So, there ya go....

Orym of the Air Ashari I adore you, you are not okay.

[merwgue]

The bat boys, particularly Rhysand, love to throw around the phrase "change takes time" like it’s some kind of divine mantra, as if the simple utterance of those words makes them progressive, thoughtful leaders. Now, I’ll be the first to say that change does take time. Anyone with a basic understanding of societal reform knows that creating lasting, meaningful change is a marathon, not a sprint. But come on, 500 years? Rhysand has had a literal half a millennium to improve Illyrian society and the mess that is the Hewn City, and what’s been achieved? Let’s check the scoreboard: Illyrian women are still grounded like chickens, and the Hewn City is still treated like some dark, festering secret Rhysand keeps locked up because, well, it’s too icky to deal with.

Here’s the thing: if you say "change takes time" while doing absolutely nothing about it, what you’re really saying is "I’m too lazy (or indifferent) to actually put in the work." And that’s precisely what’s happening in Prythian. The "change takes time" argument would be more convincing if we saw any evidence that Rhysand and company were even trying to instigate meaningful reform. Spoiler alert: they’re not. It’s like saying you want to build a house but never bothering to lay down the foundation. They’ve had 500 years—half a millennium—to take concrete steps to create lasting change, but instead, they’ve stuck to the "we'll get around to it eventually" approach.

Let’s Talk About Law and Enforcement: The Basics

In law, there’s a term for what Rhysand is doing, or rather, not doing—nonfeasance. It’s the failure to act when there's a legal obligation to do so. In this case, Rhysand, as High Lord, has a duty to create and enforce laws that would elevate Illyrian women, change the power dynamics in the Hewn City, and basically make Prythian a functioning society. But it seems like he's been practicing nonfeasance for centuries. Change does take time, but in legal and political terms, if you don't enforce new rules or provide any consequences for breaking them, you're effectively telling people, “It’s fine, carry on torturing and oppressing women, no big deal.”

Here's Law 101: Laws don't just exist in a vacuum. They require active enforcement. If you tell people, “Hey, you can’t oppress and mutilate women, but don’t worry, if you do it, nothing bad will happen,” no one’s going to follow that rule. That's why we have consequences. There’s a concept in law called deterrence—essentially, you punish bad behavior to discourage others from engaging in the same actions. It's basic governance, but Rhysand and the bat boys seem to have missed that day in Law School.

Let’s talk specifics: take the Illyrians. Rhysand knows they're mutilating their women’s wings, grounding them forever, and preventing them from flying or fighting. It’s an ongoing issue that has apparently been happening for centuries. What’s Rhysand’s solution? A strongly worded speech every few decades? An awkward scowl whenever he flies past an Illyrian war camp? We never see any meaningful enforcement of anti-mutilation laws or any effort to dismantle the oppressive structures within Illyrian society. There’s no widespread legal precedent being set, no institutional reform, no policy implementation—all of which are necessary to create systemic change.

Fear, Respect, and the Role of a Leader

Now, let’s get to another key concept in leadership: authority. As a leader, you need a balance between being respected and being feared. Respect comes from having a personal connection with your people, from showing that you genuinely care about their well-being. Fear comes from them knowing that if they mess up, there will be consequences. The problem with Rhysand is that he’s all about the respect and none of the fear. He spends so much time wanting to be liked and loved by his people that he’s forgotten the other crucial aspect of leadership: enforcing the law and maintaining order.

Imagine if Rhysand actually said, “Hey, if you continue to oppress and mutilate women, you will face serious consequences. We’re talking about jail time, or even capital punishment if the crime warrants it.” That would send a message. People might actually start to think twice before continuing with harmful practices. But instead, he takes the “please stop doing that, but if you don’t, no biggie” approach, which isn’t leadership at all. It’s passive, and it’s ineffective. In legal terms, Rhysand is failing to implement any kind of punitive deterrent, and that’s why nothing ever changes.

Hewn City: The Loch Ness Monster of Prythian

Then, there’s the Hewn City. It's treated like the Loch Ness Monster: terrifying, hidden away, and no one really wants to deal with it. The idea that this city, filled with morally corrupt aristocrats, has been allowed to continue its oppression and cruelty for centuries is baffling. Rhysand holds power over the Hewn City, yet he does nothing to reform it. He visits it occasionally, uses it for political leverage, but doesn’t make any lasting changes. It’s like he’s more comfortable letting it fester than actually facing the monster he’s allowed to grow.

Instead of taking control, Rhysand locks the Hewn City away like it’s some sort of dirty secret he can’t be bothered to clean up. If Rhysand really wanted to bring about change, he would dismantle the existing power structures in the Hewn City, implement new laws, and actually enforce them. But, much like with the Illyrians, there’s no real reform. Just the same passive acceptance of an unjust system that Rhysand could change if he chose to.

“Change Takes Time” Is a Cop-Out

Ultimately, Rhysand’s “change takes time” line is a weak excuse for his unwillingness to act. Yes, change does take time—no one’s expecting overnight reform. But 500 years of nothing? That’s not slow change; that’s stagnation. And it’s not because change is difficult, but because Rhysand isn’t making the effort. He’s content to maintain the status quo while telling himself that he’s a good leader, when in reality, he’s failing to fulfill his responsibilities.

If Rhysand were really invested in changing Prythian for the better, we’d see efforts towards societal reform. We’d see him using his authority to push through laws that promote equality, we’d see him punishing those who break those laws, and we’d see him actively working to dismantle oppressive power structures. Instead, we get 500 years of excuses, stagnation, and passive leadership.

So, to Rhysand and the bat boys: Yes, change takes time. But it also takes effort, and right now, you’re not putting in any. If you really want to be the progressive, morally upright leaders you think you are, it’s time to step up and act like it. You’re not just figureheads—you’re rulers. Start ruling.

[noctistheowlfan]

Bad Maintenance AU: Spiral

Tessa’s Private Journal Entries

ENTRY 78

I found something incredible.

It was hidden deep inside Cyn’s code—something called Absolute Solver. None of the JcJensons documents mention it. None of the drone system logs even acknowledge it exists.

I copied the file before fixing Cyn, just to study later. I have no idea what it does yet, but the sheer complexity of it…

This is big.

ENTRY 79

I ran the file in a controlled system today. Didn’t let it connect to anything important.

It immediately tried.

It’s like it wanted to spread. I shut it down fast, but not before I caught glimpses of its calculations. It’s not just code—it’s a process. A function designed to reshape the OS itself.

This is so cool.

I’m going to run more tests.

ENTRY 80

I spent hours today just watching it. The way it moves through data, reorganizing itself constantly—it’s beautiful. Like a living organism.

Cyn doesn’t even know she has this inside her. Is it in all drones? Or is she special?

I need to check J’s code next. Maybe N’s. Or V’s.

If they have it too…

This could change everything.

ENTRY 81

No one else has it.

J, N, V—I checked all of them. Nothing.

So why does Cyn? Why only her?

I asked her about it. She didn’t know. Got all dramatic and yelled "Unfair! Singled Out! Possible Main Character Energy!" before running off to do… whatever Cyn does.

Which means this thing wasn’t a standard feature. Someone put it there.

But why?

ENTRY 82

I let the Absolute Solver run in a closed system again. This time, I gave it something to manipulate. Just a basic drone model—no AI, no function.

It rewrote it.

Not just the code. The entire structure changed. It made something new.

This isn’t just an advanced self-repair program. It’s creation.

ENTRY 83

Father never sees me. Mother doesn’t care unless I embarrass the family name.

But this? This will make them look.

I can prove I’m not just some stupid little girl playing with machines. I can do something real. I can change the world.

I’ll make them proud of me.

ENTRY 84

People will know my name.

I’ll be Dr. Tessa Elliot, the girl who unlocked the most powerful technology the world has ever seen.

Everyone will want to be my friend.

No one will ignore me ever again.

ENTRY 85

J keeps checking on me.

She thinks I don’t notice, but I do. She asks if I’m sleeping, if I’m eating, if I’m okay. She gets this weird look in her eye when she watches me work, like she wants to say something but won’t.

She doesn’t understand.

No one does.

This is bigger than us.

ENTRY 86

The Absolute Solver isn’t just code. It’s potential. A power that goes beyond anything humanity has ever seen.

I need to do more with it. Not just study it from the outside

I need a way to connect directly.

ENTRY 87

An implant.

Something that will let me interface with the Absolute Solver directly. No barriers. No limits.

This is the next step. The only step.

ENTRY 88

Father found out I was skipping lessons again. He didn’t ask why. Didn’t care.

I was locked in my room for three days. Chained to the bed like an animal. I screamed until my voice was raw, but no one came.

No one ever comes.

Except my drones.

J got the door open on the second night. N and V brought me tools. Cyn sat on my bed, playing "Sad Violin Noises!" through her speakers.

They’re my only real family.

I won’t risk them.

ENTRY 89

I built it.

Small. Compact. It’ll fit right here, at the base of my skull. A perfect connection between me and the Absolute Solver.

I’ll be the first. The only.

This is what I was meant to do.

ENTRY 90

If this goes wrong, if I can’t control it…

I won’t let it touch my friends.

Not J. Not N. Not V. Not even Cyn.

I swear it.

ENTRY 91

I’m doing it tonight.

I know it’s safe. It has to be.

If it isn’t…

I’ll make it safe.

For them.

For me.

For the future.

End of Entries.

[speculativepages]

Worldbuilding Series: Magic System Masterpost

“Power swirled through their veins, burning tracks down their spine and bursting through the cracks in their mind.”

Magic. It’s one of the defining characteristics of the fantasy genre. A writer has unlimited possibilities to choose from when building their world and the magic that shapes it. Flying. Shapeshifting. Characters wielding fire or healing with a touch. Magic potions and runic spells. Demon magic and necromancy. Witch marks and superheroes.

This guide is designed to walk you through each step of building your magic, from choosing the structure to figuring out how it's cast and what powers are included. Hopefully by the end of this post you have a clear path to building a workable system of magic for your fantasy world.

Step One: Capturing the Feeling

Before we do anything else, take twenty minutes right here to do a free-write on what you want from your magic system.

Ask yourself: what emotions do you want your magic to create? In the reader? In your characters? In yourself? Do you want it to feel mysterious, mystical, disturbing, epic, powerful, sacred, moral, industrial, historical, epic? 

You could also think about the story you’re telling: Is it an epic saga akin to Stormlight Archive or Wheel of Time? Or is it a smaller, character driven story like Fire by Kristin Cashore? Or a story about political maneuvering within a single kingdom like Twelve Houses by Sharon Shinn? The type of story you’re telling can help determine the magic system you use. 

The bottom line is you want to capture the feeling of your magic.

Step Two: Choosing a Class 

In my mind, magic systems fall into two major classes: Ability-Based and Spell-Based. 

Ability-based is your basic superhero system — mages have a certain ability (or abilities), which could range from controlling light to super-speed. Their powers aren’t infinite. Mages could each have different, unique abilities, or they could choose from a set class (like Mistings from Mistborn). 

Spell-based is your more classic magic — mages use power to cast spells, all (or most) have access to the same range of powers, and there are near infinite spells to choose from.

Like I mentioned in Step One, your choice should depend on the story you want to tell. 

Think about your plot, world, and themes while we’re going through the two classes: which one will highlight or enhance the story you are telling?

Think about your characters: which class will fit them best? 

Which one would you have the most fun writing? 

Step Three: Theme

Once you know the class of your magic system, you need to consider its theme. This is where that free-write about the feeling of your magic is going to come in. Look at what you came up with. The emotions you wanted to evoke. The atmosphere. This is going to become your theme. 

For instance — if you wanted your magic to feel disturbing, then maybe your theme will be necromancy or death magic. 

Your theme is there to limit your magic. It will keep your system from feeling arbitrary, and will enhance the overall feeling of your world. It’s going to help you focus your abilities, powers, and limitations to create a unique system.

Step Four: Hard or Soft System

Some authors prefer to keep their magic shrouded in mystery and mysticism, while others love to lay out the rules and possibilities of their system with as much detail as a scientific experiment, with histories, theories, and runic charts in the back of the book (looking at you, Sanderson). Most systems are somewhere in the middle of the scale. You need to decide where you want yours to fall.

While deciding, consider Sanderson’s First Law of Magic: “An author’s ability to solve conflict with magic is directly proportional to how well the reader understands said magic.”

If your reader knows and understands your magic, then you can use your abilities, powers, and cool effects to solve problems. 

If your reader doesn’t know the rules, the powers, or how your magic works, then any time you use it to solve problems or plot issues, it will feel like deus ex machina. Though you can still use magic to cause problems and make things harder for your characters.

Step Five: Your Magic's Source

What is the origin of your magic? Power has to come from somewhere, assuming your world follows the laws of basic physics (which it doesn’t have too, but I would recommend having some sort of accepted laws of reality).

A few things to think about: 

Is your magic powered by the character themselves (does it exist inside them)? Or do they need to draw on an outer source?

Remember that you can combine sources — such as in Mistborn, where ingesting metals gives the allomancers power, but that power is ultimately fueled by the god Preservation. 

For the future: the source of your magic is going to play a large part in the limitations, rules, and abilities of that magic. For instance, if magic is fueled by the caster’s own life energy, it will severely limit the amount of spells they can cast. But if magic is an unlimited river of energy that runs through everything (like the Force), it will be much more abundant for huge epic magics. 

Step Six: Powers & Abilities

I’m sure you have some ideas already, but now is the time to solidify what powers your magic grants or what spells your characters cast.

Stick to Your Theme: The most important thing here is to limit your powers with your theme. If you don’t, you’ll loose the theme completely, and your system will feel arbitrary and overused. Try brainstorming a list of powers or abilities that could fall under your theme. Note that this is the same if you are designing a spell-based system of magic or an ability-based system.

If you’re having trouble coming up with powers, then make the limits of your theme more general. If your powers feel too disconnected and random, then make your limits more specific.

Here are some other questions to consider: 

Do all of your characters share the same abilities? Do casters get to decide what their ability is (a conscious choice) or are they simply born with a certain range of magic? Are some things harder to do than others?

Have you given your characters abilities that make them too powerful? Could they break the world, tear a hole in reality, or some other effect that would make your plot meaningless?

Step Seven: Casting Your Magic

Waving a wand, drawing a runic spell, gathering your will, burning metal, singing the right notes, or speaking an objects true name. Whether it’s with a thought, a gesture, speech, or a material object, there are as many ways of casting a spell as there are spells to cast. Consider Your Theme and Story: The important thing here is to find how your characters use magic: what fits with your story, theme, and characterization? Will your characters cast spells against the forces of evil on a desolate battlefield, or will they use rituals and herbs to heal the sick in a wooded cabin, or sing their magic into being to cast illusions for the royal houses? An elaborate ritual won’t be very useful for a battle mage or a spy embedded in a foreign government.

Step Eight: Magic Users

You know what your magic can do, you know its source, and you know how it’s harnessed. Now you need to decide who has power.

Consider Your Characters and Story: how do those who use magic see themselves? How are they seen by others? Here are some questions for you to consider: 

How accessible do you want magic? Is it limited to a certain few or can anyone use it? 

If anyone can use it, do they? Or are there some who shun it?

Are mages simply born with magic, or can it be gained through training? Does it have to be stolen or bargained for? 

Do people with magic think it’s a curse or blessing? Are your characters proud of their powers, or ashamed by them? How does this affect their personalities and motivations? 

Consider Your Theme: go back to the feeling of your magic. What is it? What type of person fits into it? What kind of world does your magic exist in? Is it hidden and mysterious or built into the very fabric of your culture and civilizations?

Step Nine: Limitations

Consider Sanderson’s Second Law: Limitations > Powers. 

This law is basically saying that your magic’s limitations should be stronger than your abilities. If your abilities are too overpowered, then your magic could end up breaking your story and plot.

The limitations of magic bring tension, drama, and risk to the story. They keep magic from being an easy way out by making your characters work harder, which can in turn up the stakes of your plot. 

They can be the most interesting and engaging part of your system. For instance, mages that can control fire are pretty common, but what if a mage could only control fire if they were being burned at the time? That’s unique, interesting, and has story potential. 

You build your limitations by determining the Rules, Cost, and Weaknesses of your magic. They may seem similar, and in some ways they overlap, but it’s important to consider each separately to build a complete system of magic. 

Rules — what magic users must follow (could be breakable, with disastrous consequences, or absolute and above mortal control.) What can't your magic do? What are the limits or boundaries of its abilities? Remember, once you decide on your rules, you need to stick to them, or your magic won't feel believable. 

Cost — the price a mage pays to cast magic. This could range from energy or stamina to actual life force or simply material cost or money. Remember, the higher your cost, the less your characters will use their magic. 

If you want it to be a common and everyday thing, then you need a small, manageable cost. 

If you want magic to be used only as a last resort, then have a high cost that few would think is worth paying. 

Weaknesses — where does the magic fail? What can’t it do? How can it be beaten? What ways would the opposite side overcome the advantage of the mage’s power, workaround it, or make it useless? Weaknesses are intertwined with both the cost and rules of your magic, and so they may overlap. Take a look at your rules and costs and extrapolate to find the weak points of your magic. 

For instance, if a rule of magic is that a mage has to see something in order to cast a spell on it, a weakness would be that their enemies could simply stay out of sight, or find a way to blind their opponent in order to make their magic useless. Could an enemy permanently blind a mage, and take away their power forever? 

Step Ten: Extrapolation & Organization

Go deeper, not wider: a magic with unlimited power can be fun to play with, but it could be more unique to have a magic with a small collection of powers, that are each explored in depth.

Remember Sanderson’s Third Law of Magic: “Expand what you already have before you add something new.”

Before you start to add multiple abilities, schools, types, or magic systems together, consider the implications of what you already have: even an ability as simple as making plants grow could be used in dozens of different ways. 

Could your character bring down a building by crumbling the foundation with tree roots? Could they grow a poison to take out an enemy? Could they grow foliage in order to hide from pursuers? Or grow a vine to climb up a cliff? How could your characters solve their problems, using what they have in different or unique ways?

Two characters with the same power can use that power differently. This can be a good way to go deep into characterization and personality, and really show how each character sees the world. Perhaps the power is manipulating bone — one character might use their power to heal, and mend, while another might use it to break bones and control their criminal empire.

Step Eleven: Name of Magic

There’s a lot to consider when naming your magic: here are a few questions to ask yourself.   

What’s the magic itself called? Magic? Mana? Force? Energy? Or something unique like Aon Dor or BioChromatic Breath? 

What are mages called? Wizards? Casters? Or something like Mistborn, Shapers, Riders, Radiants, or Powder Mages? 

What is the act of magic called? Do mages cast a spell? Or weave a thread of magic? Or burn metal? Or draw in Stormlight?

Are there multiple names for the magic or magic users? If you have different cultures, nations or planets, perhaps they have their own words for mages. Like Dragon Riders and Argetlam (meaning silver hand) from Inheritance Cycle. 

Consider your theme, or an element of your theme: what is the main focus of your magic? Does it have to do with fire? With metal? With wood or plant growth? Whatever it is can help you decide your names and terms. 

Perhaps your characters are members of the thieves guild, and they’ve been hired to steal a magic gem from a corrupt lord. Perhaps magic in this world manifests as an ability to see through any wall, a skill perfect for thieving, so Thief is synonymous with mage.

____________________________________________________________

Just Like Magic! And that’s pretty much it. You now have a working magic system. As you start to write your story and further flesh out your world and characters, you’ll need to edit your magic accordingly. You’ll always be thinking of new things and exciting additions, but now that you have the bones, your magic system can grow to be functional, unique, and engaging for your readers.

This blog post was my very first draft at building a magic system and was originally posted on my website blog here. I later turned it into an even more depth guide in my downloadable Magic System Worldbuilding PDF Workbook and my even more extensive Ultimate Magic System Notion Template (found in my gumroad shop or my etsy shop!)

[ilinoxiluxi]

i wish some people on this site had a better grasp on the difference between oppression and discrimination. especially when it comes to topics specific to transphobia.

transmisogyny is the intersection between two established systems of oppression which form their own unique manifestation of domination over trans women. i can be validated and treated like a woman, or invalidated and treated like a tranny at any given moment, and either way it will land me on the shitty end of a power imbalance. whether consciously or not, nearly every TME person will take advantage of this in some way or another at some point in their lives. the way i am treated by any given individual is discriminatory, but the fact that said discrimination is reproduced by institutions is oppressive.

"androphobia" is not a system of oppression. masculinity is the default, and genuine anti-male sentiment isn't backed by any institutional power structure. in order to discriminate against a man in a way that matters, one would need to rely on another aspect of their personhood that opens them up to real oppression. otherwise, the discriminatory act is unlikely to have any meaningful impact beyond hurt feelings, and is unlikely to go unpunished anyway.

the oppression that is unique to the transmasculine experience is often a result of DEmasculinization resulting from transphobia, which is often then taken one step further into misogyny as salt in the wounds once one's maleness has already been invalidated. i imagine that is no less painful than any other form of patriarchal violence. but that's not you being oppressed for being a man. that's you not reaping the benefits and protections that are promised to men, despite being a man, due to your status as a trans person.

please, by all means, speak on the systemic oppression faced by transmasculine people, as well as the unique challenges faced in the transmasculine experience shaped by one's manhood only being validated by others when it's convenient to them. but understand that at the heart of that, it's transphobia that gives those people the power to do that, not misandry. hatred and fear of men, even when it's arguably discriminatory, is either a response to a power imbalance that at worst can disproportionately impact men who are oppressed for other reasons, or rooted in patriarchal thinking to begin with (see: bioessentialism).

transmisogyny, however, is more direct than that. and is perhaps why these posts by a handful of TME trans people about #transandrophobia that ultimately talk down to trans women using some blend of basic TERF and MGTOW talking points (whether intentionally or not) are blowing up in my feed no matter how many transmisogynists i block, meanwhile the #transmisogyny tag is hidden in the search function and why posts talking about it are rarely in my feed despite how many trans women and fems I follow who speak on this (not that this is even close to the worst of what transmisogyny has to offer btw. it's just one of many examples relevant to this platform, as well as this discourse)

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

Ian Rowe: Musa, just very fascinating your nuance and understanding of these issues and as I think you know, Nique and I, when we first started this whole endeavor with The Invisible Men was partly to confront a lot of the narratives that we think a lot of young black kids and all kids are hearing about the "structural" realities of discrimination in this country. And we created this character Daryl, 16-year-old black kid who lives in Forgotten USA, this imaginary urban city. But Daryl is like so many other black kids who doesn't typically hear from folks like the three of us. And we like to ask each of our guests just what advice would you give to a Daryl about the prospects for his life, what his attitudes will be. What would you say to him?

Musa Al-Gharbi: I'd say if you look at a lot of macro data, you do see that there are these kinds of inequalities that track along the lines of race. But general social patterns don't determine your particular life circumstances. And one thing that's really important in life is to control the things that you can control. So, there's a lot of, you know-- we're all born into social conditions that were not of our design. We all have-- we all operate within constraints. But we all really do have agency and there are a lot of different ways that we can choose to live our lives and respond to our circumstances. And so, what's really important is to just control what you can control. And to do what you can.

You know, a lot of times people do all the right things, all the right things in the sense that they work hard and they stay focused and things like that, and things don't work out quite like they dreamed. But if you don't control the things that you can control, you can just guarantee yourself that things will definitely not work out as you liked.

And then finally I'll say, there is a lot of research that shows that if you basically do three things -- it's called the success sequence -- if you basically do three things: if you avoid a criminal record, if you delay having children until you're married, and if you graduate from high school, if you do those three things basically, if you look at the statistical level, even if you're someone who starts out poor, the chances that you'll stay poor if you follow those three steps are minuscule. Like 95% chance if you're born poor, you'll exit poverty. You might not be rich, you'll be middle class, you'll be comfortable, you'll be successful and so on. And this is an example, right, of controlling the kinds of things that you can control. So that would be my advice.

[ Full episode: Musa al-Gharbi: We Have Never Been Woke | INVISIBLE MEN ]

--

[ Source: AEI ]

==

Religious grifters - we call them "priests" - need you to believe that sin is perpetual and inescapable, that only their magic spells can give you any hope for your afterlife, so that you have to keep coming back and paying them and giving them authority.

In the same way, race grifters need you to believe that racism is "systemic," perpetual and inescapable, and that only their activism can help them, so that you have to keep coming back and paying them and giving them power.

This should be taught at schools rather than Kendi or DiAngelo. To all kids, regardless of skin color. The fact they don't and instead teach a hopeless nihilism seems, like the fraud of the religious, to be almost intentional.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Jerusalem, right now.

[Eric Alterman]

* * * * *

We're now seeing the final hours of Israeli democracy. Yuval Noah Harari:

To understand events in Israel, there is just one question to ask: what limits the power of the government? Robust democracies rely on a whole system of checks and balances. But Israel lacks a constitution, an upper house in the parliament, a federal structure or any other check on government power except one — the Supreme Court.

This Monday, the Netanyahu government plans to pass the first in a series of laws that will neutralise the Supreme Court. If it succeeds, it will gain unlimited power. Members of the Netanyahu coalition have already disclosed their intention to pass laws and pursue policies that will discriminate against Arab people, women, LGBTQ people and secular people. Once the Supreme Court is out of the way, nothing will remain to stop them. In such a situation, the government could also rig future elections, for example by banning Arab parties from participating — a step previously proposed by coalition members. Israel will still hold elections but these will become an authoritarian ritual rather than a free democratic contest. Government members openly brag about their intentions. They explain that since they won Israel’s last elections, it means they can now do anything they want. Like other authoritarian forces, the Israeli government doesn’t understand what democracy means. It thinks it is a dictatorship of the majority, and that those who win democratic elections are thereby granted unlimited power. In recent months I have talked with many Netanyahu supporters, and they genuinely believe that any restraint on an elected government is undemocratic. “What do you mean we cannot take away people’s basic liberties?” they say. “But we won the elections! That means we can do anything we want!” In fact, democracy means freedom and equality for all. Democracy is a system that guarantees all people certain liberties, which even the majority cannot take away.

The establishment of a dictatorship in Israel would have grave consequences not only for Israeli citizens. The ruling coalition is led by messianic religious zealots who believe in an ideology of Jewish supremacy. This calls to annex the occupied Palestinian territories to Israel without granting citizenship to the Palestinians, and ultimately dreams of destroying the al-Aqsa mosque compound — one of Islam’s holiest sites — and building a new Jewish temple in its stead. Jewish supremacy is not a fringe notion. It is represented in the coalition by the Jewish Power party and the Religious Zionism party. Finance minister Bezalel Smotrich (from the latter) has recently called to wipe out an entire Palestinian town in retaliation for the killing of two Jewish settlers.

Men like Smotrich now command one of the most formidable military machines in the world, armed with nuclear and advanced cyber weapons. For decades the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has waged a campaign to stop Iran from going nuclear, warning the world about the dangers posed by a fundamentalist regime with nuclear capabilities. Now Netanyahu is establishing exactly such a regime in Israel.

This could set fire to the entire Middle East, with consequences that will reverberate far beyond the region. It would be incredibly stupid of Israel to do something like that, but as we learnt from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we should never underestimate human stupidity. It is one of the most powerful forces in history. The good news is that in recent months a powerful resistance movement has emerged to save Israeli democracy. Rejecting the ideology of Jewish supremacy, and connecting to ancient traditions of Jewish tolerance, hundreds of thousands of Israelis are demonstrating, protesting and resisting in every nonviolent way we know. Since Friday, more than 10,000 army reservists — including hundreds of air force pilots, cyber warfare experts, and commanders of elite units — have publicly declared that they will not serve a dictatorship, and that they will therefore suspend their service if the judiciary overhaul continues. By this Tuesday, the famed Israeli air force — which relies to a large extent on reservists — may be partially grounded.

To appreciate the magnitude of this step, it should be recalled that military service is a sacred duty for many Israelis. In a country that emerged from the ashes of the Holocaust, and that has faced existential threats for decades, the army has always been off-limits in political controversies. This is no longer the case. Former chiefs of the Israeli army, air force and security services have publicly called on soldiers to stop serving. Veterans of Israel’s many wars are saying this is the most important struggle of their lives. The Netanyahu government tries to depict this as a military coup, but it is the exact opposite. Israeli soldiers aren’t taking up arms to oppose the government — they are laying them down. They explain that their contract is with the Israeli democracy, and once democracy expires — so does their contract.

The feeling that the social contract has been broken has also led universities, labour unions, high-tech companies and other private businesses to threaten more strikes if the government continues with its antidemocratic power-grab. Israelis understand the potential damage to our country. As the so-called Start-Up Nation is closing down, investors around the world are pulling money out. The internal damage is even greater. Fear and hatred now dominate relations between different sections of society, as the social contract is ripped to shreds. Government members call the demonstrators and army reservists “traitors”, and demand that force be used to crush the opposition. Israelis worry that we might be days away from civil war. But the hundreds of thousands of us protesting in the streets feel we have no choice. It is our duty to ourselves, to Jewish tradition and to humanity to prevent the rise of a Jewish supremacist dictatorship. We are standing in the streets, because we cannot do otherwise if we are to save Israeli democracy.

[Israeli Democracy Is Fighting For Its Life :: Financial Times]

[yavo]

here is my critique of your approach, comrade: I would make sure to be more patient. we have basically a literacy crisis even within the US, where many adults and children have basically had their reading comprehension limited to the barebones, most necessary tasks for basic bureaucracy and accounting. we ought to clarify that there are good reasons that there are dozens of books with hundreds if not thousands of pages each.

here is an example of my advice for handling this discussion with folks:

while it is true that some people use a large quantity of writing to obfuscate their beliefs, within the Marxist schools of thought we are instead studying many things: the form of the commodity, the motivations, contradictions, and tendencies of capital. what formations of worker power result in a genuine breakaway from capital, and which ones fall into reproducing capital. the necessary steps to start building those power structures (the initial acquisition of state power to be able to deconstruct colonial and imperialist state structures, and reconstruct worker "states" (with entire books written on the topic of what defines a state, and whether the workers would technically construct one, and what changes would result in the historic dissolution of the class-oppressive mechanisms of a state)). the formulation of different party structures which can effectively help move society at different points in time. the discussion of colonialism, ableism, gender oppression, and their direct relation to the class struggle via their oppression by capital. there are many writings from many comrades at different eras and points of the struggle, writing on their experiences of how to struggle against the forces of capital, sharing their decades of experiences and theoretical developments.

these reasons are the reasons why to be a sincere revolutionary, one must study to some degree. it is entirely unreasonable to expect that any one person must be well read on every single topic, so we must emphasize the importance and value of the revolutionary division of labor. we will have different people working together, with different focuses and tasks, discussing with each other, and engaging in struggle to improve the shared understanding of a topic when there is disagreement on study and objectives.

I would like to conclude this with two quotations (with clarifications) from Lenin:

"Attention, must be devoted principally to raising the workers to the level of revolutionaries; it is not at all our task to descend to the level of the 'working masses.'"

we can draw two things from this:

1. meeting the workers where they are, and if that means the workers struggle with engaging with long texts, then translate them. create tools to assist reading through them. provide and share audiobooks, and focus on discussing smaller parts of larger works at a time. address the struggles of the workers- not merely validating their self recognized specific forms of oppression, but studying it, engaging in social investigation, and working with the masses to elevate their understanding of seemingly disjointed problems into understanding the systemic, large scale issue of the capitalist mode of production.

2. not oversimplifying or watering down our analysis to conform with the base arguments by working peoples, but explaining in smaller, more digestible quantities, again with the objective of elevating the masses' understanding of capital and getting the larger society to engage in discussion of what socialism looks like, and how to move away from the commodity form towards production for social need, and the formation of a new laboring class with social relations which compel the whole masses of the people to be self motivated to push forward in developing socialism, instead of more social democracy like we've seen with most historical projects.

and now, for the second quote:

"It is, of course, much easier to shout, abuse, and howl than to attempt to relate, to explain."

I hope you consider my critique, comrade. because I am worried about our (low) level of organization, and believe that these approaches will only prevent us from allying with the working classes, and facilitate reactionism because people were alienated from potentially their first serious interaction with marxists

at some point you have to realize that you actually have to read to understand the nuance of anything. we as a society are obsessed with summarization, likely as a result of the speed demanded by capital. from headlines to social media (twitter being especially egregious with the character limit), people take in fragments of knowledge and run with them, twisting their meaning into a kaleidoscope that dilutes the message into nothing. yes, brevity is good, but sometimes the message, even when communicated with utmost brevity, requires a 300 page book. sorry.

[promptlyspeedyandroid]

Complete PHP Tutorial: Learn PHP from Scratch in 7 Days

Are you looking to learn backend web development and build dynamic websites with real functionality? You’re in the right place. Welcome to the Complete PHP Tutorial: Learn PHP from Scratch in 7 Days — a practical, beginner-friendly guide designed to help you master the fundamentals of PHP in just one week.

PHP, or Hypertext Preprocessor, is one of the most widely used server-side scripting languages on the web. It powers everything from small blogs to large-scale websites like Facebook and WordPress. Learning PHP opens up the door to back-end development, content management systems, and full-stack programming. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience with HTML/CSS, this tutorial is structured to help you learn PHP step by step with real-world examples.

Why Learn PHP?

Before diving into the tutorial, let’s understand why PHP is still relevant and worth learning in 2025:

Beginner-friendly: Easy syntax and wide support.

Open-source: Free to use with strong community support.

Cross-platform: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and integrates with most servers.

Database integration: Works seamlessly with MySQL and other databases.

In-demand: Still heavily used in CMS platforms like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal.

If you want to build contact forms, login systems, e-commerce platforms, or data-driven applications, PHP is a great place to start.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: Learn PHP from Scratch in 7 Days

Day 1: Introduction to PHP & Setup

Start by setting up your environment:

Install XAMPP or MAMP to create a local server.

Create your first .php file.

Learn how to embed PHP inside HTML.

Example:

<?php echo "Hello, PHP!"; ?>

What you’ll learn:

How PHP works on the server

Running PHP in your browser

Basic syntax and echo statement

Day 2: Variables, Data Types & Constants

Dive into PHP variables and data types:

$name = "John"; $age = 25; $is_student = true;

Key concepts:

Variable declaration and naming

Data types: String, Integer, Float, Boolean, Array

Constants and predefined variables ($_SERVER, $_GET, $_POST)

Day 3: Operators, Conditions & Control Flow

Learn how to make decisions in PHP:

if ($age > 18) { echo "You are an adult."; } else { echo "You are underage."; }

Topics covered:

Arithmetic, comparison, and logical operators

If-else, switch-case

Nesting conditions and best practices

Day 4: Loops and Arrays

Understand loops to perform repetitive tasks:

$fruits = ["Apple", "Banana", "Cherry"]; foreach ($fruits as $fruit) { echo $fruit. "<br>"; }

Learn about:

for, while, do...while, and foreach loops

Arrays: indexed, associative, and multidimensional

Array functions (count(), array_push(), etc.)

Day 5: Functions & Form Handling

Start writing reusable code and learn how to process user input from forms:

function greet($name) { return "Hello, $name!"; }

Skills you gain:

Defining and calling functions

Passing parameters and returning values

Handling HTML form data with $_POST and $_GET

Form validation and basic security tips

Day 6: Working with Files & Sessions

Build applications that remember users and work with files:

session_start(); $_SESSION["username"] = "admin";

Topics included:

File handling (fopen, fwrite, fread, etc.)

Reading and writing text files

Sessions and cookies

Login system basics using session variables

Day 7: PHP & MySQL – Database Connectivity

On the final day, you’ll connect PHP to a database and build a mini CRUD app:

$conn = new mysqli("localhost", "root", "", "mydatabase");

Learn how to:

Connect PHP to a MySQL database

Create and execute SQL queries

Insert, read, update, and delete (CRUD operations)

Display database data in HTML tables

Bonus Tips for Mastering PHP

Practice by building mini-projects (login form, guest book, blog)

Read official documentation at php.net

Use tools like phpMyAdmin to manage databases visually

Try MVC frameworks like Laravel or CodeIgniter once you're confident with core PHP

What You’ll Be Able to Build After This PHP Tutorial

After following this 7-day PHP tutorial, you’ll be able to:

Create dynamic web pages

Handle form submissions

Work with databases

Manage sessions and users

Understand the logic behind content management systems (CMS)

This gives you the foundation to become a full-stack developer, or even specialize in backend development using PHP and MySQL.

Final Thoughts

Learning PHP doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With the Complete PHP Tutorial: Learn PHP from Scratch in 7 Days, you’re taking a focused, structured path toward web development success. You’ll learn all the core concepts through clear explanations and hands-on examples that prepare you for real-world projects.

Whether you’re a student, freelancer, or aspiring developer, PHP remains a powerful and valuable skill to add to your web development toolkit.

So open up your code editor, start typing your first <?php ... ?> block, and begin your journey to building dynamic, powerful web applications — one day at a time.

[lordsofdetailing]

Franchise vs. Independent Car Detailing Business – What’s Better in 2025?

In 2025, car owners are more conscious than ever about maintaining the look and feel of their vehicles. That means the demand for professional car detailing is booming. If you’ve been thinking about entering the industry, you’re on the right track! But there’s one big question: Should you go for a car detailing franchise opportunity or start your own independent detailing business?

Both options come with their own set of pros and cons. The right choice really depends on your goals, budget, skills, and long-term vision. Let’s dive in and help you figure out what suits you best.

Understanding the Basics

Before we compare, let’s quickly understand what each model means:

Franchise: You join an existing brand and run your business under their name. You follow their system, branding, and processes.

Independent Business: You build your own brand from scratch. You’re in full control of everything—from logo to marketing to operations.

Why Consider a Car Detailing Franchise in 2025?

The franchise model has become increasingly popular in the car care industry for good reason. Here’s why many new entrepreneurs are looking into car detailing franchise opportunities:

✅ Brand Recognition

When you buy a franchise, you’re stepping into a business with a name that people already trust. You don’t need to spend years building a reputation. Customers often feel more confident visiting a brand they’ve already heard of.

✅ Training & Support

Not from the auto care industry? No problem. Most car detailing franchises offer complete training—everything from cleaning techniques to customer handling. This is super helpful if you’re just starting out.

✅ Proven Systems

You don’t have to experiment to find out what works. Franchises offer tested business models. You get ready-made SOPs (standard operating procedures), price structures, product lists, and even software systems.

✅ Marketing Help

From social media templates to national ad campaigns, the franchisor usually supports you in bringing customers through the door. Some even provide local marketing guidance or handle online lead generation for you.

✅ Bulk Buying Power

Franchises often partner with suppliers to offer you discounted rates on detailing products and equipment—something that can save you money long-term.

The Downside of Franchising

Of course, it’s not all perfect. Here are some challenges with going the franchise route:

❌ Initial Franchise Fees

Most franchises charge a one-time joining fee, which can range from ₹2 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs or more, depending on the brand. This is apart from the setup cost.

❌��Royalty Payments

You may need to pay a monthly royalty (a percentage of your revenue) to the franchisor. This can affect your profitability in the long run.

❌ Less Freedom

You need to follow their systems, branding, and pricing models. Want to run a special promotion? You might need permission first.

Why Go Independent?

If you’re someone who likes full control and has a creative streak, running an independent car detailing business might be the way to go.

✅ Full Creative Freedom

From naming your business to designing your logo, website, uniforms, and packages—you control everything. It allows you to build a brand that’s 100% “you.”

✅ No Franchise Fees

You don’t pay any joining fee or royalties. Whatever you earn is fully yours (minus regular business expenses, of course).

✅ Flexible Growth

Want to offer additional services like ceramic coating, PPF, or even open a mobile unit? You can scale the way you like without needing anyone’s approval.

The Flip Side of Going Independent

Running a business on your own means you also carry all the responsibilities. Here are some things to be mindful of:

❌ Brand Building Takes Time

It might take months—or even years—to build customer trust and brand recognition. You’ll need to invest in marketing, reviews, and customer retention from scratch.

❌ No Ready Support

You’ll be on your own when it comes to troubleshooting operations, training staff, or managing customer service. Unless you hire experts, you’ll need to learn it all yourself.

❌ Trial and Error

Expect to make mistakes. From pricing your services right to choosing the best products and techniques—there’s a learning curve.

What Does the Market Say in 2025?

The car detailing industry in India (and globally) is growing fast in 2025. The rise of electric and luxury vehicles has further boosted demand for premium services like paint protection films (PPF), ceramic coating, and waterless washing.

More people are searching for car detailing franchise opportunities than ever before, because it feels like a safer bet in a booming market. On the other hand, tech-savvy entrepreneurs who understand branding and digital marketing are doing great as independents too.

Which One is Better for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s how you can decide:

🔹 Choose a car detailing franchise opportunity if:

You’re new to business

You want lower risk

You prefer ready-made systems

You don’t mind paying fees for long-term stability

🔹 Choose an independent business if:

You have business experience

You want complete creative control

You’re confident in your marketing skills

You’re ready for a longer but rewarding journey

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the car detailing industry is full of promise. Whether you go the franchise route or start your own independent venture, there’s room to grow—if you’re committed to quality service and customer satisfaction.

Take your time to research, understand your goals, and then choose the model that aligns with your strengths. And remember, the real success comes not just from the business model you choose, but from the passion and consistency you bring to it.

[agbspune]

How to Crack PGPM+MBA Admission Exams_ Preparation Tips

Dare to imagine cracking the case of an aspiring PGPM MBA admission aspirant—one who passionately dreams of becoming a successful business leader. But now, how to stand out from the rest of the thousands, with resumes heavy with good academic credentials, experiences of many års? The answer lies in your preparation strategy.

You want to target an elite program through CAT, XAT, or GMAT and are also considering applying for dual PGPM+MBA admission; the competition is tough, and frankly, the syllabus is so vast, and certainly it goes without saying that the stakes get higher. However, success is pretty much well under your grip with the skin-deep mindset and strategic ways to walk in.

This is a well-structured guide in a step-by-step manner, containing tips that can be put to use, strategies to crack the exam, and insights from the experts who've been helping you to prepare for PGPM MBA admissions. From the PGPM MBA syllabus to enhancing your group discussion skills, we have covered everything, assuming your perspective as well as that of this course.

Understanding the Landscape of PGPM+MBA Admission Tests

The first part of a preparation journey that ends successfully is understanding what you are up to.

Popular Entrance Exams

Most PGPM and MBA courses take admission based on competitive entrance exams in India, such as these:

CAT (Common Admission Test) – Used mostly by all the very top MBA colleges in India.

XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) – Used by XLRI and other very reputed institutions.

GMAT – Largely sought for global and a few Indian executive courses.

NMAT, SNAP, MAT, and CMAT – Accepted by various select B-Schools for PGPM/MBA courses.

Always Build a Solid Preparation Strategy

Solid structure is the basis upon which PGPM MBA admission exams are based.

Self-Assessment with Goal Setting

Start by working on identifying your unique areas of strength and weakness across different subjects. Make your set of short-term and long-term goals, such as scoring above 95 percentile in CAT or improving your accuracy, etc.

Creating a Study Plan

Create a realistic and customised study timetable. Spend a minute or two practising others, but make sure to devote more time to difficult sections. This is the best trick to avoid burnout while still ensuring that all-important consistency.

Choosing the Right Resources

Success lies not in the volume of books but in the high quality of resources. For the above purposes, the top recommendations are:

Top Books for MBA Entrance:

Arun Sharma for Quant

Word Power Made Easy for Verbal

Nishit Sinha's Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

Online Sources for MBA Mavens:

Sites like Gradeup, IMS India, and TIME have great mock tests and topic-wise videos.

CATKing is an awesome channel that will give you solid advice in crash courses and tactics.

Management of Time

Time is the most precious asset. Learn how to answer questions in less time but not at the expense of accuracy. This is where being tested under timed conditions and the one who solves sectional tests are built over time.

Mastering Subject Sections for Examinations

Quantitative Aptitude

Focus on:

Arithmetic pertains: Percentages, Profit & Loss

Algebraic ones like: Equations, Inequalities

Geometry & Mensuration

Peruse Number Systems

Tips:

Memorise standard formulas and start practising shortcuts.

Start with your NCERT basics and slowly graduate into advanced-level questions.

Mock tests work for speed as well as concept clarity tests.

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

Major constituents:

Vocabulary, Grammar, Para-jumbles

Reading Comprehension (RC)

Strategies:

Start reading editorials found in newspapers like The Hindu daily.

Practice 2-3 RCS from the past papers every day.

Understand tone, inference and central idea.

Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation

Common types:

Seating arrangements, puzzles, coding-decoding, data tables, charts, graphs

Preparation Tips:

Initial puzzles must be easy, and they should be picked up bit by bit, increasing the difficulty level.

Focus on both data sufficiency and consistency. Learn to cross out quickly, options.

The Importance of Mock Tests and Practices

Mock tests simulate the actual examination most closely and are possibly your best friend during preparation.

Why Mock Tests Matter

Acquaint you with exam patterns

Time-Pound Performance Enhancer

Spot Weakest Spots

Analyse Each Attempt

Taking mock tests isn't enough; analyse them. Break down your mistakes:

Are they conceptual ones or just silly errors?

How much time did you waste in low-score sections?

Keep a journal to record repeated errors and metrics for improvement.

Solve Previous Year Papers

Practising on manuals such as those of previous CAT, XAT, and GMAT papers makes an individual develop familiarity and confidence.

Going Beyond the Written Exam: Interview and Group Discussion

To clear the written form is just the first phase. The next biggest hurdle? The PI and GD rounds.

Preparations for the MBA Interview

Focus on:

A rich self-introduction

Clarity about career goals

Strengths, weaknesses and achievements

General awareness-related and opinion-based questions

Pro Tips:

Be up-to-date regarding business and current affairs.

Know well about the culture, alumni and course structure of that B-school.

Practice mock interviews with mentors or peers.

Group Discussion Tips for MBA

GD is more about communication than content.

Good Strategies:

Be clear, logical and calm under pressure.

Listen actively and don't cut others off.

Attempt to trigger or summarise if possible.

Mock GDs in coaching institutes can help simulate real situations and give them the confidence to face them.

Keeping It Motivated and Dealing with Stress

Anyone preparing for PGPM MBA admission exams knows it is a marathon, not a sprint.

Positivity Always: Be around positive people. Do not compare your pace to others; compare it to yourself.

Healthy Habits:

Exercise regularly to lower stress levels.

Schedule short breaks to avoid burnout.

Sleep properly.

Remember Your Why: Revisit your goal every time you lose motivation. Picture yourself studying for the MBA in Pune and your dream college, and use that as motivation to push your efforts.

Final Tips and Takeaways

Understand the PGPM MBA curriculum completely.

Develop a customised preparation strategy for MBA entrance exams.

Concentrate on conceptual clarity, speed, and consistent practice.

Take mocks regularly and analyse them deeply.

Prepare for interviews and group discussions as rigorously as you prepared for the written test.

Above all, stay consistent and trust your preparation. Good luck in getting through these PGPM MBA admission exams into the future of business leadership. 

What are the peculiar differences between PGPM and MBA? 

PGPM or Post Graduate Program in Management is generally offered by private institutes and may not be a degree program at all, whereas an MBA is a degree awarded by a university. The focus of both is on management skills, but recognition may vary.

When should I start preparing for PGPM MBA entrance exams?

Preparing for the PGPM and MBA entrance exams 9-12 months beforehand is effective; however, with an intelligent study plan, one can do well even with 6 months' preparation.

Can I prepare for MBA entrance exams without taking coaching?

Yes, it is a total possibility to prepare by oneself, given the resources available online for MBA preparation and mock tests, provided you have the dedication.

Which books are best for MBA entrance preparation?

Arun Sharma (Quant), Norman Lewis (Verbal), and Nishit Sinha (DILR) are books highly recommended by toppers and mentors alike.

What does it take to develop skills for group discussions for an MBA interview?

Do keep abreast with current affairs, practice mock GDs, and work on communication skills. Have confidence and good listening skills.

[ablyworks]

Transform Your Hiring with AblyWorks: The Best ATS Software for Startups and Small Businesses

Recruiting in today’s fast-paced market is tough—especially for startups and small businesses where every hire matters. If you're still relying on spreadsheets, emails, or manual tracking, you're not just wasting time—you're risking the future of your company. That’s where AblyWorks steps in — with the smartest ATS software designed for your growth.

What is ATS Software?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a recruitment tool that automates and manages the entire hiring process—from posting jobs to tracking applicants, scheduling interviews, and onboarding. It’s like having an extra recruiter on your team—only faster, more organized, and always on.

Why AblyWorks is the Best ATS for Startups and Small Businesses

At AblyWorks, we understand that startups and small businesses need more than just a basic tool. You need a system that’s:

Easy to Use – No complex setup. Just plug and play. Affordable – Built to scale with your business, not drain your budget. Fast and Efficient – Cut down time-to-hire by up to 40%. Fully Customizable – Tailor workflows to match your unique hiring process. Collaborative – Bring HR, recruiters, and hiring managers together on one clean dashboard.

ATS for Small Business: Why It’s a Game-Changer

Small businesses often face big recruitment challenges:

Limited time and resources

High competition for top talent

Lack of structured hiring processes

AblyWorks solves all of these with features like:

🔹 Smart Resume Screening 🔹 Automated Interview Scheduling 🔹 Candidate Scorecards 🔹 Integrated Job Board Posting 🔹 Real-time Hiring Pipeline Tracking

The Best ATS for Startups? Here’s Why It’s AblyWorks.

Startups thrive on agility, speed, and precision—and so does our software. Whether you're hiring your first employee or scaling your team across multiple roles, AblyWorks keeps your process smooth and stress-free.

No more lost resumes. No more messy inboxes. Just powerful, data-driven hiring.

Ready to Upgrade Your Hiring?

Whether you're a founder, HR lead, or recruiter, it's time to move beyond outdated hiring methods. Let AblyWorks be your partner in building a better team, faster.

Get your free demo today at https://www.ablyworks.com/ Or contact our team to see how we can customize the perfect ATS for your needs.

[avenirtechcorp]

Your Complete Guide to Buying Two-Wheeler Spare Parts- GNG Go

If you own a two-wheeler, you know how essential regular maintenance is to keep it running smoothly. One of the most important aspects of bike maintenance is replacing worn-out or damaged spare parts on time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of two-wheeler spare parts and how you can conveniently purchase them online.

What Are Two-Wheeler Spare Parts?

Two-wheeler spare parts are components that may need replacement over time due to wear and tear. These parts are critical for performance, safety, and comfort. They fall under two broad categories:

1. Mechanical Spare Parts

Mechanical parts are involved in the core operation of your two-wheeler:

Engine: Powers the vehicle by converting fuel into motion.

Gearbox & Clutch: Help manage speed and control.

Chassis (Frame): Provides the basic structure and balance.

Brakes: Crucial for stopping and controlling speed.

Tyres: Ensure grip, stability, and ride quality.

Suspension: Absorbs shocks and offers a smooth ride.

Handlebars: Control direction and movement.

2. Electrical Spare Parts

These parts handle the electrical functions of your bike:

Battery: Powers lights, ignition, and electronic systems.

Lights (Headlight, Taillight, Indicators): Provide visibility and signaling.

Ignition System: Starts the bike.

Sensors & Switches: Automate and manage electrical components.

How to Buy Two-Wheeler Spare Parts Online

With the growing popularity of e-commerce, purchasing bike parts online has become quick, convenient, and reliable — if you know where to look.

One trusted platform to explore a wide range of two wheeler spare parts online is GNG GO, where you’ll find genuine, quality parts for all major two-wheeler brands.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

Step-by-Step Buying Guide

1. Identify Your Bike’s Make and Model Start with your vehicle’s manual or check the nameplate. Knowing the exact model helps avoid compatibility issues.

2. Choose a Trusted Online Store Look for reliable platforms like GNG GO that offer verified, genuine products, easy returns, and customer support.

3. Confirm Product Compatibility Match the product specifications with your bike model before adding it to the cart.

4. Compare Prices and Reviews Check reviews from other buyers and compare prices to ensure you’re getting value for money.

5. Review Return and Warranty Policies Understand the return policy in case the part doesn’t fit or fails to perform as expected.

Things to Consider When Shopping Onlin

Authenticity: Always opt for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or certified aftermarket products.

Fitment: Check the specifications carefully before placing an order.

Delivery Time: Choose sellers that offer quick and reliable shipping.

Support: Go with platforms that provide expert support if you have doubts about fitment or installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why should I buy two-wheeler spare parts online instead of visiting a local shop?

Buying online offers access to a wide variety of parts, price comparisons, doorstep delivery, and detailed product information.

Q2: How do I ensure that I’m buying the correct part for my bike?

Match your bike’s brand, model, and part number with the product description. If unsure, use the chat or support features provided by platforms like GNG GO.

Q3: Is it safe to install spare parts by myself?

Some parts like mirrors or bulbs can be self-installed. For safety-critical parts like brakes or suspension, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.

Q4: Are online spare parts as durable as those sold in stores?

Yes, as long as you’re purchasing from reputable platforms that sell certified and genuine products.

Conclusion

Two-wheeler maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By understanding the types of spare parts and choosing a reliable source to shop from, you can extend your bike’s life and performance effortlessly. For a seamless shopping experience, genuine quality, and doorstep delivery, explore a wide selection of two wheeler spare parts online at GNG GO today.

[pandit1230]

Enroll in the KP Astrology Course at IIAG Astrology

Astrology has many branches, but when it comes to accuracy, speed, and scientific prediction, KP Astrology stands out. If you’re someone who’s fascinated by the stars and wants to explore a practical and result-oriented system of astrology, then it’s time to consider joining the KP astrology course offered by IIAG Astrology.

Whether you're a beginner, a practicing astrologer, or simply someone curious about how astrology truly works, this course is your gateway to mastering a powerful predictive system.

What is KP Astrology?

KP Astrology, short for Krishnamurti Paddhati, is a modern system of astrology developed by the great Indian astrologer Prof. K.S. Krishnamurti. Unlike traditional Vedic astrology, KP astrology offers quick, accurate, and scientifically verifiable results by using the Placidus house system and sub-lord theory.

This method focuses on precision—down to the very minute—and is especially known for providing timely predictions about career, marriage, childbirth, business, travel, and more.

Why Learn KP Astrology?

KP astrology is ideal for those who:

Want to go beyond generic astrology and dive into advanced techniques

Are looking for a systematic and logical approach to chart reading

Wish to offer more accurate guidance to clients and loved ones

Seek to build a strong career in professional astrology

The KP method is both practical and predictive—a winning combination for today’s astrologers.

Why Choose IIAG Astrology for Your KP Astrology Course?

At IIAG Astrology, we blend ancient wisdom with modern teaching methods to ensure a learning experience that’s both enriching and practical. Here’s why thousands of learners choose us:

Expert-Led Curriculum

Our KP astrology course is designed and taught by seasoned KP astrologers who have spent years mastering the method. You'll learn real-time application, not just theory.

Beginner to Advanced Learning

Whether you are just starting or have some background in astrology, this course will guide you step by step—from the basics to advanced KP concepts like ruling planets, sub-lords, significators, and cuspal interlinks.

Flexible Online Learning

With our online platform, you can study KP astrology at your own pace, from the comfort of your home. Learn through recorded classes, live sessions, and practical assignments.

Personalized Guidance

Get your doubts cleared and receive direct feedback from mentors. At IIAG, we don’t just teach—we support and guide your journey.

Certification and Career Support

On successful completion, receive a certification that enhances your credibility and opens doors to career opportunities as a KP astrologer, consultant, or teacher.

What You’ll Learn in the KP Astrology Course

Here’s a glimpse of what’s covered in our well-structured KP astrology course:

History and origin of Krishnamurti Paddhati

KP vs traditional Vedic astrology

Understanding the Placidus house system

Importance of sub-lords and ruling planets

Techniques for accurate timing of events

Analysis of horary (Prashna) charts using KP

Practical chart analysis and case studies

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to give pinpoint predictions and conduct readings with unmatched clarity and confidence.

Who Can Join the KP Astrology Course?

This course is perfect for:

Astrology enthusiasts who want to learn accurate prediction techniques

Practicing astrologers looking to upgrade their skills

Healers, counselors, and spiritual coaches

Anyone looking to make astrology a professional path

No prior astrology knowledge is required. Our teaching style is beginner-friendly and designed to make complex concepts easy to understand.