Six Secrets Smart Students Don’t Tell You
Chandan Deshmukh, 24, is an Electronics & Communication Engineer by chance, SAP Basis engineer by profession; And now a writer by choice. He recently launched a self-help book for students who are preparing for exams. Kurian Cyriac interviews the young writer and finds out more about his new work.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Our country has a problem; a big one. Though the literacy rate has multiplied 20 times in a century, students are being instructed “TO” study, but never on “HOW” to study. This problem was my inspiration, and Ta-da! I wrote my first book.
How did you balance yourself as an engineer/writer while coming up with this book?
I had to wear both the hats at the same time; and yes, it was challenging. After the day job, I used to burn the midnight oil and write. During official meetings I used to get plot ideas and it was noted down immediately, when I travelled back home I used to stop my bike to note down few thoughts on my “idea book”. Indeed, my team mates in L&T were supportive in this initiative, and I owe them a lot
Do you have a specific writing style?
Target audience is the students and as this is a non-fiction, I used a mix of Persuasive and Narrative writing styles.
How did you come up with the title?
Most of us usually judge a book in 2 seconds, so the title had to be catchy. After a lot of research on internet and feedback from students, I zeroed in this title.
How much of the book is realistic?
Situations described in the book relate to my real life, but the timelines may differ. A few are made-up to add spice to the story. The flow may seem filmy, but that’s thanks to the fairy tales my parents narrated while feeding me in childhood.
What books have most influenced your life most?
3 books stirred my life-
“The Element” by Ken Robinno son,
“Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom
“Bhagavad Gita As It Is” by Swami Prabhupada.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Though a different genre, I choose Devdutt Pattanaik- for his research competence, clarity of thought, skill of pouring out ideas, and comprehension of the audience.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Since childhood, whomever I saw, I imagined a story about them. Be it a stranger who walks on the road, a tired office-goer who is returning home, or my dog; I had a story imagined about them in my mind. This trait was the origin.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I have a lot of ideas buzzing, and finding time to write is currently my biggest challenge!
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Its high time we make our study life interesting and easy. This book shows how to. If the readers are able to grasp it, I have done justice.
Note: This is an article from Campazine, currently featured on Simple Insights.
