MindShift - The Science of Decisions

Overview: Why do we remember some things and forget others? How does the brain shape our perception, behaviour and decisions? MindShift is a three-round competition exploring neuropsychology, cognition and human behaviour. Through application-based challenges, scientific research and problem-solving, participants will investigate how cognitive processes influence the way we think and interact with the world. Designed for curious minds across disciplines, MindShift encourages scientific reasoning, critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making. No prior specialisation in neuroscience or psychology is required.

Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from all academic disciplines. Participants may register individually or in teams of 1–4 members.

Competition Rounds Round 1: Brain Basics | Online Quiz An application-based quiz covering foundational concepts in memory, attention, perception, learning, cognitive biases and decision-making. Questions will focus on applying concepts to real-world scenarios rather than relying solely on factual recall. A preparatory reference document will be provided before the round, making it accessible to beginners.

Round 2: NeuroDesign | Submission Round Shortlisted participants will receive a challenge brief requiring them to approach an unfamiliar neuropsychological problem through scientific reasoning, research and creative problem-solving. Teams must develop a structured response, justify their approach and consider its feasibility within the given constraints. The challenge will run over two days, with detailed instructions, deliverables and evaluation criteria released at the start of the round.

Final Round: Offline Finale | IIT Madras The finalists will participate in an interactive, research-driven neuropsychology challenge at IIT Madras on 2 January 2027 . Teams will investigate a neuropsychological condition, explore its underlying mechanisms using credible scientific literature, and develop an evidence-informed solution or intervention concept. Teams will submit their research and proposed approach with appropriate citations and present their findings to a judging panel. Detailed task requirements and evaluation criteria will be shared with the finalists.

Evaluation Criteria: Participants will be evaluated on scientific understanding, analytical reasoning, research quality, creativity, feasibility, problem-solving and communication. Detailed, round-specific judging criteria will be communicated to participants.

Prizes Total Prize Pool: ₹35,000 Winner certificates will be provided in hard copy. Finalist and participation certificates will be provided digitally. Why Participate? Explore the science behind human cognition, engage with scientific research and tackle challenging problems that go beyond conventional quizzes. Develop skills in research, critical thinking, scientific communication and teamwork while investigating the fascinating relationship between brain function and behaviour. Think critically. Investigate the evidence. Discover the Science of Decisions.