FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

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What even is Trackshift?

Trackshift is a 24-hour innovation sprint where India’s sharpest student minds build wild ideas in AI, mobility, and sustainability.

Think less “boring coding camp” and more “Formula 1 pit stop for innovators.”

When & where is it happening?

15-16 November, 2025

Plaksha University, Mohali (hybrid prep + on-campus sprint)

Who can participate?

Open to all Indian UG students.

Is there any registration fee? Do I need to pay to participate?

Nope. Zero. Nada. Free as free gets.

How big can my squad be?

2-3 members per team. No solos — we want teamwork, not lone wolves.

Can I team up with folks from another college?

Yup. Inter-college dream teams are totally allowed (and encouraged).

I’ve never done a hackathon before. Am I gonna survive?

Yes! First-timers are welcome. You’ll learn tons, meet epic people, and have mentors helping you out. Winning is sweet, but the experience is the real prize.

How long is this madness?

24 hours. Back-to-back hacking, building, and brainstorming.

What can we build?

You’ll pick from 3 problem tracks:

  • Visual Difference Engine (spot tiny changes that matter)
  • Smart File Transfer System (make files fly, even on bad networks)
  • Mobility Simulator (simulate races, traffic, drones, chaos!)
Can we start coding before the event?

No sneaky head starts. You can think of ideas beforehand, but actual hacking begins right after kickoff.

What do I need to bring?

Your laptop, chargers, caffeine tolerance, and team spirit. We’ll cover the rest. Internet, charging ports, and basic resources will be provided.

Will I starve?

Not on our watch. All meals, snacks, and endless chai/coffee are on us.

Do I need to book a hotel?

Nope. We’ve got gender-segregated rest zones + nap pods on campus. Bring a hoodie for those late-night power naps.

WiFi? Charging ports?

High-speed internet + plenty of charging spots = covered.

Travel expenses covered?

Sadly, no. You’ve gotta get to Mohali on your own. But once you’re here — food, stay, and the whole vibe is free.

Who’s judging us?

A powerhouse mix of:

  • Haas F1 leaders
  • Mphasis experts
  • Plaksha faculty
  • Industry mentors from AI, IoT, and sustainability
How will projects be judged?

We’ll score you on:

  • Understanding the problem (20%)
  • Innovation & creativity (25%)
  • Tech execution & Feasibility (25%)
  • Scalability & real-world impact (20%)
  • Presentation & teamwork (10%)
Will we get mentors?

Yes - mentors will roam around giving feedback, roasting weak ideas (nicely), and helping polish your builds.

What’s in it for me (besides glory)?

Prizes:

  • 🥇 1st Prize: ₹1,00,000
  • 🥈 2nd Prize: ₹50,000
  • 🥉 3rd Prize: ₹25,000

Plus every winning team (All 3 teams) gets:

  • A 1-month internship at Mphasis (Bangalore)
  • A fully-sponsored trip to the MoneyGram Haas F1 facility in the UK

What if I don’t win? You still get: Exclusive hackathon swag + goodies + bragging rights. Inc. mentorship, networking, certificates, and memories that slap harder than an all-nighter.

How do I apply?

Easy — through our DevPost page.

How are teams shortlisted?

We’ll review ideas + motivation, pick 60-75 teams (200 students), and bring you on campus.

What’s the flow once I’m in?
  1. Application → shortlisting
  2. Pre-hack prep (AMAs, webinars, resource kits)
  3. On-campus hack (mentorship + mid-hack screening)
  4. Final jury showcase (top 8-10 teams pitch for glory)
When will I know if I made it?

Check your DevPost dashboard + email inbox. We’ll keep you posted.

Can I participate remotely?

Prep is hybrid. Final sprint is strictly on campus.

Who owns the IP of what we build?

You do. Your idea = your baby. We just get to evaluate it.

Where do I get updates?

Follow us:

  • Website (trackshift.in)
  • Insta & LinkedIn (@Trackshift_plaksha)
  • Emails after registration