Reverse Engineering Challenge, conducted by Elecfest as part of Shaastra at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, tests participants’ ability to debug and complete incomplete electronic circuits across digital, analog, embedded and signal-processing domains. This article explains the event format, question types, dates for Round 1 and Round 2, team rules and strict conduct and submission guidelines and procedures.
Format and Scope of the Challenge
The event begins with an online qualifier (Round 1): a 35-question quiz to be completed in 90 minutes. Round 1 starts on 10 Dec 2025. Questions cover the core domains—digital, analog, embedded and signal-processing—and use a mix of objective and descriptive formats to evaluate circuit debugging and reasoning skills.
- Question types:
- Single-correct
- Multiple-correct
- Integer
- Paragraph
- Top scorers in Round 1 are shortlisted for the on-campus Round 2, which focuses on practical debugging and circuit-building and will be held at IIT Madras on 05 Jan 2026.
Participation Rules, Conduct and Advancement
Teams of 1–2 members are allowed; intercollegiate and interdisciplinary teams are permitted. Calculators are explicitly permitted during the online qualifier. Strict conduct rules are enforced to preserve fairness and integrity.
- Prohibited during Round 1:
- External assistance
- Simulation or programming tools
- Use of AI
- Tab-switching or any form of communication
- Any breach of these prohibitions will result in disqualification.
- Participants must ensure a stable internet connection, submit their quiz before the timer ends, and follow all coordinator instructions; coordinators’ decisions are final.
In summary, the Reverse Engineering Challenge by Elecfest at Shaastra (IIT Madras) tests technical debugging across multiple electronic domains through a timed online qualifier and a hands-on on-campus second round. Remember the key dates—Round 1 starts on 10 Dec 2025 and shortlisted teams proceed to the on-campus Round 2 on 05 Jan 2026—adhere to the permitted tools and strict conduct rules to avoid disqualification.