The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an important stepping stone into an MBA program in
India . Besides the academic preparation, the CAT relies heavily on strategic planning and
logical reasoning. Here’s a thorough guide to help you succeed at this competitive exam.
Understand the Exam Structure
The CAT exam comprises three sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
Given that each section follows strict timings, attention needs to be kept with regard to time
management. Get yourself acquainted with the pattern, marking schemes, and types of
questions to design a strategy for your study plan.
Build a Solid Foundation
Focus on getting the fundamentals right. This will instill a confidence to solve all other
problems, be it a math one or reasoning-based.
- For QA, focus on arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- For DILR, work through sets dealing with graphical and constructive puzzles and
analysis of data.
- For VARC, expand your vocabulary and improve your reading comprehension by
reading newspaper articles, novels, and journals.
Create a Study Plan
Divide your preparation into phases:
- Foundation Phase: Concentrate on understanding the basic concepts.
- Practice Phase: Solve all questions topic-wise.
- Mock Phase: Analyze mock tests and attempt them daily.
Stick to a 2-3 hours daily CAT-preparation plan , including all the sections.
Prioritize Mock Tests
To prepare for CAT exams, giving mock exams is obligatory. It helps simulate an exam-like
atmosphere, with a test of performance level.
- Begin with sectional tests to strengthen the non-uniform areas.
- Later, move to full-length tests.
- Evaluate each test to identify errors and focus on improving on those areas.
Time Management is Key
CAT is as much about speed as it is about accuracy. In practice and mock tests:
- Identify those questions that you can solve in less time.
- Identify tough questions, but don't spend a lot of time.
- Learn the easier way to skip unnecessary questions.
Focus on Accuracy
While speed is the challenge, getting the perfect accuracy is what gets you marks. Wrong
answers mean negative marking, so learn to balance speed with accuracy.
Stay Updated and Adaptive
Changes in the pattern of the CAT exam can be expected each year. So stay updated of any
changes, if any, announced in the syllabus or revision. Being flexible might just give you an
edge over your competitors.
Keep Stress in Check
Preparing for CAT can be daunting work, therefore you should try to keep stress at bay.
- Stick to a regular sleep routine.
- Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
- Take small breaks here and there to energize, so you don't tire yourself out.
Leverage Resources
There are innumerable avenues open for studies. It is advised to take up good study
material, refer to online study tutorials if need be, take help from coaching classes, or join
test study groups that discuss problems from all perspectives.
Learn from Mentors
Consult a mentor or a senior who has done brilliantly at CAT. Getting tips and insights would
help you refine your preparation strategy.
JIMS Sector 5 Rohini is a premier institution that has its admissions based on CAT scores
for its industry-oriented PGDM programs. With an emphasis on the interface between
academic knowledge and practical skills, it affords a platform for aspiring managers to grow
in a competitive corporate environment.
Final Thoughts
Apart from preparation, strategy, and determination, to crack CAT , one must understand that
it is not just the action hours but the smartness of preparation that matters. Be strategic, get
into the habit of self-discipline, and be willing to test your worth and potential.