T he Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of India's most prominent management entrance
examinations. Several esteemed B-schools, such as XLRI, and other prestigious institutes use
this examination as a gateway. We provide a comprehensive guide to help you excel in the
XAT and fulfill your aspiration to join a distinguished B-school like JIMS Rohini.
Verbal and Logical Ability (VA & LR)
This section checks a candidate’s English language skills and their ability to perceive and
analyze logical arguments.
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Reading Comprehension (RC):
Make it a habit to read all kinds of genres—philosophy, economics, literature, etc. Also,
pay attention to tone, intent, and structure. Solve various RC questions every day to gain
speed and a clear outlook.
- Grammar and Vocabulary:
Brush up on basic grammatical concepts and practice sentence correction as well as fill-
in-the-blanks. To build a useful vocabulary, read newspapers, magazines, and books,
which will help you learn new words and their meanings.
- Critical Reasoning:
Work on questions that test your ability to identify assumptions, conclusions, and logical
connections. Solve different kinds of puzzles and questions using logical reasoning to
develop analytical skills.
Decision-Making (DM)
This is the most exclusive section of the XAT and often serves as the deciding factor for
many candidates.
- Understand the Section:
Decision-Making questions are a combination of business scenarios, ethical dilemmas,
and daily life circumstances. Assessing problem-solving abilities, ethics, and logical
reasoning is crucial.
- Practice Caselets:
Practice decision-making caselets daily to become acquainted with balancing ethics and
practicality. Make a detailed list of pros and cons for each option, and don’t be biased
toward one.
- Learn Prioritization:
In some questions, you will have to prioritize your choices or choose a course of action
that is more appropriate. Practice evaluating the key components of a situation and how to
assign them a rank in order of importance.
Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
This section tests your mathematical skills and ability to interpret data.
- Focus on Basics:
Begin with the fundamentals, such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems.
Ensure that you're comfortable with the concepts of percentages, ratios, and time-speed
distances.
- Practice Data Interpretation: Solve DI sets that involve tables, bar graphs, and pie charts. Focus on working on your
calculation speed and interpreting data accurately.
- Mock Tests are Key: Attempt mock tests and analyze your performance. Identify your weak areas and try to
work on those.
General Knowledge (GK)
The GK section in XAT deals with GK and current affairs..
- Read the News Daily:
Stay informed about national and international news pertaining to business, economics,
sports, and politics.
- Focus on Static GK: Revise history, geography, important awards, and books. Online quizzes and flashcards
are useful preparation tools.
- Use Monthly Magazines: Refer to monthly GK magazines or online compilations for a quick revision of current
events.
Essay Writing (Optional)
XAT usually has an essay writing section to test the candidate's ability to express ideas
clearly and logically.
- Practice Writing:
Pick a topic that touches on current affairs, business, or social problems. Practice writing
a crisp essay with a well-defined introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Structure Matters: Try to present arguments in a logical manner. Make sure to avoid any grammatical errors
and adhere to a strict word limit.
Following these tips section-wise and being consistent with preparation will help you clear
XAT and secure admission into a leading MBA/PGDM program.