CAT Examination Preparation

For CAT Preparation, candidates must chart out a plan that is subject-wise. The CAT exam comprises of three sections – VARC, DILR and QA. Make sure to allot extra time for your weakest subject. Experts recommend that a candidate must begin CAT preparation with the subject they find the toughest. Here’s an overview of some of the important aspects of CAT preparation.

Also Check CAT Examination 2020 Syllabus

Step-wise CAT Preparation Plan

  • Step 1: Go through the CAT syllabus thoroughly and understand the CAT exam pattern and marking scheme well.
  • Step 2: Procure the best books for CAT and other study material.
  • Step 3: Join online study groups/communities on Quora, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc.
  • Step 4: Make a monthly, weekly and daily timetable.

Section-wise CAT Preparation Plan

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

This section is broadly divided into reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and verbal ability. To prepare for this section of the CAT exam, each part needs a different approach to practice. For example, preparation for reading comprehension should begin much earlier as it involves developing and cultivating the habit of reading. 

Also Check CAT Examination 2020 Dates

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

To prepare for DILR, the most important thing is to have a very clear idea about the fundamental concepts. Since the questions in this section are data and logic-based, the candidates need to develop sharp observational skills and have an eye for detail. Major topics for study for DILR section include Pie Charts, Tables, Line Charts, Mixed Charts and Bar Charts.

Also Check CAT Preparation Plan for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

This is the last section of CAT exam and the most intensive one. The QA section includes Math topics like Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry and Mensuration. To excel in this section of CAT exam, a thorough understanding of the concepts, formulae and theorems is required. Also, develop the skill of mental calculation. Although an onscreen calculator will be provided at the exam centre, the mental calculation will save more time. 

Also Read – How to Prepare for Clearing the MBA Admission Hurdles

CAT Preparation: Key Points

  • Download the MBA preparation mobile apps so that you can prepare for the CAT exam just about anywhere.
  • CAT exam tests your speed and accuracy. Practice as many CAT question papers and mock tests as possible to improve these skills.
  • Review your performance after each CAT mock test. Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and work towards rectifying mistakes.
  • Solve each question at least thrice, because in the first attempt, you will understand it, in the second attempt you will solve it faster, and by the third attempt, you may discover a shortcut.
  • Each section is allotted a time limit of 60 minutes therefore it is imperative to finish all the questions within the time allotted.
  • CAT exam has negative marking. For each wrong answer, -1 mark is deducted. To avoid this, learn to identify the questions that you can solve
  • CAT has sectional cut off limits, so do not ignore any topic. The sectional cut off directly impacts your overall CAT percentile and selection in WAT-GD/PI.

Also Read – CAT 2018: Registration Opens On August 8, Exam on November 25

Take CAT Mock Tests

IIMCAT releases an official CAT mock test a month before the exam to help candidates prepare themselves for the actual exam. It is an exact replica of the exam and it provides an insight into the probable exam pattern of that year. It has been seen that the topic-wise break-up of questions is different each year.

Also Read – CAA | NRC | What MBA Aspirants Should Know—Tips to Ace GK Questions in WAT & PI

The official CAT mock test should be attempted by each candidate and this can be accessed online on the official IIMCAT website. Only registered candidates can access the mock test website by using their login credentials.

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