The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive MBA entrance exam that is a stepping stone to some of the top MBA colleges in India, including the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIMS). The exam is known for its challenging questions, time constraints, and unpredictable difficulty levels, which is why a well-structured CAT exam study plan is paramount. Most students aiming to get admission to some of the best colleges for MBA in India often wonder how to prepare for the test at home, which are the best books for CAT exam preparation, and which exam short tricks can help them maximize their chances of getting admission.
With the right CAT entrance exam strategy, dedication, and perseverance, you can effectively crack the exam with flying colors and secure admission into the best university for an MBA in India. The blog post ahead will guide you through a step-by-step approach to CAT exam preparation tips, covering everything from the exam syllabus to apps for exam preparation and much more. So, let us dive into a comprehensive CAT exam study plan designed to help you succeed.
CAT Exam Syllabus and Pattern
Before you begin your preparation, understanding the CAT exam syllabus and pattern is a prerequisite. The exam consists of three main sections, which include:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
The CAT exam pattern follows a computer-based format with a total duration of 120 minutes, dedicating 40 minutes to each section. Here is a quick breakdown for you to understand:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted (in minutes) |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 40 |
| Total | 66 | 120 |
Each correct answer earns 3 marks, while each incorrect answer results in -1 negative marking.
How to Prepare for CAT Exam MBA – Step-by-Step Guide
If you are preparing for an entrance test for MBA, here is a structured approach for you to follow:
Create a Well-Structured Study Plan
Before appearing for CAT, you must create a structured study plan to help you cover all the topics efficiently. The ideal timeline should be:
- 4-6 months before the CAT exam date: Focus on building a conceptual framework and clarity in QA, DILR, and VARC by buying good books for CAT exam preparation.
- 2-3 months before the CAT exam date: Start taking mock tests and solving CAT exam papers from previous years.
- 1 month before the exam: Revise, practice, take daily tests, and work on tricks to crack the exam.
Refer to the Best Book for CAT Exam Preparation
For exam preparation, select good books to understand the CAT exam pattern and score well. Some of the most recommended books include:
- Quantitative Ability
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT – Arun Sharma
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams – RS Aggarwal
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and RC – Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT – Nishit K Sinha
Use the Best Apps for CAT Exam Preparation
Use the technology to the fullest extent by installing appropriate apps for CAT exam preparation that provide excellent study material and practice tests. Some of the best CAT preparation apps include:
- BYJU’s CAT Preparation
- Unacademy Learning App
- Career Launcher CAT Coaching
Solve CAT Exam Papers from Previous Years
Practicing exam papers from the past 5-10 years will help you understand the difficulty level and weigh your strengths and weaknesses for each section. This also enables you to enhance your problem-solving skills.
Master CAT Exam Short Tricks
To improve efficiency, you can integrate short tricks for each section, like:
- For Quantitative Ability: Memorize important formulas and shortcuts by preparing a chart.
- For DILR: Develop logical reasoning skills by regularly solving puzzles and mock tests.
- For VARC: Improve your reading comprehension by reading newspaper articles, novels, and other course books regularly.
Tips Before CAT Exam – What to Do in the Last Month
The final month before the CAT exam is when you must speed up your preparation. Here are some of the CAT exam tips and tricks to help you stay on track:
- Revise important concepts and formulas by making a chart.
- Take full-length mock tests to simulate real exam conditions daily.
- Analyse your performance after every test to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Work on time management strategies to attempt maximum questions within the allotted time.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and exercise.
CAT Exam Day Tips – How to Prepare for CAT Exam
Following the right strategy can make all the difference on the day of the CAT exam. Some of the essential CAT exam tips include:
- Reach the exam centre one hour before the exam to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Make a checklist of the documents needed, including the admit card and proof of valid ID.
- Attempt easy questions first to maximize your chances of scoring well.
- Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions. If you have enough time left, move on to the next question and attempt it later.
Debugging Last-Minute Doubts Before the CAT Exam
As the exam day nears, last-minute doubts are natural, which can create unnecessary stress. To tackle those, follow the below tricks to crack the CAT exam so you can make a significant difference in your performance.
Q1. What if I still struggle with some topics?
It is normal to have weak areas even after dedicating a significant amount of time to preparation. Instead of panicking, focus on high-weightage topics from CAT exam papers and revise them thoroughly. Avoid starting new topics and, instead, strengthen what you already know.
Q2. How do I manage time effectively during the exam?
Practice dedicating 40 minutes to each section strictly. Use the 2-pass approach, where you need to attempt easy questions first and then proceed to moderate ones. Skip lengthy calculations in QA and avoid over-analysing options in VARC as there is negative marking too.
Q3. How do I stay calm before the exam?
Simulate the CAT entrance exam experience with a final mock test. Practice deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations to reduce stress and anxiety. Ensure a good night’s sleep before the exam to keep your mind firm.
Q4. What should I double-check before the CAT exam day?
You need to double-check your admit card, ID proof, and exam center location. Avoid wearing tight clothes to the exam as it can make you feel uncomfortable. Carry your water bottle along to keep you hydrated during the exam.
Ready for the CAT Exam Day?
Cracking the CAT exam with an excellent score requires a blend of smart work, strategy, and persistence. By following a structured CAT exam study plan, reading the best course books, practicing mock tests, and implementing tricks to crack the exam, you can significantly boost your chances of success. Just ensure that you stay consistent, take regular mock tests, and believe in exam preparation. With the right mindset and approach, securing admission to the best colleges for an MBA is well within your reach.
All the best!
