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Updated on 06th August, 2024 , 6 min read
CAT or Common Admission Test is a national exam conducted every year by IIMs on a rotational basis. It tests the aptitude of graduates who want to pursue management education. Through this exam you will get into IIMs and other top B schools in India.
CAT is the most popular MBA entrance exam in India with over two lakh aspirants every year. So to crack CAT you need a solid preparation plan. In this article we will talk about CAT 2024. Eligibility for CAT Examination is numbered below:
First Check out the rules and eligibility criteria for CAT exam:
CAT preparation is a long term plan. You have to start preparing for it at least 6 to 9 months in advance. If you are preparing for CAT by self study you have to start even earlier (preferably from March). If you are joining a coaching institute for CAT preparation 2024 you will be guided well by the mentors and coaches. Coaching institute will provide you with all the study material and CAT mock test series, will guide you through tricky topics and questions. But you will have to attend classes for 6 to 8 hours a day.
If you are appearing for CAT then follow the below –
The time to prepare for the CAT Exam depends on you. It depends on how well you can grasp the concepts, so there is no fixed time to crack CAT if you start from scratch. Two to three months is enough to finish the basics of three sections if you are starting from scratch. On an average, dedicated CAT preparation takes 6-7 months. Try to spend 2 hours on weekdays and 6-8 hours on weekends if possible.
Candidates can cover VARC concepts in one and a half months. This section focuses primarily on reading comprehension. Developing a structured way of thinking begins with understanding the critical aspects of passages.
The fundamental concepts can be learned in 1-2 months, depending on how strong or weak one is in the section. The aspirants should spend at least 1-2 hours daily covering the DI/LR sections.
When starting from scratch, it will take at least 2-3 months to cover all the fundamental concepts in Quant thoroughly. It is important to practice regularly and know the critical formulas. Make sure you know the application for each.
Below are the following quant topics:
The CAT exam preparation should include a comprehensive study plan, relevant books and study materials, a workable schedule, and mock tests. Below are the CAT exam preparation books with a well-planned strategy and the best books for the CAT exam.
First timers for CAT 2024 should prepare strategically. To get into IIMs, first time CAT 2024 aspirants need to know how to start preparing and score 99+ percentile.
Here are some tips to follow and prepare for CAT 2024:
It’s tough for working professionals to balance work and CAT preparation. The right strategy can help you crack CAT even with long working hours and late night studies.
Here’s how one can balance work and studies while preparing for CAT:
Answering the questions from the chapters where you are clear is a cakewalk. To score well in the test you need to prepare well for the chapters where you don’t have clear long term goals. Make sure you spend time on the chapters you are struggling with.
Candidates should start preparing as soon as possible and before the exam date. If dedicated and focused, CAT VARC can be prepared in 2-3 months. For CAT QA you need to improve your mental calculation skills.
Know your strengths and weaknesses: Prepare for the chapters where you don’t have clear long term goals. Spend time on the chapters you are struggling with.
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By - Prachi Bhatia 2024-08-06 05:58:13 , 6 min readThe CAT (Common Admission Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the IIMs on a rotational basis for admission to MBA programs and other management courses in India.
Yes, you can start CAT preparation by referring to the mentors & best books.
The competition level of the CAT exam is high, however with hard work & dedication, one can crack the CAT exam on the first attempt.
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA. There is no age limit to appear for the CAT exam.
The CAT Exam is a computer-based test (CBT) consisting of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The total duration is 120 minutes.
Each correct answer awards 3 points, and each incorrect answer deducts 1 point. There is no negative marking for non-MCQ questions.
It is recommended to start preparing at least 6 to 9 months in advance. Self-study preparation should ideally begin around March.
Joining a coaching institute is not mandatory but can be helpful. It provides structured study material, mock tests, and guidance from experienced mentors.
Avoid neglecting weaker sections, starting preparation too late, relying on too many study materials, and not practicing enough mock tests.
Regularly check the official CAT website for updates, and follow credible education portals and forums for the latest information.