Candidates are measured on specific criteria, such as analytical and verbal competencies. CAT aspirants must know the complete guide and syllabus before preparing for the examination. Students should remember that completing the CAT syllabus is not enough for cracking CAT exams. It also requires a flexible approach and improvements to the study plan.
So here are some guidelines to help students get through CAT.
Know the complete syllabus and exam pattern
- The first step towards preparing for CAT is to note the syllabus and test format, examine the type of questions modeled, and the complexity of the paper. There are three sections included in the paper:
- data interpretation and logical reasoning
- verbal ability and reading comprehension
- quantitative aptitude
- Know the strengths and weaknesses of each of the parts and practice continuously.
- Note down the time spent over each section.
The pattern of the paper:
- Mode of the paper: Online
- The total number of questions: 100
- Total sections: 3
- Total marks: 300
- The medium of the paper: English
- The marking system: three marks for each correct answer and one mark for each incorrect answer
Solve n number of mock tests and practice papers
The main component of studying for CAT exams is answering practice questions and mock tests online. Candidates must ensure they practice about 45-50 mock tests during the time of preparation. Its recommended practicing each of the sections at least three times each of its questions. It will help in understanding the problem and help solve it correctly in less time with accuracy. Analyze your results after answering each mock test or sample paper, and determine the critical areas for improvement. Solve only one mock paper a day, as the brain requires rest after solving one.
Candidates must note that it is always better to practice the previous year question papers to help get a better understanding.
Preparation with Coaching or self-study
- The mode of preparation will be determined based on the level of preparation for the candidates and the amount of guidance needed.
- When self-study is chosen, candidates must be attentive concerning the latest information, appropriate books and material, and handle their time accordingly.
- When preparation is done with Coaching's help, it is of utmost importance to choose the right Institute.
- Candidates may also opt to coach online as a preparation tool. This is an attractive choice for working people who cannot find time for daily classes.
- No matter what mode of preparation is chosen, it always depends upon the candidate how well he/ she prepares for it.
Make a proper time table.
- Preparing for any tough exam will require one to follow a proper time schedule so that an individual can keep himself/herself motivated and focused.
- There is no standard rule for setting the time table. It completely depends on the student's convenience.
- On the time left for the exam, the individual can stick to follow a definite time table
- The candidates can also take some of the help from the previously applied students regarding the time schedule.
- It is always better to divide the sections accordingly and donate time for each section as required.
Section-wise preparation tips
As mentioned above, there are a total of 3 sections in the CAT exam.
Quantitative Ability:
- The CAT section on Quantitative Aptitude includes Arithmetic, Algebra, Advance Mathematics, and Geometry, etc.
- Practice time-saving methods such as tables till 40, squares, cubes, and the corresponding percentage of fractions as it requires a heavy calculation.
- Practice solving each question within less amount of time, not more than 2 minutes.
- It is always better to break the section in 3 parts; first try to solve the easy ones, move on to the moderate question types, and the hard ones.
- Prepare a formula book or a chart and keep it in front during the practice period.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning:
- The crucial thing about DILR is that there is no math and no formula. This is based on logic and requires some analysis and calculation.
- DILR is considered to take up a little bit more time. Use techniques of approximation to quick calculations. Learn all sorts of DI graphs and maps and LR puzzles.
- The more one practices DILR questions, the more it gets for the individual to increase speed or accuracy.
- Solve four sets of DI and LR each regular. Typically every set requires 10-15 minutes to solve. Try solving them in 8-12 minutes.
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension:
This section consists of three parts; grammar, reading comprehension, and vocabulary.
- Know, and practice the fundamentals of grammar such as posts, adjectives, tenses, modifiers, etc.
- To do well in reading comprehension, it is recommended to read as many novels, books, articles, etc. Read diverse topics and read around 250-300 words per minute.
- Vocabulary-based questions include synonyms, antonyms, analogies, spellings, odd words, often confused words. One requires strong vocabulary awareness, comprehension skills, and thinking skills to answer these questions.
- Candidates must give their 85% on the following topics: Vocabulary and completion of sentences, Grammar, Deductive Logic, Para Jumbles, Logical Thinking, Para-Completion, and Overview Questions.
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