Each year, thousands of aspirants compete for a limited number of seats, making it essential to have a well-planned and effective preparation strategy. Understanding the CAT exam pattern is crucial to devise a study plan that maximizes your chances of success. In this article, we will provide an in-depth introduction to CAT preparation and look into the CAT exam pattern. We will explore the various sections of the exam, their weightage, question types, and the time duration allotted for each section.
CAT Exam Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Sections | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Quantitative Ability (QA) and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). |
| Exam Duration | 120 Minutes (2 Hours) |
| Mode | Online, Computer-based Test (CBT) |
| Question Count | 66 Questions |
| Question Type | MCQs & Non-MCQs |
| Time Limit per Section | 40 Minutes |
| Marking Scheme | -1 for each wrong response+3 for every correct response |
CAT Exam Pattern
| S.No. | Name of the Section | Total Question Count | MCQ type Questions | TITA type Questions | Time Limit |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 Questions | 14 Questions | 6 Questions | 40 Minutes | |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 Questions | 14 Questions | 8 Questions | 40 Minutes | |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 Questions | 21 Questions | 3 Questions | 40 Minutes | |
| Total | 66 Questions | 49 Questions | 17 Questions | 120 Minutes (2 Hours) |
CAT Preparations
There are several modes of CAT preparation that you can choose from based on your preferences and resources. Here are some popular modes:
- Self-Study: Many aspirants opt for self-study as it allows flexibility and independence in terms of study schedules and resources. You can gather study materials, books, and online resources, and create a personalized study plan. Self-study requires self-discipline and motivation to stay consistent and focused.
- Coaching Institutes: Joining a coaching institute can provide structured guidance and a comprehensive study curriculum. Institutes offer experienced faculty, study materials, mock tests, and a competitive environment. Coaching can be beneficial for those who prefer a structured approach or need assistance with specific topics.
- Online Courses: Online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to study at your own pace and access materials from anywhere. These courses often include video lectures, interactive quizzes, doubt-solving sessions, and mock tests. Look for reputable platforms that provide comprehensive CAT preparation content.
- Study Groups: Forming or joining a study group can be beneficial as it allows collaboration, discussion, and sharing of resources and strategies. Group members can provide different perspectives and help clarify doubts. However, ensure that the group remains focused and productive.
- Mock Tests and Practice Material: Practice is essential for CAT preparation. Utilize online platforms, mobile apps, and books that offer mock tests and practice questions. Regularly solve mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, assess your performance, and improve time management and accuracy.
- Previous Year Question Papers: Solve previous year CAT question papers to understand the exam format, difficulty level, and question types. Analyze the patterns and focus on topics that are frequently asked. This practice will help you get accustomed to the CAT question style and build your confidence.
Tips for CAT preparations
Preparing for the CAT (Common Admission Test) requires a structured and disciplined approach. Here are some tips to make your CAT preparations more effective:
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the CAT exam pattern, including the number of sections, time duration, types of questions, and marking scheme. This will help you plan your preparation accordingly.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a well-organized study plan that covers all the topics and allows you sufficient time for revision. Break down your plan into daily, weekly, and monthly goals to ensure steady progress.
- Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses in different sections of the CAT exam. Focus more on improving weaker areas while maintaining your strengths. Prioritize topics that carry more weightage in the exam.
- Study Material and Resources: Gather the right study material, including CAT preparation books, online resources, mock tests, and previous year question papers. Choose reputed sources that cover the CAT syllabus comprehensively.
- Time Management: CAT is a time-bound exam, so practice solving questions within the stipulated time. Regularly take mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy. Time yourself for each section to ensure you complete the test on time.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in CAT. Solve a variety of questions from different difficulty levels to develop your problem-solving skills. Focus on quality practice rather than just quantity.
- Analyze and Learn from Mistakes: After each practice session or mock test, carefully analyze your mistakes. Understand the concepts you missed or the errors you made. This will help you avoid similar mistakes in the future.
- Develop Strong Basics: CAT questions often test your fundamental concepts. Strengthen your basics in topics such as mathematics, data interpretation, logical reasoning, and verbal ability. Build a solid foundation to tackle advanced problems.
- Join a Coaching Program or Study Group: Consider joining a reputed coaching program or forming a study group with like-minded aspirants. Collaborating with others can provide different perspectives and help you stay motivated.
- Stay Updated and Stay Healthy: Keep yourself updated with current affairs, business news, and relevant information. Also, take care of your physical and mental well-being. A healthy lifestyle and positive mindset contribute to better focus and performance.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length mock tests to simulate the actual CAT exam environment. Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and work on your test-taking strategies. Mock tests will also help you manage exam-day stress.
- Time for Revision: Allocate sufficient time for revision as the exam approaches. Review important concepts, formulas, and shortcuts. Refrain from learning new topics during the last few days and focus on reinforcing what you have already studied.
Remember, consistent effort, perseverance, and a positive attitude are crucial for success in CAT. Good luck with your preparations!
