Common Admission Test commonly known as CAT examination is one procurement which every MBA aspirant wish to clasp. It is the key to get admission in top B-schools of India, including IIMs. Due to a significant increase in MBA aspirants across the country, the competitiveness among the candidates is rising constantly.
The CAT exam preparation involves an amalgamation of strategy, planning and implementation which eventually contributes to obtaining an adequate rank in the examination.
CAT 2018 examination is scheduled to be conducted on November 25, 2018.
CAT Preparation Strategy is a sync of following:
- Understanding the Exam Pattern
- Understanding the Syllabus
- Availability of time for preparation
- CAT 2018 Preparation Tips
- Knowing the right study material
CAT 2018 Exam Pattern:
- The CAT exam comprises a total number of 100 questions
- The CAT question paper will carry 3 sections
- There will be 75 Multiple Choice Questions and 25 Non-Multiple-Choice Questions.
- There will be negative marking for MCQs whereas no mark will be deducted for incorrect subjective type answer
- The candidate will be awarded 3 marks for each correct answer whereas a mark will be deducted for incorrect answer.
Section-wise exam pattern:
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Section |
Number of Questions |
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Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension |
34 questions (24-27 MCQs and 8-10 Non-MCQs) |
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Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning |
32 questions (24 MCQs and 8 Non-MCQs) |
|
Quantitative Ability |
34 questions (24-27 MCQs and 8-10 Non-MCQs) |
CAT 2018 Syllabus:
Section A: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
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Topics covered under Reading Comprehension |
Other Details |
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Topics covered under Verbal Ability |
Other Details |
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Section B: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
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Topics covered under Data Interpretation |
Other Details |
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Topics covered under Logical Reasoning |
Other Details |
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Section C: Quantitative Ability
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Topics covered under Quantitative Ability |
Other Details |
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CAT Preparation Tips:
Selection of Topics:
Rather than starting all the topics in a go, start with the topics in which you are more comfortable. Master them and then switch to other topics. While answering the question paper on the actual examination day also, read the question paper meticulously and start with the topics in which you are more comfortable and confident.
Check Previous years question paper:
Checking previous year's question paper will provide you an idea about the actual CAT exam. This will also provide an idea of areas where you need to work more. Focus on your weaker areas and master the area where you are already a hotshot.
Evaluate yourself:
Keep evaluating your preparation every 10-15 days by taking mock tests. Analyze your mistakes and work on them. Try not to repeat mistakes once you committed while taking the mock test. This will also help you in completing the actual examination in a given time limit.
Practice on calculations:
CAT examination never comprises of long equations. Adapt the smart ways of calculation and work rigorously on it. The only way to master calculation is ‘Practice'.
Understanding of Basic Concepts:
The examination is conducted to check the understanding of basic concepts. Rather than going for tough things first clear all the basic concepts and understand them thoroughly.
Preparing an effective timetable:
All the preparations might turn fruitless until an effective timetable is prepared and followed religiously. Study for a minimum of 8 hours daily esp. when the examination is merely 4 months away. You can always take short breaks of 10 minutes after every 2 hours of rigorous studies.
Time Management:
Time management is the key to crack any examination. While taking mock tests and previous year's question paper, try to complete it within the prescribed time. Check the areas where a lot of time is exhausted and start working on them. Practice those areas and master them. This will enable you to complete the examination within prescribed time without any hustle.
Stay Calm and Focused:
Don't overthink. It may affect you adversely. Stay calm and remain focused towards your goal. Don't pressurize yourself by thinking too much about the result. You can always discuss your worries with family and friends and try to overcome. Yoga, meditation or some sports activity can be a succor in such situations.