What is XAT Exam?
Xavier Aptitude Test also known as XAT is a National Level Entrance Test conducted by Xavier School of Management (XLRI) Jamshedpur on account of Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). XAT is conducted every year to select potential students for management programs offered by top business schools, associated with the institution as part of XAMI. Apart from XAMI, 160 other Top MBA Colleges in India also will accept XAT Score for shortlisting students in their various PGDM 2023-25 management programs. XLRI Jamshedpur has been conducting the exam for more than 70 years now. Last year the pattern of the entrance exam was changed from offline pen-paper mode to computer-based online mode.
Don't Miss Out On: XAT Preparation Tips by Toppers
How to Prepare for XAT in 3 Months?
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Preparing for XAT in just three months requires focus and dedication. This guide outlines a strategic approach to help you make the most of your limited time. From setting a study schedule to practicing mock tests, these essential steps will aid you in achieving success in the XAT exam. Emphasizing time management, identifying weak areas, and staying positive throughout the process are additional keys to maximizing your preparation in this short span. With determination and a well-structured plan, you can excel in the XAT and secure your dream MBA program.
Understand the Exam Pattern
Familiarize yourself with the XAT Exam Pattern including the number of sections, types of questions, and time duration for each section. XAT question paper is divided into two parts i.e. Part 1 and Part 2 depending on the type of questions, one is objective type and the other one is subjective type. The examination pattern can also be divided into moderate and difficult depending upon the difficulty level of the examination.
XAT Exam Pattern 2024
Particulars | Details |
Duration | 190 minutes |
Type of questions | MCQs |
Marking Scheme |
|
Number of Sections | Five |
Language of XAT 2024 | English |
XAT 2024 Marking Scheme
To understand the XAT exam pattern and marking scheme well, take a look at the actual XAT question paper. It will give you the idea of:
- Types of questions asked in XAT exam
- Section wise number of questions
- Topic-wise weightage of questions
- Types of MCQs and non-MCQs
- Marking scheme (XAT includes negative marking)
- Once you are familiar with the XAT exam pattern and syllabus, make the monthly XAT preparation plan.
Create a Study Schedule
Divide your three months into weekly study targets. Allocate time for each section of the exam, focusing on your strengths and weaknesses.
Gather Study Material
Collect the relevant study material, including textbooks, study guides, and online resources for XAT preparation. Important books for each section of the XAT Exam 2024 is mentioned below in the following tables
Section 1: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Important Books | Author/ Authors |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay |
How to Read Better and Faster | Norman Lewis |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Ajay Singh |
Analytical Reasoning | MK Pandey |
High School English Grammar | Composition by Wren & Martin |
Section 2: Decision Making (DM)
Important Books | Author/ Authors |
Analytical and Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
XAT XLRI - Decision Making Simplified | Disha Experts |
Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers) | R.K. Jha |
Analytical and Logical Reasoning | Arihant Publications |
Section 3: Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
Important Books | Author/ Authors |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
Data Interpretation | Nishit Sinha |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations |
Section 4: General Awareness (GA)
Important Books | Author/ Authors |
General Knowledge 2024 | Manohar Pandey |
Lucent's General Knowledge 2024 | Dr. Binay Karna |
Newspapers and Magazines | The Hindu, The Times of India, and magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan to stay abreast of the latest happenings. |
Section 5: Essay Writing
Important Books | Author/ Authors |
Essay Writing for XAT and Other Exams | Pulkit Khare |
Mock Tests
Take regular mock tests to assess your progress and identify areas that need improvement. Analyze your performance in each test to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Every week, complete 3-4 full-fledged XAT mock tests, evaluate your performance, and track your progress.
Improve Time Manaement
Practice solving questions within the specified time limits. Time management is crucial in XAT, as it has a tight time frame.
Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas and work on improving them. Give extra attention to topics that you find challenging.
Solve Previous Year Papers
Practice solving previous year's XAT question papers to get an idea of the exam's difficulty level and question patterns.
Prepare for General Knowledge
XAT includes a General Knowledge section. Stay updated with current affairs and general knowledge topics by reading newspapers, magazines, and online sources.
Section-wise XAT Preparation
Every section of XAT holds its significance and should be given equal importance during preparation. Constructing a well-thought-out strategy and planning ahead can ensure ample time allocation for all sections. For instance, the decision-making section demands a blend of clear understanding and swift thinking, while the Quantitative Ability section necessitates precise calculations within limited time constraints.
Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
In the XAT exam, the Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) section carries the highest weightage. It comprises 28 questions and is known for its challenging nature, assessing candidates' mathematical aptitude. While preparing, candidates can find Data Interpretation relatively easier compared to Quantitative Ability. For Quant, focus on Geometry, Algebra, and Number Systems, while for DI, concentrate on Tables and Graphs. Regular practice of fundamental concepts is essential for success in this section.
Verbal & Logical Ability
The XAT exam includes three distinct sections: Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, and Logical Reasoning. Since each part has a separate syllabus, candidates can prepare for them individually. In this section, there are a total of 26 questions related to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning. To perform well, concentrate on improving your Vocabulary, handling Analogy, Para Jumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning & Inference, and mastering Para Completion. Additionally, practice tackling lengthy and challenging passages from XAT mock test series to excel in Reading Comprehension.
Decision Making
The XAT Decision Making section comprises questions based on diverse business and everyday scenarios. Candidates will face dilemmas and need to choose the best solutions among the provided options. With a total of 21 questions in this section, it demands clarity of thought and swift decision-making skills. Developing the ability to identify the most suitable option is essential. Focus on practicing topics such as analogy, seating arrangement, logical sequence, assumption, premise, and conclusion to excel in this section.
General Knowledge
To tackle the General Knowledge section in the XAT exam, candidates can effectively prepare by reading the Manorama Year Book and Competition Success Review. For Current Affairs, it is essential to develop the habit of regularly reading newspapers and business journals right from the early stages of preparation.