Battle Strategies for D-day
The most awaited day has finally arrived. CAT examinations start today. Let's discuss the last-minute, test-taking strategy for this exam. Keep in mind these points to give your best shot to everything while taking the test.
Avoid discussions
Ever had someone sit next to you in an exam who always asks you about the topics you did and didn't cover, just before the exam? Suddenly all those topics you thought trivial the night before start seeming so very important. Remember that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach? We definitely don't want that happening before the CAT. Do not discuss what you left out or didn't focus on. It's useless and unproductive. Instead, focus on doing your best and fostering self-belief.
Steer clear of tensions
Before any paper, you find test takers huddled together gravely discussing how the test is going to be and end up feeling unprepared. Confidence is crucial for performance. Thus, make it a point to avoid these ‘tension groups' like the plague. And if you don't find anyone with a similar, positive approach, you are better off alone.
Be early, be calm
If you're rushing to the CAT centre with one eye on the road and the other on your watch, don't be surprised to find your nerves fried by the time you reach the test centre. Be there early, with plenty of time to relax and get used to your surroundings. Find out well in advance where you will be seated, and double check your admit card and stationery supplies. In case you are late, close your eyes for a few moments and take a few deep breaths to calm yourself.
Know what you can carry
Carefully sift through the guidelines in the admit card and make yourself aware of the rules and regulations for CAT. Be aware of what you can and can't carry in. There have been innumerable cases where students thought they were allowed to carry a certain kind of equipment and had to face a lot of problems at the centre. The CAT is a serious affair and you can expect the invigilators to be strict.
Stay alert throughout
Do not relax till you are done with all the questions and have revised your answers. The war is not over till the last battle is won. Once the bell rings and you start with the paper, do not hold back. Whether you do well, or not, your focus should be to give it your best. Many people from the IIMs that we have spoken to have later confessed that they really thought they had made blunders in their paper. Many a time, it's just paranoia.
Maintain your centre
Sometimes, we get tense just by watching anxious people. Do not pay heed to any remarks that a fellow test taker might make after seeing the questions.
When you are in the exam hall, keep your eyes on the paper and ears preferably closed.
Stay focused. Consider earplugs, maybe even cotton balls (it worked for me when I took the exam). But be sure to check with your centre in case they have any reservations against that.
