CMAT 2026: Last Minute Tips and Exam Strategy

CMAT is a speed based test so your last minute preparation matters a lot. It is critical to use all of 180 minutes judiciously so that you make maximum correct attempts for an optimum performance. Check below a few CMAT 2026 last minute prep tips.

CMAT 2026 exam will be held on January 25, 2026 and it is time now for the final preparation. You need to be thorough with the CMAT dos and don'ts for exam day because at times not big but small mistakes that cost a lot. Do not start a new chapter or try to master a topic that you've haven't been able to do so until now. Take a break so that you can perform with a relaxed mind in the CMAT exam. Here are a few things that CMAT exam 2026 test takers must do as part of their last minute preparation. 

1. Revise from short notes

Do not overload your brain before the CMAT exam with heavy notes. Revise concepts, theorems, formulae, shortcuts and tricks from your notes prepared earlier. Don't try to focus on every topics. Pick the topics for last minute revision from which maximum questions are expected.

Also Read: How to Prepare for CMAT 2026

2. Accuracy and time management

There is no sectional time limit in CMAT, so you need to time yourself. Divide 180 minutes into five parts basis your strength and weakness viz. CMAT sections. Keep GK for last. There are 100 questions in CMAT, to be attempted in 180 minutes. Solving all question is not mandatory, so choose questions carefully. Spend time on only those, that you can solve accurately. There is negative marking. Don't attempt questions, you're not sure of.  

3. Learn from your mistakes

Keep in mind your performance in CMAT mock tests. Make sure not to make the same mistakes in CMAT 2016. Stay away from topics and questions you find difficult. Also, use your time judiciously. CMAT is all about how to handle pressure. 

Check out free CMAT mock test by Shiksha

4. Set a defined strategy

Do not get caught up in 'how to do it'. You must have a clear vision on how to attempt CMAT 2026 question paper. Finalise an exam strategy. Attempt your exam with that strategy. Focus on the questions you can solve with maximum accuracy. Do not spend too much time on questions that don't come to you naturally or select questions from your strong areas to solve. Focus on achieving sectional cut offs first and then capitalise on it if time permits. Also, save some time for revision before submitting the test. GK can be handled in 10 minutes. So, divide rest of time in such a way that you get atleast 30-40 minutes for each. English and Innovation & Entrepreneurship sections are usually easy, having straightforward questions. They will need 20 minutes.

5. Have a fair idea of number of attempts for each section

It is important for you to have a fair idea of number of minimum questions to be attempted in each section of CMAT. You have to devote a specific amount of time to each section to score well in the exam. CMAT 2026 will have 20 questions each in all five sections so the target should be 15-17 correct attempts. In GK, 8-10 attempts will be enough. Practice: CMAT Question Papers of Previous Years

6. Sort everything well in advance

Nothing can be worst than reaching your CMAT exam centre late. The entry gates will close 30 minutes before commencement of the exam. You will not get the entry if the gates have been closed already. Arrange transportation well in advance before the exam day. You can also visit the test centre a day before to see the location. Remember to get a print out of your CMAT 2026 admit card before the exam day. Also, remember to carry a passport size photo and original copy of a photo ID such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, Ration Card, PAN Card, etc. 

Read More:

• CMAT 2026: Exam Day Guidelines and Strategy to Crack the Test
• CMAT 2026: Eight Pitfalls to Avoid
• CMAT Exam Day Checklist; Dos and Don'ts
• Top Colleges Accepting CMAT Score