How do I Crack Cat/Mat MBA Entrance Exam Without Joining Any Classes?

Sumridhi
Sumridhi Gulati
Assistant Manager
3 mins readUpdated on Apr 1, 2024 12:00 IST

Not every CAT/ MAT/ XAT/ CMAT Management Exam aspirant prefers to go to coaching classes daily. I know it looks hard, you can still succeed with a good plan, dedication, and preparation. Every year, there are thousands of students sitting in the CAT exam, and especially in '22, there were 87% of participants. IIM Lucknow is set to organize the test for the year 24. It is one of twenty IIMs responsible for administering this test. Contrary to common belief, many who achieved top marks in CAT last year succeeded without attending coaching classes.

Table of content
  • Understanding the Exam
  • Strategic Planning
  • Self-Paced Learning
  • Mock Tests and Analysis
  • Utilizing Free Resources
  • Networking
  • Staying Updated
  • Prep Techniques
  • Exam Day Strategies
  • Post-Exam Preparation
  • Final Words
  • Important FAQs
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Understanding the Exam

Before we start preparing, it's essential to know the importance of these tests. CAT and MAT are entrance exams for leading management programs with specialized courses like the MBA Program in Business Analytics and Human Resources Management.

This is the current Pattern of the CAT exam -

Category

Details of Exam

Sections

3 Sections

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude

Duration of Exam

120 minutes

Time Limit Per Section

40 minutes

Number of Questions Given

66

Maximum Marks

198

Scheme for Marking

+3 is given for the right answer

-1 is given for a wrong answer

No negative marking is made in the case of TITA.

Examination  Mode

Computer Based

Type of Questions

MCQ and Type In The Answer

There are 4 options given in MCQ

Candidates have to type the answers in TITA

Strategic Planning

Begin your PGDM (or MBA) Admission 2024 preparation by familiarising yourself with the material that will be on the test. Sort out the topics based on their level of difficulty and put them in an order.

  • Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit K Sinha
  • Word Power Made Easy by Normal Lewis
  • Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT by Nishit K. Sinha

Self-Paced Learning

Make a plan for studying that aligns with your daily activities. Reserve particular times for various sections, aiming to achieve gradual and small progressions. Utilize online PGDM learning platforms offering video lectures, brief quizzes, and interactive lessons.

Mock Tests and Analysis

Make it a habit to do practice tests, it will make you feel like the real exam setting and help you get better control over time and get used to the test structures.

Utilizing Free Resources

Make the most out of the free things like online forums, study materials, YouTube videos and so on.

Networking

If possible, talk to alumni of reputed B schools. They can give you helpful tips on exams, admission process, prep tips, and more.

Staying Updated

Keep updated with the latest news. So, you'll be able to perform well in General Awareness exam section.

CAT Eligibility 

Criteria

General/OBC Categories             

SC/ST/PwB Categories

Minimum Marks

50%

45%

Prep Techniques

Collaborate with fellow students who share similar objectives for periods of collective study.

Exam Day Strategies

In management exams, they deduct marks for incorrect answers, so try to guess smartly. First focus on questions you are sure about. Take a deep breath in between and stay calm, don't panic, it'll affect your decisions.

Post-Exam Preparation

Now start arranging all your documents for the admission process and know about the steps in advance. 

Final Words

I understand clearing the MBA entrance without coaching is a pain, but achievable. Just have some good approaches and keep following them. 

Important FAQs

Q. Which all sections are there in CAT?

A. CAT has Verbal Ability, DI & LR and QA sections.

Q. How to handle exam stress?

A. Take deep breathing and mindfulness methods to stay calm during the exam.

Q. Is self-paced learning effective?

A. Of course with a structured plan, self learning can be highly effective for CAT exam preparation.

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About the Author
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Sumridhi Gulati
Assistant Manager
Sumridhi holds a Bachelor's degree in English from Delhi University. With over three years of experience in content creation, she is a collaborative and innovative thinker who loves interacting with people to leave Read Full Bio
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