Key points to remember while preparing for Computer Based Test (CBT)
As most of the common entrance exams are now paperless, i.e. being conducted online, it is imperative to understand that a Computer Based Test (CBT) requires different approach from that of a Paper Based Test (PBT).
Things to know about Computer Based Test (CBT)
While there’s no confusion over the fact that the approach of attempting a Computer Based Test (CBT) is not the same as attempting a Paper Based Test (PBT), the confusion lies in what is that different approach.
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Today, India’s top management entrance exams, CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, SNAP and NMAT, etc. are conducted online. Many more exams are conducted in computer-based mode. Hence, it is important to point out important factors that separate CBT and PBT and factors one needs to keep in mind while taking an online test. Because, it’s not how much you know but how well you use the knowledge that matters in the exam.
Since every section of CMAT has 20 questions in total, solving 15 to 18 questions in each section with 80 percent accuracy is considered a good attempt in CMAT, and it can ensure a good percentile in the exam. In the GK section, about 10 to 12 correct attempts will be enough. Out of 100 questions, candidates must try to solve about 70 to 75 questions to achieve a 99 percentile. However, candidates must aim to solve a higher number of questions with maximum accuracy and minimize negative marking. To be able to achieve this target, candidates have to prepare for the CMAT in a disciplined manner. Candidates must set aside about three months to complete the CMAT syllabus, as they have to study five subjects and their numerous topics. If they have appeared for CAT, XAT, and IIFT exams, then they can complete the CMAT syllabus in one month as well. However, it is advised that candidates spend at least three months on CMAT syllabus for complete preparation.
CAT is a speed-based test of analytical aptitude, logical reasoning skills, data interpretation and English comprehension. Now, it may sound tough, but these are the skills which we are taught in school so there is nothing new to learn. What is required is to learn these subjects at advanced level. If you are an average student but have studied Science or Commerce in Class-12 and graduation, you will find a lot of familiar topics in Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning. All you will need is brush up the basics and practice the concepts on advanced-level problems.
However, since the competition is so high in CAT and less than 95 percentile can break your dream of joining a top college like IIM, the preparation for CAT requires a lot of focus, dedication, discipline and diligence. If you can do that, despite being an average student, you can crack the CAT exam.
Hope it was helpful!!!
Key points to remember while preparing for Computer Based Test
We have listed below some of the key factors to keep in mind for a Computer Based Test (CBT):
1. Do reading practice on the computer. Reading newspapers and business articles is not enough. You need to develop a habit of reading on screen. This will be beneficial in the Reading Comprehension (RC) section, as you will be able to save considerable time.
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2. Since the MBA entrance exams are time bound, you shall have to sharpen your memory to avoid going back and forth on a paragraph on the screen. Repeatedly glancing back and forth will increase your time spent on a question, thereby delaying your performance.
3. Practice solving analytical questions online. The more you get used to working on a computer screen the better it is. Practice a large number of MBA mock tests.
4. Another crucial thing is to learn to keep looking at the computer screen while working out solutions in mind or on a rough sheet. Moreover, you will have to constantly keep an eye on the timer running at one corner of the screen.
5. There’s also the need to learn to solve certain questions mentally, especially in Quantitative Ability section. This trait will help you save crucial minutes. Learn and practice mental math.
6. Practice sample questions online to analyse time spent on each question and strategise much time you will be spending on a particular section.
7. Take a thorough look at the demo or sample papers before exam. The only difference between a mock test and the real test is that of the atmosphere and the pressure of performing. So if you will familiarize yourself well with CBT mocks you are less likely to face any anxiety in the actual exam.
8. The moment you start your test form, make sure you read all the instructions carefully.
9. Since there’s no option of going back to previous page in many exams (eg; CAT), please ensure you have solved all the questions before preceding to the next section.
10. Practicing questions online will make your eyes get used to enduring the computer screen glare for a longer time period. Sudden exposure to computer screen on the exam day will strain your eyes much faster which will directly affect your performance.
Shiksha Mock Tests (CAT, CMAT, MAT, XAT)
Shiksha provides free mock tests for practice for top four MBA entrance exams - CAT, CMAT, MAT and XAT. Check below:
CAT Mock Tests
| CAT_Mock_Test_1 | CAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| CAT_Mock_Test_2 | CAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
CMAT Mock Test
| CMAT_Mock_Test_1 | CMAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| CMAT_Mock_Test_2 | CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
MAT Mock Test
| MAT_Mock_Test_1 | MAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| MAT_Mock_Test_2 | MAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
XAT Mock Test
| XAT_Mock_Test_1 | XAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| XAT_Mock_Test_2 | XAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
Vipra Shrivastava is MA in English Literature from Delhi University with extensive experience in content writing of over 14 years. She has been handling content for Management, Accounting and Commerce streams for 8
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Yes CAT syllabus is difficult to crack if you do not have enough time. There are three subjects in CAT- VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. Most of candidates find RC passages tough to crack. In Quants, Arithmetic, Algebra and Geometry pose significant challenge during preparation. In DILR, Reasoning questions often turnout to be tricky and confusion.