Prepare for CAT with these tips

By: Abhay Raj Singh Rathore

Focus on key topics; identifying your strong points and time management are some of the key strategies for preparation for CAT

The CAT exam is quite a crucial exam for applying to a master’s program in the best institutes across India. It is considered challenging due to only one factor, which is time. The questions have to be completed in a minimum amount of time and that too, with accuracy. Therefore, how to perform better in the CAT exam and score maximum marks?

Let us start with one of the most important factors, which is practice. How much should one practice and for how long?

The topics that are included in the exam are not difficult but are different. In my view, the maximum time should be devoted to the practice of the Quantitative Aptitude section (minimum 2-3 hours per day). It increases your calculation and largely problem-solving abilities, therefore; you can make a difference in the paper with it.

After this, one should practise Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (minimum 1-2 hours per day) as maximum students find this particular section to be difficult and make mistakes in the exam as well. Though, if practised properly, it can help you a lot in the exam.

Then you can focus on other parts that include Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Out of which, the former takes minimum time in the exam if one understands the question properly.

A tip while solving Reading Comprehension read the question that is asked first and then start reading the comprehension. This will help you to find your solution as fast as possible. Make sure not to think about anything else while reading the comprehension; just ensure that all of your focus that time is only on the comprehension.

For non-negative questions, attempt every question while you have to retain yourself. The game is all about time. Therefore, if you think that the question will take a lot of time, simply skip it and move to the next one as you will get plenty of opportunities to solve other problems as well.

Certain common mistakes that students make are, they forget to mark the answer, or they mark incorrect due to time pressure. The most common mistake is that the students do not read the question carefully. You should properly check what is asked in the question and then only give your answer.

Now comes the most important aspect. How can you maximize your score? Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning can give you good marks if you perform better in these. Therefore, focus more on these as English can trick you and can put you in a position of difficulty. Make sure that QA and LR are on your side during the exam and try to correct these questions as much as possible within the time.

Remember, if you feel tensed due to paper or you lose your confidence, leave the paper for 5 seconds and take a deep breath and start again. It will give plenty of time for your mind to relax and you will be able to perform well.

About the Author

Abhay Raj Singh Rathore is a Computer Science Engineer with specialization in Cloud Computing and Virtualization Technology from University of Petroleum and Energy Studies. He is proficient in handling large-scale undertakings with high durability and precision.