CAT Preparation

The ideal time to start giving the CAT mock test series depends on one's preparation level. It is important to first complete the CAT syallbus and get a familiarity with the exam pattern. Many experts suggest that one should start taking the CAT mock test series atleast 3 months prior to the exam. Generally, every year, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is held in November. The initial preparation should include understanding the exam pattern, syllabus and marking scheme. For this, students must talk to CAT successful candidates. It's important to have a string grasp on subjects. Before solving the Mock tests, students should focus on conceptual understanding of key topics. Try to solve as many questions as possible of different types to reinforce the learning. Once you are done with both the stages, start taking mock test and get an actual exam environment.  It is advisable to take atleast one mock test every week and gradually increase the frequency of mock tests taken. These tests will help students to identify their strengths and weaknesses and learn from them. 

For all CAT aspirants, the aim is to get into IIMs. For that, students must secure the 99 percentile in CAT. The number of mock tests required to get a 99 percentile depends from student to student. CAT is one of the highly competitive exams in India and Lacs of students appear and compete with each other to get into 21IIMs. The "success" depends on various factors such as students' understanding of the exam patterns, problem-solving skills, time management skills etc. Experts and many successful candidates always propose students take as many mock tests as possible to get a grip of the exam pattern. Why does experts focus on taking mock tests so much? The answer is simple; it helps stimulate the actual exam conditions and environment.  Some candidates take two or three mock tests every week till the exam days while others take one every day. The main focus should be on analyzing the mistakes understanding your strengths and weaknesses and working accordingly. Additionally, it is advisable to take advice from successful CAT candidates and experts to get a vision.

Mock tests are an essential component of CAT (Common Admission Test) preparation and offer several benefits to aspiring candidates. 

• Mock tests simulate the actual CAT exam environment, including the pattern, structure, and time constraints. By taking mock tests, you become familiar with the exam format, the number of questions in each section, and the overall time available. 
• CAT is a time-bound exam, and efficient time management is crucial to maximize your score. Mock tests enable you to practice managing your time effectively within the given time limits for each section. By regularly taking mock tests, you can develop a strategy to allocate time to different sections and questions, ensuring you complete the paper within the stipulated time.
• Mock tests help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in different sections and topics of the CAT exam. By reviewing your performance in mock tests, you can gauge which areas you excel in and which areas require improvement. 
• Mock tests provide ample practice opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills. By attempting a variety of questions, you can refine your problem-solving techniques, develop shortcuts, and enhance your accuracy and speed. 
• Mock tests offer an objective evaluation of your performance. You can assess your score, analyze your strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas that need improvement.

Some of the last-minute tips that can help you sail in the CUSAT CAT are as follows:
1. Do not study new topics for at least one month before the exam to avoid confusion with the CUSAT's prepared topics.
2. Review tricks and fundamental concepts until one day before the exam to avoid making mistakes on simple questions.
3. Give one final mock three or four days before the exam by creating an exam-like situation to prepare for real exam pressure.
4. Make a rough strategy one day before the exam for how you will start attempting the question paper and which topics you will focus on.
5. Take good care of your health, as it is very important to perform well on exam day.
6. To avoid rushing, make sure you have all necessary items, such as your admit card, the night before the exam.
7. Get proper sleep the night before the exam. Be confident about your preparation and start with easy, less time-consuming questions. Believe in yourself.