If you’re aspiring for an MBA from one of India’s top business schools, cracking the CAT (Common Admission Test) is a critical milestone. Every year, over 2 lakh candidates take the CAT, hoping to secure a place in prestigious IIMs and other top B-schools. But with intense competition and a challenging exam pattern, how do you maximize your chances of success? Here’s a practical guide on how to prepare for the CAT exam strategically.
Understand the CAT Exam Structure
Before diving into preparation, understand the CAT’s pattern:
✅ Sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
✅ Duration: 120 minutes (40 minutes per section)
✅ Question Type: MCQs + non-MCQs
✅ Marking: +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect MCQs
Knowing the structure helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses early.
Build a Preparation Timeline
Ideally, you should start at least 6–8 months before the exam. Break this period into three phases:
- Foundation (2–3 months):
- Revise basic concepts in maths (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems)
- Strengthen reading habits (editorials, articles, novels)
- Practice logical reasoning puzzles
- Practice (3–4 months):
- Take sectional tests
- Focus on speed and accuracy
- Build your vocabulary and comprehension skills
- Mock Tests & Revision (last 2 months):
- Attempt full-length mock tests
- Analyze mistakes thoroughly
- Fine-tune exam strategies
Tips for Each Section
👉 VARC:
- Read regularly from diverse sources (The Hindu, Economist, novels)
- Practice para jumbles, summary questions, and RC passages
- Build a habit of reading faster without losing accuracy