CAT Preparation in 60 Days: Unconventional Strategies for Success

CAT Preparation is advised to start 4-6 months before the exam. However, if done correctly, candidates can ace CAT in 2 months. Since CAT is an aptitude test, candidates need to have a lot of practice and presence to mind to crack CAT in 2 months. CAT 2023 exam date is scheduled for November 26, 2023.

CAT exam comprises 3 sections – Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR).

• CAT QA Preparation includes solving all mathematics-related topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and mensuration. It is considered to be the most difficult section.
• CAT DILR Preparation needs the regular practice of DILR questions to improve speed and accuracy. It is time-consuming and has reasoning-based questions on puzzles, relations, tables, charts, graphs, etc.
• CAT VARC Preparation is comparatively easier and includes reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, English grammar, vocabulary, etc.

CAT 2-month study plan must ensure effective time management, hard and smart work, determination, and dedication to ensure the best possible performance.   

Strategies to Crack CAT in 2 Months

Analyze CAT exam pattern and syllabus: Note the topics with maximum weightage and scoring opportunity. Identify your strong and weak areas from CAT syllabus. Candidates must improve their weaker areas. Being familiar with CAT exam pattern will help in managing time better.

Have a fixed timetable: Candidates can crack CAT in 8 weeks if they have a strict timetable to follow. Chart out what topics to cover every hour. Study for a fixed duration every day and take breaks. Alternate between tough and easy topics to keep things interesting and boost your confidence during CAT Preparation.

Here’s a reference timetable. Modify it according to your needs.

Devote enough time to each section: CAT syllabus and exam pattern have 3 sections – QA, VARC, and DILR.

• CAT DILR preparation takes the most time as it requires logical thinking that improves with practice.
• CAT QA preparation also needs time as you need to remember formulae. Focus on learning short tips and tricks to solve these questions faster.
• CAT VARC takes relatively less time. The more you read and practice, the better you will get at it.

Allot enough to each of the three sections according to your preparation level and confidence.

Refer to the most relevant study materials: To complete CAT preparation in 2 months, candidates must choose the most relevant preparation books and study materials. Have a strong understanding of the basic concepts and avoid focusing on irrelevant topics. Find formulae, shortcuts, and tricks to improve your performance.   

Read a lot: Reading books, newspapers, magazines, and articles will help to improve verbal ability and reading comprehension.

Do not start a new topic: Tackling a new topic might be time-consuming and interfere with your preparation of older topics. Instead, focus on the topics you already know.

Revise regularly: Candidates must have a strong conceptual foundation to ace their CAT exam. The best way to brush up on old topics and memorize new topics is to revise regularly. Use smaller notes for revision. Revise the topics covered in a day, every month, and thoroughly before CAT exam.

Attempt a lot of CAT mock tests and question papers: The best way to evaluate your CAT preparation is to solve CAT question paper and mock test. Solving CAT questions will improve candidates’ speed and accuracy. It will help with revising the syllabus as well as getting familiar with the actual exam format. Analyze your mistakes and improve your CAT performance.   

Seek guidance, if necessary: If candidates feel overwhelmed or confused during CAT preparation, seek expert guidance. There are multiple online resources, platforms, YouTube videos, and coaching classes to guide you during your CAT preparation. You can also find shortcuts, tips, and tricks to answer questions faster and more efficiently.

The key to cracking CAT in 2 months is staying motivated and taking regular breaks. Do not overwork yourself. Focus on your strengths, have a good conceptual foundation, revise regularly, and solve mock tests and question papers to improve your CAT preparation.