BIMTECH PGDM Admissions 2025
AACSB Accredited | Highest CTC: 24.43 LPA | Application Deadline: 31st December 2024
To tackle CAT one must come up with a balanced strategy while picking appropriate study material should be seen as a start of successful preparation. As there are various resources available, selecting the most appropriate ones for each section— Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)— can become a dilemma. The appropriate books for performing well in the subject of your choice not only cover the basics but also give you enough questions to practice and give you the strategies that you will need to excel.
This article gives a carefully chosen list of expert-referred books which will be helpful in every area of CAT preparation. These resources have been praised so much for the complete content, practice exercises of good quality, and being in line with the exam pattern. If you are starting your CAT journey or are going over the key concepts again, these books will help you master every section and improve your overall performance in CAT 2024.
The exam needs proper planning with the correct resources, so selecting high-quality preparation materials for the CAT, especially preparation books for the CAT is vital for effective preparation. The right resources i.e., recommended books for cat preparation can significantly impact performance by providing comprehensive coverage, extensive practice questions, and realistic mock tests. Don’t constraint yourself to books only so it is best to try all resources to get a holistic development in all the segments. Feel free to modify this plan to suit your needs.
The target is to test the student's communication, logical reasoning, and comprehension skills and their ability to work with numbers. The CAT exam consists of three major sections:
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Book Title-"How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT" by Arun Sharma-
A Short Overview-This book provides a thorough introduction to quantitative concepts and along with that covers Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic, Number Systems, and more. The best part is that each chapter delves into specific topics such as Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, and Probability.
The Comprehensive coverage, numerous practice questions, and mock tests. Area-wise tests are also very helpful. It helps to brush up on your fundamentals and Set study goals, create a study schedule, and utilise practice questions and mock tests for assessment.
Book Title- "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal-
A short overview-The book gives insight into detailed coverage of quantitative topics, with a focus on fundamental principles. The Chapters cover topics like Ratios, Percentages, Time and Work, and Mensuration.
Most interesting and helpful is the large number of practice questions, detailed solutions, and varied difficulty levels. Try to focus on understanding concepts, regular practice, and timed quizzes.
Book Title -"Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT" by Sarvesh -
A Short Overview-The best part is the structure to build concepts from basic to advanced levels. The Topics include Progressions, Permutations and Combinations, and Trigonometry.
One can get a clear understanding from its step-by-step explanations, practice sets, and model papers. One must use in-depth practice, follow the progression from basic to advanced, and take regular mock tests.
Book Title- "How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT" by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay -
A Short Overview-This comprehensive guide to verbal ability and reading comprehension covers RCs from a variety of topics. It also covers topics like Vocabulary, Grammar, and Sentence Correction.
It gives valuable Extensive practice questions, mock tests, and strategies for each section. Try to set clear goals with an integrated study schedule, and don’t forget to practice reading comprehension daily.
Book Title- "Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis -
A Short Overview-This book Focuses on vocabulary building through structured exercises. The chapters are organized to progressively enhance vocabulary.
The most interesting facts are the Practical exercises, etymology-based learning, and progress tracking. So, remember to practice your daily vocabulary and incorporate exercises into your study routine.
Book Title- "High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin -
A Short Overview-This book gives a detailed grammar and composition guide. It Covers important topics like parts of speech, sentence structure, punctuation, and comprehension.
The wonderful part is the exercises for practice, clear explanations, and usage tips. Remember to practice grammar regularly, use it to clarify any doubts, and integrate it with other VARC study materials.
Book Title- "How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT" by Arun Sharma- A Short Overview-One of the trustworthy books which gives comprehensive coverage of data interpretation topics. It Includes Data Analysis, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, and Logical Puzzles.
The highlighted features are the practice sets, mock tests, and detailed solutions. The strategy should be to focus on different types of data sets, along with regular practice, and simulate test conditions.
Book Title- “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha-
A Short Overview-For cat aspirants, this is one of the best books because of its in-depth analysis of logical reasoning and data interpretation. Topics include Tables, Pie Charts, Caselets, and Logical Games.
The book comprises varied practice questions, mock tests, and strategy tips. Try to set specific goals, follow the structured approach, and practice extensively.
Book Title-"Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency" by Ananta Ashisha-
A Short Overview-Very well structured to build skills from basic to advanced levels. Chapters covered extensively are Graphs, Charts, Tables, and Logical Deductions. How to use this book effectively?
Elaborated detailed explanations, ample practice questions, and model papers. So, use progressively, focus on time management, and regular assessments.
As the countdown to the CAT exam begins, it's time to devise a strategy and start preparing earnestly to stay ahead of the curve. One of the important points to keep in mind is that in addition to preparation books for cat, other valuable sources have to be included. Read online and offline materials. The most helpful resources are Newspapers, blogs, and Articles. Reading newspapers like The Hindu, and Economic Times, and articles from various journals enhances reading comprehension and keeps you updated with current affairs. Must follow some trustworthy best study material for cat online Resources like websites named Pagalguy, Word pandit, Time4Education, Career Launcher, Hitbullseye, Cracku, Unacademy, Career 360, and Byju’s as all of these offer mock tests, preparation tips, and interactive learning modules.
Preparation like CAT completely depends on choosing books so it's important to consider various factors to ensure that your study materials are effective and comprehensive. Here are the detailed considerations to keep in mind:
Always look for Renowned Experts- Be dependent on books authored by individuals with a strong track record in CAT preparation. Especially the authors who are known for their expertise in the field often have years of experience in coaching and mentoring students for the CAT.
Complete and In-depth Coverage should be there- Make sure that the book covers all major sections of the CAT exam: Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning. The book should provide an in-depth analysis of each topic, including foundational concepts, advanced techniques, and CAT preparation strategies for tackling complex problems.
Wide variety with High-quality matters- The Books should offer a wide range of practice questions, from basic to advanced levels. Must comprise quality practice questions that are crucial for better understanding and application of concepts. And most importantly the questions should mimic the style and difficulty level of the actual CAT exam to give you a realistic practice experience.
Actual and Realistic Mock Tests- Best Books are the ones with realistic mock tests that help prepare you for the actual exam environment. The Mock tests should be designed to simulate the timing, format, and difficulty level of the CAT exam.
Comprehensive Solutions are a must- The detailed solutions, which help in understanding each wrong option with clarity actually help in understanding the rationale behind each answer along with step-by-step explanations are crucial for learning the correct approach to solving different types of problems. Every Solution should highlight common pitfalls and provide tips to avoid them.
Up-to-date Content: The CAT exam always comes with minute and surprising changes every time so it is always better to opt for the latest edition of the book to ensure that the content is up-to-date with the current exam pattern and syllabus, which typically includes updated practice questions, new strategies, and recent changes in the exam format.
Best books for cat recommended by toppers - Revise the concepts and practice different sets from some books recommended by successful CAT candidates and coaching experts often prove more beneficial. All these recommendations indicate that the book has been tested and found effective by those who have succeeded in the exam.
Interactive and Additional Practice: Interactive study always makes the process interesting and connects with our memory so, always practice from additional online resources to provide interactive learning and additional practice, which include video lectures, practice quizzes, e-books, and doubt-clearing forums. This easy access to these resources can enhance and diversify your learning experience and provide extra support where needed.
When preparing for the CAT exam, using the right books is essential. The best books help you understand concepts clearly and offer plenty of practice questions to build your skills. They also include questions from previous years and detailed solutions to help you learn from your mistakes. Additionally, these books often provide tips and strategies to manage your time effectively during the exam. The most reputed and important CAT preparation books are given below.
Books for Quantitative Aptitude (QA) are essential for building a strong foundation in mathematics. They cover a wide range of topics and provide detailed explanations, helping students grasp fundamental concepts. These books also include numerous practice questions and advanced problems, allowing students to test their understanding and improve their problem-solving skills.
Book Title | Author(s) | Features |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics, includes shortcuts and tips for solving problems |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10) | NCERT | Fundamental concepts of mathematics, clear explanations, essential for building a strong foundation in maths |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of quantitative topics, includes advanced level problems and solutions |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics, includes numerous practice questions and solved examples |
These books are crucial for developing a strong foundation in verbal ability and reading comprehension. They provide comprehensive coverage of key topics such as grammar, vocabulary, and reading strategies, which are essential for scoring well in the VARC section of the CAT exam. The practical exercises and mock tests included in these books help in honing the skills required to tackle different types of questions effectively.
Book Title | Author(s) | Features |
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | Step-by-step approach to improve verbal ability and comprehension, includes practice questions |
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary | Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/Simon & Schuster | Enhances vocabulary through practical exercises, quick learning strategies |
High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren & Martin | Covers entire syllabus of English grammar, includes practice exercises and self-assessment sections |
PSC for VA for CAT | Nishit Sinha | Covers verbal ability topics, practical approach with practice questions and previous year papers |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DIR) books are essential for building a strong foundation in interpreting complex data sets and solving logical puzzles. These books offer comprehensive coverage of various types of data interpretation questions, including tables, charts, and graphs, helping candidates develop the skills needed to quickly analyze and draw accurate conclusions.
Book Title | Author(s) | Features |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of DI topics, self-sufficient for preparation |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Strong concept building, practical application of problems, graded difficulty levels |
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha | Focuses on interpretation of data and sufficiency of information, practical approach |
CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Gautam Puri | Practical approach to DI and LR topics, includes practice questions and mock tests |
"The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha
A Short Overview-
A very well-known expert in CAT preparation.
In-depth analysis of Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning.
Varied practice questions with detailed explanations.
Up-to-date content and strategies.
"CAT 2024: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning" by Gautam Puri
A Short Overview-
Detailed coverage of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning.
Realistic mock tests and practice questions.
Comprehensive solutions and explanations.
Recommendations from successful candidates.
For preparing for CAT 2024, a combination of books that cover all sections of the exam is usually the best approach. For Quantitative Ability, "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT" by Arun Sharma is highly recommended for its comprehensive coverage and practice questions. For Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, "How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for the CAT" by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay is a good choice. For Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, "Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis is excellent for vocabulary, while "The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha provides a thorough overview of the section. Combining these books with regular practice using mock tests and online resources can give you a well-rounded preparation.
Preparing for the CAT exam in 2024 involves a structured approach. Start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. Create a study plan that covers all sections: Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. Allocate specific times each day to study, ensuring you cover theory, practice problems, and mock tests.
If you're aiming for a 99 percentile in CAT 2024, studying 6 to 7 hours a day can be a good target. This extended study time allows for a deeper dive into complex topics, thorough practice with mock tests, and adequate review of your performance. Break your study sessions into focused blocks with short breaks in between to keep your mind fresh and productive. Balance your study routine with regular practice, revisiting weaker areas, and staying updated with test patterns.
Response- It is possible. Follow the methodology and clear goal set. Follow the pointers as discussed in the above article.
To start CAT preparation at home, first understand the exam format and syllabus. Gather study materials, make a study plan, and set aside dedicated study hours each day. Begin with basic concepts and use mock tests and previous papers to practice. Regularly review your performance and adjust your plan as needed. Stay consistent and seek help if needed.
For the CAT exam in 2024, "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT" by Arun Sharma is highly recommended. It's comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics in detail. Additionally, "CAT 2024: Preparation Guide" by Gautam Puri is also a good choice for a well-rounded approach.
Start by understanding the CAT exam pattern and syllabus. Make a study plan that covers all the sections, and focus on practicing with sample papers and mock tests. Building a strong foundation in each subject and reviewing your performance regularly will help you stay on track.
A score of 64 marks in CAT would likely fall around the 85th percentile depending on the difficulty of the exam and the overall performance of candidates in this year.
So,it is highly unlikely that you will receive a call from any of the IIMs as the required percentile for an IIM call is typically much higher, usually ranging from 90% and above, especially for top IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta.
If you are looking for MBA programs, consider exploring other B-schools that may have lower cut-offs for admission.
Here are some B-schools that may have lower cutoffs for admission:
SOIL Institute of Management: Has a CAT cut-off of 75 percentile
T. A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal: Has an expected CAT cut-off of 85+
Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM): Has an expected CAT cut-off of 85+
MICA: Has an expected CAT cut-off of 85+
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai: Has a CAT cut-off of 85 percentile
Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), Mumbai: Has a CAT cut-off of 97.5 percentile
Others are IIT Bombay, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee, JBIMS, XIMB, and GIM.
Now coming to your academic background which often calculated as a weighted average based on the importance of each component different b school has different criteria for it.
You can use predictor tool for prediction of most accurate information of col
leges
To get admission into the NAARM MBA program , which is officially called a PGDM-ABM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management - Agri Business Management), candidates need to apply online, take the CAT or CMAT entrance exam, followed by a shortlisting based on their scores, and then appear for a Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) on campus; the final selection is based on a combination of their entrance exam score, performance in GD/PI, and academic record, with a strong emphasis on agricultural business related skills and experience.
Reservation criteria is same here as other MBA colleges set by government of india i.e
Scheduled Caste (SC): 15% of seats
Scheduled Tribe (ST): 7.5% of seats
Economically Weaker Section (EWS): 10% of seats
Other Backward Classes (NC-OBC): 27% of seats for candidates belonging to the “non-creamy” layer
The CAT cutoff percentiles for the 2024-26 PGDM-ABM batch at the ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research and Management (NAARM) are as follows:
General: 75.14
EWS: 38.00
NC-OBC: 44.16
SC: 72.980
for a NAARM MBA PREPARATION interview (specifically their PGDM Agri-Business Management program), focus on thoroughly researching NAARM's curriculum, emphasizing your agricultural background and business acumen, practicing answers to common MBA interview questions, and showcasing your passion for the agri-business sector, while also being ready to discuss your career goals aligned with NAARM's focus on rural development and sustainable agriculture practices.be genuine with your answers.
Hello Varun,
Based on your CAT raw score and profile, here's a breakdown of your potential calls and your chances for different institutes:
1. GIM Goa, GLIM Chennai, IMT Ghaziabad, IMI Delhi:
Overall, you can expect a call from institutes that weigh work experience and academic performance heavily, but you should also be prepared for lower-tier institutes in terms of CAT score cutoffs. Ensure you target institutes that match your profile for better chances.
I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.
Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.
Hello,
Some of the popular coaching institutes in Pune for CAT preparation include:
TIME (Triumphant Institute of Management Education)
The institute is well known for its structured approach, expert faculty, and comprehensive study material. Offers both classroom and online programs. It has a very good success record and also provides several mock tests, workshops, and test series.
Career Launcher
Provides both online and offline courses for CAT preparation. The institute is known for its focused approach and quality study material. Personalized mentoring and mock tests.
IMS Learning Resources
BYJU's (Pune Center)
Mentors' Academy
Excel Academy
These institutes, both classroom coaching and online options, will vary, so it's all up to you. Some points to be kept in mind before one selects the institute are faculty experience, success rate, mock tests available, and if they offer personal support or not.
Hello aspirant,
Here below I am providing you the name of some of the top CAT coaching institutes in Pune:
Thank you
Hope it helps you
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