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Best Books for CAT Preparation 2025 - 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.
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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 2025.
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.
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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 | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal | 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. |
"Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT" by Sarvesh | 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. |
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Book Title | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT" by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | 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. |
"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis | 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. |
"High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin | 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 | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT" by Arun Sharma | 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. |
“Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha | 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. |
"Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency" by Ananta Ashisha | Very well structured to build skills from basic to advanced levels. Chapters covered extensively are Graphs, Charts, Tables, and Logical Deductions. | 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.
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.
"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 2025: 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 2025, 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 2025 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 2025, 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 2025, "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 2025: 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.
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Hello,
achieving a 99.99 pecentile in the CAT exam significantly enhances your prospects for admission to JBIMS, which evaluates candidates using an application rating(AR) score, which includes
-entrance exam score (CAT/MH-CET/CMAT) : 60% weightage
-Past Academic Record (PAR) : 15% weightage (https://cracku.in/colleges/jbims/admission-process/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
-Extra-curricular Activities/Work Experience : 20% weightage (https://jbims.edu/uploads/announcement/Revised_M_Sc__Finance_Admission_Procedure_Batch_2024-26.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
-Diversity (Academic/Gender): 5% weightage
while ahigh CAT percentile is crucial, a lower academic record may impact your overall AR score. Nonetheless, exceptional performance in other areas, such as entrance exams and extracurricular activities, can help offset weaker academic credentials. it's advisable to review JBIMS's detailed admission criteria and consider strengthening other aspects of your application to enhance your chances
Greetings! Here's a detailed response to your query
Okay, so you're a bit confused about what to put in those CAT, FMS, DSE, and IIFT forms regarding your 12th scores. Since you did CBSE, they usually only consider your final 12th standard marks.
Even though you did great in 11th, scoring 495 out of 500, for these entrance exam forms, they're specifically asking about your 12th board exam marks .You mentioned you got 400 out of 500 in 12th, which comes out to 80%.
Therefore, when filling out the forms for CAT, FMS, DSE, and IIFT, you should enter 80% as your 12th percentage. The aggregate of 11th and 12th isn't typically what they're looking for in these sections. They want to know how you performed in your final board exams. So, stick with the 80% from your 12th results. Good luck with your applications!
Greetings! Here's a detailed response to your query:-
Determination of the best time to start the journey of CAT examination is based on individual factors like your current skill level, knowledge ,potential, learning pace and availability. To give yourself the best chance of success on the CAT exam , which usually takes place in November, it's advisable to begin studying between January and March of that same year. This 8 to 12-month preparation window is widely recommended by experts. But if you're managing your college along with the CAT preparations make sure you start from 2nd year onwards. It will hep you manage stress and you'll have ample amount of time to get along with the syllabus , pattern and various practice and mocks .
You'll be able to build a strong foundation in each sections and be able to know your strengths and weaknesses in different topics. The CAT syllabus is extensive, and early preparation allows for thorough coverage. Assess your learning speed and adjust your preparation timeline accordingly.
Essentially, while the ideal start time is subjective, beginning your CAT preparation well in advance is generally considered the most effective strategy for achieving optimal results.
The CUSAT CAT previous year question papers are available on the Careers360 website. You can find question papers from 2012 to 2023, which can be downloaded in PDF format HERE
Additionally, the official website of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) also provides previous year question papers. To access them, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the CUSAT official website - admissions.cusat.ac.in.
- Click on the resources tab from the homepage.
- Select the previous year's question papers from the drop-down menu.
- Select the Common Admission Test (CAT) question papers link.
- Now click on the B.Tech course.
By practicing with these previous year question papers, you can get familiar with the exam pattern, identify important topics, and improve your time management skills.
Hey Shathvika, that's a great question! So, you're wondering about MBA entrance exams besides the CAT , right? Absolutely, there are quite a few others you can consider in India. Here's a rundown: Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) : XLRI Jamshedpur runs this one, and over 150 B-schools across India accept it. You'll usually find it in January. What's cool about the XAT is that it often includes sections on Decision Making and sometimes even an Essay Writing part. Management Aptitude Test (MAT) : This is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA). A lot of schools – over 600 in India – take MAT scores. The best part? You can take it four times a year: February, May, September, and December. Plus, you can choose between Paper-Based (PBT), Computer-Based (CBT), and even Internet-Based (IBT) options. Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) : If you're eyeing a Symbiosis institute for your MBA, this is the one. Symbiosis International (Deemed University) conducts it, and it's usually in December. SNAP's also known for having a somewhat unique way of scoring. Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) : The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the CMAT. AICTE-approved institutions all over India will accept it. This one's also typically held in January. It checks you on things like quantitative skills, logical thinking, how well you understand language, and your general knowledge. NMAT by GMAC : The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) is behind this exam. NMIMS and quite a few other management schools accept it. What’s interesting is that you have a 75-day window, usually from October to December, to take it. And, you can even retake it up to three times if you want to improve your score! Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Exam : NTA also conducts this one. If you are keen on IIFT Delhi and Kolkata, this is your ticket. Expect to take it in December. This exam puts a little more weight on questions about international business and trade. MICA Admission Test (MICAT) : MICA Ahmedabad uses this for its PGDM-C program. They hold it twice a year, generally in December and January. MICAT looks at how creative you are, how well you write, and your general abilities. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) : GMAC runs the GMAT as well. Many B-schools in India, and even more worldwide, accept GMAT scores. You can take it pretty much any time of the year. People often go for the GMAT if they're thinking about executive MBA programs or schools with a focus on international business. Lovely Professional University National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPUNEST) : LPU conducts it for admissions into its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It's held multiple times throughout the year. It also works as a scholarship test, so doing well can get you some financial aid. So, there you have it! Each of these exams has its own quirks when it comes to structure, who can take it, and the scores you need. It’s worth digging into each one a bit to see which one fits best with what you've studied and where you want to take your career. Good luck!
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A Business Development Executive (BDE) is a professional responsible for identifying growth opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships to enhance a company's market position. Typically, a BDE conducts market research, analyses industry trends, and identifies potential clients or business prospects. He or she plays a crucial role in developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve revenue targets.
A BDE often collaborates with cross-functional teams, including marketing and product development, to align business objectives. Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills are essential for success in this role. BDE strives to expand the company's customer base, drive sales, and contribute to overall organisational growth in a dynamic and competitive business environment.
Content Marketing Specialists are also known as Content Specialists. They are responsible for crafting content, editing and developing it to meet the requirements of digital marketing campaigns. To ensure that the material created is consistent with the overall aims of a digital marketing campaign, content marketing specialists work closely with SEO and digital marketing professionals.
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The Sales Manager work also includes hiring and laying off sales personnel after evaluating his or her work performance. In bigger entities, sales quotas and plans are usually set at the executive level. He or she is responsible for overseeing the set target or quotas met by salespeople or upholding any policy. He or she guides his or her fellow salespeople and allows them to sell.
Individuals who opt for a career as a business analyst look at how a company operates. He or she conducts research and analyses data to improve his or her knowledge about the company. This is required so that an individual can suggest the company strategies for improving their operations and processes.
In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
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A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
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Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.
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