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CAT 2025: Expert Tips & Strategies for Success in IIM Admission
Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Dec 31, 2024 06:02 PM IST | #CAT
CAT 2025 Expert Tips: Most corporate top-ranked leaders who achieved success from the Common Admission Test (CAT) know well that without hard work it is impossible to pursue management education in prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading B-schools. CAT is an exam of strategy and playing smartly with logic and smart work. In order to score well it is very important to keep in mind the CAT expert tips especially the 10 key points to ace this exam.
This Story also Contains
- Overview of the CAT Exam
- Importance of Preparation and Strategy
- CAT 2025 Exam Day Tips
- 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for CAT
Overview of the CAT Exam
Talking specifically about the CAT exam, we have to keep in mind that this is a computer-based test conducted annually by the IIMs to evaluate candidates on various parameters essential for managerial roles. There are three main sections: Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). Each section is equally important and the set goal is to assess different skills critical for success in the business world.
Importance of Preparation and Strategy
The first important thing that is required is effective preparation and a strategic approach to target something around like 99.99 percentile or 100 percentile. It is not difficult as closely the data is telling every year there are aspirants scoring the top percentile with a well-planned study schedule, clear conceptual understanding, and proficient time management skill sets. So the golden days of preparation have to be utilized diligently.
Some Precious CAT Expert Tips 2025
What should be done before the Exam? - 10 Key Points:-
1. Clarity with the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
CAT always tries to assess students' communication, logical reasoning and comprehension skills, as well as their ability to work with numbers. Though there is no specific CAT syllabus, CAT common topics and questions can be identified by analyzing CAT previous papers. The CAT exam consists of three major sections with both MCQ and TITA questions:
CAT 2025: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages
Comprehensive CAT prep guide with focused practice on Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
Download NowSECTION 1: TOTAL - 24 QUES: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), which focuses on topics of English such as reading comprehension, para jumble, misfit, best fit, and para summaries.
SECTION 2: TOTAL - 22 QUES: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), which focuses on the interpretation of data through the information provided in the form of graphs, charts, and arrangements.
SECTION 3: TOTAL - 22 QUES: Quantitative Aptitude (QA), which includes topics of mathematics such as algebra, arithmetic, geometry, modern math, etc.
It is important to know the pattern and syllabus with an in-depth analysis of all criteria. And most importantly keep in mind that negative marking is there.
2. Maintaining a Comprehensive Study Plan
Equal importance is to be given to all sections as the sectional cut-off is there. Try to divide your day very effectively as the majority of students preparing for the CAT exam usually seek a specific number or statistic to understand the level of effort required. However, it's not just about the number of hours spent on preparation but about the quality of learning derived from the process. Throughout your preparation, it's crucial to continually assess your learning and ensure that you're reaching your learning goals. Setting clear goals with deadlines is very important, as it helps you stay focused and motivated. When goals are set with timelines, it becomes easier to track progress and make necessary revisions. It is important to set realistic goals and have a schedule that includes short breaks. Keep proper time for practice and revision.
For example -
For Reading Comprehensions: Basics and Concepts- 3 weeks can be used like
Basics of Reading
Speed Reading
Types of questions and how to handle them
Subject-wise important terminology
Reading Comprehensions: Practice
Target Daily RC Practice: Solve 1 RC a day
3. Build a Strong Base on Conceptual Clarity
In the first phase of your preparation, you need to focus on basic concepts for different preparation areas. You need to adopt a methodical approach for your preparation and make sure you go through these concepts one at a time. Don’t be fixed for a single topic, try and test different methodologies to improve your memory retention power.
For LR, let’s spend 10 days on each topic can be a good plan.
Linear Arrangement
Matrix Arrangement
Circular Arrangement
Blood Relation and Family Tree
Group/Team Formation, etc.
Games and Tournaments
Paths & Routes
4. Revisiting the Topics Regularly with Mock Tests
It's important to remember that even if you feel like you haven't covered the entire syllabus, you should still take practice exams at this stage. CAT is an aptitude exam, and most of the topics you'll encounter are ones you should have studied before. Taking practice exams helps you understand the demands of the exam better and refine your preparation. Play crossword puzzles, take quizzes, and try Sudoku or mental math-related quizzes. You might feel like you haven't covered the entire syllabus and that you shouldn't be taking practice exams at this point. Don't let yourself fall into this mindset. At the very least, taking practice exams helps you understand the exam's requirements better and allows you to improve your preparation. Try to work according to the analysis i.e. the strength area and the weak area. The constant hunt for improving your weakness should be ongoing.
5. Managing Time Management Skills
The target should be first on concept building along with syllabus completion. Once achieved the focus should be on developing effective time management strategies during both preparation and the exam. Practice should be done by sticking to time as each section is allocated 40 minutes only. So, accuracy plus time management have to be balanced out distinctly. If you are falling short of time in a certain section, then this is the time to fix this. Cutting down even 15 seconds from every question will help you reduce substantial time in each section. If you already save a lot of time, focus on improving your reviewing and double-checking skills. Try to prioritise the needs and take steps to maintain the schedule accordingly.
6. Honing your Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
It is important to read on a daily basis if you are working on the VARC segment. Read from different topics and have a good hold on a variety of areas. The first target is accuracy then speed. Work on speed reading simultaneously. Try to set clear goals with an integrated study schedule and don’t forget to practice reading comprehension daily. Side by side work on vocabulary and terminology based on different areas like history, technology, etc so that in the exam you appear confidently.
7. Strengthening your Quantitative Aptitude
Try to manage the topics that are important like arithmetic, geometry, algebra and etc. Focus on basic maths requirements like calculation, tables, square roots and etc. Be fast and accurate in the basic area and then practice all sets of questions from different levels of difficulty. Try to follow a different range of shortcut tricks to be faster and more accurate. Use wide resources to solve the questions from different levels of difficulty.
8. Revising Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Skills
Here are two segments for LR just practice as much as possible by understanding the concepts with clarity. And for DI increase your comprehension skill set as much as possible. The strategy should be to focus on different types of data sets, along with regular practice, and simulate test conditions. It is important to solve from diverse sets as much as possible to increase your comprehension skills.
9. Staying Consistent and Motivated
Please review your list of strengths and weaknesses to ensure that there are no major topics in your weaker areas. If you are still making mistakes in certain areas, re-watch the relevant lessons. If there are topics where you feel you don't have enough time to start from scratch, consider leaving them and not spending time on them if they come up in the CAT exam. Track your progress closely and logically.
10. Prioritizing your Health and Well-being
Say bye-bye to apprehension and try to reduce anxiety, it's recommended to practice mindfulness techniques such as breathing exercises and visualization. Cultivating a positive mindset is the key to improving your performance.
Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves, enhance focus, and achieve relaxation. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth, thereby releasing tension and promoting relaxation.
Visualization Techniques: Visualize yourself approaching the exam with confidence, answering questions with clarity and precision, and achieving your desired outcomes. Positive visualization can bolster your confidence and alleviate apprehension. Remember, a confident and positive mindset is the key to success. It is important that you are ready on the CAT exam day.
CAT 2025 Exam Day Tips
1. Follow Invigilator’s Instructions
It is very important to follow the instructions with clarity. So try to strictly follow the exam rules and instructions provided by the invigilator. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to seek clarification or additional help.
2. Start With Known Questions
The art of success lies in how you arrange your problem-solving algorithms. Manage your time effectively by alloCATing it based on each question's weightage and complexity. Start with the section you feel most confident about. Quickly skim the entire question paper to gauge the difficulty level and identify easy questions. Mark challenging questions for later. Read questions carefully, double-check your answers for accuracy, and avoid rushing. Utilize time-saving strategies and shortcuts to solve problems more efficiently.
3. Keep in Mind the Sectional Time Management
Each section is important and timed so allocate time effectively across sections based on your strengths and weaknesses. Divide the available time strategically among the different sections, maximizing your chances of answering questions accurately and comprehensively.
4. Select TITA Questions Meticulously
The approach to non-MCQ (TITA) questions should be carefully planned to ensure accuracy and efficiency. It's important to decide when to attempt the TITA questions and whether to attempt them at all.
5. Use the On-Screen Calculator
If basic and fundamentals are strong for every question one has to be not dependent on calculators. Yet utilize the calculator provided on the screen for calculations to save time. So balance out and use it accordingly.
6. Focus on Your Work
The game is on for concentration and solving so avoid distractions and maintain focus on solving each question accurately. Be calm and relaxed while attempting the paper.
7. Do Not Waste Time on Tricky Questions
The areas or sub-areas that are challenging should be avoided as negative markings are there. If a question seems too challenging, move on to maximize your attempt rate.
8. Remember Quality Over Quantity Matters
It is about attempting with maximized accuracy and minimized mistakes so try to prioritize accuracy and thoroughness in your answers rather than attempting all questions.
9. Double-Check the Answers
In case time permits, try to review each answer before moving on to ensure accuracy and correctness. Negative marking challenges should be kept in mind.
10. Say No to Panic Moment
CAT preparation in the last phase is all about keeping your wits. You need to make sure you are calm and composed at this stage and do not let negative thoughts cloud your judgement.
10 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for CAT
CAT gives us a lesson that nothing is fixed so work on strategies and planning and while doing it kindly avoid the common 10 mistakes to gain success in mind as some best CAT Expert Tips 2025.
Mistake | Description | Avoidance Tip |
Lagging with a Study Plan | Many students feel the need very late so working on a perfect study plan is a must. | Try to divide the schedule minutely like day-wise or week-wise to closely approach the trajectory. |
A big No to Mock Tests | Many students have a phobia of not attempting mocks which acts as a great barrier in their preparation journey. | Stay calm and with a strategic approach give mocks. |
Running away from Weak Areas | Focusing only on strengths and avoiding weaker subjects. | Spend extra time with different variety of strategies to start visiting your weak areas with positivity. |
Confidant is my One Resource | The wrong approach of considering one resource as the best. | Be an explorer in this journey and start using a variety of study materials, including books, online resources, and coaching material. |
Yes or no mentality for Practice | Only focusing on concepts not doing enough practice. Cramming like early birds will not help. | Maintain a consistent study routine with regular practice and revision. |
Lag of fundamental Clarity | Memorizing formulas and shortcuts without understanding the underlying concepts. | Use mind mapping techniques or association methods to get a connection with your preparation. |
Skipping the Basics | Jumping to advanced topics without mastering the basics. | First basic concept then solve 3 levels of questions easy, moderate, and difficult. |
Not focusing on Time Management | Syllabus accuracy and time management are three areas that are important for achieving good results. | Practice time management techniques and take timed mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. |
Ignoring Health and Well-being | Overworking, overthinking, and anxiety are enemies in this golden period. So come out of these. | Maintain a balanced lifestyle with regular breaks, exercise, and a healthy diet. |
Ignoring analysis segment | Running away from analysis. Not giving enough time for analysis. | While analyzing, try not to study. Find out every small pointer and have a positive outlook towards it. |
Following expert advice i.e., CAT expert tips can significantly enhance your chances of success in CAT. By incorporating these tips into your preparation, you will see a big change. Try to follow and listen to successful candidates' interviews so that you can understand the requirements. Follow the path shown by your mentors for your upcoming success story. Dedicated patience and perseverance throughout this journey will make you motivated a lot.
CAT 2025 Expert Tips - Key Takeaways:
Stay calm and believe that as the much-anticipated day approaches, it's important to remember that you've dedicated time to prepare for this moment. At this stage, there's no need to burden yourself just follow the recommendation, CAT 2025 expert tips for CAT preparation. Instead, focus on maintaining a relaxed study schedule in the days leading up to the CAT exam. Clear your mind and strive for a peaceful state. Prioritize a good night's sleep, aiming for at least 8 hours, to ensure that you're well-rested on the night before the exam. Additionally, be mindful of the content, especially the best book for the CAT exam you consume, steering clear of anything that may induce negativity or affect your mood adversely. Follow CAT entrance exam books as much as possible along with the CAT Expert Tips 2025. On the day of the exam, resist the urge to overthink. Trust in your abilities and remember that the skills you've diligently honed will seamlessly come into play once the CAT exam commences. Have faith in yourself and your capabilities to guide you toward achieving an exceptional score!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can we expect some last-minute changes in the paper?
Response- Yes, that’s the aroma of CAT. Every time there are minor changes in the test pattern of the paper so be ready and flexible.
2. Can someone prepare by working the last 5 months before the CAT exam?
Response- It is possible. Follow the methodology and clear goal set. Follow the pointers as discussed in the above article.
3. How can I improve my comprehension speed?
Response- The obvious target should be to enhance comprehension speed by gradually increasing reading pace, practicing with diverse passages, minimizing distractions, and refining skimming and scanning techniques.
4. How can one improve speed in solving quantitative aptitude questions?
Response- Practice regularly and focus on time-saving techniques such as mental math and shortcut methods. Don’t be overly dependent on the calculator.
5. How can one effectively maintain balance in preparation for all three sections of the CAT exam?
Response- Try to create a balanced study schedule that allows specific time slots for Analytical Ability, Mathematical Ability, and Communication Ability based on your strengths and weaknesses.
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Questions related to CAT
Have a question related to CAT ?
Hi aspirant,
The IIM admissions procedure is multifaceted .
- You must excel in the CAT exam, aiming for a high percentile (often 98-99+ for the top IIMs, though this varies by category and institute).
- Your academic profile, which includes your 10th, 12th, and graduation results, is important in addition to the CAT.
- Many IIMs also evaluate academic diversity (giving preference to non-engineering students) and gender diversity.
- Finally, shortlisted candidates are subjected to a Written Ability Test (WAT) or Group Discussion (GD), followed by a Personal Interview.
- If you have any work experience, it would also help you fetch additional points.
Cracking the CAT demands a smart and systematic strategy .
- Begin by completely comprehending the exam design and syllabus for each of the three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA.
- Frequently take mock examinations to imitate exam settings, assess your skills and limitations, and improve your time management.
- Analyze your performance after each mock to determine where you are losing marks and to improve your strategy.
- Consistent preparation with previous year's papers and targeted questions for weak areas is critical.
- Reading widely (newspapers, articles, novels) is vital for increasing VARC capabilities, whilst completing puzzles and various problem sets improves DILR and QA abilities.
Success relies on
discipline
,
dedication
, and a
good outlook
.
All the best!
Rajeswari Dey 19 June,2025
Hey Paridhi ,
I hope you are absolutely fine. As per your mentioned query , you have to understand the exam pattern first. Its syllabus, the type of questions and so on. Here i am mentioning some tips i hope this will be helpful for you.
- Analyse the exam pattern first and read the syllabus thoroughly. So you will get to know what subjects and topics asked in the exam.
- Collect the resources which will be beneficial for you. Like some standard books , mock papers .
- Make your foundation strong so that you can solve the standard questions easily. As foundation is important to solve difficult questions.
- Current affairs also plays important role in this exam so make yourself update by knowing the current things in environment.
- Practice mocks so that your speed will also enhance.
- Give PYQs so you will have idea of questions coming in exam.
- Do revision weekly if you not revise whatever you study then you will forget the things. So revise weekly.
To know more you can refer this :
https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-preparation-strategy
Revert for further query!
Good luck !
Sakshi Sharma 18 June,2025
Hello Abhishek,
No, you cannot take admission into B. Tech Marine Engineering at CUSAT if you do not take the CAT 2025 exam. CUSAT CAT is a mandatory exam for admission into all undergraduate programs including B Tech Marine Engineering. Admission to the program will only be possible for candidates with valid CAT scores.
gopi 18 June,2025
-
350s is below typical general category cutoffs for private MBBS seats.
-
Only realistic route is through management/NRI quota in lower-tier colleges with high fees.
-
Government seats are highly unlikely .
Pradeepa P 19 June,2025
Hi aspirant,
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive exam, and practicing sample questions is essential for efficient preparation.
Kindly refer to the link attached above for the sample papers.
All the best!
Rajeswari Dey 16 June,2025
Popular CAT Questions
Directions for question :
M/s Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, one of the top four audit and accounting firms in the world with headquarters at London, UK, and with an operational presence in 153 countries, hires Management Trainees (MT) from all the premier management institutes of India thrice every year, in the months of January, May and September.
Each new group of Management Trainees (MT) have to go through a four month rigorous training schedule, after which they have to pass through a test consisting of a written assessment and a case-analysis. The top hundred ranked Management Trainees (MT) based on the performance in the test are confirmed as Management Executives (ME). The rest are given the opportunity of undergoing the training for four months one more time along with the next batch of Management Trainees (MT) and then passing through the subsequent test consisting of the written assessment and case-analysis. The Management Trainee (MT) who fails to get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the second time is fired.
The scatter-graph below depicts the number of Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte taking the tests from January 2020 till May 2022, and the vis-à-vis hired Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte who were fired :
It is also known that for the month of September 2019 at Deloitte, 96 hired Management Trainees (MT) failed to be confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the first time, and that 36 hired Management Trainees (MT) were fired.
Question :
In which test did the minimum number of Management Trainees (MT) get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) in the second attempt ?
Option: 1
September 2020
Option: 2
May 2021
Option: 3
January 2021
Option: 4
January 2022
Directions for question:
The bar-graph given below shows the foreign exchange reserves of Nepal (in million Rupees) from 2014 to 2021. Answer the following questions based on the graph :
Question:
What was the percentage increase (rounded to the nearest integer, if deemed necessary) in the foreign exchange reserves in 2020 over 2016 ?
Option: 1 None
Option: 2 None
Option: 3 None
Option: 4 None
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