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How to Prepare for CAT Without Coaching? - Preparing for CAT exam without coaching is completely achievable with the right plan and determination. Many successful aspirants have cracked the CAT exam and secured seats in top IIMs through self-study, proving that coaching is not a necessity. Self-preparation offers flexibility, allowing you to focus on your strengths, address your weaknesses, and customize your study schedule according to your pace.
In this article, we will share expert tips and strategies to help you prepare for the CAT exam without formal coaching. From building an efficient study plan and choosing the right resources to practicing with mock tests and analyzing your performance, these insights will guide you toward a focused and effective CAT preparation journey. With a disciplined approach, smart time management, and the right study tools, you can ace the exam and secure your spot in one of the prestigious IIMs.
Most of the candidates join coaching classes with high hopes, and so they are ready to pay a huge amount as a fee. Joining coaching, though it can be helpful, does not guarantee that you will clear the CAT 2024 and achieve the target score. Many CAT toppers in the past cleared the entrance exam without taking the help of coaching. All you need is just follow this article which provides you with all that it takes to crack CAT 2024 and score high.
Due to the highly competitive nature of the CAT exam, a lot of candidates enrol themselves in CAT coaching institutes to enhance their CAT preparation. Hence, there is a common misconception that only enrolling in a CAT coaching institute can bring great results. Due to this, the number of CAT coaching institutes has also risen to an all-time high. But the truth is that the candidates can secure high CAT percentile scores with self-study and the coaching institutes do not want the candidates to realise this fact. In this section let us understand how to start CAT preparation at home.
Yes, it is possible to crack the CAT exam without coaching, but it requires a well-structured self-study plan and dedication. Many candidates have successfully cleared the CAT through self-preparation by using the right study materials, such as books and online resources. Regular practice with mock tests, analysing performance, and focusing on weak areas are crucial. Online platforms offer plenty of resources, including sample papers, video tutorials, and strategy guides. With disciplined time management and consistent efforts, self-study can be as effective as coaching when preparing for the CAT exam.
Many CAT toppers and experts suggest that taking mentorship and coaching for the CAT exam is beneficial to a great extent. But it is not always mandatory. According to one of the CAT toppers Vishesh Garg, taking coaching for CAT exam is not the most essential part through which a candidate can secure good marks. Nowadays what coaching institutes do not want candidates to know is the fact that they can achieve success in CAT exam 2024 even without their help.
Also read- Online CAT Coaching
Candidates, especially first-time CAT takers blindly follow the coaching institutes and pay huge hard-earned money. However, some candidates are unable to join any coaching classes. The reason could be the high fees, and willingness to score well with self-study.
Ashish Sen who secured the 99.99 percentile in CAT exam, says that self-study definitely brings in the difference while you prepare by yourself for the CAT exam.
Keeping in mind the footprints of CAT toppers, Shivam Chandak and Aditya Devalla secured 99.98 and 99.97 percent respectively in the toughest exams. Shivam Chandak prepared for CAT 2019 without joining any coaching and took the help of the internet only to attempt practice papers and CAT mock tests. Whereas, CAT topper Abhilasha Balakrishnan told Careers360 that he did not join any coaching. According to him, self-study is sufficient when one has a clear-cut picture of the schedule.
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How to start preparing for the CAT by self-study? Is one of the major questions asked by the candidates during their CAT preparation journey. The candidates should be well versed on how to prepare for CAT at home to secure a high CAT percentile score. Given below are few tips and tricks on how to prepare for CAT exam at home written by experts.
Before beginning your CAT preparation, the first step would be to take a CAT mock test to judge where you actually stand. CAT topper Adit Sanjanawala started his preparation for CAT by taking a mock test to find out his base level. According to him, by taking mock tests a candidate will be able to understand his/her strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, topper Ravi Pranshu appeared in around 40 mock tests of CAT exam to understand his mistakes and areas where he needed to focus.
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Candidates are required to answer the questions within the sectional time allotted. Topper Rahul Manglik focused on understanding and finishing the CAT syllabus to ensure accuracy and then focused on increasing his problem-solving accuracy.
Quick Link- CAT Exam Pattern
Shivam Kumar CAT topper said, “Candidates should spend a lot of their time analyzing the shortcut methods.” Make time management your priority. It is not just preparing Verbal Ability or Reasoning or Quantitative Ability but preparing for all sections together with proper time management.
The market is flooded with ample CAT preparation study material. Those who are preparing without coaching must:
Just because you are not going to any CAT coaching classes does not limit your access to the Internet. Browse throughout and make use of Google services. Try to figure out which are the best educational sites that can assist and upgrade your CAT preparation efforts. Several YouTubers are available this time, who explain each topic of the CAT syllabus in lucid language. Ronit Banerjea said that he used the internet and prepared through various preparation sites. Clear your concepts by learning new methods of solving CAT important questions from the internet.
Although not directly, this factor is of utmost importance as it acts as a guiding force in any area. Make yourself motivated by adding a positive sticky note in front of your desk. Check the same on a daily basis and make yourself positive. Notes could be “I can clear CAT with good marks”, “I will get a call from IIM” or anything that inspires you. According to topper Ankit Desai, who scored 99.9 percentile in the CAT exam said that the major factor in clearing CAT exam is constant self-motivation.
While preparing for the CAT exam at home, students must keep doing regular revisions at specific time intervals so that they do not forget their basics. Also, regular revisions are fundamental for good preparation. Regular revisions help reinforce key concepts, identify weak areas, and enhance problem-solving speed and accuracy. They also ensure that students stay on track with their study plan and retain information effectively, which is crucial for performing well in a competitive exam like CAT.
If you need assistance with how to start CAT preparation at home, you can refer to the CAT preparation strategies given below to enhance your CAT preparation and ensure a high CAT percentile score.
Jumping into preparation without understanding the CAT syllabus can only result in futile attempts. It is essential that you understand the CAT exam pattern before starting your preparation. The candidates should also be aware of the most important topics for the CAT exam. Understanding the exam structure and important topics will help you create your comprehensive study plan and ensure a good CAT percentile score. This is one of the first steps in answering the Can I prepare for CAT without coaching question.
Can I crack CAT without coaching? Definitely yes. But can I crack CAT without coaching and the best CAT study materials? Definitely no. Best CAT preparation books are necessary for the enhanced preparation of the candidates. This can not only boost the preparation of the candidates but also provide them with preparation prior to the CAT exam. Hence, it is essential that the candidates choose the best resources and best books for CAT preparation and schedule their CAT preparation accordingly.
Now that you have understood the CAT exam structure and have shortlisted the best CAT preparation resources, it is time to move on to the preparation. This is one of the major in understand how to prepare for the CAT exam without coaching. The candidates must put efforts into understanding their strengths and weaknesses and spend time for each accordingly.
CAT mock tests are also essential for any CAT aspirant. The major answer to the question, of how to self-study for CAT is through mock tests. CAT mock tests are invaluable for the candidates as they can help them understand the level of difficulty of the questions and through this, the candidates would be able to structure their preparation likewise and enhance their CAT percentile scores.
Preparing for CAT exam at home is not easy and students generally do some mistake which can hinder their chance at success. Therefore avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of CAT exam preparation at home.
Lack of a Study Plan: Not having a structured study plan can lead to unorganized preparation. A well-thought-out plan helps to cover all the topics systematically.
Ignoring Basics: Jumping directly to advanced topics without mastering the basics can create confusion and hinder understanding of complex concepts.
Inconsistent Practice: Irregular practice can result in a loss of momentum. Consistent practice is essential to build and maintain proficiency in different sections.
Overlooking Weak Areas: Focusing only on strong areas and neglecting weaker sections can be harmful to your preparation. Balanced preparation is crucial for a good overall score.
Not Taking Mock Tests: Avoiding mock tests can leave students unprepared for the actual exam scenario. Regular mock tests help in time management and identifying areas needing improvement.
Lack of Revision: Not revising regularly can lead to forgetting important concepts. Regular revisions reinforce learning and improve retention.
Ignoring Time Management: Poor time management during preparation and the exam can result in incomplete sections. Practicing with a timer can help in efficient time allocation.
Procrastination: Delaying study sessions or key topics can pile up work, causing stress and rushed preparation towards the end.
Over-reliance on One Resource: Relying on a single book or resource limits exposure to different types of questions. Utilizing multiple resources provides a broader perspective and varied practice.
Neglecting Mental and Physical Health: Ignoring health can affect concentration and performance. Regular breaks, exercise, and a healthy diet are important for maintaining overall well-being.
Below are some of the CAT essential ebooks and CAT materials that are designed by Careers360 to improve the candidates' CAT preparation and aid them secure a very high CAT percentile score. The candidates are also strongly encouraged to refer to the various important CAT books to enhance their CAT 2024 performance.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions |
CAT registration 2024 is expected to begin in August.
Mock test of CAT are considered as an important factor for candidates as they get the exact exam day environment at the time of solving it. Although not compulsory, candidates are advised to solve mock tests.
Yes, you can prepare for CAT exam by yourself with some important steps such as:
One can start preparing for CAT exam 2024 by following the steps:
Yes, candidates can do CAT preparation home and clear the exam with self study by planning your preparation, effective time management, choosing right study materials, doing regular revisions, and being consistent with practice.
Yes, the CUSAT CAT exam is held online. It is what is called a computer-based test, where candidates respond to questions on the computer screen.
It covers Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics topics. The questions are multiple choice.
For information regarding the most accurate details and up-to-date information available on CUSAT CAT, including format, eligibility criteria, and important dates, visit the official website for Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) or refer to the official notification released by the university.
https://www.careers360.com/exams/cusat-cat
Hello aspirant,
As the score is accepted by 21 IIMs, other prestigious B-schools, and 1,300 MBA colleges in India, CAT 2025, a business aptitude test that evaluates candidates on quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, logical reasoning, verbal ability, and reading comprehension, will most likely take place on November 30, 2025, with an official announcement making the announcement by July 30, 2025.
For more information, you can visit our site through the following link:
https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-2025
Thank you
Hope it helps you
The student cannot join the postgraduate MA program directly in the second year of the MA after completing the MBA.
Universities generally expect students to begin the first year of a masters' program even though they had qualifications at the level of a bachelor's degree. The university's curriculum along with the courses are planned to give an in-depth knowledge of the subjects.
But you could opt for:
Postgraduate Studies:
Research Career: In case research interests you, then you can pursue a Ph.D. in your specific interest.
Specialized Master's Programs: Find any specific master's course that supports the career goal.
Professional Certifications:
Make a professional certification in CFA, CA, or FRM to enhance the professional skills and better opportunities in the career field.
Job Entry via MBA
After gaining an MBA from a renowned institution, it's possible to get entry into the corporate world where the diversity in the career field is assured.
In the end, it would depend on what you would like and what you are particularly interested in. It will be better if you take a suggestion from your academic advisor or career counselor.
Hello Pratik,
If your family income exceeds 8 LPA, it will affect your eligibility for the NC-OBC category under the CAT reservation rules. The NC-OBC category requires that the family income should be below 8 LPA to qualify. If you anticipate that your income will exceed this threshold, you should update your status and notify the CAT authorities .
Here's what you can do:
Email the CAT authorities
: Inform them about the potential change in your income status and request to be considered under the
General
category, if applicable. You should do this before the examination or any further processing, as your eligibility for the OBC category depends on the income criteria.
Documents and Proof
: Make sure you have a valid
OBC certificate
and any relevant documentation regarding your family income, in case they require verification. Also, be aware that if your income exceeds 8 LPA, you might need to apply under the
General
category, as the OBC-NC reservation is no longer applicable.
General Category Consideration : If your application is accepted as General, you will be evaluated based on the General category criteria, including cutoffs and ranking.
To summarize, notifying the CAT authorities is the correct approach to avoid discrepancies later, and if your income is above the threshold, you will be treated as a General candidate for the admissions process.
For more details about CAT exam you can check out an article by Careers360 whose link is given below:
Link: https://bschool.careers360.com/exams/cat
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.
Hi Shreya ,
Having a tattoo on your wrist should not create a problem during the CAT exam as long as it does not contain any content that violates exam rules , such as communication-related symbols , unauthorised messages or any text resembling formulas or answers .
For a safe side , it is recommended :
1. Inform the Invigilators : Let them know about your tattoo during the identification check , so there are no misunderstandings .
2. Follow the Guidelines : Ensure you follow all instructions regarding permissible items and dress code on the exam day .
Hope this helps you .
ALL THE BEST .
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