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CAT Exam 2025 Preparation Strategy - Planning to prepare for CAT 2025? Wondering what can be the proper CAT preparation strategy? If you are thinking about when is the right time to start the CAT preparation, then the best time to prepare for CAT 2025 is three to four months before the exam date. Every single candidate who registers for the CAT entrance exam hopes to crack the toughest exam with great marks.
But the question is- how to start and what preparation strategy for CAT will be useful enough to get a name on the merit list of IIMs? Careers360 in this article will tell you simple and easy to make and follow the CAT 2025 preparation strategy. Details as to how you can start your preparation, the best CAT study material, and much more. Common Admission Test for the academic session 2025 will be held mostly in the month of November.
An extensive Preparation Strategy for CAT is required to secure a good percentile in the CAT entrance exam. CAT 2025 is almost a few months away. Hence, candidates must pull up their socks. For the next academic year, the Indian Institute of Management may or may not provide a revised exam pattern for CAT.
It is obligatory for candidates that before filling out the CAT registration form they must check the CAT exam pattern 2025 beforehand and devise a proper CAT preparation strategy. The table given below shows the revised exam pattern of CAT based on the previous year and will be updated as per the changes brought in by conducting IIM.
Particulars | Details |
Duration of CAT 2025 | 2 hours (120 minutes) |
Sectional Duration |
|
Total no. of questions | 68 Questions |
CAT 2025 Exam Mode | Computer-based exam |
Marking Scheme |
|
Total Sections | Data interpretation & Logical Reasoning |
Verbal ability and reading comprehension | |
Quantitative Ability |
After analyzing the pattern of the exam, candidates must carefully look at the syllabus of CAT. Allot time as per the topics of the syllabus. As per the CAT syllabus 2025, the question paper will be divided into three major sections i.e. Data interpretation & Logical Reasoning , Verbal ability and reading comprehension, and Quantitative Ability.
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When preparing for the CAT exam, focusing on the most important topics is crucial for maximizing your performance. The importance of these topics is reflected in the number of questions they encompass in the exam. These high-priority areas are not only central to the test but also offer significant opportunities to score well if you have a strong grasp of them
Subject | Topic |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Reading Comprehension |
Para Jumbles | |
Para Summary | |
Para Completion | |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Reasoning based DI |
Table based DI | |
Scatter Graphs | |
Bar Graphs | |
Routes and Networks | |
Quantitative Aptitude | Number Systems |
Average and Mixtures | |
Geometry | |
Functions | |
Sequence & Series | |
Once you are done with knowing the syllabus and revised exam pattern of CAT 2025, now the next step would be to manage the time accordingly. Having awareness of time management is necessary. It may happen that candidates may end up wasting their prized time even after being aware of the revised exam pattern and syllabus of the CAT. Hence it is important to make a proper Preparation Strategy for CAT for excelling-
Time Management | Focal Areas for CAT preparation strategy |
6 Months |
|
3 Months |
|
1 Month |
|
Let us look at each Preparation Strategy of CAT one by one to have a better understanding-
Make an effective timetable that will enable you to cover the topics mentioned in the CAT syllabus 2025. Remember that only after clearing your entrance exam, you can receive a call for the further admission process of IIM. Candidates must first try to put their hands on those topics which they find a bit level up as initially there will be more time to give on such hard topics.
According to one of the CAT toppers, “one needs to have a proper study material for the same and one has to maintain consistency while covering the syllabus.” Try to find out easier ways of solving such questions and learn how to solve difficult questions quickly.
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Nowadays, a number of coaching institutes are available that provide preparation tips to candidates. According to Shivam Chandak, one of the toppers of CAT, coaching classes helped him as a source and guided him to stay focused. However, if candidates feel that they lack the monetary resources to join the coaching. They also have the option of self-study. Apart from offline, there are plenty of CAT coaching online options.
Topper Aditya Devalla said, “I had joined TIME coaching classes and Career Launcher mock tests. However, I didn't attend many classes and rather focused on self-study. My sister guided me through the process. I don't think coaching classes are necessary if one has the discipline for self-study on a regular basis.” Experts admit that if candidates prepare for CAT without coaching then also they definitely can crack the exam.
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In the initial months, candidates need to follow a CAT preparation strategy that allows them to focus on the concept of clearing their syllabus concepts. Having the fundamental concepts clear will act as a benefit in CAT 2025. Thus, clear concepts by understanding the exam pattern and each and every topic of the syllabus of CAT 2025. Use the internet to learn new methods and quick answers to solving problems. CAT Topper, Abhilasha Balakrishnan said that she explored the internet and found various sites to prepare for the CAT exam.
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Know that you have analyzed the syllabus and checked all that was necessary. Highlight the areas that you feel need improvement and more focus. Work on those areas, and try solving more and more questions. Take a look at CAT question papers and solve them rigorously. For the purpose of searching for more questions, you can look at the sample papers of CAT to provide a stable base for your Preparation Strategy for CAT.
Remember that solving questions and practicing the same things, again and again, will improve your base and you will be able to solve questions easily during the actual CAT 2025 time duration without being confused.
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According to most of the toppers of CAT, going through mock tests is highly beneficial. The mock test of CAT helps candidates to get an idea about the type of questions that could come up in the paper, the marking scheme, navigation through different sections, the effort required to score well, the difficulty level of the question paper, and much more.
CAT mock test 2025 is similar to the actual question paper with the same time duration, sections, and marking scheme. Candidates can take up mock tests before or after the preparation i.e. to gauge where they stand amongst others, they can either take the test before starting their preparation or they can also check their CAT preparation strategy after they are done with the syllabus.
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Considered to be a scientific method, writing notes on colorful flashcards helps remember the brain new things easily. Make sticky notes and write important things on them, make sure to stick them in a place that is visible to your eyes and helps you in mugging up that topic easily. In that case, you just have to make notes, stick them, see them and your mind will grasp it. You don't need to put too much effort into opening the notebook again and again.
When not much time will be left for CAT 2025, candidates are advised to focus only on their strengths. At that time, leave what is not necessary or is out of reach. Learning the art of leaving will act as an important CAT preparation strategy as it will save time for candidates on time-consuming questions. Better to avoid the rotten eggs and focus only on the golden ones to score well in CAT 2025.
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Above all, stay hydrated, eat well, and trust your CAT preparation strategy.
Top CAT scorers, or 99+ percentilers, follow a disciplined and strategic preparation approach. They begin by thoroughly understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, focusing on strengthening their basics in all three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Consistent practice through mock tests and previous years' papers is crucial, as it helps them improve their speed and accuracy while identifying and addressing weak areas. They analyze their performance after each mock test to fine-tune their strategies. Maintaining a balanced and regular study schedule, along with effective stress management techniques such as meditation or exercise, also plays a vital role in their success. By combining these elements, they are able to achieve top scores in the CAT exam.
To prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude, start by understanding the syllabus and focusing on the basic concepts of mathematics. Practice regularly to improve your speed and accuracy. Solve a variety of problems from different topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. Use good quality study materials and take regular mock tests to assess your progress. Analyze your performance in these tests to identify and work on weak areas. Maintain a consistent study schedule and practice mental math to improve your calculation speed. By staying disciplined and focused, you can effectively prepare for the Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT.
To prepare for CAT Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, start by reading regularly from a variety of sources such as newspapers, magazines, and novels to improve your reading speed and comprehension. Focus on understanding and interpreting different types of passages. Practice solving questions related to grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, and para jumbles. Take regular mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and to improve your time management skills. Review your performance in these tests to identify weak areas and work on them. Maintaining a consistent study routine and practising regularly will help you excel in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section of CAT.
To prepare for CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DI LR), start by understanding the types of questions asked in this section. Practice regularly with different kinds of DI sets, such as tables, charts, and graphs, as well as LR puzzles like seating arrangements, blood relations, and logical sequences. Solve previous years' papers and take mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve your speed and accuracy. Analyze your performance in these tests to identify and work on weak areas. Consistent practice, along with developing a clear strategy for different types of problems, will help you succeed in the DILR section of CAT.
In the last month before the CAT exam, focus on revising all the concepts you’ve learned. Take full-length mock tests every few days to simulate the actual exam experience and improve your time management skills. Analyze these tests thoroughly to identify and work on your weak areas. Avoid learning new topics at this stage and instead concentrate on strengthening your existing knowledge. Practice regularly to keep your skills sharp. Stay calm and ensure you get enough rest and maintain a healthy routine to keep your mind fresh. By focusing on these key areas, you can make the most of your final month of preparation for the CAT exam.
In preparing for the CAT 2025, important books play a pivotal role in helping candidates achieve a high score. These books provide extensive coverage of key topics and concepts required for the exam, breaking down complex subjects into manageable sections. They offer a variety of practice questions, including previous years' papers and mock tests, which are essential for understanding the exam pattern and improving problem-solving skills.
Book Name | Author |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | RS Aggarwal |
Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K Sinha |
How to prepare for Data Interpretation | Arun Sharma |
Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha |
Book Name | Author |
Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers) | RK Jha |
Analytical and Logical Reasoning | Arihant Publications |
Target XAT (Past papers & mock tests) | Disha Publications |
Book Name | Author |
Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin |
Analytical Reasoning | MK Pandey |
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | RS Aggarwal |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Ajay Singh |
To start preparing for CAT 2025, begin by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. Create a study schedule that balances different subjects, and focus on building a strong foundation in quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical reasoning. Regular practice with mock tests and previous years' papers will help you gauge your progress and adjust your strategy as needed.
Studying for CAT 2025 for 6-7 hours a day can be quite effective if managed well. It's important to ensure that this time is used productively by focusing on different sections of the exam, practicing problem-solving, and reviewing your mistakes. Balance your study hours with breaks to avoid burnout and maintain a steady pace throughout your preparation.
To make a CAT preparation schedule, start by breaking down the syllabus into manageable sections and allocate specific times for each topic. Prioritize areas where you feel less confident and mix in regular revisions and practice tests. Set daily and weekly goals, and be flexible enough to adjust your plan based on your progress and any areas that need extra focus. Make sure to include breaks and some leisure time to keep yourself refreshed.
To start CAT preparation at home, begin by gathering all necessary study materials, including books, previous years’ papers, and online resources. Set up a dedicated study space and create a structured study plan that covers all sections of the exam. Start with basic concepts, gradually move to advanced topics, and regularly take practice tests to track your progress. Stay disciplined, but also allow for breaks and review sessions to keep the preparation effective and balanced.
With a 65 percentile in CAT, getting admission to USMS (Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University) may be difficult, as its cutoff is usually 75-85 percentile or higher for the general category.
However, you can consider other good MBA colleges that accept 60-70 percentile in CAT, such as:
Christ University, Bangalore
Institute of Public Enterprise, Hyderabad
Amrita School of Business, Kochi
PES University, Bangalore
KIIT School of Management, Bhubaneswar
Rajagiri Centre for Business Studies, Kochi
Army Institute of Management, Kolkata
Research their admission criteria, placements, and faculty to choose the best fit.
Hello
With a 65 percentile in CAT , USMS (GGSIPU) admission is difficult as its cutoffs are usually higher. However, you can explore private and tier-2/tier-3 MBA colleges that accept lower CAT scores.
Options to Consider:
1. Private MBA Colleges :
Amity University, Noida
LPU (Lovely Professional University)
Alliance University, Bangalore
Christ University, Bangalore
Apeejay School of Management, Delhi
2. B-Schools Accepting Lower CAT Percentile :
BIMTECH (PGDM-Retail/IB/Insurance)
XIME Bangalore
ITM Navi Mumbai
IPE Hyderabad
Jaipuria Institute of Management
3. Other Entrance Exams :
Appear for MAT, CMAT, XAT (low percentile accepted by some colleges)
Consider state-level exams like MAH CET, KMAT or TANCET .
Hope this gives you the clarity you need.
Hello there,
With your
academic profile (General, Male, Non-Engineer)
, you should
target MBA colleges that focus more on CAT percentile than past academics.
Target Colleges & Minimum CAT Percentile:
You
can
get a good MBA college with
strategic applications
and
high CAT/XAT percentile.
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,
As per your given JEE Main percentile which is 88.34 in the SC Category, Your Predicted JEE MAINS 2025 rank may range between 147086 - 170102.
Based on the previous year analysis, According to your JEE MAINS percentile and category you have less possibility of getting a seat for admission in NIT Surathkal.
Some of the other colleges in which you have chances to get admission includes:
You can predict more colleges using the JEE MAINS 2025 college predictor tool.
Hope this information will help you
With your academic background, you have a good chance of getting into some of the top IIMs. Here's a breakdown of your profile:
- Class 10:91.6% - Excellent!
- Class 12:66% - Average, but not a deal-breaker
- B.Tech Computer Science: 8.4 CGPA - Very good!
Assuming you score well in CAT , here are some IIMs you might have a good chance of getting into:
- IIM Ahmedabad: Although the qualifying CAT cut off is 85 percentile, the final cut off typically goes up to 99-100 percentile.With a good CAT score, you might be considered.
- IIM Kozhikode: The CAT cut off for IIM Kozhikode is typically around 95-98 percentile. Your academic profile and a good CAT score might make you a competitive candidate.
- IIM Indore:The CAT cut off for IIM Indore is typically around 90-95 percentile. With a good CAT score and your academic background, you might have a chance.
Keep in mind that CAT cut offs can vary from year to year, and other factors like work experience, extracurricular activities, and personal interviews also play a significant role in the admission process.
To increase your chances, focus on scoring well in CAT, and make sure you have a strong overall profile.
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