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How to Prepare for CAT 2024: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) is expected to conduct the CAT 2024 on November 24, 2024. CAT preparation in 2024 requires a strategic approach, a combination of conceptual understanding and practice. CAT assesses your abilities in areas like quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical reasoning. For CAT exam preparation, you need a structured study plan that covers all sections and has regular practice with CAT sample questions. Getting to know the exam pattern and solving the previous years' papers helps to quicken the decision-making rate and allows us to get the correct answers in no time with the least mistakes. In this article, we will provide valuable insights into how to prepare effectively for the CAT 2024, along with important tips and tricks, and a detailed study plan to boost your confidence.
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CAT 2024: Score vs Percentile | CAT'23 Official Question with Solutions
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Before knowing how to prepare for CAT, it is better to know what is CAT exam. IIM CAT has a lot of topics so it always helps to have a clear schedule. To make a CAT 2024 strategy, it is very important to understand the CAT exam syllabus before jumping straight into your CAT 2024 preparation. After that, analyze the paper pattern by referring CAT previous year papers. This analysis will help you identify your weak and strong areas. Using this information, you will understand which part of your page will require the most effort.
When it comes to the CAT exam preparation, you must be aware of the most important CAT preparation topics. Through this, you will be able to secure a good portion of the CAT exam syllabus within a limited time. Now let us discuss a few important CAT preparation topics that can enhance your CAT preparation and ensure you secure more CAT marks.
The candidates are advised to emphasize on these CAT quantitative aptitude topics more to enhance their CAT exam preparation.
Number System: Ensure that you are clear with the basic concepts of this topic.
● Arithmetic: Though Arithmetic has a vast number of sub-topics, in the last 3 years, only
a couple of questions have featured from this topic.
● Algebra: Considering this has been one of the most dominant topics in CAT in the last
three years, it makes a lot of sense to place extra emphasis on this topic.
● Geometry: Another topic which has featured quite a lot in the last 3 years.
● Permutation and Combination /Probability : This is another topic that contributes around 1 to 2 questions to the exam.
● Miscellaneous Topics: This includes Set Theory, Trigonometry and Logarithms
A few topics that you must cover in DI section and that you must prepare, are given below:
1. Bar Graph
2. Data Sufficiency
3. Pie Chart
4. Caselets
5. Line Graph, etc
• Family Tree
• Assumptions
• Sets
• Match
• Prepositions
The candidates are suggested to practice the following CAT VARC topics to improve their CAT percentile scores.
• Para jumbles
• Grammar
• Sentence corrections
• Vocabulary
• Para corrections
The most frequently asked question by CAT aspirants during the last leg of the CAT exam is "Can I prepare for CAT in 2 months?". The answer to this question is yes. The CAT exam will be conducted tentatively on November 24, 2024. With the right CAT exam preparation tips and guidance along with a planned strategy, one can ace the CAT 2024 exam with a good percentile.
Before starting the CAT preparation for MBA, candidates should go through the exam pattern and syllabus to make themselves familiar with the test scheme and the types of questions and structure of the examination. The CAT 2024 exam pattern is what can be called the layout/structure of the exam. It gives details about the duration of the CAT exam, the total number of questions to be asked, the mode of the test, the marking scheme, the number of sections, etc.
There might be some changes in the CAT exam syllabus and pattern however, it is expected to be much more similar to last year's exam pattern. Candidates preparing for CAT 2024 are advised to go through the exam pattern and CAT syllabus as this will help to know what and how much they should study.
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Particulars | Details |
Exam Duration | 2 hours |
Total no. of questions | 66 |
Mode of CAT 2024 | Computer-Based |
Marking scheme |
|
Sections | Verbal ability and reading comprehension |
Data interpretation & logical reasoning | |
Quantitative ability |
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Features | CAT 2023/ CAT 2022/ CAT 2021 | CAT 2020 | CAT 2019 |
Number of CAT exam slots | Three | Three | Two |
CAT exam time duration | 120 minutes | 120 minutes | 180 minutes |
Sectional time limit | 40 minutes | 40 minutes | 60 minutes |
Total number of questions | 66 | 76 | 100 |
Total marks | 198 | 228 | 300 |
Total questions in VARC section | 24 | 26 | 34 |
Total questions in DILR section | 20 | 24 | 32 |
Total questions in QA section | 22 | 26 | 34 |
Candidates can check the details of the CAT exam syllabus 2024 below.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus | Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Syllabus | Verbal Reasoning Syllabus |
Tables | English Usage or Grammar | |
Caselets | Vocabulary based (Synonyms/ Antonyms) | |
Bar Graphs | Fill in the blanks | |
Line Charts | Sentence Correction | |
Column Graphs | Cloze Passage | |
Reading Comprehension | Jumbled Paragraph | |
Pie Chart | Meaning-Usage Match | |
Other Basic Reasoning Questions | Analogies or Reverse Analogies | |
Summary Questions | ||
Complex Numbers | Verbal Reasoning | |
Facts-Inferences-Judgments | ||
Logarithm | ||
-- | ||
Exponent and Surds and Indices | Logical Matching | |
Set Theory & Function | Logical Sequence | |
Trigonometry | ||
Coordinate Geometry | -- | |
Geometry | ||
Candidates who are interested in taking CAT exam 2024 usually come up with questions like "Can I prepare for CAT in 3 months?" during the last few months before the exam. To prepare for CAT in 3 months candidates must follow a structured study plan, attempt a number of mocks, CAT previous year paper and analyse their performance. They should start the preparation in sync with the CAT 2024 exam pattern and syllabus.
Preparing with the CAT exam syllabus in mind becomes easy and more effective. This way, students can cover more topics in less time as they precisely know what to study and what not. Moreover, instead of having a single strategy for the entire CAT syllabus, make a separate strategy for every section to complete CAT Quantitative Aptitude. Section-wise CAT preparation strategy provided below will be of great help to candidates.
Practice as much as you can and go for mock tests.
Probability | Permutation and Combination |
Square Root and Cube Root of Surds | Compound InterestSimple Interest |
Mensuration Formula | ModeAverage |
Binomial Theorem |
Try solving questions based on comprehension, inferences, and para jumbles. Candidates can join any private tuition or take CAT coaching and prepare from the foundational booklets provided to them.
Prepositions with Exercises | Pronouns with Exercises |
Phrases Modifiers | Types of Clauses |
Errors in Tenses | Subject-Verb Agreement |
Para jumbles with Exercises | Examples of Articles |
Parts of Speech |
Try to study basic topics like seating arrangements, Blood Relation ,Syllogism , etc to grip hands on this section. Do not use a calculator while solving questions.
Venn Diagram | Percentage |
Number Systems | Approximation and Conversion Techniques |
Quick Link - How to prepare for CAT DI & LR
Candidates are advised to choose and buy CAT study material for exam preparation wisely. A list of best CAT 2024 preparation books for each section has been provided in the tabular form below.
Books | Author | Details |
How to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT exam | Arun Sharma |
|
Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT 2024 | Nishit K. Sinha |
|
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT exam | Sarvesh K Verma |
|
Books | Author | Details |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT exam | Arun Sharma |
|
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT exam 2024 | K. Sinha Nishit |
|
Books | Author | Details |
Word Power made easy | Norman Lewis |
|
Mastering the Verbal Ability for CAT exam | Ajay Singh |
|
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT 2024 | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay |
|
Common Admission Test is the speed test of your knowledge, which means it is not a good idea to study more and more. Instead, focus on speed improvement, time management, and mock practice. Apart from sectional preparation, here are some other yet most important tips for aspirants to follow for CAT preparation. Some basic and easy-to-go strategies are -
Time Management | Analyze and Understand |
Reverse Action | Focus on Strengths & Goal Accomplishment |
Attempt Mock Tests | Practice Everything |
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With 40 minutes of time allotted to each section, candidates must devise their strategy so they can answer all questions. Managing their time will help candidates turn their efforts into fruitful results. Divide your 24 hours in such a way that you practice each section daily. Speaking about time management, Rounak Tikmani, CAT topper told us that he considered time management as the fourth section apart from the other three provided by IIM. For candidates appearing in the CAT for the first time, time management will provide them with the following benefits at the time of CAT preparation-
Sharing his personal experience CAT topper Nishakar Kumar said, “I believe time management is much easier when you are passionate about what you are doing, so simply realizing that makes a lot of difference”.
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Before making any kind of strategy on how to prepare for CAT 2024, it is advisable that candidates first check the exam pattern of CAT 2024. Analyze no. of sections, topics and sub-topics asked in previous years' exams along with the difficulty levels. Candidates must also decide how they want to prepare for the CAT exam, whether is it better to prepare for CAT online or offline. For CAT preparation online or offline, candidates must do thorough research on the institutes providing coaching for CAT exam if they are opting for offline mode considering all the factors like fees, travelling expenses, timings, etc.
Opting for online CAT preparation is more convenient and cost-effective where the candidate must maintain their discipline while preparing for CAT exam. Before taking any kind of tests, analyze these points and try to figure out what your major areas are, which subjects require improvement, etc. The analysis is not only done prior to your CAT 2024 preparation but can be in between and at the end of your CAT preparation. CAT topper Suvam Debnath worked hard relentlessly, analyzed his mistakes, and overcame them by scoring 99.52 percentile.
Rahul Manglik, CAT topper says, “Play your strengths and work on your weaknesses”. After analyzing which are your strong areas make them stronger by regular practice. Devise proper strategies for overcoming and correcting your areas of improvement. Whereas for CAT topper Ronit, “candidates must develop a concrete idea of their strengths as well as weaknesses”. In order to achieve good scores, candidates must capitalize on their strengths first and then move towards the less strong areas.
CAT topper Aditya Devalla said that his calm attitude and focused only on what was necessary. Cracking the CAT exam with a good percentile is no less than a challenge but everything is possible if you focus your mind on what you wish to achieve. CAT 2024 will be no different than previous exams.
CAT toppers accept that their success was somewhat dependent on the mock test they appeared for the CAT exam. One of the best strategies for how to prepare for CAT 2024 is giving the CAT Mock test as it gives candidates a simulated environment of the exam. Benefits of the mock test include self-assessment, time management, accuracy in answering the questions, and understanding the exam day nervousness level.
Quick Links:
Experts in CAT advise candidates to practice what they preach. Regularly practicing what you know will help you access what more is required at the time of CAT preparation. Study each topic and then practice it on a weekly basis to keep it fresh in your mind. For CAT topper Abhilasha Balakrishnan, “Regular practice and a lot of mock tests helped him achieve his goals”. Know what other CAT toppers have to say about preparation.
While solving the CAT mock test or the actual CAT exam if you find yourself surrounded with questions getting a little difficult, you may choose the reverse action and scan the answers given first. Many times, it happens that answers contain imperative clues that can help you solve the questions more accurately.
Careers360 brings you a set of preparation materials for the CAT 2024 preparation. All the important links are attached below:
CAT Sectional Preparation | CAT Preparation Materials | CAT Preparation Tips |
For CAT 2024 preparation, solving sample papers and taking mock tests are crucial. Sample papers give you a feel for the types of questions and the exam's difficulty level, while mock tests simulate the actual test environment, helping you manage time and build stamina. Regularly practicing with these resources allows you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, adjust your study plan, and improve your test-taking strategies. Analyzing your performance in these tests also helps you understand common mistakes and improve your approach for the actual exam.
Title | Download Link |
CAT Sample Papers | |
Mock CAT Questions | |
Past 10 years CAT Question Papers with Answer | |
CAT Sample Paper 2021 |
The major mistakes that the candidates commit during their CAT preparation 2024 are listed below. You must refer to these common CAT mistakes are improve your CAT preparation by avoiding them.
Avoid irregular study habits, as they can disrupt your progress. Stick to a regular study schedule, setting aside specific times each day for CAT preparation. This helps ensure you cover all topics systematically and build a strong study habit.
Don’t skip the basics. Make sure you understand fundamental concepts in math, verbal ability, and data interpretation. A strong grasp of these basics is crucial for solving more complex problems and performing well on the test.
Time management is key. Practice answering questions within the time limits to get used to the pace of the exam. This helps you handle the pressure and complete the test on time, which is critical for performing well.
Mock tests are essential for your preparation. They replicates the actual exam environment and help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Regularly taking mock tests allows you to adjust your study plan based on your performance and get comfortable with the test format.
It’s important to work on all areas of the exam, not just your strengths. Spending too much time on what you’re already good at can leave your weaker areas underdeveloped. Balance your study time to improve in every section of the exam.
Previous years’ CAT papers are valuable resources. They give you an idea of the exam pattern and the types of questions that commonly appear. Reviewing these papers helps you get familiar with the format and improves your problem-solving skills.
Your health affects your performance. Don’t let stress or poor health undermine your preparation. Make sure to eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to keep your mind and body in good shape for studying and taking the exam.
The time needed to prepare for the CAT exam varies based on each candidate's efficiency, clarity of concepts, and overall understanding. Since everyone aims to achieve a high percentile for admission into top IIMs, the question of preparation time is crucial. For someone with an average academic record, CAT preparation might take over a year. Candidates with an excellent academic background may need around 6-8 months, while those with a strong track record could be ready in just 3-4 months.
The time needed to prepare for the CAT exam varies based on individual ability. It depends on how quickly a person can understand the fundamental concepts, so there isn't a set time required to pass the CAT if starting from scratch. Usually, it takes about two to three months to complete the basics of the three sections for beginners. On average, dedicated preparation for the CAT takes around 6-7 months. Ideally, candidates should aim to study for two hours on weekdays and six to eight hours on weekends.
CAT 2024 entrance exam will be held on 24 November 2024. CAT exam will be conducted in three sessions.
As per stardard CAT exam pattern, there will be a total of 66 questions in CAT question paper. The VARC section has 24, DILR has 20 and QA section has 22 questions.
Yes, a negative marking scheme is applicable in CAT exam. One mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
Candidates can start their CAT 2024 preparation 6–8 months in advance and complete the CAT exam syllabus within the given time. CAT 2024 is a tough exam but can be cracked with the right strategy and determination.
The exam fee for the CAT is ₹2,400 for candidates from the General, EWS, and NC-OBC categories. For those belonging to the SC, ST, or PWD categories, the fee is ₹1,200. This fee structure is intended to accommodate the varying financial situations of different candidates.
In preparation for CAT 2024 at home, candidates shall initially follow these tools:
To appear for the CAT, candidates must hold a graduation degree with at least 50% marks if they belong to the General category. For those in the SC or ST categories, a graduation degree with a minimum of 45% marks is required. Additionally, final-year students and those with equivalent qualifications can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria by the time of admission.
The best CAT 2024 study plan includes strategy as well as determination for cracking this top MBA entrance exam. Candidates can refer to the article above to have an impactful CAT 2024 study plan.
Candidates shall go through and analyze the CAT 2024 syllabus and pattern properly. Then, they shall devise the CAT exam strategy according to their study plan and time in hand.
The CAT 2024 syllabus includes the topics of:
IIM Lucknow will set CAT 2024 paper.
Yes, 1 year is generally enough for CAT preparation if you use the time effectively. With a full year, you can cover the entire syllabus thoroughly, practice extensively, and take multiple mock tests. This time frame allows for a structured study plan, ample time to work on weak areas, and adjustments based on your performance in mock tests. Consistency and a focused approach throughout the year can significantly boost your chances of performing well on the exam.
For 2024, the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam pattern remains similar to previous years. It consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. Each section has a time limit of 40 minutes, and there are a mix of multiple-choice questions and non-multiple-choice questions.
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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