CAT Tips for Non-Engineers: Strategies to Crack CAT 2024 Without Mathematics in Class 12

CAT Tips for Non-Engineers: Strategies to Crack CAT 2024 Without Mathematics in Class 12

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CAT Application Date:01 Aug' 25 - 20 Sep' 25

Team Careers360Updated on 18 Aug 2024, 07:37 PM IST

The Common Admission Test (CAT exam) is the gateway to the world of management for a student in India. People who did not study maths after class 12th face some difficulties in the CAT QA section. So, this article provides some effective CAT tips for non-engineers.

This Story also Contains

  1. What is the CAT Exam and why is it essential for non-engineers?
  2. CAT Tips For Non-Engineers
  3. Understanding the CAT Exam: Does Educational Background Matter?
  4. How to manage time during the CAT Exam for non-engineers?
  5. The Most Important Topics in CAT QA
  6. Overcoming Mathematics Challenges: How can a Non-Engineer crack the CAT Quants?
  7. Strategic Preparation Approach: CAT Preparation Plan for Non-Engineers
  8. Maintaining motivation during CAT preparation
  9. What are the common mistakes to avoid in the CAT exam?
  10. Conclusion
  11. Download Free Practice Questions with Detailed Solutions for CAT Quantitative Aptitude (QA) - MCQ PDFs
CAT Tips for Non-Engineers: Strategies to Crack CAT 2024 Without Mathematics in Class 12
CAT Tips for Non-Engineers

With question papers including Quantitative Analysis, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, prepared by the top IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management) of the country every year, the CAT exam easily creates a niche for itself among the top admission tests of the country’s academia.

Even though the recent CAT exam papers have become somewhat easier, especially in the quantitative part, CAT is still a major challenge for non-engineers that requires a more than considerable cerebral, discipline and time investment on behalf of the student attempting it. So in the article, we have provided CAT preparation tips for non-engineers to help them prepare for the QA section.

What is the CAT Exam and why is it essential for non-engineers?

The CAT exam, or Common Admission Test, is an entrance test for MBA programs in India. It evaluates skills in areas like quantitative ability, verbal ability, and logical reasoning. For non-engineers, the CAT exam is crucial because it opens doors to top business schools that offer excellent career opportunities. Since many non-engineers come from diverse academic backgrounds, excelling in CAT allows them to demonstrate their skills and potential in management, even if they haven't studied engineering. Performing well in the CAT can help non-engineers gain admission to prestigious MBA programs, which can lead to high-paying jobs and a successful career in business management.

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CAT Tips For Non-Engineers

Non-engineers who didn’t have maths in class 12th face some difficulties in the CAT exam due to the mathematics-heavy Quant and DILR sections. However, following a strategic approach and starting CAT preparation many months before the exam can help candidates get over their fear of maths and score well in all the sections of the CAT exam.

Some CAT tips for non-engineers are:

  • Break down complex questions

  • Focus on time management

  • Build confidence through regular practice and revision

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Understanding the CAT Exam: Does Educational Background Matter?

The syllabus of the CAT exam is only what you have studied in your schools till the tenth standard. However, no specific syllabus exists. As an Indian, irrespective of wherever in India you hail from and whatever Board and medium you have studied in, you all have studied the same fundamentals of mathematics.

So, how can a Non Engineer crack the CAT exam? Well, apart from the fact that a student who is a non-engineer without mathematics in the twelfth standard is a bit out of practice, there is not much of a difference, and all are on an even playing field in CAT.

The CAT exam is usually held on the last Sunday of November (24th November being the last Sunday of the month in 2024) in three separate slots: morning, afternoon, and evening. All the slots have different question papers. In case of a difference in the difficulty level of the question papers in the three slots, while declaring the results the scores are scaled up accordingly to counter the difference. In short, the CAT exam is also a level playing field across all slots.

CAT 2023 was the 40th anniversary of CAT examination, and after having undergone quite some changes, it has evolved into a two-hour online examination, with 40 minutes for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (Section A), 40 minutes for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (Section B) and 40 minutes for Quantitative Ability (Section C).

The sections appear in the above order and you have to mandatorily attempt them in the same order. Once the first 40 minutes are over, the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section permanently becomes inaccessible, after the next 40 minutes the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section becomes inaccessible, and so on. A timer showing the time left for a particular section is present on the screen.

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension has 24 questions. In CAT 2023, 21 of them were MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions with 4 options each) and 4 TITAs (Type In The Answers).

  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning has 20 questions (4 sets having 5 questions each). In CAT 2023, 14 of them were MCQs (with 4 options each) and 6 TITAs.

  • Quantitative Ability has 22 questions. In CAT 2023, 14 of them were MCQs (with 4 options each) and 8 TITAs. A total of 66 questions, out of which in CAT 2023, 49 were MCQs (with 4 options each) and 17 TITAs.

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Each correct answer fetches 3 marks. Hence the total marks of the CAT examination is 66*3 = 198. However, there is negative marking for incorrect MCQ answers, each incorrect answer fetching 1 negative mark. Hence you should refrain from clicking an option as an answer unless you are 100 percent sure the answer is correct. There is no negative marking for incorrect TITA answers.

An onscreen non-scientific calculator is also there, though one should use it only in the most extreme circumstances, as it has been found to be more a curse than a blessing.

How to manage time during the CAT Exam for non-engineers?

Here are some time management tips for non-engineers taking the CAT exam:

  1. Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the CAT exam, including the sections and types of questions. Knowing what to expect helps in planning your time effectively.

  2. Practice Regularly: Take mock tests to get used to the timing and pacing of the exam. Regular practice will help you manage your time better during the actual test.

  3. Prioritize Questions: Start with the sections or questions you find easiest. This approach helps build confidence and ensures you don’t get stuck on difficult questions early on.

  4. Set Time Limits: Allocate specific time limits for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Stick to these limits during the exam to ensure you have enough time for all sections.

  5. Avoid Spending Too Much Time on One Question: If you’re stuck on a question, move on and come back to it if time permits. Spending too much time on one question can affect your overall performance.

CAT Syllabus: Subjects & Chapters
Select your preferred subject to view the chapters

The Most Important Topics in CAT QA

Arithmetic has been the main player in the CAT Quantitative Ability section for quite some years now with 8-9 questions, with Algebra being a close second with 6-7 questions. They account for almost 68 to 75 percent of the total questions in the section.

The modern mathematics topic of Numbers and Number Systems generally has 3-5 questions. Geometry (Euclidean Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, and Trigonometry included) too has around 4 questions. 1-2 questions are from the rest of Modern Mathematics topics like Indices, Surds, Logarithms, Functions and Graphs.

Deductive ability has always been the preferred area of evaluation in Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, especially deductive ability using quantitative skills.

Overcoming Mathematics Challenges: How can a Non-Engineer crack the CAT Quants?

Mathematics, or rather mathematics learned till the tenth standard, is an intrinsic part of the CAT exam. It is a cent percent necessity for the Quantitative Ability section of 22 questions and is also a necessity for almost eighty percent of the 20 questions of the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section. However, as daunting as it may look, it is not an insurmountable hurdle for the non-engineering student without mathematics in the twelfth standard to master mathematics.

Break down the question

The CAT exam does not test advanced analytical skills. You should never expect long-drawn calculations or an overt application of high-end theory and formulae in the process of solving a sum. One has to understand the problem (often apparently complicated) created in the sum, see through it, and utilize the minimum of analytics and theory and a maximum of logic and common sense to coolly solve it in the minimum time possible. Never has till date a CAT exam question been repeated, so trying to remember a process of solution or by-hearting is useless.

Time management

Time management is a necessity for the CAT exam. 66 questions in 2 hours imply an average of 1 minute 49 seconds per question. It includes the time to read the problem, comprehend it, plan out the solution, and execute it. To get the highest ranking possible (99.99 to 100 percentile) in a section you do not need to solve all the problems.

15-16 questions correct out of 22 in Quantitative Ability, 13-14 questions correct out of 20 in Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and 17-18 questions correct out of 24 in Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension are more than enough to ace all the sections individually (provided you do not click wrong answers inviting negative marks). But that too means 16+14+18 = 48 questions in 2 hours, which is an average of 2 minutes 30 seconds per question.

So to read the problem, comprehend it, plan out the solution, and execute it, all in 2 minutes 30 seconds, you need to be very very good in your basic fundamentals, the same which was taught to us in school, and to understand the fundamentals that well so as to have a very good grip on procedural short-cuts. That is the key to success in the CAT exam, especially for a student who is a non-engineer without mathematics in the twelfth standard.

Build confidence through regular practice and revision

To achieve the above the secret is practice. Practice with a timer in front of you, to be more precise. And give as many CAT mock tests and solve as many PYQs as possible. You must remember one very important but basic fact - every problem in the last 40 years history of the CAT examination can be solved in 2 minutes, provided you deduce the problem and utilize your short-cutting skills and basic fundamentals to solve it. Swift calculating skills also help. This mastery over shortcuts and basic fundamentals will only come with regular revision and extensive practice.

And it is of no consequence whatsoever as to whether you are a non-engineer with no mathematics in your twelfth standard. In CAT 2020, 2021, and 2022 there were quite a few 100 percentilers who were B.Com graduates.

Strategic Preparation Approach: CAT Preparation Plan for Non-Engineers

What should be the strategy of preparation for CAT 2024 for a student who is a non-engineer without mathematics in the twelfth standard? Read the following pointers to find out.

  1. Devote a solid three and a half hours per day for the CAT preparation for a period of seven months. One and a half hours for Quantitative Ability, and one hour each for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Be strict in this aspect. Discipline will make a big difference.

  1. First, sharpen your numerical calculation skills. As in basic additions, subtractions, combinations of additions and subtractions, multiplications, squares, cubes, square roots, and reciprocals to decimal and reciprocals to percentage conversion. This will not only be an asset to you in Quantitative Ability but will be tremendously helpful for the calculations involved in the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section of the CAT exam.

  1. Then focus on Arithmetic topics. Ratio and Proportion, Variation, Percentage, Profit and Loss, Average, Alligation and Mixtures, Time Speed and Distance, Time and Work, and Simple and Compound Interest. Focus on understanding the basics of the topics. Intensely focus on the shortcuts. The first six topics mentioned above act as the biggest catalysts in Quantitative Ability. Solve as many problems as you can, but always timing yourself, and taking care to see that your timing is improving.

  1. You are now ready to attempt Line Graphs, Bar Charts, Pie Charts, and other special graphs in the domain of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Use your numerical calculation ability and the arithmetic ability newly acquired. Solve as many problems as you can, but always timing yourself, and taking care to see that your timing is improving.

  1. Now focus on Algebra. Especially First Degree Linear Equations with their graphical implications, Quadratic Equations with their graphical implications, and Basics of Polynomials and Inequalities and Inequations. Solve as many problems as you can, but always timing yourself, and taking care to see that your timing is improving.

  1. Next is the turn of Geometry. Lines and Angles, Triangles, Right-angled Triangles, Circles, 2D and 3D Mensuration, Trigonometry and Coordinate Geometry. Again, solve as many problems as you can, but always timing yourself, and taking care to see that your timing is improving.

  1. By now you should be ready for the Deductive Reasoning problems of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Solve as many problems as you can. Here solving is primary, and timing is secondary.

  1. Move on to Number and Number Systems of Modern Mathematics. Plus other essential Modern Mathematics topics

  1. Parallelly focus on Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Brush up your grammar. Practice Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning questions on a daily basis.

  1. Do not stick to one chapter because you are unable to solve a few questions. Move on, there might be another concept to that question you have not learned yet, once you are done with the new concept, go back and solve the former.

  1. Once the basics are over, which it should be in three months, just focus on mocks and practice. Time yourself diligently. Give one CAT mock a day. Analyze your mocks after giving them. Redo all the questions after the mock. Slowly increase the level of difficulty of your practice questions. And do not forget to revise the fundamentals and short-cutting techniques on a regular basis.

Maintaining motivation during CAT preparation

During your preparation journey, there will be times when you may feel demotivated. However, it is important to understand that this feeling is temporary and you have to crack the CAT exam. So, set clear, achievable goals from the beginning of your preparation. Make a study schedule for each day so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. On days when you feel a lack of confidence or motivation, take a break for a while, and then solve a few easy questions from your most preferred topic to get back in the groove. Keep calm and maintain a positive mindset.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in the CAT exam?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid in the CAT exam:

  1. Ignoring the Syllabus: Ensure you cover all the topics in the syllabus. Overlooking certain areas can leave you unprepared for some questions.

  2. Not Practicing Enough: Relying only on theory without adequate practice can hurt your performance. Regularly take mock tests and solve practice questions to build confidence and improve your skills.

  3. Mismanaging Time: Failing to allocate time properly to each section or spending too long on difficult questions can affect your overall score. Stick to a time management strategy to ensure you cover all sections effectively.

  4. Skipping Instructions: Not reading the instructions carefully can lead to mistakes. Always read the instructions for each section and question to avoid misunderstandings.

  5. Ignoring Accuracy: Focusing only on speed without considering accuracy can lead to a high number of mistakes. Aim for a balance between speed and accuracy.

  6. Overthinking Questions: Overcomplicating or overthinking questions can waste time and lead to errors. Stick to straightforward solutions and avoid unnecessary complexity.

The candidates can refer to this article written by Careers360 experts on top mistakes to avoid during the CAT exam to have a better understanding.

Conclusion

Non-engineers without mathematics in the twelfth standard perceive themselves to be at a disadvantage in the CAT examination.

In reality, if one thinks carefully, it is the opposite. An engineer, or someone with mathematics in the twelfth standard is habituated to analytical solutions of problems and relies on formulae and theory a lot. The CAT exam problems appear like googlies to them. In order to play the googlies they first have to get out of their already created habit, and then inculcate the fundamentals and procedural short-cuts. Whereas the non-engineer without mathematics in twelfth standard is like a clean slate, and has the job of just getting the fundamentals and shortcuts right.

With a little bit of discipline, sincerity, and following CAT preparation tips for non-engineering students, there is no reason why a non-engineer cannot succeed. If needed, the help of a coaching center can also be utilized. However, he/she alone is also enough.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I crack CAT if I didn’t have maths in 12th?
A:

Yes, a lot of students from non-maths backgrounds crack CAT each year. You just have to work harder and start your preparation earlier to gain a thorough understanding of the basic maths concepts relevant for the CAT exam.



Q: How can I prepare for CAT 2024 without coaching?
A:

You can prepare for the CAT exam without coaching, provided that you are disciplined enough and ready to work hard. Start by going through the syllabus of CAT and preparing a study schedule accordingly. To brush up the concepts, you can take the help of CAT preparation books as well as online lecture videos. You can buy previous years’ papers or download them online and practice questions from them daily. Take mock tests and analyze them to assess your preparedness for CAT.

Q: I have not been in touch with mathematics since the last two years. Should I prepare for the CAT?
A:

Yes by all means. The CAT syllabus includes mathematics studied till the tenth standard.

Q: CAT is about entry into management institutes. Then why are mathematics and verbal ability tested in CAT?
A:

Don’t perceive it as mathematics. Perceive it as a problem that has to be solved as early as possible using your basic knowledge, a basic knowledge that every Indian student who has studied till the tenth standard has. That is one of the primary skills needed for a to-be management candidate. So what you perceive as mathematics is basically to test how quickly you can analyze and solve a problem. And verbal ability is a test of your cognitive and communication skills.

Q: What does it take to crack CAT, especially for non-engineers without mathematics in twelfth standard?
A:

Self-belief, discipline, and the urge to succeed are important. Planning a proper strategy and following it helps. But primarily getting strong on fundamentals and short-cuts is the key.

Q: What is the percentage of non-engineers without mathematics in twelfth standard who score above 97 percentile?
A:

Before 2010 the percentage was about 18-20% on an average in the IIMs. But the percentage has steadily increased in the last fourteen years, being around 38-39% on average in the IIMs in 2022.

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Questions related to CAT

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Have a question related to CAT ?

Hello Aspirant,

Since your payment status shows "S" , it means your payment is successful. The "payment unsuccessful" message on the form is likely a temporary system error or a delay in updating.

Do not make another payment.

Making a second payment could cause a double debit, which is difficult to get a refund for. You should:

  1. Wait 24-48 hours for the status to update automatically.

  2. Download and save a copy of your form and a screenshot of the "S" payment status as proof.

  3. Check your bank statement to confirm the money has been debited.

  4. If the issue is not fixed after 48 hours, contact the official CAT helpdesk immediately with your transaction details.

Hello

The CAT 2025 exam is a national-level MBA entrance test for IIMs and top B-schools in India. It will be held on 30th November 2025 in computer-based mode across ~170 cities.
The registration is open from 1st August to 13th September 2025 on iimcat.ac.in .
Admit cards will be available from 5th November 2025 onward.
Graduates with at least 50 marks (45 for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible to apply.
The exam tests English, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude in three timed sections.

Yes, you can pursue an MBA at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, through the CAT exam.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: A bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognized university.

  • Entrance Exam: A valid CAT score is required for admission.

Admission Process:

  1. Application: Register online through the BBAU admission portal.

  2. Entrance Exam: Appear for the CAT exam and obtain a valid score.

  3. Counseling: Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling based on their CAT scores.

  4. Document Verification: Submit necessary documents for verification.

  5. Fee Payment: Complete the fee payment to confirm admission.

Course Details:

  • Duration: 2 years (full-time).

  • Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, among others.

Placement Opportunities:
BBAU has a strong placement record, with top companies recruiting MBA graduates.

For more details and to apply, visit the  official BBAU MBA admission page

Hello Amgothu

With 305 marks in ICAR PG and being from ST category, your chances of getting an AIEEA (CAT) seat is good, especially in plant sciences and less competitive subjects