How to Prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 Months?

How to Prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 Months?

Ongoing Event

CAT Application Date:01 Aug' 25 - 13 Sep' 25

Team Careers360Updated on 21 Jul 2025, 05:36 PM IST

The Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT) is a crucial exam for students aiming to get into top business schools in India. With CAT 2025 likely to be held in November, you still have around two months to prepare. While the timeline is short, many students have successfully cracked CAT with focused effort and the right strategy. This article will guide you on how to prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 months with a clear study plan, tips to manage your time well, and proven strategies to boost your score effectively.

This Story also Contains

  1. CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
  2. CAT 2 Months Study Plan
  3. Essential Topics for CAT 2025
  4. How to prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 months?
  5. Strategies to be Followed for the CAT 2025 Exam
  6. Week-by-Week Preparation Plan for CAT 2025
  7. Most Important Strategies for CAT 2025 in 2 Months?
  8. Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation
How to Prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 Months?
CAT 2025 Preparation in 2 Months

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT exam tests various skills through a carefully designed format. Understanding the exam pattern 2025 will help you plan your study schedule more effectively. Know complete details of CAT exam pattern 2025 below:

  1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): This section tests your English language skills, reading comprehension skills, and written passages. It also includes questions on grammar, vocabulary, and sentence construction.

  2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): This section evaluates students' presentation skills by using various forms of data (like tables, graphs, and charts) to draw logical conclusions. It also includes puzzles and problems that test reasoning abilities.

  3. Quantitative Ability (QA): This section focuses on mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills, covering topics from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra, geometry, and more.

Each section has a time limit of 40 minutes, making the total exam duration 120 minutes (2 hours). For candidates with disabilities (PwD), each section has an extended time of 53 minutes and 20 seconds.

Understanding this structure will help you allocate your study time efficiently and develop section-specific strategies

CAT 2025 Paper Pattern

Particulars

Details

Duration

2 Hours (120 Minutes)

Name of the Section


  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

  • Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Section-wise CAT 2025 Total Exam Duration


  • 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA).

  • 53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section.

CAT 2025 slot timings


  • CAT slot one timing: 8:30 am - 10:30 am (Morning Session)

  • CAT slot two timing: 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm (Afternoon Session)

  • CAT slot three timing: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm (Evening Session)

How many questions are in the CAT exam

66-68 Questions

Negative Marking

No negative marks for TITA questions

-1 for each incorrect MCQs

Mode of the CAT 2025 exam

Computer-Based Mode (CBT)

CAT Marking Scheme


  • For every correct answer, +3 will be awarded

It's crucial to prioritise the most important topics that frequently repeat in the exam and carry High weightage. This approach ensures that you secure marks in topics you're already comfortable with while also making progress in challenging areas.

CAT 2 Months Study Plan

You still have time to crack the CAT if you stay focused and follow a clear plan. In the next 8 weeks, your goal is to cover basics, take mock tests, and keep improving every week without getting too stressed.

Week 1: Know Where You Stand

Start by taking one full mock test, not to get a high score, but to understand what you’re good at and what needs work. Begin revising simple QA topics like Percentages and Averages. Try 2 easy DI/LR sets daily. For English, read an editorial and solve 2 reading comprehension (RC) passages every day. Keep it simple and steady.

Week 2: Build a Strong Base

Now focus more on your weak areas. In QA, do topics like Profit & Loss and Simple/Compound Interest. Start solving Para Jumbles and Odd Sentence Out questions in VARC. Try 2to 3 DILR sets daily. Take one test for each section this week and check how you’re doing.

Week 3: Go a Bit Deeper

This week, move on to Algebra in QA. In DILR, practice puzzles and Venn diagrams. For VARC, solve more RCs and add Summary questions. Take 2 full-length mock tests. Don’t just solve them, spend time checking your mistakes. Try to avoid repeating them.

Week 4: Work on Speed

Now, start timing yourself. See how much time you take in each section. Practice Geometry in QA. In DILR, focus on solving full sets within 40 minutes. In VARC, try to finish each passage in 8–9 minutes. Take 2 mocks this week and analyse them well.

Week 5: Check Your Progress

Try solving your Week 1 mock again. You’ll likely see improvement. Start Modern Math topics like Permutation and Probability. Solve 3–4 DILR sets in one sitting. Keep doing RCs and grammar questions in VARC. Take 2 mocks and write down what you learned from them.

Week 6: Fix the Weak Spots

Go back to topics you still find tough. Watch short videos or use notes to revise. Practice tougher DILR sets. In VARC, work on understanding tone, inference, and summaries. Take 3 mocks this week. After each mock, note what worked and what didn’t.

Week 7: Revise and Improve

Now it’s time to focus on revision. Don’t start new topics. Go over formulas, shortcuts, and important notes. Take 2–3 mocks this week. Try different solving strategies to see what suits you. Focus more on accuracy than speed now.

Week 8: Stay Calm and Ready

The final week should be light. Take 2 mocks at the same time as your actual CAT exam slot. Revise your notes but avoid learning anything new. Practice a few questions daily, just to stay in touch. Sleep well, eat well, and stay relaxed.

Essential Topics for CAT 2025

Preparing for CAT 2025 requires focusing on the essential topics for CAT 2025 that can significantly impact your performance. The DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section is particularly crucial among the vital issues in the CAT. Identifying the critical DILR topics for CAT will help you allocate your study time more effectively. The most essential matters in DILR for CAT include puzzles, seating arrangements, and data tables.

Subject

Topic

Difficulty Level

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension

Very High (40-50% of the section)

Para Jumbles

High

Para Summary

High

Para Completion

Medium

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Reasoning-based DI

Very High

Table-based DI

High

Scatter Graphs

Medium

Bar Graphs

High

Routes and Networks

Medium

Quantitative Aptitude

Number Systems

Very High

Average

High

Geometry

Very High

Equations

High

Functions


Ratio and Proportion

High

Time, Speed, and Distance

High

Sequence & Series

Medium

Simple Interest

Medium

Maxima-Minima

Low

Focusing on these critical topics can optimize your preparation in the limited time. However, don't completely ignore other topics, especially if they are your strengths.

How to prepare for CAT 2025 in 2 months?

If a CAT aspirant is looking for "Can I prepare for CAT in 2 months?", they will get all their answers by reading this piece. Careers360 will give you tips on formulating a study plan that will help you prepare for the CAT 2025 in less time. This study plan will also ensure peak performance, which gives maximum output. Read the article further to know about the CAT 2025 preparation strategy to be followed in two months.

Understanding the challenge for CAT 2025

First, let's be realistic about what you can achieve in 2 months. With focused preparation, you can:

  • Cover the most important topics in each section

  • Develop effective problem-solving techniques

  • Improve your speed and accuracy

  • Learn test-taking strategies

  • Gain confidence through regular practice

Great Lakes - PGDM & PGPM Admissions 2026

Admissions Open | Globally Recognized by AACSB (US) & AMBA (UK) | 17.3 LPA Avg. CTC for PGPM 2024

IBSAT 2025-ICFAI Business School MBA/PGPM 2026

IBSAT 2025-Your gateway to MBA/PGPM @ IBS Hyderabad and 8 other IBS campuses | Scholarships worth 10 CR

However, you'll need to be disciplined and consistent in your efforts. This is not the time for procrastination or half-hearted studying.

Strategies to be Followed for the CAT 2025 Exam

Candidates who registered for CAT 2025 and started their preparation two months before are required to review the basic strategies listed below to better understand the exam. Check out the brief on the CAT two-month study plan.

  • Do not start a new topic.

  • Maintain speed and accuracy through revision.

  • Increase the number of mock tests.

  • Time Allocation for CAT 2025 Preparation

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 Now

Let's examine each CAT 2025 strategy one by one to determine what a candidate is looking for. Is it possible to crack the CAT in two months?

Time Allocation for CAT 2025 Preparation

As per the exam pattern of CAT 2025, candidates will have to face a sectional time limit in which three sections, each with a 40-minute limit, will be there. Make a timetable that allows you to study each section for 3 hours daily.

For example, if you devote three hours daily to each section, i.e., three hours to verbal ability and reading comprehension, three hours to data interpretation and logical reasoning, and three hours to quantitative ability, only nine hours out of 24 are used. You can do what you want in the remaining time, i.e., 24–9 = 15 hours.

Do Not Start A New Topic

One of the most important things to remember while starting their CAT 2-month preparation is that they should not start any new topics. Take some time, get a printout of the CAT syllabus 2025, and note the familiar issues. Now, candidates should be careful not to choose a new topic from the CAT syllabus because starting a new one will be time-consuming. Moreover, the known issues might be affected, too. Thus, instead of starting new topics, the candidates should practice the already prepared ones.

Maintain Speed and Accuracy Through Revision

Once you are halfway through the CAT syllabus 2025, revise the topics you have already learned and covered to maintain momentum. Ensure that speed and accuracy are on par, as both are equally important. Note that CAT 2025 is never about attempting all questions; instead, it is about getting one more right than your fellow test-takers.

Both speed and accuracy can be maintained by solving more and more CAT question papers/sample papers. Search Google and try to find a simpler, easier, and yet faster way of solving tricky questions. Apart from solving MCQs, try to study TITA questions as well. Revise all the known topics, and make sticky notes of essential formulas so they get into your head easily.

Increased Attempts at Mock Tests

The importance of mocks is known only after they are taken as described by CAT toppers. Mock tests help you analyze your relative performance across a variety of different kinds of papers. Along with that, critically analyze them to identify clear concepts. Specifically, roughly 100 hours should be spent practicing the CAT mock tests. After each test, analyze your performance and ensure a balance between the strongest and weakest sections.

Last but not least, the CAT 2025 is an exam that tests not only your subject knowledge but also your mental grit and determination. Remember that everyone faces low points during preparation, and there will be a time when even you will, but that should not let you down.

Week-by-Week Preparation Plan for CAT 2025

A structured week-by-week plan can help you organize your preparation effectively when you have only 2 months left. This plan ensures comprehensive coverage of all critical topics while leaving time for revision and mock tests.

Week

Topics

Week 1

Basic concepts of Quantitative Aptitude (QA) –

Arithmetic

Compound Interest

Simple Interest

Ratio and Proportion

Profit and Loss

Week 2

Basic concepts of Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) – Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Sentence Correction

Week 3

Basic concepts of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) – Tables

Bar Graphs

Line Graphs

Logical Deduction and Connection Reasoning

Week 4

Advanced topics in QA – Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration

Week 5

Advanced topics in VARC – Para Jumbles,

Critical Reasoning: Statements, conclusions

Arguments

Actions, and inferences

Vocabulary

Week 6

Advanced topics in DILR – Puzzle

Venn Diagram

Caselets

Week 7

Mock Tests and Revision – Full-length mock tests, analysis, and revision of weak areas

Week 8

Final Revision – Focus on weak areas, practice papers, and strategy planning for the exam day

Most Important Strategies for CAT 2025 in 2 Months?

Candidates need a focused and strategic approach to preparing for CAT 2025, which is scheduled for November. Here are some essential strategies to help you make the most of your time. By following these strategies and staying dedicated, you can effectively prepare for CAT 2025 in two months and boost your chances of achieving a high score.

  1. Take Tests in Exam-like Conditions: Regularly take CAT full-length mock tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam. This will help you manage your time better and get accustomed to the pressure of the exam day.

  2. Seek Help from Mentors and Subject Matter Experts: If you're struggling with specific topics or sections, don't hesitate to contact mentors, tutors, or subject matter experts. They can provide valuable insights and help clarify your doubts quickly.

  3. Practice Daily: Consistency is key. Make sure to dedicate time each day to practice questions from all sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DI LR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Daily practice will help you build and retain your skills.

  4. Refer to a Lot of CAT Study Materials: Use various CAT study materials, including books, online resources, and question papers from previous years. This will expose you to different types of questions and problem-solving techniques.

  5. Stay Motivated: High motivation is crucial during this intensive preparation period. Set small, achievable goals and reward yourself when you meet them. Stay positive and remind yourself of your end goal.

  6. Practice a Variety of Mock Tests: Apart from regular mock tests, try different types of mock tests, such as sectional tests, topic-specific tests, and full-length tests. This will help you identify and improve your weak areas and ensure comprehensive preparation.]

XAT- Xavier Aptitude Test 2026

75+ years of legacy | #1 Entrance Exam | Score accepted by 250+ BSchools | Apply now

Symbiosis MBA - SNAP 2025

1 Exam accepted by 17 Top Symbiosis Institutes for 29 MBA programmes.

Aspirants can improve their CAT 2025 preparation by 70% when opting for rthe ight study resources. Remember that the quality of preparation matters more than quantity, especially when time is limited.

Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation

Below is a comprehensive list of the best CAT 2025 books for exam preparation, along with their key features and how to use them effectively within your 2-month plan.

Book Title

Authors

Features

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT

Arun Sharma

Provides comprehensive coverage of quantitative topics, emphasizing shortcuts and effective problem-solving techniques.

NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10)

NCERT

Introduces fundamental mathematical concepts with clear and straightforward explanations, ideal for building a solid mathematical foundation.

Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT

Sarvesh Sharma

Offers extensive coverage of quantitative topics, including advanced problems and detailed solutions for deeper understanding.

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

Abhijit Guha

Delivers in-depth coverage of a wide range of quantitative topics, featuring numerous practice questions and solved examples.

How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT

Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay

Provides a step-by-step approach to enhancing verbal ability and reading comprehension, complemented by various practice questions.

30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary

Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis / Simon & Schuster

Enhances vocabulary through practical exercises and quick learning strategies, designed for efficient improvement in a short time.

High School English Grammar and Composition

Wren & Martin

The complete English grammar syllabus is covered, supplemented with practice exercises and self-assessment sections for thorough understanding.

PSC for VA for CAT

Nishit Sinha

It focuses on topics related to verbal ability, offering a practical approach with ample practice questions and insights from past papers.

How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT

Arun Sharma

Provides comprehensive coverage of Data Interpretation topics, offering sufficient material for thorough preparation.

Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT

Nishit K. Sinha

Builds a strong foundation in logical reasoning and data interpretation through practical problem-solving exercises with graded difficulty levels.

Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency

Ananta Ashisha

Specializes in data interpretation and information sufficiency, presenting a practical approach to mastering these topics.

CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Gautam Puri

Adopts a practical approach to Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning topics, supplemented with practice questions and mock tests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How many mock tests should I take in these 2 months?
A:

Ideally, you should take 12–15 full-length mocks, starting with 1–2 per week and increasing frequency closer to the exam. Analysing each mock is equally important to identify and fix weak areas.

Q: Which topics should I focus on more during short-term CAT preparation?
A:

Focus on high-scoring and frequently asked areas like Arithmetic and Algebra in Quant, Reading Comprehension in VARC, and Logic-based puzzles and Data Interpretation sets in DILR.

Q: What should be the daily study routine during these 2 months?
A:

Aim for 6–8 hours a day. Divide your time between Quant (2–3 hrs), VARC (2 hrs), DILR (2 hrs), and at least one hour for mock analysis or revision. Take one full-length mock test every 3–4 days.

Q: Is 2 months enough to prepare for CAT 2025?
A:

Yes, 2 months can be enough if you already have a basic understanding of the CAT syllabus and are willing to follow a focused, daily study plan. Prioritize mock tests, high-weightage topics, and regular analysis.

Q: How many months preparation required for CAT?
A:

A maximum of 8 months to 1 year can be considered as sufficient for CAT preparation, depending on the calibre and determination of the candidate. 

Q: Can I crack CAT in 2 months?
A:

Yes, the CAT exam can be cracked in 2 months but with strong grasp of concepts and solving previous year papers, mock tests, to gain confidence and accuracy.

Q: How to do self study for CAT 2025?
A:

Self-studying for CAT 2025 can be effective if you approach it systematically. Start by gathering the right study materials, like books and online resources tailored for CAT. Create a study schedule that covers all sections of the exam, allocating time for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses. Make sure to include plenty of practice with mock tests and previous years' papers to familiarize yourself with the test format and improve your problem-solving speed. Regularly review and analyze your performance to identify areas needing improvement.

Q: What is the duration of CAT exam 2025?
A:

The duration of CAT 2025 will be two hours, that is, 120 minutes.

Q: Why is it not recommended to start a new topic while preparing for CAT in two months?
A:

Starting a new topic will be time-consuming. Moreover, the known topics might get affected too as well as candidates will be uncertain on how many commands they can attain in the new topics.

Q: How can one improve speed and accuracy in CAT?
A:

Both speed and accuracy can be maintained by solving more and more CAT question papers/sample papers.

Articles
|
Next
Certifications By Top Providers
Corporate Law
Via National Law University, New Delhi
Online MBA
Via Centre for Distance and Online Education, Anna University, Chennai
Online MBA Business Analytics
Via Centre for Distance and Online Education, Anna University, Chennai
The Science and Business of Biotechnology
Via Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
Strategic Management
Via Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
Marketing Management
Via Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
Udemy
 703 courses
Edx
 467 courses
Swayam
 236 courses
Emeritus
 231 courses
Explore Top Universities Across Globe
University of Essex, Colchester
Wivenhoe Park Colchester CO4 3SQ
Oxford Brookes University, Oxford
Headington Campus Oxford OX3 0BP UK
Northumbria University, Newcastle City Campus
Sutherland Building, Northumberland Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 8ST
Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff
Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff, CF5 2YB
University of Reading, Reading
Whiteknights PO Box 217 Reading Berkshire RG6 6AH
Bristol Baptist College, Bristol
The Promenade, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3NJ

Questions related to CAT

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to CAT ?

Yes, you can fill the CAT form even if you currently have a backlog. CAT eligibility requires you to be in your final year of graduation or already graduated backlogs don’t stop you from applying.

While filling the form:

  • Enter the aggregate percentage/CGPA of marks you have obtained up to the latest semester for which results are declared (in your case till 4th semester).

  • There will be an option to mention that you have a backlog.

  • If you clear the backlog later, you’ll just need to show the updated marks during admission.

Hello Aspirant,

Yes, you can apply for the CAT exam as a final-year student. You must declare your backlog on the online application form. You do not write about it on the final-year student certificate; that document is to certify your enrollment status. You must clear all backlogs before the final admission process to any MBA college.

Hello,

Thank you for your question!

KL- MAT syllabus: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English/Verbal Ability, and General Awareness (similar to MAT/CMAT pattern).

CAT scores are valid in many private universities including KL University, but always check the year’s admission notification.

CAT vs other exams: CAT is toughest (IIMs + top B-schools), while MAT/CMAT/ATMA are relatively easier and accepted by many mid-level private universities.

Hello it will clear your doubt!

Hello Aspirant,

  1. I saw a cat. The cat found an old map inside a drawer of the king's palace.

Here's why:

  • "a cat": It's the first time we mention the cat, so it's indefinite.

  • "The cat": Now we're talking about that specific cat we just mentioned, so it's definite.

  • "an old map": It's the first time we mention a map, and "old" starts with a vowel sound, so "an."

  • "a drawer": It's one of possibly many drawers, not a specific one known to us yet.

  • "the king's palace": This is a specific, unique place, so "the."

Hello Kapish

You can find the last 5 year questions of DILR for CAT at Careers360 website. Moreover, you can find the previous year papers of all the subjects i.e. DILR, Quants and VARC. I am attaching the link through which you would be able to access the same.

Here's the link: CAT Previous Year Papers by CAREERS360
Sample paper of DILR: CAT Sample Paper (DILR) by CAREERS360

Thank You!!!