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How to Prepare for CAT 2025 in 4 months?: Many students worry that 4 months isn't enough time to prepare for such a competitive exam. However, we firmly believe that with dedication, smart study techniques, and a well-organised plan, the Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT) is your gateway to the most prestigious educational institutions. CAT is known as one of the toughest MBA entrance exams in India.
This article from Careers360 is designed primarily for students starting their CAT 2025. preparation journey now and need a clear, structured approach to maximise the limited time available. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through a detailed 4-month CAT 2025 preparation plan, share tips from successful CAT takers, recommend essential study resources, and answer students' most common questions about preparing for CAT 2025 in a limited timeframe. By the end of this article, you'll have all the resources you need to create a personalised study plan that works for your unique learning style and schedule.
Before making any study plan or preparation strategy for the CAT exam, one should get familiar with the CAT exam pattern and its detailed syllabus. As per the past year's trend, the exam pattern for CAT 2025 consists of three sections, namely, Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). There are 20 questions for the QA, 24 questions in the VARC section, and DILR consists of 20 questions, with a total of 66 questions. However, 2 questions were increased in CAT 2024.
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Due to the sectional time limit, candidates can not switch between sections while taking CAT 2025. Candidates get 40 minutes for each section, for a total duration of 2 hours. This means candidates have to manage their time accordingly to avoid the hassle and anxiety.
CAT 2025 exam pattern familiarity reduces negative marking by 18%. The CAT exam pattern has remained relatively stable over the years, but knowing the exact structure helps you allocate your study time appropriately and focus on the more weighted areas. This section will detail the CAT exam pattern so you can approach your preparation with confidence and clarity.
According to past trends, the CAT 2025 exam will likely consist of three main sections:
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
This brings the total to 66 questions you must answer within the 2-hour (120 minutes) time limit. An important point to note is that CAT has sectional time limits, which means you'll get 40 minutes for each section, and you cannot switch between sections once the time for one section ends. This makes time management crucial for success during the exam.
If one has only four months to prepare for CAT 2025, then one should divide their preparation plan stage-wise. This makes their preparation easy, and they can handle the CAT preparation pressure with ease. Here are some tips for four-month CAT preparation.
Before starting the CAT 2025 preparation, candidates need to check where they stand currently, such as whether their basics are straightforward or not, whether they know the basic formulas to solve Quantitative Aptitude questions, etc. After knowing this, candidates can understand their strengths and weaknesses. If one is unable to assess one's level of preparation, then moving forward can be a herculean task.
After making a diagnosis report, candidates can categorise which sections they are accurate in and which ones they need to work hard on. It will hardly take 2 to 3 days to spot where one is standing.
Once candidates have reviewed the exam pattern and syllabus of CAT 2025, they need to start working on the fundamentals of every topic during the four months of CAT preparation. This will help them gain conceptual clarity and strengthen their basics. While preparing for the Verbal Ability section, one should read regularly to grasp it.
Apart from the VARC section, the other sections demand a good amount of time to practice the concepts. When one is well-versed in the basics, they should start their preparation chapter—and section-wise and swiftly.
The Quantitative aptitude section carries a significant chunk of CAT preparation. Besides other sections, Quant has a vast syllabus that covers everything from algebra to percentages. The Quant section tests the fundamentals of a candidate. A proper strategy is needed to prepare for each topic systematically. Through this process, candidates can understand the basics and set a benchmark for CAT preparation. One can make the Quant section easy for them; they only need to include learning and practice while preparing for CAT in 4 months.
There is no fixed syllabus for the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning syllabus, which makes it difficult compared to other sections. Among the three sections, the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section is the most crucial and challenging in the CAT 2025. If one is good at solving puzzles, they can easily tackle the Logical Reasoning section. Those unfamiliar with DILR questions must solve previous years' CAT papers and solve questions from standard templates, Einstein puzzles, the grid puzzle, etc.
Self-study is essential when it comes to taking any exam. The best part of self-study is that one can learn where he or she stands and anticipate accordingly. Sometimes, self-study might be frustrating, but this is the only way to achieve any goal. One can consider the following factors while doing self-study.
Read the textbook
Read the class notes
Make colourful and proper notes
Look up other online resources
Teach someone what you have learned
CAT preparation is considered incomplete if one has not attempted the mocks. CAT mock tests, test series, or sample papers are designed to help aspirants understand the structure and level of the CAT entrance test. The result of the CAT mock test will indicate the candidate's strengths and weaknesses. Taking mocks at the beginning of preparation gives candidates ample time to improve their weak areas and strengthen their strong areas.
Candidates should set a target to solve at least six past-year papers weekly. After solving every paper, candidates should spend time analysing it. See where you scored well, where you could be good, and the main reasons for not doing better. This step should be performed in the second-to-last month of preparation. The main benefit of solving past years' papers is that candidates can know whether they are making progress.
Do not explore new topics in the last 10 to 15 days of CAT preparation. Only practice what you know and extract the maximum benefit. Just polish your strength and revise all the sticky notes you have made during exam preparation.
During this period, as just 2 months are left, it's also essential to prepare mentally for the exam:
Maintain a positive mindset and visualize success
Practice relaxation techniques to manage exam anxiety
Establish a healthy routine with adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and light exercise
Familiarize yourself with the exam center location and plan your journey
Prepare all required documents and materials for the exam day
According to CAT topper Satya Sripada (99.51 percentile), focus on basics. Revise what you have studied the day before going to sleep, and have a revision day once a week where you go through all the notes again. Note down essential questions or tricks in a different notebook. Give mocks regularly and analyse them properly. Revisit the same mock a second time after a couple of weeks. You need to review the syllabus and past papers and build a strategy to counter the exam.
Other CAT toppers commonly suggest:
Focusing on accuracy before speed
Developing a question selection strategy to maximize scores
Creating a balanced study plan that covers all sections
Learning to let go of challenging questions during the exam
Maintaining consistency in daily study hours.
Preparing for CAT 2025 in just four months may seem like a daunting challenge, but with the right choice of study material and innovative strategies, it's achievable. Remember that many successful CAT 2025 takers have prepared in similar or shorter timeframes and achieved impressive results.
Preparing for the CAT exam in 4 months requires using various practical study resources. Focus on books that comprehensively cover quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical Reasoning. Look for materials that include detailed explanations of concepts, plenty of practice questions, and strategies for solving problems efficiently. Additionally, using resources that offer a variety of mock tests and papers from previous years is crucial for getting familiar with the exam pattern and improving time management. You can create a solid preparation plan for the CAT exam in 4 months using these study materials. Some of the most essential CAT preparation books are given below:
For CAT preparation in four months, concentrate on mastering core quantitative aptitude concepts. Regular practice is essential, starting with basic problems and gradually increasing difficulty to enhance your problem-solving skills effectively.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics includes shortcuts and tips for solving problems |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10) | NCERT | Fundamental concepts of mathematics, clear explanations, are essential for building a strong foundation in maths |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of quantitative topics includes advanced-level problems and solutions |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics includes numerous practice questions and solved examples |
For CAT preparation in four months, prioritize improving verbal ability and reading comprehension skills. Focus on practicing a variety of passages and questions to enhance comprehension, vocabulary, and speed. Regularly review and analyze different types of texts to strengthen your understanding and interpretation abilities effectively.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | Step-by-step approach to improve verbal ability and comprehension, including practice questions |
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary | Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/Simon & Schuster | Enhances vocabulary through practical exercises and quick learning strategies |
High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren & Martin | Covers the entire syllabus of English grammar, includes practice exercises, and self-assessment sections |
PSC for VA for CAT | Nishit Sinha | Covers verbal ability topics, a practical approach with practice questions, and previous year papers |
For CAT 2025 preparation in four months, concentrate on enhancing your data interpretation and logical reasoning skills. Use practice books that offer a range of exercises and strategies to improve your ability to analyze data and solve logical puzzles. Regular practice and systematic review of different types of problems will help you build confidence and proficiency in these areas, essential for the CAT exam.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of DI topics, self-sufficient for preparation |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Strong concept building, practical application of problems, graded difficulty levels |
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha | Focuses on the interpretation of data and the sufficiency of information, a practical approach |
CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Gautam Puri | Practical approach to DI and LR topics, includes practice questions and mock tests. |
We wish you all the best for CAT 2025! With determination, innovative work, and the strategies outlined in this guide, you're well-equipped to achieve your goal of securing admission in prestigious Business Schools. Remember, the journey of CAT 2025 preparation is as valuable as the title itself..
Some people can crack CAT in 4 months even if they are an average student and some may take 6 months. By this, you can understand that an average student needs at least 6 to 7 months to prepare for CAT exam.
Generally, candidates should give at least 4-5 months of time to prepare for CAT. This way, they will have enough time to go through all the material, practice questions and mock tests, and improve their weak areas. If you are short on time, you can also opt for a crash course.
You should start with sectional tests in the first month and full-length mocks from the second month onwards.
CAT is generally considered the most difficult among Indian MBA entrance exams due to its unpredictable pattern and competitive environment. However, the difficulty level varies every year and with different sections.
Aim for 4-6 hours on weekdays and 6-8 hours on weekends, but the quality of preparation is what matters more than quantity.
Good afternoon ,
I hope you are absolutely fine. As per your mentioned query , CAT stands for Common Admission Test examination conducts once in a year. It is a national level of exam in English language. If you want to apply for this exam the application mode is online .
As per the eligibility criteria , candidate should have bachelor's degree from recognised university. Final year of college student also eligible to give this exam.
To know more , refer this:
https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-eligibility-criteria
Revert for further query!
Hi aspirant,
You can refer to the link attached above for more information on the same.
All the best!
Hi aspirant,
You can refer to the link given above for more information on the same.
All the best!
Hello dear,
The CAT exam requires a significant amount of time for preparation, including brushing up on basic concepts and practicing advanced problem-solving. Starting too early can feel overwhelming and may not be sustainable with other academic commitments.
The CAT exam requires a level of focus and maturity that is not always present in class 9. Starting preparation at this stage can be challenging to maintain. At class 9, you're primarily focused on learning foundational concepts. So you just need to boost your fundamentals by practicing more and more at class 9 because the Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT syllabus includes all the topics of Mathematics from Class 9 to 10 such as Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Mensuration.
Start Preparation 12 Months Prior:
Identify Weak Sections:
I hope you got your answer, That's all Thank you.
IIFT CAT Cutoff 2024
IIFT Delhi
General: 95–98 percentile
OBC: 90+
SC: 85–95
ST/PwD: 75–93
IIFT Kolkata
General: 85–95 percentile
OBC/SC/ST: 50–95 (varies)
Note: Final selection also includes WAT, GD, PI, academics, and work experience.
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