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How to Prepare for CAT 2025 Along With Other Entrance Exams
Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Dec 31, 2024 06:47 PM IST
Preparation for any management entrance test needs dedication as well as a planned strategy. And the same goes for CAT preparation. The first choice of every MBA aspirant is to crack CAT on the very first attempt and get into an IIM. This makes the Common Admission Test (CAT) the most popular entrance exam in India. Every year, more than two lakh candidates appear for the CAT, and very few of them make it into the IIMs of India.
This Story also Contains
- How to Balance CAT Preparation along with Other Entrance Exams
- CAT Exam Pattern 2025
- Comparison between CAT and other MBA Entrance Test Patterns
- CAT Syllabus 2025
- How to Prepare for CAT 2025 along with other Entrance Exams?
- How to Prepare for CAT 2025: Top 5 Important Strategies
How to Balance CAT Preparation along with Other Entrance Exams
The rest of the candidates either apply for those B-schools that accept the CAT scorecard or for other national-level management entrance exams such as MAT, CAT, CMAT, or SNAP. Also, the syllabus and exam pattern for CAT and other exams are quite similar differing only in terms of difficulty level. So if you have filled multiple MBA entrance exams, then the question is how to balance CAT preparation along with other entrance exams. Careers360 presents you with some tips on how to prepare for CAT along with other entrance exams.
CAT Exam Pattern 2025
Prior to setting any strategy for CAT 2025 or any other entrance exam, it is necessary to know the exam pattern of a particular exam. By knowing the exam pattern of CAT 2025, one will be aware of its marking scheme. The exam pattern of the CAT and other MBA entrance tests varies in terms of the marking scheme too. CAT 2025 entails a negative marking scheme, implying there is no need to attempt all the questions. More focus must be placed on the accuracy of the questions answered. Let us check the detailed CAT 2025 exam pattern.
Exam Pattern of CAT 2025
Particulars | Details |
Total time duration of the exam | Two hours |
Sectional time duration | 40 minutes for every section |
Total number of questions | 68 |
Exam mode | Computer-Based Test |
Marking scheme |
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One can easily make a preparation strategy by understanding the exam pattern of the CAT entrance exam. By knowing the total number of questions, nature of questions, time limit, and marking scheme, one can easily determine how much time they should invest to complete a particular topic.
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Comparison between CAT and other MBA Entrance Test Patterns
After knowing the structure of the CAT question paper, one should compare it with the other management entrance exam test pattern and devise a strategy accordingly. For instance, we are going to compare the CAT and XAT exam pattern. The major difference in both exams is the number of sections. In CAT 2025, there are only three sections from which questions will be asked, but in XAT, there is the addition of one more section, which is General Awareness, and the newly reintroduced essay writing.
The time duration is the same for both exams, but in CAT there is a sectional time limit, that is, candidates (except the PwD category) will have a total of 40 minutes to solve a particular section, but in XAT there is no time limit to solve a section apart from the essay writing section (10 minutes). Check the major difference between CAT and other management entrance exam patterns.
Variation in Exam Pattern: CAT vs Other MBA Entrance Tests
Particulars | CAT | XAT | CMAT |
Exam mode | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) |
Total number of questions | 68 | 100 (Varies year to year) + 1 (Essay Writing) | 100 |
Total time duration | 2 hours (120 minutes) | 3 hours (180 minutes + 10 minutes) | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
Number of sections | 3 | 5 | 4 |
Section name |
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| |
Marking scheme |
|
|
|
Total marks | 198 | 100 (varies year to year) | 400 |
CAT Syllabus 2025
It is also a must to know all the topics on which questions will be asked in CAT 2025. Prior to starting the preparation, one should go thoroughly through the syllabus of CAT 2025 so that one gets to know which sections they need to work on hard and which topics they need to work on less. Sections from which questions will be asked in CAT 2025 are: Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation, and Reading Comprehension & Verbal Ability.
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Detailed Syllabus of CAT 2025
Section Name | Important Topics |
Quantitative Aptitude |
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Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation |
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Reading Comprehension & Verbal Ability |
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Know the Difference between CAT and Other MBA Entrance Test Syllabi
After knowing the syllabus of the CAT and other MBA entrance exams, one should first check the common topics, keep them aside, and make a different strategy for them. Suppose, a candidate is planning to appear both for CAT and XAT. Then they need to set a different strategy. For the QA and VARC sections, there is no need for a different study plan, but for the rest of the sections, a different plan needs to be mapped out. In XAT, there is a section Decision Making, and General Awareness, and one will have to allot some time to them.
How to Prepare for CAT 2025 along with other Entrance Exams?
As we know the popularity and difficulty level of the CAT, one needs to dedicate four to five hours to studying daily, but preparing for another management entrance test along with the CAT makes the task tough. In that situation, one should know how they should allot equal time and attention to the preparation of the entrance test. If one gets to know all such tips, then they can do their XAT, CMAT, and MAT preparation along with CAT 2025 preparation. Know all the tips and tricks to balance CAT preparation with other entrance exams.
Related topic - How to prepare for VARC
Managing Time Efficiently
Time allocation is a must when candidates start preparing for management entrance tests. After going through the exam pattern and syllabus of the CAT and other management entrance exams, one should make a preparation table and try to determine in which section they need more time. One needs to categorise topics that require daily practice. In exams that have a general awareness section, one should include reading newspapers and magazines on a daily basis.
For the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section, there is no need to prepare separately because this is the only section that is common in every management entrance exam. After doing such things, one will know how many hours are needed to study daily for preparation. Allot section-wise time accordingly and refer to the recommended books by experts.
As we mentioned above, there is a difference between the CAT and other MBA entrance exam patterns and syllabi. Candidates will have to divide their study hours accordingly for a few sections.
Take Mock Tests Every Day
Studying from recommended study material will make your base and concepts clear, but if a candidate wants to analyse their weekly performance, then he or she must include taking mocks at the end of the week to analyse their strengths and weaknesses. In the meantime of CAT preparation, candidates can easily moderate their preparation strategy by taking mocks. Taking CAT mocks not only boosts a candidate's confidence level but can also improve their speed and accuracy. If a candidate takes command over mocks, then they will learn how to manage time.
Set up a Daily Routine for Practice
While drawing the schedule for CAT preparation along with other entrance exams, candidates should set a daily routine that they can follow easily. Prepare a daily routine by considering a few factors, such as how much time you have left to prepare for CAT 2025 or for another entrance exam. How much sleep your body needs depends on what kind of diet one has to follow during the preparation period. Take a note and paste it on your wall. Take a look at the highlights of the daily study routine set up for CAT 2025.
Practice two Reading Comprehension (RC’s) daily
Practice two Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) questions daily
Practice Quantitative Ability to work daily for two hours
Read the Newspaper and Magazines daily
Revise all the formulas daily
Include Solving Samples & Previous Year Papers in Preparation Strategy
Solving previous year's question papers is always a boon for any entrance exam. If a candidate includes CAT past year question papers in their preparation strategy, they will become familiar with the exam structure and marking scheme. Over the Internet, all the sample papers for every entrance exam are available free of charge.
Candidates should avail of this facility, download such sample papers as needed, and solve them on a daily basis. Solving the question papers for XAT, SNAP, MAT, etc. will enable the candidates to increase their grip over all kinds of questions. They will be able to answer the questions with ease if, on a regular basis, the candidates answer the past years' question papers of different exams.
Also Read - MBA Entrance Exams in India
Make a Habit of Reading
Whether it's preparation for CAT, XAT, MAT, or CMAT, or any state or university-level management entrance exam, making a habit of reading is a must. Do not take it lightly. Many candidates think that reading is not mandatory, but it is. If you are one of them, then it is the right time to inculcate this habit. Reading habits will immensely help in the Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation section, but they are also helpful in the General Knowledge section.
How to Prepare for CAT 2025: Top 5 Important Strategies
To prepare for CAT 2025, start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. Create a study plan that allocates time for each section: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. Focus on strengthening your basics before moving to advanced topics. Practice regularly with mock tests and previous years' papers to build your speed and accuracy. Analyze your performance to identify weak areas and work on them. Time management and regular revision are crucial. Stay updated with any changes in the exam pattern and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
1. Understand the Quantitative Aptitude section
To prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude, start by thoroughly understanding the basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. Practice solving a wide range of problems to build your problem-solving skills and speed. Regularly take timed mock tests to simulate exam conditions and identify your weak areas. Focus on improving accuracy and time management by revisiting difficult topics and practising shortcuts and strategies. Consistent practice, reviewing mistakes, and staying updated with different types of questions will help you excel in this section.
2. Attempt Mock Tests
Attempting mock tests is crucial for CAT preparation as it helps simulate the actual exam experience. Regularly taking CAT sample papers allows you to practice time management and develop strategies for tackling different sections under timed conditions. Analyzing your performance in these tests helps identify your strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to focus on areas that need improvement. Mock tests also build your confidence and reduce exam anxiety, as you become more familiar with the types of questions and the pressure of the exam environment. Consistent practice with CAT mock tests ensures that you are well-prepared and ready to perform your best on the exam day.
3. Follow the Strategies shared by CAT 99 percentilers
Following the strategies shared by CAT 99 percentilers can significantly enhance your preparation. These top scorers often emphasize the importance of understanding the basics and building a strong foundation in all subjects. They recommend creating a structured study plan that balances time between learning new concepts and revising old ones. Regular practice through mock tests and sample papers is crucial, along with analyzing mistakes to avoid repeating them.
4. Enhance your Vocabulary for the CAT VARC Section
Enhancing your vocabulary for the CAT VARC section involve consistent practice and exposure to new words. Start by reading a variety of materials, such as newspapers, magazines, novels, and academic journals, to encounter different words in context. Make it a habit to note down unfamiliar words idioms and phrases and look up their meanings, and use them in sentences to reinforce your understanding. Utilize vocabulary-building apps and flashcards to regularly review and practice new words. Engaging in word games and puzzles can also make learning new vocabulary enjoyable.
5. Practice DILR
Practising Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) for CAT requires a systematic approach. Start by familiarizing yourself with the different types of questions, such as charts, graphs, tables, puzzles, and logical sequences. Solve a variety of problems to build your understanding and develop strategies for different question types. Regular practice is essential, so incorporate DILR exercises into your daily study routine. Take timed practice tests to improve your speed and accuracy, simulating the actual exam conditions
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between the sections syllabus in CAT and XAT?
In CAT exam, questions are asked from Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation, Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability while in XAT questions are asked from Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making and General Knowledge.
2. What is the mode of CAT, XAT and CMAT exams?
All the three entrance tests, CAT, XAT and CMAT are conducted in an online mode.
3. How many sections are there in CMAT examination?
There are four sections in CMAT namely- Quantitative Technique and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness and Language Comprehension
4. How many questions are asked in CAT and CMAT?
In the CAT exam, there will be 66 questions. CMAT will have a total of 100 questions.
5. What is the importance of solving previous year sample papers?
Solving the previous years' question papers and sample papers will enable the candidates to increase their grip over all kinds of questions. They will be able to answer the questions with ease.
6. What is the difficulty level of CAT 2024?
The CAT 2024 exam was generally considered to have a moderate difficulty level, with some variations across sections and slots. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section was rated as moderate, with certain reading comprehension passages presenting challenges. The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section ranged from easy to moderate, with some sets being more approachable than others. The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section was also deemed moderate, featuring a mix of straightforward and complex questions. Overall, candidates found the exam manageable, though certain sections required careful time management and strategic question selection.
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