How to Prepare for CAT 2025 Along With Other Entrance Exams

Getting into an IIM is a dream shared by thousands of MBA aspirants across the country, and cracking the CAT is the first step toward that goal. But clearing the CAT exam isn’t just about studying hard; it’s about preparing smartly, staying consistent, and following a well-structured plan. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is known for its tough competition, with over two lakh candidates appearing each year. However, only a small percentage manage to secure a seat in the top IIMs. In this article, you can know about the right preparation tips to ace your Reading Comprehension section in CAT exam.

This Story also Contains

1. How to Balance CAT Preparation along with Other Entrance Exams
2. CAT Exam Pattern 2025
3. Comparison between CAT and other MBA Entrance Test Patterns
4. CAT Syllabus 2025
5. How to Prepare for CAT 2025 along with other Entrance Exams?
6. Top 5 Important Strategies to Prepare for CAT 2025
7. Best Resources for CAT 2025 Exam

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.

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.

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

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.

CAT 2025 Subject Wise Syllabus

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.

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.

Top 5 Important Strategies to Prepare for CAT 2025

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

Best Resources for CAT 2025 Exam

Preparing well for CAT 2025 means using the right resources that cover all topics and give plenty of practice. Combining sample papers, previous year papers, practice sets, and good books helps build confidence and improve your speed and accuracy for the exam day.

CAT Sample Paper

CAT sample papers give you a feel of the actual exam pattern and difficulty level. They help you practice time management and understand the question types you’ll face. Working through sample papers regularly boosts your confidence and helps identify your weak areas early.

CAT Previous Year Paper

Solving previous year papers is one of the best ways to prepare because they show real questions from past exams. They help you spot trends, understand the exam style, and practice questions that are often repeated in different forms.

CAT Practice Sets

Practice sets focus on specific topics and question types, allowing you to target your weak areas effectively. Regularly solving these sets sharpens your problem-solving skills, improves speed, and helps you get comfortable with tricky questions before the exam.

CAT Books

Good CAT books provide detailed theory, solved examples, and practice questions all in one place. They build your foundation, clarify concepts, and guide you through the entire syllabus with tips and strategies designed for CAT aspirants.