4 quick methods on how to crack CAT with self preparation

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4 quick methods on how to crack CAT with self preparation

7 Mar 2021
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So now that you have decided to pursue a Management Degree, the first step is to understand and register for the Common Examination Test (CAT). This MBA entrance exam is conducted by the IIMs for admission into their various institutes for MBA programmes. Around 2 lakh plus students appear for the CAT every year and compete for about 3000 MBA seats at the IIMs in the country. The demand and supply situation being skewed, the competition is fierce and even a fraction of percentile can lead to you losing out that chance of being shortlisted for your coveted college. It is obvious that the CAT is perceived to be one of the most fiercely competitive MBA entrance examinations in the country. Little wonder then, besides the IIMs, almost all the top 10 B schools in India lean on CAT scores as the first step to shortlist candidates for their programmes. In addition, there are a whopping 300+ B-schools that also lean on the CAT scores for their shortlisting. The pressure on the candidates can get immense. The quandary that students often face is –
- whether to prepare by joining a coaching institute
- Or then go for self-preparation.
Most coaching institutes have a robust ecosystem and past track records they boast of. This drives hordes of aspirants towards these classes. Then there are others, who due to compulsions of paucity of time or lack of accessibility to coaching classes or simply because they have their concepts in place, wish to go the contrarian way.

Does it mean that the CAT cannot be cracked through self-preparation? Can you get a good score in the CAT through self-study? The answer is yes. If a structured and planned approach is taken, getting a good percentile is possible. There have been many success stories of high-percentilers who have transcended the pinnacle basis of their hard work and planning.

Strategic approach to preparation

The basics of an MBA entrance exam require the candidate to be conversant with the concepts and the structure. The CAT exams for MBA are based on concepts that one is exposed to in class 10 and 11. It would be important to know that the questions are based on testing the ability of aspirants rather than the concepts. However, the foundation to crack the complexity of the questions is important to start with. Meanwhile, it would also be wise to understand the structure of the MBA entrance exam through previous years question papers which are available on various websites.

The structure of the CAT exams for MBA underwent a change in 2020 due to the pandemic and the duration itself was reduced from the usual 3 hours to 2 hours. Though the truncated question paper was of 2 hours in 2020, the pattern in 2021 is not yet clear as the situation is dynamic and fluid. It is anticipated that the pattern would be declared by the conducting authority sometime in August 2021. It would be, therefore, prudent to practice for both formats till the new one is declared. The underlying concepts and complexity of the questions would remain the same and would not alter dramatically.

Structurally, the MBA entrance exam is divided in three sections and tests you on four conceptual parameters. It is also important to know that each of the sections is important in itself, since most of the top B schools in India have sectional cut-offs as well.

To refresh, the CAT exams for MBA is divided into three sections, namely:
- Quantitative Ability – Based on mathematical concepts
- Verbal Ability – Comprehension and grammar
- Data Interpretation – Drawing inferences from data, charts, and diagrams
- Logical Reasoning – Logical interpretation and decision making.
The last two are integrated into one section. Logical reasoning requires understanding of concepts and developing a logical bent of mind.

The complexity of the MBA entrance varies with each individual and an assessment of your strengths and weaknesses would drive the study schedule.

How to prepare
1. SCHEDULING FOR CONCEPTS- The first step is to divide your available time across sections for conceptual preparation. By now, you would be aware as to where you stand with respect to all the sections through a SWOT analysis. Someone may find that Quant requires more time while others may feel that they are lacking in verbal ability. Structure your schedule accordingly and divide your available time. The idea is to be in touch with all the sections and not be complacent just because you feel that you are strong in a particular area. The conceptual part of the CAT exam for MBA is good enough to be covered in 2-3 months of regular planned study. Besides, sometime should also be devoted to upgrading general knowledge on a regular basis.
2. ARRANGING FOR STUDY MATERIAL – Various coaching institutes have a ready database and literature at hand for their students. Self-preparation on the other hand requires you to be equipped with the complete arsenal to tackle the CAT exam. There is an adequate amount of quality study material that is available in physical as well as online mode. Many coaching institutes also sell their study material separately. A little research will help you to collect the right books and online material.
3. SIM CATS/ MOCKS – Giving simulated CAT exams online is the most important way of honing your time and strategic skills to ace the CAT exam. The essence of the CAT is not to attempt all the questions, but to have a critical mass of correct attempts to drive a high percentile score. This requires regular practice, and it should be enough to attempt at least two mocks every week in the last three months leading up to the MBA entrance exam. Mocks are available as a paid resource across many sites and simulated attempts over time can give you an idea of your progress and grey areas. There are sectional tests to be had to practice on specific skills in between full length ones. Your progress can be gauged over a period of time as well.
4. Analyse your performance- After the mocks, it would be a good idea to review your mistakes and identify weaknesses. Focusing on the weak areas and working on shortcuts and quick methods is another important method to be adopted for a successful performance in the CAT.
Having confidence is key.

Many CAT takers falter at the final hurdle as they panic under the pressure of self and external expectations. Finally, it is not only how good you are, but how well you harness your capabilities under pressure. After all, that is what the true manager is expected to do every day – perform under dynamic conditions and be able to withstand pressure. So, be motivated and confident leading up to the exam. Perform to the best of your ability and the result will be there for all to see. Constant self-motivation is the mantra of all CAT toppers.

SOIL Institute of Management – one of the top B schools in India, enables all its students to go through a Self-Leadership module, where they undergo transformational journeys by drawing out career and life maps with clearly defined goals. This helps them to be led by their “spiritual selves” to lead a life of confidence, happiness and wellbeing.

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