7-Month CAT Preparation Plan: Daily Schedule, Practice Strategy & Mock Test Insights

Preparing for the CAT 2025 exam can be a challenging yet rewarding journey if approached with the right strategy. With over 3.3 lakh aspirants appearing every year, it's crucial to have a structured 7-month CAT preparation plan that focuses on daily schedules, mock tests, and strategic study sessions. This guide provides a step-by-step preparation plan to help you achieve your IIM dream in 2025.

Why You Need a 7-Month CAT Preparation Plan?
A well-structured 7-month CAT preparation plan allows you to:
- Build a strong foundation in Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR).
- Improve speed and accuracy through regular practice and mock tests.
- Analyze weaknesses and strengths with detailed mock test reviews.
- Boost confidence with continuous revision and strategic practice.
Starting early with a 7-month CAT preparation plan gives you the advantage of covering the entire syllabus, mastering concepts, and practicing enough mock tests to be fully exam-ready.
Understanding the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
The CAT 2025 exam is divided into three core sections, each testing different skill sets. Here’s a breakdown:
Section Name | Total Questions | TITA Questions | Key Topics |
---|---|---|---|
VARC (Verbal Ability & RC) | 24 | 4 (approx) | Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Odd One Out |
LRDI (Data Interpretation & LR) | 20 | 4 (approx) | DI Sets, Puzzles, Logical Reasoning |
QA (Quantitative Aptitude) | 22 | 4 (approx) | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Numbers |
Total | 66 (approx) | 12 (approx) | All major business school concepts |
Mastering these sections within a 7-month CAT preparation plan will help you ace the exam confidently.
7-Month CAT Preparation Plan: Month-by-Month Strategy
To crack the CAT 2025 exam, you need a clear and focused 7-month preparation plan that is divided into different phases for optimal learning.
Month | Focus Areas |
---|---|
Month 1-2 | Understanding the syllabus, concept clarity, reading habit, topic-wise practice |
Month 3-4 | Sectional tests, start mocks, analyze errors, build speed & accuracy |
Month 5-6 | Full-length mocks, deep mock analysis, work on weak areas |
Month 7 | Alternate-day mocks, final revision, mental clarity, and confidence building |
Phase 1: Building Your Foundation (Months 1–2)
In the initial two months of your 7-month CAT preparation plan, focus on building your basics.
- Understand the Syllabus: Get familiar with topics in QA, VARC, and DILR.
- Daily Reading Practice: Read editorials, business news, and articles to improve comprehension.
- Topic-Wise Practice: Begin with Arithmetic, Vocabulary, and Logical Sets.
- Tools to Use: NCERT books, Arun Sharma for QA, and PDFs for Reading Comprehension.
Weekly Routine:
- Monday to Friday: Concept learning and practice exercises
- Saturday: Revision of weekly concepts
- Sunday: Sectional test and analysis
Phase 2: Strengthening Concepts (Months 3–4)
As you move into Months 3 and 4, the focus should shift towards strengthening concepts and taking sectional tests.
- Sectional Tests: Start timed practice for each section (QA, DILR, VARC).
- Error Logs: Maintain a log of mistakes and weak areas for improvement.
- Mock Tests: Begin with 1 full-length mock per week with detailed analysis.
- Mentoring Support: Weekly one-on-one mentoring to track your progress.
Weekly Routine:
- Monday to Friday: Sectional tests and concept strengthening
- Saturday: Error analysis and doubt clearing
- Sunday: Full mock test and detailed review
Phase 3: Full Practice & Analysis (Months 5–6)
In the third phase of your 7-month CAT preparation plan, the key is mock practice and deep analysis.
- Increase Mock Tests: Move to 2–3 mocks per week.
- Performance Tracking: Identify where you lose time, and which sections need improvement.
- Mock Retake Method: Reattempt the questions you got wrong without time limits.
- Section-Focused Study: Spend more time on weaker sections.
Weekly Routine:
- Monday to Friday: Mock analysis and sectional drills
- Saturday: Focus on the weakest section
- Sunday: Full-length mock and error log update
Phase 4: Final Touches (Month 7)
The final month in your 7-month CAT preparation plan should focus on fine-tuning and confidence building.
- Alternate-Day Mocks: Simulate real exam conditions every alternate day.
- Formula Revision: Use flashcards and cheat sheets for quick recall.
- No New Topics: Focus only on what you have already prepared.
- Mindset Management: Practice meditation, get proper sleep, and exercise regularly.
Weekly Routine:
- Monday to Friday: Revision and mock tests
- Saturday: Full-length test simulation
- Sunday: Relaxation and confidence building
Best Resources for Your 7-Month CAT Preparation Plan
Section | Resource Recommendations |
---|---|
Concept Learning | Coachify Recorded Classes, Mentor Q&A Sessions |
VARC Practice | Coachify RC Vault, Daily Editorial Reading |
QA Mastery | Coachify Speed Booster Quizzes, Arithmetic and Algebra workbooks |
Mock Analysis | Smart mock tests with personalized review |
Mock Test Strategy to Crack CAT 2025
To excel in CAT 2025, follow this mock strategy:
- Start with 1 mock per week → Increase to 3 mocks per week in the last two months.
- Analyze each test:
- Identify time-wasting questions.
- Spot the ones you should have skipped.
- Evaluate your section order and time distribution.
Conclusion: 7-Month CAT Preparation Plan for Success
The 7-month CAT preparation plan is designed to maximize your learning, optimize practice, and build confidence. With a step-by-step approach to concept building, mock practice, and strategic analysis, you can achieve top scores in CAT 2025.
Join Coachify to get personalized study plans, concept-focused learning, and mock test analysis to make your IIM dream a reality.