How to start preparing for CAT 2024?

Preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) is a rigorous process and a bold step toward unlocking the doors to some of India's most prestigious management programs. Many successful aspirants started where you are now. Like a shadow in the background, the fear of the CAT exam often looms large in the minds of the candidates. Do not let fear hold you back. Turn it into a powerful motivator. Your path to the CAT exam 2024 should start with a well-structured plan, dedication and self-belief. This comprehensive guide will help you thrive and excel in the CAT 2024 examination.

Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2024

Your first and foremost step is to ensure eligibility for appearing for the CAT entrance exam 2024. These are the preliminary essentials you need to keep in mind:

• You must possess a bachelor’s degree in your area of specialisation from a recognised institution and achieve a minimum score of 50% in the General and NC-OBC categories. Candidates for SC, ST and PWD should have a score of at least 45%.
• Individuals who hold professional degrees like CS/CA/ICWA are eligible to take the CAT exam.
• There are no age restrictions when it comes to taking CAT 2024.

CAT 2024 Exam pattern

CAT exam sections

Verbal Ability (VA)

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Quantitative Aptitude (QA) 

Total duration for CAT exam in each section

40 minutes each section (120 minutes total)

Total aggregate

198

Total number of questions

66

Type of Questions

MCQs and Non-MCQ (TITA)

Marking scheme

+3 marks for Correct Answers

-1 for Incorrect Answer

0 for Unattempted Questions

CAT 2024 Syllabus

A detailed overview of the CAT entrance exam syllabus is crucial for creating an effective study plan and thus achieving your dream score. The following CAT syllabus for MBA students will come in handy to get started with their chapter-wise exercises, selecting books that cover the syllabus topics and progress towards a successful CAT preparation

Sections

Total number of questions

Allotted time

Topics covered in each section

Difficulty Level

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

40 minutes

Para jumbles, reading comprehension, para summary, verbal reasoning, etc.

Moderate to high

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

20

40 minutes

Tables, Graphs, charts, blood relations, seating arrangements, puzzles, syllogisms, etc.

Easy to moderate

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

22

40 minutes

Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, Menstruation, Permutations, combinations, Data interpretation, Measurements, etc.

Moderate to high

Total

66

120 minutes

CAT 2024 Preparation Plan

Below, we have shared a step-by-step guide to help you create a solid preparation plan for your CAT 2024.

1. Set your goal

Set a target percentile that you aim to achieve in the CAT examination. Make sure to be as realistic as possible. Your goal will drive your preparation strategy.

1.  Practice with papers from previous years

Consider solving papers from previous years' exams to analyse the exam pattern and improve your time management. The more you solve questions, the more it will boost your confidence.

1. Stay updated with current affairs

Read newspapers daily to stay informed and updated about current affairs. Consider going through the general awareness section.

1. Create a study schedule

Use your time smartly to stay ahead of your CAT 2024 exam date. After you are done, create a study plan covering all CAT exam sections. Make sure to allocate time slots for each section. You must also allocate proper time for practice tests and revisions. Create a weekly or daily schedule, and stick to it as closely as possible.

1. Focus on fundamentals

Make sure your fundamentals in reading comprehension and grammar are clear. You must have a solid understanding of these core topics before you move towards more advanced topics.

1. Get your hands on study materials

You must use up-to-date CAT Study Materials and CAT mock tests to polish your knowledge and skills. Gather high-quality study materials that involve online resources, CAT preparation books and CAT coaching materials if you enrol in a coaching program.

1. Analyse your performance

Just by taking mock tests and practising questions, you must analyse your performance to identify your strengths and weaknesses in each section. Make sure to keep a record of all your mistakes and areas where you find there is a need for improvement. This will help you assess the current level of your CAT preparation.

1. Engage with peers

Engage in online forums and communities where you can connect with like-minded CAT aspirants. These platforms provide the perfect avenue to exchange strategies, share valuable experiences, and offer mutual motivation, creating a vibrant network of support and inspiration.

1. Seek guidance from professionals

Self-studying will not be enough when preparing for the CAT. You also need to seek guidance from a professional CAT coaching program. Institutes that can provide structured guidance, resolve all your doubts or confusions and give you expert tips. Coachify has a team of experienced CAT coaches who are well-versed in the syllabus, exam pattern and strategies for success. We can provide you with personalised guidance based on your strengths and weaknesses. We will track your progress regularly. You will receive continuous feedback and support from our coach, which includes addressing your concerns, doubts and queries promptly. Students who cannot go to the coaching centre may attend their exclusive CAT online classes also.

Tips for VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension)

• Make sure to read at least one passage daily. Highlight key points, make marginal notes, and summarise paragraphs as you read.
• Your Grammar and Verbal Ability Preparation will heavily rely on Trial Exams.
• You must keep an account of the total time you are spending on reading each passage. This will help you stay updated regarding the total usage of your time.
• You should read articles, dictionaries, and newspapers to boost your vocabulary.

Tips for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Accuracy is crucial when it comes to preparing data interpretation and logical reasoning. Avoid making hasty decisions or guesses. Ensure all your answers are well-reasoned and logical.
• Consider grouping or clustering items in analytical reasoning sets based on common characteristics.
• DILR sets can be solved using multiple approaches. You should be open to trying different strategies in case you get stuck on a particular set.
• Just move on to the next set when you find a particular set is taking too much time to solve.
• Students can successfully solve problems precisely and quickly with the help of Vedic Maths.
• Utilise Venn diagrams when you are answering lengthy questions.
• Some of the important DI topics that need to be included are Coding-Decoding, Seating Arrangements, Venn Diagrams, Team Formations, Bar Graphs, and Clocks and Calendars.

Tips for Quantitative Aptitude (QA) 

• You must stay aware of all the essential mathematical concepts and formulas.
• Make sure to answer as many quantitative questions as feasible during the allotted time.
• Strengthen your basic understanding by revising fundamental mathematical concepts that include algebra, arithmetic, geometry and number theory.
• Create flashcards with essential formulas and concepts. You must review it regularly to reinforce your memory.
• Improve your ability to calculate cubes up to 20, tables up to 40 and squares up to 30. This will save you a lot of time.

CONCLUSION

Remember that consistency, dedication, and a well-structured study plan will be your allies in this journey. CAT 2024 is not just an exam; it's an opportunity to showcase your potential and secure a bright future. Do not hesitate to get the right guidance so you can secure the best grade for your CAT examination. With your dedication, and our 100+ sectional tests, 500+ mock tests, 180+ interactive live sessions and weekly performance analysis, you will be perfectly ready to appear for the CAT exam 2024. Coachify boasts of having competitive graduates from renowned universities in India. Best of luck, and may your hard work pay off in the form of success on the CAT and beyond.