Preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) by self-study can seem like a challenging task, but with the right approach, it can be both manageable and effective. The CAT is a highly competitive exam that tests a candidate’s aptitude in various areas, such as quantitative ability, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. As we all know, yearly, around 2 lakh aspirants appear for the CAT exam. Among those, most of the aspirants are working professionals, college students and also even housewives. Many of them got succeeded in CAT without taking any coaching. They have cracked the CAT with a self-study plan and hard work. You can also get succeeded in CAT 2023 using the following tips to start preparing for CAT by self-study without coaching.
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Tips To Start Preparing For CAT 2023 By Self-Study
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Understand the Exam Pattern
The first step towards preparing for CAT is to understand the exam pattern. The CAT exam consists of three sections, namely Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam duration is 120 minutes, with each section having a time limit of 40 minutes. Understanding the exam pattern will help you plan your study schedule and focus on the areas that need the most attention. Check out the below detailed CAT 2023 Examination pattern.
| SECTION | DURATION | Number of questions (Expected) |
| Verbal Ability | 40 minutes | 24 |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | 40 minutes | 20 |
| Quantitative Ability | 40 minutes | 22 |
| Total | 120 minutes | 66 |
Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks, and each wrong answer carries a penalty of -1 mark. Each section has a sectional time limit of 40 minutes, and candidates are not allowed to switch between the sections.
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Create a Study Plan
Creating a study plan is essential while preparing for the CAT. A study plan will help you stay organized, motivated, and on track with your goals. Start by creating a timetable that suits your schedule, and ensure that you allocate sufficient time for each section of the exam. Set realistic goals for each day and try to stick to them. You can also break down your study plan into weekly and monthly targets to ensure that you are progressing steadily. If you are unable to satisfy your CAT preparation plan, you can take the CAT expert’s guidance where you get by enrolling for CAT 2023 Online Course.
You can also prepare for CAT 2023 by self-study with a perfect preparation schedule. If you are confused to make a study plan, you can download this CAT preparation schedule PDF for working professionals, students and also for working women. This study schedule is flexible for all the people who cannot spend a high amount of time on CAT preparation. Have a look at the sample image from the CAT 2023 Preparation schedule PDF.
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Study Material
Choosing the right study material is crucial when preparing for the CAT. There are numerous books and online resources that cater to CAT preparation. Choose the ones that are best suited to your needs. Cracku provides you with a very helpful Qunat formula handbook which consists of all the Quant formulas, fundamentals, tips & tricks and shortcuts to solve the tricky questions from the Qunatitative ability section of CAT. You can purchase this handbook online. Click on the link below to purchase the CAT Quant Formula Handbook for Just Rs.99/-.
As mentioned before, most of the aspirants are working professionals, so they cannot use their study materials with their busy schedules. So, it is advised to use online resources such as CAT mock tests; concept notes PDFs, Concept Videos, Concept Tests, Daily targets, etc. One can get all these resources in Cracku’s CAT 2023 Online Course. In addition to this, you can get Free CAT previous Papers with detailed video solutions PDFs.
Ensure that you cover all the topics in each section of the exam and practice a good number of CAT mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.
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Focus on Conceptual Clarity
The CAT exam is designed to test a candidate’s aptitude and analytical skills rather than rote learning. Therefore, it is essential to focus on conceptual clarity when preparing for the exam. Ensure that you understand the underlying concepts and theories in each topic and practice solving problems that test your analytical abilities. Developing a strong foundation in the basics will help you tackle more complex problems with ease.
Download Free CAT Previous Years Papers PDF
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Balance Your Speed And Accuracy
Time management is critical when preparing for the CAT exam. The exam duration is limited, and therefore, it is essential to manage your time effectively. Maintain a balance between your speed and accuracy while taking CAT mock tests. There is no point in attempting more questions inaccurately. Accuracy is very important, and at the same time, speed is also important as the exam duration is 2 hours.
During the preparation, practice solving problems under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. Try to complete each section within the time limit and allocate the remaining time to revise your answers.
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Stay Motivated
Preparing for the CAT exam can be stressful, but it is essential to stay motivated throughout the process. Celebrate small achievements and progress towards your goals. Take breaks in between your study sessions to avoid burnout and engage in activities that rejuvenate your mind and body. There might be up and downs in this journey, but you must learn from your failures.
In conclusion, preparing for the CAT exam by self-study requires dedication, discipline, and hard work. With the right approach, study material, and mindset, you can achieve success in the exam and pave the way for a rewarding career in management. Good luck!
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