8 Common Mistakes to Avoid During CAT 2025 Preparation

Mistakes to avoid for CAT 2025 - they stare you down from your study desk as you sit down for CAT 2025 preparation. The CAT 2025 exam is a gateway to countless aspirants’ dream B-schools. But let's face it, the CAT exam preparation journey can be tricky. The last thing you want to end up with is a regret of mistakes you could've avoided.

But fear not CAT 2025 dreamers, This blog is your anti-guide to common mistakes to avoid during the CAT 2025 exam. We will list 8 common mistakes along their impacts on a candidate's journey to CAT 2025. You will also find techniques to avoid them so you can ace the CAT exam.

CAT 2025 Exam Date

The CAT 2025 exam will likely be held on November 30, 2025, for admissions in over 1300 MBA colleges that recognize CAT scores. The exam will be conducted in three sessions at nearly 375 CAT exam centres located in more than 167 cities nationwide. One of the top six IIMs conducts the CAT exam and the CAT 2025 exam will most likely be conducted by IIM Kozhikode.

The CAT 2025 registration process will begin in the first week of August 2025 and go on till the third week of September 2025. The official notification for the same will be released on July 30, 2025 on the official website.

CAT 2025 Scholarship

Mistakes to Avoid During the CAT 2025 Exam Preparation

Mistake-1: Not Understanding CAT 2025 Syllabus

Skipping a thorough examination of the CAT 2025 syllabus leads to wasted effort and missed topics. This can lead to wasting time on irrelevant topics and potentially lower scores than expected.

How to Avoid

• Deeply analyze the official CAT 2025 syllabus
• Know the weightage of each section, specific topics covered, and question types used.

Mistake-2: Unrealistic Study Goals

Creating an overly ambitious or inflexible plan can lead to stress and burnout. This can even leave an aspirant behind the schedule.

How to Avoid

Create a plan that sets realistic achievable goals. Consider your strengths, weaknesses, available time, and adjust based on progress.

Mistake-3: Not Analyzing Mock Tests

Not taking/analyzing regular mock tests hinders your ability to manage time, test-taking strategies, and analyze weaknesses. This might pressurize one during the actual CAT 2025 exam.

How to Avoid

• Purchase regular mock tests from a reliable CAT coaching.
• Analyze results and identify weaknesses.
• Tailor your preparation accordingly.

Mistake-4: Focusing on Only 1 Section

Ignoring specific sections can weaken your overall score. This can result in reduced flexibility in the exam. It can also lead to potentially failing to meet sectional cut-offs.

How to Avoid

Dedicate time to all sections in the CAT 2025. Identify your strongest and weakest sections, allocate time proportionally, and practice all sections regularly.

Mistake-5: Comparing Yourself to Others

Constantly comparing your progress to others can lead to demotivation and anxiety. This will result in losing focus on your own goals, feeling discouraged, and neglecting your strengths.

How to Avoid

• Track your progress
• Celebrate individual achievements
• Just focus on your journey.

Mistake-6: Ignoring Time Management

Not practicing answering questions within time limits leads to missed attempts and lower scores.

How to Avoid

Set time limits for mock tests and sections, and gradually improve answer speed without compromising accuracy

Mistake-7: Procrastinating

Delaying CAT 2025 preparation leaves insufficient time for proper practice and revision. This will lead to increased stress levels closer to the CAT exam. So, start your preparation as early as possible.

How to Avoid

• Break down the syllabus into manageable chunks
• Avoid last-minute cramming
• Follow your study plan diligently.

Mistake-8: Overlooking Physical Health.

Neglecting mental and physical well-being can negatively impact focus, stamina, and motivation in the CAT 2025 exam. This results in difficulty in concentrating and decreased energy levels.

How to Avoid

• Prioritize self-care
• Schedule breaks
• Engage in stress-relieving activities
• Maintain a healthy sleep routine
• Exercise regularly.

Now that you've conquered these mistakes, ace the CAT 2025 exam with Cracku. Cracku offers a range of free CAT study materials, along with daily targets and mock tests to prepare you for the best! 

CAT Online Coaching