How to Prepare for CAT 2025 – MBA Entrance Exam Guide
Understanding CAT 2025
The first step to preparation is understanding what you’re targeting in-depth. The CAT exam consists of 3 sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
The test duration is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes per section. You cannot switch between sections, so time management is crucial. Each correct (MCQ) answer fetches 3 marks, while a wrong answer deducts 1 mark.
When To Start Preparing
Ideally, students in the final year of their undergraduate program should start their preparation 10-12 months in advance of CAT. Realistically, one could also outshine in 6 months with a focused strategy. All one needs to do is allot 3-4 hours (for students, daily) and 1-2 hours (for working professionals; longer sessions on weekends), and they can perform well.
Section-Wise CAT 2025 Preparation Tips
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Inculcate reading habits (books, newspapers, magazines, and journals) to strengthen comprehension.
- Practice mock RC passages, focusing on the decision-based questions below.
- Solve para jumbles, odd-sentence-out, and summary questions.
- Don’t cram the dictionary; build vocabulary through contextual learning.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Work on different puzzle types, tables, charts, and caselets.
- Track the set-solving time and improve the solution speed.
- Learn to choose between sets to attempt and skip out.
- Focus on accuracy with efficiency; don’t waste time on questions you can’t solve promptly.
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Revise the fundamentals of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and modern math.
- Record all important math formulas in one place.
- Before unitary tests, practice concept-wise tests.
- Understanding > Rote Learning—always keep in mind and learn.
Creating An Effective Study Plan
- Concept Building: Start by laying the groundwork for syllabus concepts and then expand upon them.
- Practice & Application: Take sectional tests and understand how the concepts apply.
- Mocks & Revision: Target to take 20-25 full-length mock exams and reflect on mistakes.
The Role of Mock Tests
Mock tests are 90% of your CAT preparation efforts. Initially, focus on taking a mock exam every 2-3 weeks, which is sectional. Over the last few months, we have increased the frequency to 2 times per week. While it might look like the number of mock tests is the more important metric here, how strict you are with your analysis of the test is the metric you should be worried about.
Recommended Resources
Here are some popular books and resources you should include in your CAT preparation:
- Arun Sharma series (Quant, DI & LR)
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis (Vocabulary)
- How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha
- Online coaching platforms like TIME, IMS, Career Launcher, and 2IIM
Also, solve mock tests and previous year questions (PYQs) for comprehensive preparation.
Final MBA Entrance Exam Preparation Guide
- Give considerable time to CAT preparation; last-minute cramming won’t work.
- Accuracy of the answer will always matter more than the number of questions attempted.
- Don’t over-prepare; take proper rest and avoid burnout.
- Join communities to make the journey easy, discuss doubts, and share resources.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare for CAT 2025 without coaching?
Yes, self-study with the right resources, consistent practice, and mock test analysis can help you crack the CAT without coaching.
What is the most important preparation tip for CAT 2025?
Consistency matters the most—set a daily schedule, focus on accuracy and time management, and keep evaluating your progress.
How can I balance CAT 2025 preparation with my college or job?
Create a realistic schedule by dedicating 2-3 focused hours daily, and increase study hours closer to the exam. Use weekends for mock tests.
