The CAT examination is arguably one of the most difficult, yet most reputed exams in India. This entrance exam focuses on delivering results using conventional methods that cannot be adopted via rote learning and requires out-of-the-box thinking. Considering the CAT exam is the first and most crucial step to getting into 20 IIMs and around 100 B-schools, it’s not surprising that the competition is immense. According to Careers 360, more than two lakh candidates have applied for this examination in 2019.

One of the most reputed entrance exams, CAT is challenging to crack; however, with a little perseverance and hard work, passing with a high score in this exam is not impossible. It is crucial to use smart tricks while preparing for this exam, instead of relying on conventional studying methods and beaten-down methods learnt from textbooks. Keeping this in mind, all aspiring CAT takers have their strategy when it comes to preparing for this exam, and there is no right or wrong way to crack this test while some may choose to learn through books and prepare for the exam themselves or opt for online CAT coaching classes.

If you’re one of those who have decided to skip the infamous CAT coaching route and have taken upon the responsibility of preparing yourself, here are the top 5 tips that could help you succeed in this exam:

1. Know What You Should Study For

The first thing you need to do after you have decided to take the CAT exam is to get an in-depth understanding of the pattern of the paper and the syllabus. Generally, this MBA entrance exam is in a multi-choice format, which tests your knowledge in four primary areas; Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Sometimes, the exam would also include a section for General Knowledge. Multiple sites provide information on what type of questions you could expect by analyzing the previous years’ papers. You could refer to such sites.

2. Know When You Should Study What

Once you know what you’re studying for, you need to create a time-table that dictates what you should study when. Before this, it is recommended to take a mock-test for you to gauge your existing knowledge and which subjects you’re well-versed with and in which you need more improvement. After this, distribute your time among each section, depending on which area you need the most work in versus the one in which you need the least. You must stick to this schedule as procrastination doesn’t work well when it comes to the CAT exam.

3. Know What You’re Prepared For

Once you have reached mid-way in your preparation, it is recommended to start taking mock tests. These are tests that help to condition your mind to work under pressure, and it also enables you to understand if you’re able to grasp the topics that you’ve studied for adequately and how much more effort you need to invest in to be prepared. It is recommended to take at least 30 mock tests before the final CAT exam. After you take a mock test, you should also analyze your results and make changes to your time-table accordingly if required, depending on how you perform in your mock test.

4. Know Your Speed

Time management is an essential aspect when it comes to CAT; however, most candidates often forget to prepare for it! As students are not prepared to deal with the pressure of taking the exam and are stressed about completing on time, they often select the wrong answer even though they know the right one. Hence, you should try to increase your speed of thinking and accuracy by attempting different questions in a time limit that is lesser than the limit in the actual exam.

5. Know Successful CAT Takers & Aspirants

Another great strategy that has worked well in the past is to build connections with people who have scored well in the CAT exam previously. They can give you personal advice that could prove extremely useful while giving the exam. Moreover, you could also seek their guidance for topics where you have doubts. You can easily connect with these people on social media; for example, there are multiple groups on Facebook with aspiring CAT takers and a few successful CAT takers, who share information and relevant material.

In conclusion, all you need to do is be disciplined while preparing and work on building and increasing your knowledge. Understand your weaknesses and work on overcoming them.
Lastly, regardless of how you decide to prepare for your exam, there is a straightforward strategy everyone should follow is to stay positive! At that point of the exam, everything is practically out of your control, but you can still control and attitude towards your test, which can work wonders for you. After all, if you believe in yourself, anything is possible!