With the change of CAT 2015 pattern and not enough time left to redirect the preparation strategies, all one needs to do now is analyze the study plan and stay calm. CAT is not difficult; with the new pattern it’s just tricky.
As per the new CAT 2015 pattern, there will be 3 sections namely Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Verbal and Reading Comprehension with 34 questions each in QA and VA & RC, and 32 in DI & LR. Further, all the questions are not MCQs; this time aspirants also need to write answers manually. Also, shuffling between the sections is not permitted which conveys that aspirants would not have a choice to solve questions in a random manner. Keeping the new pattern in mind, here are a few basic tips for preparation:
1. Mock tests: Taking mock tests is very important as it will familiarize aspirants with the new pattern and after a few attempts one can perfectly plan his or her strategy. Mock tests are usually difficult than the CAT exam, one must not be de-motivated on scoring low. There are many mock tests available online which also provide analyzed results that are helpful for error analysis.
2. Weakness and strengths: With not enough time left, it is crucial to focus on the weak areas and also sharpen strong skills.. All the sections should be covered properly especially, the first section that comprises of only quant i.e. math and cannot be neglected any longer. After analyzing weaknesses and strengths it would be easier to make a section-wise study plan.
3. Time management: The total test is of 180 minutes and each section is allotted 60 minutes. One needs to utilize that 1 hour effectively. After solving the test, if aspirants are left with some time, revising and going through questions is recommended.
4. For Verbal Ability and Reading comprehension: Reading is very important. Try reading newspapers such as The Hindu or The Economic Times and books of different genres such as autobiographies, science, history etc. While reading try making a list of new words and find their meaning. Also, summarize certain articles and novels you find relevant.
5. For Quantitative Ability: Try and cover at least basics of all the topics in this section. One can use school level books for this such as NCERT and R.S Aggarwal. Also, speeding up calculations by learning multiplication tables, percentage tables, and trigonometry tables can turn the tables for CAT aspirants
So gear up now. Stay focused but not stressed. All the Best!
As per the new CAT 2015 pattern, there will be 3 sections namely Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Verbal and Reading Comprehension with 34 questions each in QA and VA & RC, and 32 in DI & LR. Further, all the questions are not MCQs; this time aspirants also need to write answers manually. Also, shuffling between the sections is not permitted which conveys that aspirants would not have a choice to solve questions in a random manner. Keeping the new pattern in mind, here are a few basic tips for preparation:
1. Mock tests: Taking mock tests is very important as it will familiarize aspirants with the new pattern and after a few attempts one can perfectly plan his or her strategy. Mock tests are usually difficult than the CAT exam, one must not be de-motivated on scoring low. There are many mock tests available online which also provide analyzed results that are helpful for error analysis.
2. Weakness and strengths: With not enough time left, it is crucial to focus on the weak areas and also sharpen strong skills.. All the sections should be covered properly especially, the first section that comprises of only quant i.e. math and cannot be neglected any longer. After analyzing weaknesses and strengths it would be easier to make a section-wise study plan.
3. Time management: The total test is of 180 minutes and each section is allotted 60 minutes. One needs to utilize that 1 hour effectively. After solving the test, if aspirants are left with some time, revising and going through questions is recommended.
4. For Verbal Ability and Reading comprehension: Reading is very important. Try reading newspapers such as The Hindu or The Economic Times and books of different genres such as autobiographies, science, history etc. While reading try making a list of new words and find their meaning. Also, summarize certain articles and novels you find relevant.
5. For Quantitative Ability: Try and cover at least basics of all the topics in this section. One can use school level books for this such as NCERT and R.S Aggarwal. Also, speeding up calculations by learning multiplication tables, percentage tables, and trigonometry tables can turn the tables for CAT aspirants
So gear up now. Stay focused but not stressed. All the Best!