Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam

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key points to know before Applying for the cat exam

Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam: It is always better to know before you leap into the competitive domain of the CAT exam. Many candidates commit the mistake of following the trend and end up giving the CAT exam without proper knowledge.

It is better to do your homework before dedicating precious time of your youthful days to this exam. CAT is an aptitude-based test conducted for admission into Management studies.

Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam

More than 2 lakh aspirants give the CAT Exam each year, though only a few get the call from the top IIMs. Hence, it is advisable to know what you are getting into. Here are some crucial points to remember before applying for the CAT Exam.

A Brief into the CAT Exam:

The CAT Exam is an online computer-based test of 3 hours. The three major sections of the exam are Quant, DI & LR, and English and Reading Comprehension. A total of 100 questions are asked, a correct answer is awarded 3 marks, and a wrong answer is given a penalty of 1 mark. An online Calculator is also allowed during the examination.

Questions Asked in the CAT Exam are Application-Based

CAT exam is more of an aptitude examination that tests your problem-solving skills. One needs to have a strong basic understanding of fundamental concepts to clear the examination. You will have to learn how to apply concepts rather than just mugging up formulas and short tricks.

  • Choose Wisely: From the preparation days till the exam day, you will have to develop the knack of choosing things wisely. When you begin your preparation, choosing the right CAT Books is important similarly in the examination hall, choosing the right questions is pivotal. It is crucial to avoid tricky and hard questions which aren’t your cup of tea. The same goes for your CAT study material- So, if you want to ace this examination, develop a knack for making wise decisions.
  • Test of Accuracy”In the CAT exam, more than the attempts, accuracy matters. You can have a less percentile with more attempts and a high percentile with low attempts depending on your accuracy in the exam. Accuracy can’t be learned or acquired; it can be achieved only through practice. So, right from your preparation days, try to be focused on having high accuracy during the mock tests.
  • Dynamic Marking Scheme of the Exam: The CAT exam doesn’t have a traditional marking scheme. It has a dynamic marking system that includes various factors like difficulty level, the number of people attempting a question, accuracy, etc. Most of the questions asked are in MCQ form and have a negative marking. But, non-MCQ questions do not have a negative marking. Of all the factors, accuracy is the most determining factor for getting a high percentile.
  • Sectional Cut-offs for IIMs: Many candidates score a high percentile of 98+ but still don’t receive a call from the IIMs. The reason behind it is the sectional Cut-offs. It means you will have to pass the minimum sectional cut-offs and score a good percentile at the same time to get a call from the Top IIMs.
  • Don’t Skip the Analysis of the Mock Tests: Half of your Cat preparation is mock tests themselves. But what is more important is to analyse those mock tests. Solving previous year’s papers and mock tests will give you a fair idea about the CAT Important Topics. You will need to master these important topics as well as work on your weaknesses. Try to take as many mocks as you can; once you have completed your syllabus.

The CAT exam might be one of the most demanding exams in India. But, if you follow these simple tips, it will become simpler for you to get through the CAT exam with flying colours.

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