Updated on 10th April 2023, 3:14 pm

CAT Preparation: Start from Scratch

Once you have decided to prepare for CAT, devising a plan to study effectively and ace CAT 2023 is essential. Going into preparations headfirst, without a plan, will result in time wastage. Instead, follow a systematic strategy to familiarize yourself with the exam, get the guidance required, and build a preparation strategy.

Here are a few tips that will help you begin your journey:

• Review the syllabus and exam pattern: Before beginning your CAT preparation, understand the sections, questions, and syllabus that must be covered. Also, identify the most common and scoring topics.
• Choose to enroll in a program or self-study: Once you are familiar with the goals you need to achieve and the kind of paper you must crack, choose which form of preparation is best for you. Coaching will help you strategically cover the syllabus while also providing you with the resources and practice material. On the other hand, studying by yourself can allow you to go at your own pace and formulate your strategies.
• Make a study plan: Consistency is key. Thus, make a timetable for your CAT preparations so that you practice and cover the syllabus daily. A study plan will help you reach the short-term goals of studying the topics and brushing up on your basics.
• Select your study material: If you are choosing to self-study, pick out your study materials carefully. While you can find a plethora of books for CAT preparation, do your homework and pick books that align with your preparation level and plan.
• Focus on the sections individually: Improve your vocabulary, grammar, and reading speed by getting into the habit of reading books, magazines, and newspapers. As the DILR section is the most unfamiliar, you can start with solving magazine puzzles. For building the basics of mathematics, use the CBSE books from school.

As you move ahead in your preparation, start attempting mocks and analyzing them to observe your progress and identify sections that require improvement. A good exam strategy is required to ace CAT 2023, so build on your strengths and make a plan that works best for you.