How to Build a Strong Study Routine for CAT Preparation

Preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) can be a daunting task, especially with the level of competition and the vast syllabus. At Career Launcher, Preet Vihar & South Ex, we guide aspirants with personalized study plans, mock tests, and expert mentoring to help them achieve their desired percentile. In this blog, we will not only give you a step-by-step study plan but also include sample CAT questions with answers to enhance your preparation.

1. Set Clear Goals and Deadlines

Before diving into preparation, define your target percentile and time available for preparation.
Steps to Goal-Setting:

• Research the cut-offs for IIMs and other top B-schools.
• Break your preparation into daily, weekly, and monthly targets.
• Regularly track your progress using mock tests and practice questions.

Example: If your goal is to score above the 95th percentile, focus on improving both speed and accuracy. Allocate more time to sections where you're scoring below average.

2. Sample Quantitative Ability Question

Question:
The ratio of income to expenditure of a person is 5:4. If his income increases by 20% and expenditure increases by 25%, find the percentage increase in his savings.

Solution:
Let the initial income = 500 units and expenditure = 400 units.

• Initial savings = $500-400=100$ units
• New income = $500+20\%\text{ of }500=600$ units
• New expenditure = $400+25\%\text{ of }400=500$ units
• New savings = $600-500=100$ units

Percentage increase in savings = (120−100)100×100=20%\frac{(120 - 100)}{100} \times 100 = 20\%100(120−100)×100=20%

3. Time Management is Key

Since CAT is a time-bound test, practice solving questions under timed conditions.
Suggested time allocation for sections:

• Quantitative Ability: 60 minutes
• Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): 60 minutes
• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): 60 minutes

4. Sample Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Question

Question:
Five friends—A, B, C, D, and E—are sitting in a row.

• A is to the immediate left of B.
• B is not at the extreme end.
• D is sitting between C and E.

Who is sitting at the extreme left?

Solution:

• Since B is not at the extreme end, assume B is in the second position.
• A is to the immediate left of B, so A is in the first position.
• D is between C and E. Therefore, the final arrangement is A, B, D, C, E.

Hence, A is sitting at the extreme left.

5. Practice Regularly and Analyze Mistakes

Regular practice is crucial to acing the CAT. However, just solving questions isn’t enough—you need to review your errors and learn from them.
Steps to Effective Practice:

• Solve 20–30 questions daily from each section.
• Keep an error log to track recurring mistakes and focus on improving those areas.
• Use official CAT guides and online resources for reliable practice material.

6. Sample Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Question

Question:
(Reading Comprehension Passage)
In the given passage, the author discusses the impacts of industrialization on the environment. He argues that while industrialization has increased economic growth, it has also led to environmental degradation.

Question: What is the main argument of the passage?
A) Industrialization is harmful to the environment.
B) Economic growth is necessary despite its environmental costs.
C) Industrialization leads to both economic growth and environmental issues.
D) Environmental protection should be prioritized over economic growth.

Answer: C) Industrialization leads to both economic growth and environmental issues.
Explanation: The author highlights both the positive and negative impacts of industrialization, making C the most appropriate answer.

7. Stay Consistent and Motivated

Consistency is the secret to success in CAT. Develop a study routine that works for you and stick to it. Stay motivated by rewarding yourself for achieving small milestones.

Motivational Quote:
“Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.”

8. Leverage Expert Guidance

At Career Launcher, Preet Vihar & South Ex, we offer:

• Personalized study plans tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.
• Mock tests that simulate the actual CAT experience.
• Interactive classes that focus on strategy, shortcuts, and concept clarity.

Final Words

Building a strong study routine for CAT requires strategic planning, consistent practice, and timely self-assessment. Incorporate these strategies into your preparation, and don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance when needed. Remember, with the right mindset and approach, you can achieve your dream percentile and secure admission to a top B-school.

Looking to boost your CAT preparation?
Visit Career Launcher, Preet Vihar & South Ex today and kickstart your journey toward CAT success!