Anisha has done MBA in Marketing from NMIMS And Executive Management(PMNO) from Harvard Business School. She has been instrumental in growing CATKing Digital with her experience with Marico and Henkel in the past.
Conquer CAT: A Step-by-Step Guide to Begin Your CAT Preparation
Starting CAT preparation can feel overwhelming. With vast syllabi, intense competition, and constantly evolving exam patterns, many aspirants struggle with one simple question — where do I begin?
This updated guide breaks down CAT preparation into clear, actionable steps, helping beginners and repeaters start their journey with clarity, confidence, and structure.
Step 1: Understand the CAT Exam Pattern First
Before opening a book or joining a test series, it is essential to understand what CAT actually tests.
The CAT exam consists of three sections:
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Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
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Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
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Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Recent CAT exams have shown:
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Fewer but more logic-intensive questions
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Increased emphasis on reading comprehension and reasoning
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High importance of time management and question selection
Understanding the pattern helps you avoid random preparation and focus on what truly matters.
Step 2: Assess Your Current Level Honestly
CAT preparation is highly individual. Your background, strengths, and weaknesses decide how you should start.
Ask yourself:
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Am I comfortable with basic mathematics?
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Do I read regularly?
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Can I interpret charts and logical puzzles calmly?
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How much time can I realistically dedicate daily?
A simple diagnostic test or sectional assessment can help identify where you stand before creating a study plan.
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Step 3: Build Strong Fundamentals Section-Wise
VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension)
Start with:
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Daily reading of editorials and long articles
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Understanding passage structure rather than speed
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Practising verbal questions like para-jumbles and summaries
Strong comprehension skills matter more than memorised vocabulary.
DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning)
Focus on:
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Understanding set structures
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Practising basic tables, graphs, and puzzles
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Learning how to select the right sets instead of solving all
Consistency is key in DILR — small daily practice leads to major improvement.
Quantitative Aptitude
Begin with:
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Arithmetic topics such as percentages, ratios, averages, and time-work
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Clear understanding of concepts rather than shortcuts
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Gradual increase in difficulty
Accuracy and clarity are more important than speed at this stage.
Step 4: Create a Realistic Daily Study Routine
A sustainable routine works better than aggressive plans.
For working professionals:
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2–3 focused hours on weekdays
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Sectional practice and revision on weekends
For full-time students:
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4–5 hours daily with balanced sectional coverage
The goal is regular progress, not burnout.
Step 5: Start Sectional Tests Early
Waiting to “finish the syllabus” before testing is outdated advice.
Sectional tests help:
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Apply concepts under time pressure
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Identify weak areas early
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Improve accuracy and confidence
At this stage, scores do not matter — learning does.
Step 6: Introduce Full-Length Mock Tests Gradually
Mock tests are the backbone of CAT preparation.
Recent trends show that CAT rewards:
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Smart question selection
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Calm decision-making
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Adaptability under pressure
Mocks should be followed by deep analysis:
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Why did you skip certain questions?
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Why did mistakes happen?
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Was time managed effectively?
One well-analysed mock is more valuable than multiple unanalysed ones.
Step 7: Track Progress and Refine Strategy
As preparation progresses:
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Strengthen strong areas
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Reduce repeated mistakes
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Maintain sectional cut-off safety
Avoid constant strategy changes. Minor adjustments work better than complete overhauls.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
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Starting preparation without understanding the exam
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Ignoring VARC or DILR assuming they are unpredictable
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Comparing mock scores with others
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Studying without revision
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Panicking after bad mocks
CAT preparation is a process, not a one-time effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I start preparing for CAT?
You can start CAT preparation anytime between 6 to 12 months before the exam, depending on your familiarity with concepts and daily time availability.
Is CAT preparation possible without coaching?
Yes. Many aspirants successfully crack CAT through self-study using the right resources, mock tests, and disciplined planning.
How many hours should I study daily for CAT?
Consistency matters more than hours. Even 2–3 focused hours daily can be sufficient if used effectively.
Do I need to be strong in maths to crack CAT?
No. CAT tests logic and application, not advanced mathematics. Strong fundamentals and smart selection are enough.
How important are mock tests in CAT preparation?
Mock tests are crucial. They help build exam temperament, time management skills, and decision-making ability.
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