How to Crack CAT Exam Without Coaching: Proven Self-Study Strategies
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If the question “How to crack CAT exam without coaching,” giving you sleepless nights, you are at the right place. Preparing for CAT at home is absolutely normal and taking coaching is not mandatory. The whole syllabus may seem overwhelming initially. Also, you may be filled with queries like how to start, where to start from, how to proceed with the study, and so on. We also do not deny the importance of the contribution of a physical mentor or teacher in the preparation. However, CAT study plan at home is something that aspirants are adopting nowadays, as it offers them the flexibility to do so at their own pace.Without much ado, let’s begin!
CAT Exam 2024: An Overview
Here is an overview of the CAT exam 2024, which will help you get a good idea about the details of the exam.
How to Crack CAT Exam Without Coaching: Self-Study Strategies
Now let’s delve deep into the self-study strategy for the CAT exam.
But before doing so, keep in mind that preparing for the CAT exam takes much attention and time. You should not expect to score high on this exam with only one month of study. Give yourself at least 4-6 months to get ready.
Here's a study plan with key strategies:
Plan Early
CAT preparation takes a significant amount of time. So don't be hasty. Instead, plan and give yourself 4-6 months to prepare.
CAT preparation does not consist of simply getting into the syllabus on the first day. You should take an organized approach, going over the CAT curriculum thoroughly, understanding its sections, getting a strong grasp of the exam format, and so on.
Plan ahead of time.
Understand the CAT Syllabus and the Exam Structure
The first phase in self-studying for CAT is to become acquainted with the curriculum and exam format. Without a teacher or coach to guide you, you'll have to study and comprehend these concepts on your own. However, an array of online and physical resources may be quite helpful.
The CAT curriculum is broken out into three sections: quantitative ability (QA), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR), and verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC). Each section demands dedicated focus and preparation time.
The table below shows the CAT exam pattern for each section.
Prepare Meticulously
Start with the Foundation
Getting your basics right is critical while preparing for the CAT. The exam will consist of tricky questions that will test your ability to apply information strategically. As a result, without a good knowledge of the fundamentals, you will be unable to approach complex problems confidently, pick the best response strategies, or avoid typical mistakes.
DILR: Start with simple puzzles, Venn diagrams, tables, and bar charts. Focus on logical thinking challenges to improve your analytical skills.
VARC: Read regularly from a variety of sources. Practice comprehension passages and review grammar and vocabulary.
Quantitative Ability (QA): Start with basic ideas like arithmetic and progress to algebra, geometry, and number systems.
Practice
Practicing diligently is the key to success. Break your practice session into the daily schedules and dedicate at least 5-7 hours to study:
2 hours: DILR
2 hours: Reading and VARC practice
2 hours: Quantitative Ability
1 hour: Revision of difficult areas and practice questions
Adjust the hours depending on your level of preparation. This is just an example.
Mock Tests
Once you've covered 70% of the CAT material, begin taking full-length mock examinations regularly or biweekly. Analyze your performance after each mock in detail. Work on areas that require improvement based on mock outcomes. As the test approaches, gradually raise the frequency of mocks to 2-3 each week.
Here are a few tips:
Pick the questions that consume the most time.
Look for speedier problem-solving strategies.
Focus on precision in areas of weakness.
Analyze and plan approaches for every section.
Begin boosting the accuracy rate while preserving the time limits.
General Tips
Time Management
Remember CAT is a time-bound exam. The total duration of the exam is 2 hours with 40 minutes dedicated to each section. Hence, practicing time management is crucial during the mock tests.
Speed and Accuracy
Speed is linked to time management. The better you manage your time, the faster you will be able to complete the exam. However, keep in mind that the accuracy rate is important. Because the CAT exam has negative markers for all MCQs, you must focus on boosting your accuracy when answering questions.
Your main goal should be to answer as many questions accurately as possible in the allotted 120 minutes (40 minutes per section).
Doubt Clarification
For doubt clarifications, use different resources available both online and offline. Refer to good CAT books, like the following:
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma
Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha
The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Nishit Sinha
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S.Agarwal, etc.
Online resources like YouTube channels on CAT exams, Cracku, InsideIIM, comprehensive CAT online coaching programs of T.I.M.E, 2IIM, etc. can also be referred to.
Track Progress
Conduct personal SWOT analysis after each simulated test, and maintain a notebook or Excel file to document your performances, progress in each section, and areas for development.
Consistency
Be consistent in your practice. CAT exam preparation requires time. So, avoid cramming information. Instead, maintain a study schedule and study and practice a small portion at a time. Be true to yourself when practicing.
Breaks
CAT preparation doesn't mean burying your face in books all the time. Take occasional breaks to avoid fatigue and monotony, but keep your rigorous mindset to never neglect your practice.
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