CAT Exam Preparation Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Interviewing successful CAT candidates to understand their strategies.
• Importance of understanding the motivation behind pursuing an MBA.
• Emphasizing aiming for top business schools and achieving high percentiles.
• CAT perceived as difficult; requires strategic preparation and focus.

Planning and Time Management

• Time Calculation: 6 months = ~180-190 days.
  • Study 2 hours daily = 380 hours.
  • Add 4-5 hours on weekends for better preparation.
• Goal Setting: Aim for 95-99 percentile in CAT.

Understanding the CAT Exam

• Structure:
  • 2-hour exam with three sections: Verbal Ability, LRDI (Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation), and Quantitative Aptitude.
  • Total 68 questions; recent changes from 66.
• Target Scores: Need 50% marks to achieve a high percentile.

60 Days Challenge

• Phase 1 (First 2 months):
  • Focus on foundational topics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning.
  • Begin with LOD (Level of Difficulty) 1.
  • Start mock tests after initial preparation.
• Phase 2 & 3:
  • Continue incrementally building on knowledge and practicing exams.
  • Weekly revisions and target-setting.

Importance of Mock Tests

• Essential for understanding exam pattern and self-assessment.
• Begin mocks early to familiarize with exam structure.
• Helps in identifying strong and weak areas.

Key Study Areas and Strategy

• Verbal Ability: Focus on Reading Comprehension, Para-jumbles, Odd One Out, and Para-summary.
• Quantitative Aptitude: Prioritize Arithmetic and Algebra as they form a large part of the exam.
  • Geometry and other math sections to follow.
• Data Interpretation:
  • Understand basics of pie charts, bar graphs, and data interpretation.
  • Practice a variety of DILR questions to gain confidence.

Study Schedule

• Daily practice of DI, LR, and RC.
• Alternate between various sections to prevent burnout.
  • Example: One day focus on DI/LR, next day on Quant.
• Revise on weekends; follow a structured schedule like the CATKing Family approach.

Courses and Resources

• CATKing Offerings:
  • Turbo Course: Includes dashboard, mock series; cost around 19,000 INR.
  • Intensive Course: Includes SNAP and NMAT preparation.
• Recommendation for intensive preparation and self-study.
  • SNAP exam seen as easier alternative.

Motivation and Mentorship

• Importance of having a mentor or guide in your preparation.
• Stay connected with your mentors and use their resources effectively.
• Encouragement to stay motivated and work hard.

Conclusion

• Commitment to preparation is key to success in CAT.
• Set clear goals, follow a structured plan, and utilize available resources.
• Stay motivated and aim high to make yourself and your family proud.