Candidates preparing for the upcoming CAT 2024 exam often face confusion regarding the best approach to their preparation. Each year, thousands of fresh graduates and experienced professionals from various fields participate in the exam, vying for spots at prestigious institutions like the IIMs, known for their rigorous academic standards and exceptional placement opportunities. Preparing for the CAT requires a significant commitment of time and effort, as aspirants must balance their study schedules with other responsibilities.
Success in the CAT can lead to transformative career opportunities across diverse sectors, including consulting, finance, marketing, and operations. MBA graduates often find themselves in strategic decision-making roles, enjoying substantial career growth and attractive salary packages. The competitive nature of the CAT reflects the high regard in which an MBA is held within the Indian job market, making it a sought-after qualification for those looking to advance their careers.
The journey from preparation to graduation highlights the importance of perseverance and strategic planning in achieving career aspirations.
To illustrate this journey, we bring to you the experience of CAT topper Mohammad Mouzzam, who successfully navigated the challenges of CAT preparation and secured a coveted spot at one of India’s premier business schools, IIM Lucknow. His detailed account offers valuable insights into the strategies, dedication, and perseverance required to excel in the CAT exam and achieve success at a top-tier institution.
Background, Education, and CAT Scores
I am from a city in Jharkhand that is recognised as the cultural capital of the state. I earned my BBA in Marketing in 2021 and subsequently joined TCS, where I worked for less than a year. I then took the CAT in 2022, which was my first attempt, and successfully secured a spot at IIM Lucknow. I am currently in my first year at the institute. In the CAT 2022, I achieved a score of approximately 72-point-something, with an overall percentile of 97.32 and over 93 percentile in each of the three sections.
Preparation Strategy for CAT
From the beginning, I knew I had only one attempt, so I gave it my all. I started by reviewing all past years’ papers and going through the syllabus in detail. Clarity on the syllabus was crucial because many aspirants get entangled in unnecessary content. I focused solely on what was relevant for the exam.
I followed a daily routine that included attending live classes 3 to 4 times a week and participating in practice sessions 6 to 7 times weekly. My routine was well-balanced, focusing equally on VARC, DILR, and QA. For the first 3 to 4 months, I concentrated on completing the syllabus thoroughly. During this time, I also practised questions from past years to understand the patterns and areas of focus.
Recommended Preparation Duration and Time Commitment
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for preparation duration as it varies for each individual. Some students are in their final year of college, while others are already working. For me, while working at TCS, I dedicated 3 to 4 hours daily to preparation. In the last 2 to 3 months before the exam, I resigned from my job and focused entirely on preparation, spending 8 to 10 hours daily. It is important to tailor the preparation based on individual strengths and weaknesses. For those who are not strong in basics, dedicating the initial months to building a solid foundation is crucial. The final months should be used for mock analysis and for practising past year’s papers.
Challenges in Preparation: Tough and Easy Sections
I found VARC to be the toughest section because I often struggled to choose the right answers despite having the correct logic. On the other hand, QA was relatively easier for me due to my strong background in mathematics from school and college. I focused extensively on improving my VARC skills during the initial months of preparation.
Recommended Books and Resources
For QA and DILR, I found Arun Sharma’s books useful. For VARC, I didn’t rely on any specific books as online resources were more effective and readily available. While some might find books helpful, online platforms provided me with the necessary content and practice.
Typical Preparation Day and Managing Burnout
When I was working, my day began with my job, which ended around 5 or 6 PM. After work, I would spend 2 hours on live lectures and 2 hours on practice sessions. On days when I wasn’t working, I dedicated around 8 to 10 hours to preparation, including late-night practice sessions. Managing burnout was essential. I took minor breaks, such as watching a movie or spending time with friends, but kept the CAT preparation at the centre of my focus. Taking brief breaks helped avoid burnout and maintain a steady flow in preparation.
Mock Tests and Analysis
I took around 20 to 25 full-length mocks. The focus was on quality rather than quantity. After each mock, I spent 2 to 3 hours analysing my performance in detail, identifying mistakes, and understanding where improvements were needed. This analysis was crucial for improving performance in subsequent mocks.
Strategy for Exam Day
Controlling nerves on the exam day is crucial. I simulated exam conditions during mock tests by ensuring a distraction-free environment. This helped me develop the confidence needed for the actual exam. Treating the exam as just another mock test rather than a final, high-stakes event helped in managing stress.
Advice for Future CAT Aspirants
For those preparing for CAT this year, it is important to create a timeline and track progress regularly. Developing a structured plan and sticking to it will help in managing the vast syllabus effectively. Engage with available resources, be it online or offline, and avoid relying solely on any single person or source. Regularly assess performance and adjust the study plan as needed.
Future Career Aspirations
As a first-year MBA student at IIM Lucknow, I am currently focused on the marketing domain and am interested in starting my career with major marketing firms in India such as ITC and HUL. My goal is to use the next 12 to 14 months to engage with bright minds, develop a deep understanding of business, and make the most of my MBA experience.
Criteria for Choosing a B-School
When selecting a B-school, it is essential to consider the alignment of the institution’s strengths with your career goals. Engaging with current students or alumni can provide valuable insights. Ensure that the school offers opportunities in your area of interest and has a strong placement record in that field. It is important to choose a school where you can achieve your personal and professional goals rather than focusing solely on rankings.
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