The CAT exam can be a daunting challenge for many aspirants, but with the right approach, consistency, and strategy, you can make your journey smoother and more productive. Suvam Debnath, a 99.52 percentile scorer in CAT 2023, shares his key insights and strategies for acing the exam to help you recheck on your prep before the exam details. Based on his preparation journey, here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you in the final days leading up to CAT 2024.
1. Stay Consistent with Your Preparation
Consistency is key in CAT preparation, as Suvam highlights. It’s not about cramming at the last minute but about maintaining steady progress over time. Even if you’re working full-time, as Suvam did while balancing a job at SBI, dedicating time daily is crucial. Aim for at least 1-2 hours of focused study daily, even if it’s just on weekdays. The earlier you start, the more room you’ll have for revision in the final stretch.
2. Practice with Mocks – But Don’t Overdo It
Mocks are vital to assessing your strengths and weaknesses. Suvam, who took exams from platforms like Cracku, IMS, and Career Launcher, advises taking regular mocks but emphasises quality over quantity. While you may feel compelled to take as many mocks as possible, it’s more important to learn from each one. After each mock, focus on analysing your mistakes and improving on those areas rather than getting discouraged by a low score.
Key Tip:
If you’re scoring low in mocks, stay calm and keep moving forward. It’s more about building consistency than chasing perfect scores right away.
3. Master the Basics
Suvam’s approach was simple—he focused on mastering the basics and didn’t dive into complicated problems. For Quantitative Ability (QA), Data Interpretation (DI), and Verbal Ability (VA), focus on clearing your fundamentals. Once the basics are strong, you can refine your speed and accuracy, which are crucial for success.
Suvam practised regularly in the Verbal Reasoning and Reading Comprehension sections, even when his mock scores were low. He trusted his methods for eliminating options and worked on his reading speed.
4. Plan Your Time Effectively
Time management during preparation and on exam day is non-negotiable. Suvam’s advice to students juggling work and studies is to dedicate at least two hours each morning to mocks and analysis. The key is not to try to do everything in one day but to spread out the effort over weeks and months. Also, keep some flexibility—sometimes you’ll have to study less or more depending on your schedule, but keep your efforts consistent.
5. Have a Backup Plan
CAT preparation can be stressful, especially if you are unsure about how your score will turn out. Suvam recommends maintaining a backup plan to alleviate the pressure. Whether you’re already working or exploring other academic paths, knowing there are other opportunities will ease your mind and help you perform better.
6. Focus on Speed and Accuracy
In the exam, speed is essential, particularly in the Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability sections. Suvam emphasises that, while understanding the concepts is critical, improving your speed at solving questions is what will make the difference on exam day. Work on answering questions quickly and accurately.
7. Revise Lightly in the Last Week
The week before the exam should not be about last-minute cramming. Suvam recommends keeping your revision light. You’re unlikely to learn anything new at this stage, so focus on relaxation and calming any nerves. Only take three mocks in the final week and avoid overwhelming yourself with new materials or theories.
Key Tip:
Take time to relax and clear your mind in the final days before the exam—stress and fatigue won’t help.
8. Prepare for the Unexpected
Sometimes, things might not go as planned—whether it’s work, personal life, or just an off day. Don’t stress. Suvam’s story of preparing for CAT while managing a crucial office exam just two days before the CAT exam day is a reminder that life happens, and you can’t always control every aspect. Focus on your long-term goal, and stay adaptable.
9. Stay Positive and Confident
It’s normal to feel nervous or even frustrated during the preparation. The journey can seem long and exhausting, but Suvam encourages students to stay positive. Even if things aren’t going as expected, believe in your preparation and keep pushing forward. And most importantly, don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself.
Key Tip:
Stay confident and keep reminding yourself that there’s always another opportunity if you don’t perform as expected.
10. Final Thought: Keep Your Mind in the Right Place
As Suvam wisely notes, entering the exam hall with a calm mind is just as important as preparation. If you’re nervous about the outcome, remember there are always more opportunities. This mindset can help you focus and perform your best on exam day.
By following this checklist, you’ll have a structured and focused approach as you prepare for CAT 2024. Whether you’re just starting or in the final weeks, Suvam Debnath’s success story is proof that consistent effort, a smart strategy, and confidence can help you achieve your goals. Best of luck with your CAT journey!
Stay connected with PaGaLGuY for more helpful content on international admissions and student life. Website: www.pagalguy.com, Follow us on social media for updates and tips on your study abroad journey!