They say, “Well begun is half done“, and it could not have been more aptly out for CAT aspirants. Though there is no substitute for hardwork, I believe it’s more of smart work that is crucial for your success in CAT. To crack CAT and to become a successful manager, one needs to put in a systematic and planned effort. In my view, there are 2 parts of CAT preparation that you must think through, especially when you start, in order to make the most of your preparation:

First part (written exam preparation)

CAT checks you on clarity of basic fundamentals and application of concepts. So, first of all, gauge your level by taking a diagnostic test (SWOT Analysis) and find out your strengths and weaknesses in all the 3 sections.

1)          Verbal Ability (English)

It is a common observation that people who read a lot are good at this section. So, the first few months should be devoted exclusively to reading and reading “critically and diversely”. For example: Reading editorials (preferably online), start with Novels preferably e-books so that you inculcate the habit of reading online.

Start working on your vocabulary by referring to a dictionary regularly or you can start with “Word power made Easy.” You should go through Guru Fundae books or Wren and Martin to improve your Grammar concepts and the “English usage section.”

2)          Quantitative Analysis (Maths)

Instead of focusing on Tricks and Tips, focus on fundamentals and basic concepts as CAT is about small twists in basic fundas. So, go through the guru fundae books. One should be familiar with numbers and basic formulae. Initially, don’t worry about speed as it will follow with clarity of concepts.

3)          Data Analysis (Reasoning)

I believe mind is like a muscle. As regular exercise is important for our body, similarly, regular practice is important for our mind. Try to solve puzzles, sudoku etc.

One should be familiar with all the different kinds of sets like Venn diagrams, Pie chart, Bar charts etc. Be comfortable and quick with percentages etc.

Second part (broader perspective)

Is your aim only to clear written exam? No. You want to become a good manager. So, what are the skills of a good manager?

i)          Inquisitive Nature/observation

ii)          Analytical skills

iii)         Communication skills

So, do you ever think while taking a Metro – Why it exists? Why do we prefer it? Is it a success or not? If yes, how? What goes behind? How do they make profit? How do they earn by these food joints or advertisements at metro stations? How we can make it more efficient?

Do you participate and listen to debates and group discussions? Have you ever participated in an intellectual debate?

If not, then start Today, inculcate it…..Form a perspective….It will not only help you in clearing GDs and PIs but also help you in the longer run, in life.

- ASHISH RANA

Ashish is one of the youngest and most passionate CAT trainers at MBAGuru, India’s fastest growing CAT Coaching Institute! And it is these qualities that make him a favorite among MBAGuru students across Delhi centres. Extremely approachable and ever-so-polite, his demeanor proves extremely effective when it comes to helping MBAGuru students learn the nuances of English and communication.