CAT 2023 | Proven Syllabus, Strategy And Books

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a competitive examination. The exam takes place for admission into the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. The syllabus, strategy, and recommended books for CAT 2023 can impact a candidate's preparation and performance on the exam.

This article will provide an overview, such as

  • CAT 2023 syllabus,
  • Discuss practical strategies for tackling the exam,
  • Recommend a list of books to aid in preparation.

With the right approach and resources, candidates can feel confident and well-prepared as they embark on the journey to secure a spot at one of India's premier business schools.

CAT 2023 | Proven Syllabus, Strategy And Books

Cat Exam syllabus for 2023

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based test. That assesses a candidate's aptitude for management education. The CAT exam syllabus tests a candidate's knowledge in three main areas.

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

This section tests a candidate's ability to understand written English. Such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and sentence construction.

  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

This section tests a candidate's ability to interpret and analyze data presented in various forms, such as tables, graphs, and charts, and their ability to reason logically and critically.

  • Quantitative Ability (QA)

This section tests a candidate's mathematical and quantitative abilities, which include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic statistics.

Check out the table for a better understanding;

Syllabus Topic Weightage
Reading Comprehension RC passages Almost 16 questions in the VARC section are based on RCs.
Verbal Ability Questions like Para jumbles, Summary Based and Sentence exclusion. Questions - 8 to 10
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Seating Arrangement, DI-based reasoning, Grid-Based DI, Graphs. Tables, Data Caselets An almost equal number of sets are from DI and LR.
Quantitative Ability Number System, Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic, Mensuration. Arithmetic and Algebra dominate the section, with nearly 8 questions from each area.

The CAT exam has two parts:

  • The first is the multiple-choice questions (MCQs),
  • The second is the Non-MCQs (TITA).

Seven strategies to crack CAT 2023

Cracking the CAT 2023 exam requires a solid understanding of the syllabus, consistent practice and effective strategies. Here are some strategies that can help you crack the CAT 2023 exam:

  1. Understand the syllabus

Familiarize yourself with the CAT 2023 syllabus and the questions that will be asked in the exam. Make a study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus.

  1. Practice, practice, practice

Consistent practice is the key to success in the CAT 2023 exam. Attempt as many practice papers and mock tests as possible. This will help you to become familiar with the exam format and to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

  1. Time Management

Time management is crucial in the CAT 2023 exam. Make sure you can manage your time during the exam. Prioritise the questions and attempt them accordingly.

  1. Learn to read critically

The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT 2023 exam tests a candidate's ability to understand written English. Develop your reading skills by reading various materials, including newspapers, magazines, and books.

  1. Learn to interpret data

The Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of the CAT 2023 exam tests a candidate's ability to interpret and analyze data. Practice solving different types of data interpretation questions to improve your skills.

  1. Learn the basics of mathematics

The Quantitative Ability (QA) section of the CAT 2023 exam tests a candidate's mathematical and quantitative abilities. Brush up on the basic concepts of mathematics. Practice solving problems in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.

  1. Take care of your health:

Last but not least, take care of your health and well-being. Get enough sleep, exercise, and eat a healthy diet. This will help keep you focused and energized while preparing for the CAT 2023 exam.

Books for CAT 2023

Many books are available to help candidates prepare for the CAT 2023 exam. Some of the recommended books for the CAT 2023 exam include:

  • Books for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT
Books Author Importance
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT Arun Sharma
  • This book comprehensively covers the mathematical concepts tested in the CAT exam.
  • Practice questions and problem-solving strategies.
Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT Nishit K. Sinha
  • The book covers various topics such as number systems, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and data interpretation.
  • It provides detailed
explanations, solved examples, and practice problems.
  • It also comes along with a CD drive.
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations R.S. Aggarwal
  • The book covers various quantitative aptitude topics, including number systems, algebra, trigonometry, geometry, mensuration, and data interpretation.
  • It is designed to help students prepare for a wide range of competitive exams, including CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, and other MBA entrance exams.
  • The book includes detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice problems.
  • Books for Verbal Ability and Reading for the CAT
Books Author Importance
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
  • Book that helps students prepare for the verbal ability and reading comprehension sections of the CAT.
  • The book covers various topics such as grammar, vocabulary, sentence completion, analogies, synonyms and antonyms, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning.
  • It provides detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice problems to help students improve their verbal ability and reading comprehension skills.
  • tips and strategies for tackling the verbal ability and reading comprehension sections of the CAT exam.
Mastering the Verbal Ability for CAT Ajay Singh
  • Book designed to help students prepare for the Verbal Ability section of the CAT.
  • grammar, vocabulary, sentence completion, analogies, synonyms and antonyms, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning.
  • It provides detailed explanations and solved examples.
  • The book also includes tips and strategies for tackling the verbal ability section of the CAT exam and full-length practice tests.
  • Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation
Books Author Importance
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT Nishant K Sinha This book comprehensively covers the logical reasoning and data interpretation concepts tested in the CAT exam, with practice questions and solutions.
How to Prepare for the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning for the CAT Arun Sharma
  • The book covers various topics, such as data interpretation, logical reasoning, and data sufficiency.
  • It provides detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice problems.
  • The book also includes tips and strategies for tackling the data interpretation and logical reasoning sections of the CAT exam and full-length practice tests to help students prepare for the exam.

Other books for CAT preparation

  • CAT 2021 - 202 - The Official Guide by IIM Indore

This book is the official guide to the CAT exam. It contains previous years' question papers, section-wise strategy and a detailed explanation of the CAT exam pattern. The book was published by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore.

  • CAT (Common Admission Test) by Tata McGraw-Hill

This book provides comprehensive coverage of the syllabus for the CAT exam. It also includes practice questions and solutions for each section.

  • The Pearson Guide to the CAT by Edgar Thorpe

This book covers all the aspects of the CAT exam. Focusing on problem-solving strategies and time management.

Here are some of the books recommended by our experts. But it is always better to practice with the previous year's question papers and mocks. Also, refer to the books mentioned below:

Books Author
High School English & Grammar Wren & Martin
Word Power Made Easy Norman Lewis
Newspapers & Magazines The Economic Times, The Hindu, The Times, The Frontline, Outlook Business
NCERT Books NCERT

Conclusion

CAT 2023 exam is a challenging but enriching opportunity for those seeking an MBA from one of India's top business schools.

A comprehensive understanding of the syllabus and applying proven strategies can significantly enhance a candidate's performance on the exam.

Utilising the recommended books as a part of the preparation process can provide valuable insights and strategies.

By following these guidelines, candidates can increase their chances of success and take a step closer to securing a spot at a prestigious business school.

It's important to remember that CAT is one of many ways to get into IIMs. There are other options like NMAT, XAT and GMAT. It's always better to have a plan B.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who will set the CAT 2023 paper?

Ans. IIM Lucknow will be conducting the CAT 2023 examination.

Q2. Is three months enough to prepare for CAT?

Ans. Yes, Three months of dedicated preparation is enough for the CAT. But applicants need to keep up with their studies. Or need more experience with the types of questions on the test. They must refer to the above strategies and books for better preparation.

Q3. Is the CAT syllabus the same every year?

Ans. The syllabus for the CAT is generally consistent from year to year, with the main focus being on

  • Verbal Ability,
  • Reading Comprehension,
  • Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation.

But, the IIMs who conduct the CAT may make some adjustments to the syllabus or the format of the exam from year to year.

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