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CAT Exam: How to Prepare With or Without Coaching in 2024?

CAT exam preparation, with or without coaching, has specific pros and cons. Know the details about CAT preparation with or without coaching to select the most suitable option.
authorImageAnil Solonki24 Apr, 2024
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How To CAT Prepare

CAT Exam Preparation With or Without Coaching: Choosing how to prepare for the CAT is a crucial decision that helps candidates enhance their chances of scoring good marks in the CAT. Many students opt for coaching classes, which streamline the learning process through dedicated courses. However, many candidates prefer self study for the flexibility it offers.

To make an optimum decision about the suitable preparation method for CAT, candidates must know the details about both the preparation methods for CAT.

CAT Exam Preparation With or Without Coaching Key Differences

Listed below are the key differences between CAT preparation with and without coaching classes:
CAT Exam Preparation With or Without Coaching Key Differences
Coaching Self-Study
Personalised focus on difficult topics. Limited to no expert guidance to understand challenging areas.
Availability of classroom discussion sessions. Candidates have to join online forums and study groups for discussion.
Fixed study schedules. Flexible study schedules.
Access to study materials and mock tests. Candidates have to search for study materials and mock tests.
Competitive environment promotes performance. Lacks competitive environment.
Facilitates analytical skill development sessions. Lacks analytical skill development sessions.
Directed energy towards effective studying. Adaptation of resources based on time and needs.
Shared challenges and successes boost confidence. Risk of becoming overconfident.
Continuous motivation from peers and instructors Candidates need to motivate themselves to enhance their preparation and performance.
Faculties guide candidates in creating study plan Candidates have to develop their study plan.

CAT Exam: How to Prepare With or Without Coaching in 2024?

CAT Preparation Through Coaching Classes

Coaching for CAT administers both online and offline classes. Here's an overview of the pros and cons of preparing for CAT through coaching classes:
CAT Preparation with Coaching Classes
Pros Cons
Competitive atmosphere Extended study hours
Access to comprehensive study materials Risk of becoming complacent
Targeted preparation Tuition fees
Regular progress feedback Pressure to consistently perform well due to peer expectations
Effective support and guidance from mentors Potential physical fatigue and lack of relaxation time

CAT Preparation Through Self-Study

Many aspirants choose self study for CAT preparation. Before selecting this preparation method, candidates should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of self study for CAT. Here's a detailed explanation of the pros and cons of self-study for CAT preparation:

CAT Preparation with Self Study
Pros Cons
Flexibility to study at one's own pace and schedule. Potential lack of guidance resulting in deviation from a focused study path.
Flexibility to study at one's own pace. Absence of mentorship or peer support for addressing challenges.
Candidates can meet their personal and professional commitments. Challenge in learning and improving test-taking strategy.
Candidates can develop a study schedule according to their priorities. Limited access to expert assistance for difficult topics, potentially resulting in incomplete preparation.
Freedom from peer pressure to excel. Candidates may face inefficient time utilisation during study sessions.

CAT Preparation Strategies With or Without Coaching

Succeeding in the CAT exam requires candidates to follow strategic planning, effective study techniques, and dedicated practice. The following points explain detailed strategies which every CAT aspirant must follow to clear the exam with a high score:
  • Attempt solving multiple types of questions spanning various difficulty levels. Consistent practice is the key to enhancing speed and accuracy.
  • After completing the syllabus, Regularly participate in full-length mock tests. This approach helps candidates assess their performance to pinpoint areas of strength and weakness.
  • Analyse performance in test series to identify the areas of improvement and pay attention to enhance understanding of these areas.
  • Attempt solving practice papers in a time-bound manner to improve time management skills, which is essential to excel in the CAT exam.
  • Formulate strategies for question prioritisation and strategic skipping if required during the exam.
  • Candidates should focus on maximising scores by attempting the questions for which they are certain.
  • Candidates must analyse mock test results to identify patterns in their performance. Additionally, they should streamline their study plan and strategies accordingly to address the identified areas of improvement.
  • Learn from practice sessions and mock test errors to score well in the actual exam.
  • Big Billion Day Sale

Selecting Between CAT Coaching and Self-Study?

Selecting between self study and coaching classes for CAT preparation majorly depends on candidates' learning requirements and preferences. Many candidates select self-study as it offers flexibility in CAT preparation, allowing candidates to study without the constraints of scheduled classes. Additionally, it alleviates the pressure of competition and provides a sense of comfort. However, it lacks a set routine, expert guidance, and peer support. Therefore, many candidates who qualified for CAT recommend joining coaching classes in addition to the self study regime. Here are the several limitations of preparing for CAT only through self studies:
  • Lack of focus, motivation, and study strategy can prompt candidates to procrastinate.
  • The absence of expert guidance deprives candidates of assistance with difficult topics.
  • Flexible study hours may tempt candidates to skip their CAT preparation routine, affecting readiness for the exam.
  • Without a structured study strategy, identifying and addressing weak areas becomes challenging.
  • The absence of peers leads to a lack of support networks for problem-solving or discussion of study materials.
  • Accessing mock tests online may not provide the same quality as those offered in coaching classes.

Advantages of CAT Preparation with PW

PW stands as the best online platform for CAT Online Coaching in India, with a consistent record of helping students secure 99 percentile in CAT. Here are the benefits of joining PW CAT Online Coaching :
  • Engaging in live interactive classes.
  • Opportunities for peer-to-peer learning
  • Structured batches for effective preparation.
  • On-on-one telephonic guidance.
  • 69 lectures for GD/PI.
  • 24x7 mentor guidance available.
  • Regular assignments with personalised feedback.
  • Availability of full-length CAT mock tests with performance analysis.
  • Recorded video lectures for effective revision.
Note: The SNAP Batch by Physics Wallah is a live marathon session organized by PW MBA Online Coaching focusing on Quantitative Ability and Logical Reasoning for the SNAP 2024 exam. Stay updated and enhance your preparation by following our official Law channel on YouTube. It's a key resource for a successful journey in preparing for the SNAP 2024 exam. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpcXZFj_Pzs

CAT Preparation With or Without Coaching FAQs

Which is better coaching or self study?

CAT coaching and self study have their separate pros and cons. Candidates should choose either option by comparing their advantages and disadvantages. However, coaching classes offer added benefits to candidates during CAT preparation.

Is coaching really required for CAT?

It is not compulsory for candidates to join coaching classes for CAT. However, candidates who enrol on the coaching classes can effectively enhance their preparation and qualify to secure good marks in CAT.

Is self study more effective for CAT?

Self study is essential for every CAT aspirant. However, they should consider complementing it with expert guidance available through coaching institutes.

How many years of coaching is required for CAT exam?

To score well in CAT exam candidates should prepare through coaching institute for 6-8 months.

Which coaching is best for CAT?

PW Online Coaching is best for strategic CAT preparation. Most students of PW coaching excel in CAT with 90+ percentile.
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