CAT 2023 Preparation: Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make
Candidates have merely 1 month left for CAT 2023 preparation. To increase success in CAT 2023, candidates must understand the major mistakes to avoid. With over 3 lakh aspirants appearing for CAT, candidates must be mindful of avoiding CAT preparation mistakes by following the tips provided here.
Anil Solonki20 Nov, 2023
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CAT Preparation Mistakes: In 2023, CAT received the highest number of applications. With a huge pool of candidates in CAT 2023, the competition is also going to be intense. To outperform competitors, candidates must follow a strategic preparation and avoid making common mistakes.
With just over a month remaining until the CAT 2023 exam , candidates must focus towards a preparation regimen that centres on reinforcing their grasp of high-scoring topics, appearing for CAT mock tests, and formulating a well-structured exam day strategy. Besides these priorities, it's equally essential to know the CAT preparation common mistakes and ways to avoid them. To help candidates enhance their CAT preparation, we have compiled a list of mistakes they must avoid.Common Mistakes to Avoid in CAT 2023 Preparation
Hera re the common mistakes candidates must avoid during their CAT 2023 preparation to qualify with a high score:Neglecting CAT Syllabus
Many aspirants don’t focus on knowing the details of the topics from which questions are asked in the exam. A lack of syllabus knowledge prevents candidates from having an outlined direction for CAT preparation. Therefore, when starting the CAT exam preparation , it is imperative for aspirants to understand the entire syllabus. This step is crucial for crafting an effective preparation strategy.Lack of a Structured Study Plan
Randomly covering topics from different sections of the CAT syllabus creates confusion during the preparation phase. Moreover, candidates end up covering a single topic twice or omitting a crucial chapter altogether. To avoid this situation, it is essential to create a well-structured study plan to allocate sufficient time to each topic. This preparation approach provides clarity during CAT preparation. A meticulously planned schedule enables candidates to complete the syllabus before the exam. Additionally, candidates can dedicate sufficient time to revising concepts and practising CAT previous year's question papers.Irregular Preparation
Inconsistent preparation for the CAT exam can diminish candidates’ likelihood of achieving a high percentile. The primary reasons for inconsistent CAT preparation are having low motivation, getting distracted by external factors, and facing challenging topics. To solve the issues related to consistency, candidates should strictly follow their study routine and focus on achieving their daily targets. Candidates may face challenges, such as encountering difficult questions or receiving lower scores in mock tests, but it is advisable to concentrate on proceeding with their preparation rather than getting demotivated.Also Read : CAT Preparation Tips for Last 30 Days
Irregular Preparation
Inconsistent preparation for the CAT exam can diminish candidates’ likelihood of achieving a high percentile. The primary reason for inconsistent CAt preparation is having low motivation, getting distracted by external factors, and facing challenging topics. To solve the issues related to consistency, candidates should strictly follow their study routine and focus on achieving their daily targets. Candidates may face challenges, such as encountering difficult questions or receiving lower scores in mock tests, but it is advisable to concentrate on proceeding with their preparation rather than getting demotivated.Assessing Preparation Based on Study Hours
A common mistake most candidates make during CAT preparation is determining their chances of success through the number of hours they study every day. If candidates study for 10-12 hours and cover only 1 topic, then it will be tough for them to finish the entire CAT syllabus before the exam. Additionally, focused and dedicated studying for four to five hours can often yield more comprehensive results than longer, less focused study periods lasting ten to twelve hours. Therefore, instead of focusing on the number of hours, candidates should concentrate on improving the quality of study during a limited time.Struggling to Grasp Concepts
A common misconception among MBA aspirants is the belief that CAT 2023 can be conquered solely through the memorisation of shortcuts and formulas. The key to success in the CAT exam, however, lies in achieving a deep understanding of the underlying concepts. When solving the CAT-based questions, it is beneficial to grasp the fundamental principles involved. If necessary, candidates must incorporate a habit of addressing their doubts and seeking regular clarification from faculty members. Every question is valuable to score marks. So, candidates must not hesitate to ask their doubts and seek clarification.Also Read: How to Prepare for CAT Exam
Not Taking or Overtaking Mock Tests
CAT mock tests are developed to guide aspirants effectively and get them exam-ready. As the CAT exam date approaches, it is advisable to aim at attempting at least 6-7 mock tests each week. Those who fail to establish a consistent mock test practice may encounter difficulties during the actual CAT exam. The diversity of questions across different sections of CAT mock test sections equips students with an understanding of the depth of preparation required. Candidates must maintain a balance between participating in CAT mock tests and other preparation activities. Although mock tests are important, overtaking these tests prevents aspirants from revising the topics and practising sample questions regularly, which are essential to strengthen CAT preparation.Ignoring CAT Mock Test Analysis
A thorough analysis of the CAT mock test provides candidates with the opportunity to identify the areas that need improvement. Test analysis provides valuable insights into various aspects, such as the accuracy level, the time required to solve questions, and the strategic selection of questions based on difficulty levels. In order to achieve a high score, it's vital to determine and understand each of these factors. Thus, an integral component of CAT exam preparation involves thoroughly evaluating mock test performance.Also Read : CAT 2023 Verbal Ability Preparation
CAT 2023 Preparation Tips
Here are some valuable suggestions to assist candidates during their CAT 2023 preparation:- Get familiar with the CAT 2023 exam pattern to understand the exam's structure and marking scheme.
- Analyse the performance in CAT mock tests to identify strengths and weaknesses. This assessment also tests the level of preparation required to strengthen weak areas.
- Create a strategic study plan based on one’s preparedness, learning requirements, and weightage of topics.
- Develop a habit of reading, including newspapers and magazines. This practice is essential to enhance preparedness for the VARC section.
- Seek guidance from experienced faculty members or experts to improve the CAT preparation strategy.
- Acquire proficiency in shortcut techniques and formulas to quickly solve questions within tight time constraints.
- Thoroughly review the details outlined in your CAT 2023 admit card to ensure a smooth exam day experience. Keep your admit card in a secure place to avoid any complications.
- Develop a habit of reading, including newspapers and magazines. This practice is essential to enhance preparedness for the VARC section.
- Seek guidance from experienced faculty members or experts to improve the CAT preparation strategy.
CAT Preparation Mistakes FAQs
How should CAT aspirants start their preparation?
To start CAT preparation, candidates must gain a thorough understanding of the CAT syllabus, understand the concepts of each topic, solve sample questions, and appear for mock tests.
What are the major CAT preparation mistakes that result in achieving low scores?
Majo CAT preparation mistakes that affect candidates’ scores include not determining goals, failing to maintain a regular revision routine, not practising with previous years' papers, overlooking the examination syllabus, and getting demotivated.
What are some expert-recommended CAT preparation tips?
To prepare effectively for the CAT, candidates should maintain consistency during their preparation journey, appear for CAT mock tests and work through previous years' papers. Furthermore, they must establish a well-structured preparation plan before commencing the study process.
Why is it essential to evaluate CAT mock test performance?
By evaluating CAT mock test performance, candidates can determine the areas where they need to pay attention to perform well during the actual exam.
Will CAT 2023 be competitive for candidates?
For CAT 2023, more than 3 lakh aspirants have submitted applications. This is the highest number till now. With a huge number of candidates, the competition is expected to be very high.
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