CAT 2025: Final-Week Preparation Guide Every MBA Aspirant Must Follow

With CAT 2025 just a week away, MBA aspirants across the country are dealing with the usual pressure that builds before a major exam. The last stretch before the test is not about covering everything, but about making deliberate choices that help you perform with clarity on the day of the exam.

Focus on Precision, Not Expansion

At this point, revision should take priority. Stick to concepts, formulas, and question types you already know well. Go through your notes and earlier practice material instead of adding new topics. In Quant, your aim should be accuracy with mid-level questions rather than solving the toughest problems. For VARC, reading a couple of editorials or opinion articles daily will help keep your flow steady. For DILR, one or two sets a day are enough, with attention on spotting patterns quickly instead of attempting full mock cycles.

Limit Mock Tests

Many students overload themselves with multiple mocks in the final days. Instead, take only one or two full-length tests this week, ideally during your actual exam slot, so your mind adapts to the rhythm. Spend more time reviewing the mistakes, timing issues, and question choices from these mocks. Fine-tune your approach instead of chasing higher mock scores.

Let Go of the Idea of Perfection

No one masters every topic before CAT, and the exam doesn’t demand that. CAT rewards selective strength, not complete coverage. Drop topics that have repeatedly taken too much time or produced inconsistent results. If areas like Geometry or certain puzzle types continue to slow you down, it’s better to focus elsewhere. Your score grows through reliable performance, not exhaustive attempts.

Mental Readiness Matters as Much as Academics

The final week heavily relies on your mental stability. Staying calm, well-rested, and focused will have a greater impact on your performance than trying to predict percentiles. Keep your routine healthy, get enough sleep, and avoid conversations that heighten stress. Visualise yourself approaching each section with a clear head—moving past difficult questions without hesitation and maintaining control throughout.

Plan Your Exam Day Structure Now

Decide your pre-exam routine in advance: what time you’ll wake up, what you’ll eat, and how you’ll reach the centre. These simple decisions reduce last-minute confusion. Two days before the exam, pull back from heavy practice sessions. Keep your revision light and maintain a relaxed state of mind. On the night before the exam, sleep early and don’t dwell on mock results.

On Exam Day

CAT measures how efficiently you use what you know in limited time. You’re not expected to answer everything—only to choose your questions wisely. Begin each section steadily, flag difficult ones, and rely on your preparation. The objective is to execute your strategy calmly.

This week is about maintaining clarity rather than forcing intense study. As you step into the exam hall, remember that CAT is part of your path, not the entire journey.