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CAT 2023: Mistakes to Avoid on CAT Exam Day

CAT 2023 will be conducted on 26 November. Know the major mistakes candidates should avoid to conveniently participate in the CAT exam.
authorImageAnil Solonki25 Nov, 2023
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CAT 2023 Exam Day Mistakes to Avoid

CAT 2023 Mistakes to Avoid: The CAT exam 2023 is going to take place tomorrow on 26 November 2023. Before entering the CAT examination hall candidates have to clear the identity and security check rounds. Anyone who doesn't follow the CAT 2023 exam day guidelines may be barred from appearing for the test. Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to know the major mistakes they must avoid on the exam day.

Due to the stress of the sectional time limit, most CAT aspirants try to attempt the paper without adequate question comprehension. This approach can lead to multiple negative markings, preventing candidates from clearing the CAT exam 2023 . Another common mistake CAT aspirants make is neglecting the exam-day guidelines. Many forget to review instructions regarding reporting time, dress code, and crucial documents to carry. These measures lead to issues during entry at the exam centre. To avoid unnecessary hassle or stress on the CAT exam day, aspirants must maintain composure and focus. This article provides a detailed overview of major mistakes candidates must avoid on the CAT exam day.

Also Read: CAT 2023 Dress Code

Mistakes to Avoid on CAT Exam Day

Here are the common mistakes candidates should avoid to confidently appear for CAT 2023 and secure a high score:

Over-Stressing Before the CAT Exam

Avoid excessive stress the day before the CAT exam 2023. Instead, dedicate an hour to reviewing essential theorems, formulas, and shortcuts. Candidates must refrain from starting a new chapter, attempting a full-length mock test, or hastily cramming a new topic. CAT evaluates aptitude, and a clear understanding of concepts is key to success. Randomly taking on new chapters a day before CAT only increases stress and nervousness.

Arriving Late

CAT 2023 is set to be held in three separate slots. The reporting time for each CAT slot is different. Candidates who reach the exam centre later than the specified entry time can’t enter the examination hall. Therefore, candidates must thoroughly check their CAT admit card 2023 to determine their slot timing. To avoid any unnecessary rush on the CAT exam day, candidates are advised to arrange all necessary items and documents beforehand and maintain a proper sleep schedule. Arriving late to the CAT exam centre could lead to chaos and may negatively impact exam performance. The reporting and exam times for CAT 2023 slots are provided below:
CAT Exam Slot Reporting Time Latest Entry Allowed
Slot 1(8:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.) 7:00 A.M. 8:15 A.M.
Slot 2 (12:30 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.) 11:00 A.M. 12:15 P.M.
Slot 3 (4:30 P.M. - 6:30 P.M.) 3:00 P.M. 4:15 P.M.

Getting Anxious While Reading CAT Questions

Due to nervousness, candidates tend to rush through reading the questions during the CAT exam. This approach leads to mistakes in comprehending the details of the questions. Candidates must try to read the questions with complete focus and accurately analyse the question before marking their answers. However, it's equally important for candidates to be mindful of time. In CAT 2023, candidates are allocated 40 minutes per section. Once the time elapses, they will automatically transition to the next section.

Also Read: CAT Preparation 2023

Attempting Difficult Questions First

The CAT exam is regarded as one of the most challenging MBA entrance exams in India. While the majority of CAT questions are of moderate difficulty, there are some questions that are highly tricky, and candidates need additional time to solve them accurately. Additionally, the CAT 2023 exam pattern includes both MCQs and TITA questions. To effectively manage time during the CAT exam and attempt all the questions within the specified deadline, candidates should initiate the exam by attempting the easier questions. After candidates are done with simple questions, they should proceed to the challenging ones. This strategic approach reduces candidates’ stress, and they can answer more questions accurately. To learn the tricks and tips to quickly solve CAT questions, join the expert-led PW CAT Online Coaching . Enrol now to ace CAT preparation and qualify with a high percentile.

Random Guessing

Given the negative marking scheme in the CAT exam, candidates may lose 1 mark for each incorrect answer. Therefore, it's advisable to refrain from blindly guessing the answers to tricky questions. If candidates have confusion regarding a question, it's preferable to leave a question unanswered rather than marking a wrong option. Additionally, candidates should carefully decide the questions they should attempt during the CAT exam. To enhance efficiency during the CAT exam, candidates must practise multiple CAT mock tests and analyse their performance in each test.

Not Following CAT Dress Code

IIM Lucknow, the CAT 2023 conducting body, provides the examination timing and dress code instructions on the CAT admit card. According to the dress code decided by IIM Lucknow, every candidate must wear simple and comfortable clothes to the CAT exam centre . Candidates must avoid wearing clothes with multiple pockets, layers, or metallic trims. Candidates should also avoid wearing closed footwear, belts, or jackets. Those who don’t follow the dressing instructions for the CAT exam may face issues during the security check.

General Guidelines for CAT 2023 Exam Day

Besides knowing the CAT 2023 mistakes to avoid, candidates must also understand the general guidelines for the CAT exam. Here are the instructions candidates participating in the CAT 2023 examination should follow to avoid any inconvenience on the CAT exam day:
  • Candidates must visit the CAT exam centre before the scheduled Slot time.
  • Candidates must not try to carry electronic devices to the CAT examination hall. Possession of such devices will lead to the cancellation of candidature.
  • Using unfair means for answering CAT questions leads to the immediate cancellation of the candidate's paper.
  • Candidates must maintain decorum inside the exam centre and avoid getting into disputes with fellow candidates or CAT exam staff members.
  • Candidates must keep their CAT writing pads safe, as they won’t get additional writing pads.
  • Except in the case of a medical emergency, authorities at the CAT examination centre do not consider candidates’ requests for breaks during the exam hour.
  • After the CAT examination, candidates must submit their writing pads to the invigilators.
  • Applying henna or mehndi on the palm is prohibited during the CAT exam because it may hinder the biometrics test procedure.

CAT 2023 Exam Day Mistakes to Avoid FAQs

CAT 2023 Mistakes to Avoid FAQs

How can I successfully pass the CAT 2023 exam on my first attempt?

Candidates need thorough and strategic preparation to qualify for the CAT exam 2023. For this, they must initiate their preparation by covering the CAT syllabus topics and taking test series and mock tests to improve their speed and accuracy.

What should I do the day before the CAT exam?

A day before the CAT exam, candidates must gather their crucial documents, take adequate rest, revise formulas and theorems, and maintain a positive attitude to perform well in the CAT exam. 

How many attempts are allowed for CAT 2023?

There are no limits on the number of attempts for taking the CAT exam. Additionally, there is no upper age restriction for CAT participation. 

Can I wear jeans for the CAT exam?

Yes, you can wear jeans to the CAT exam centre, provided it is simple and does not have multiple pockets. 

Can I get a break to use the bathroom during the CAT exam?

Candidates are strictly prohibited from leaving the CAT exam hall once the exam starts. Therefore, it's advisable for candidates to use the restroom before the CAT exam to avoid any discomfort.
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