How Many Questions to Attempt in CAT 2024 to Score 99+ Percentile?
Wondering how many questions you need to attempt in CAT 2024 to score 99+ percentile? This guide will help you understand the strategy and number of questions to aim for, to achieve top marks in the CAT exam.
Shivani Kumari28 Nov, 2024
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CAT 2024 to Score 99+ Percentile: Common Admission Test (CAT) is a tough and competitive exam that is the key to getting into top business schools in India, especially the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Every year, over 250,000 students take the exam, making the competition intense.
To get into these prestigious schools, candidates need to show not only great knowledge but also excellent time management and strategic thinking. Many aspirants wonder: "How many questions should I attempt in CAT 2024 to score above the 99th percentile?" This question is important because it affects their chances of getting into top MBA programs.Understanding the CAT 2024 Exam Pattern and Scoring Strategy
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive entrance exam for admission to top Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other prestigious business schools. To score a 99+ percentile in CAT 2024, it is essential to understand the exam pattern, marking scheme, and the number of questions to attempt in each section.| Understanding the CAT 2024 Exam Pattern and Scoring Strategy | |
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test |
| Total Duration | 120 minutes |
| Number of Sections | 3 |
| Sections | 1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) 2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) 3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
| Total Questions | 66 |
| Section-wise Questions | VARC: 24 questions DILR: 20 questions QA: 22 questions |
| Marks per Question | 3 marks |
| Negative Marking | -1 mark for every incorrect answer (only for MCQ questions) |
| Total Marks | 198 |
| Sectional Time Limit | 40 minutes per section |
| Switching Between Sections | Not allowed, must complete each section within 40 minutes |
CAT 2024 Section-Wise Breakdown and Good Attempts
The CAT exam consists of three sections: verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR), and quantitative ability (QA). Each section has a specific number of questions that candidates should aim to answer in order to achieve a high percentile. Here is a breakdown of the sections and the number of good attempts required:| Section-Wise Breakdown and Good Attempts | |
| Section | Good Attempts for the 99+ Percentile |
| VARC | 14-16 |
| DILR | 10-12 |
| QA | 16-18 |
CAT 2024 Time management and accuracy
Time management is crucial for the CAT exam. Candidates should allocate their time wisely across sections to ensure they can attempt all the questions they are comfortable with. It is essential to maintain an accuracy rate of at least 90% to secure a high percentile. For example, if a candidate attempts 12 questions from the QA section, they should aim to answer at least 10–11 correctly.Strategies for Each Section of CAT 2024 Exam Pattern
To do well in the CAT 2024 exam, you need to know how the exam works and make good plans for each part of it. Here are some tips to help you get ready:Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is a crucial component of many competitive exams, including the CAT, GMAT, and GRE. This section assesses a candidate's proficiency in English language skills, including vocabulary, grammar, and the ability to comprehend and analyze written passages.- Read the passage carefully : Understand the passage and identify the main points.
- Identify the type of question : Different types of questions require different approaches. For example, some questions may require identifying the author's tone, while others may require summarizing the passage.
- Manage your time . Allocate sufficient time for each question, and avoid spending too much time on a single question.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) is a crucial section in many competitive exams, including the CAT, GMAT, and GRE. It tests a candidate's ability to analyze and interpret data, as well as their logical reasoning skills.- Identify the type of question : DILR questions can be categorized into different types, such as table-based questions, graph-based questions, and logical reasoning questions. Identify the type of question and approach it accordingly.
- Focus on doable questions . Not all questions are solvable. Identify the questions that can be solved and focus on them.
- Use shortcuts and strategies : Implement shortcuts and strategies to solve questions efficiently. For example, use Venn diagrams to solve logical reasoning questions.
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Quantitative Ability (QA) is a crucial section in many competitive exams, including the CAT, GMAT, and GRE. It tests a candidate's ability to solve mathematical problems and handle numerical data.- Practice intensive calculation sets : Questions with intensive calculations are often easier to solve. Practice these types of questions to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Identify easy questions in difficult sets : Not all questions in a set are difficult. Identify the easy questions and attempt those first.
Tips for Achieving a 99+ Percentile in CAT 2024
Scoring 99+ percentile in CAT 2024 requires a combination of strategic planning, consistent practice, and effective time management. By understanding the exam pattern, marking scheme, and the number of questions to attempt in each section, candidates can develop a comprehensive strategy to achieve their goal.- Practice consistently : Regular practice helps build confidence and improve accuracy.
- Use online resources : Utilize online resources, such as mock tests and practice questions, to improve your skills.
- Join a coaching institute . Coaching institutes like PW provide structured guidance, personalized feedback, and strategic insights that can significantly enhance your performance.
- Focus on time management : Manage your time effectively across sections to ensure you can attempt all the questions you are comfortable with.
- Maintain accuracy : Maintain an accuracy rate of at least 90% to secure a high percentile.
Note: The MBA Batch by Physics Wallah is a live marathon session organized by PW MBA Online Coaching focusing on Quantitative Ability and Logical Reasoning for the MBA 2024 exam. Stay updated and enhance your preparation by following our official MBA channel on YouTube.
Questions to Attempt in CAT 2024 to Score 99+ Percentile FAQs
How many questions should I attempt in the VARC section to score 99+ percentile?
You should aim to attempt 14-16 questions in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section.
What is the ideal number of questions to attempt in the DILR section for a high percentile?
In the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section, attempt 10-12 questions for a good chance at a 99+ percentile.
How many questions do I need to attempt in the QA section to score above the 99th percentile?
For the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section, aim to attempt 16-18 questions to achieve a high percentile.
Is there negative marking in the CAT 2024 exam?
Yes, there is negative marking. Each incorrect answer for multiple-choice questions will result in a deduction of 1 mark.
What accuracy rate should I maintain to score 99+ percentile in CAT 2024?
You should maintain an accuracy rate of at least 90% to maximize your chances of scoring above the 99th percentile.
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