The First Step Towards MBA: Common Admission Test – CAT
MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a two-year postgraduate program designed to develop innovative and principal individuals to make a difference in the world.
The program at HLM Group of Institutions, one of the top MBA colleges in Ghaziabad, represents a valuable credential for students seeking to advance their careers by focusing on providing unique solutions for business issues.
However, preparing for the CAT is the first step toward this sought-after degree. So, without further ado, let’s discuss what CAT is, the syllabus, and the necessary strategies for the preparation in detail below.
What is CAT?
If you want to enroll in one of Ghaziabad's best MBA colleges, you must clear the CAT examination. CAT, also called the Common Admission Test, is an all-India management entrance exam organized by the prestigious IIMs. However, the results are applicable for IIM admissions and accepted by other top management institutions in India.
Structure and Syllabus of CAT
The CAT is typically conducted in CBT mode and consists of 100 questions of two modes – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) and Type in Answer Questions (TITA), with 180 minutes of exam time. Three marks are awarded for the right answers, while one is deducted for every wrong answer. There will be no negative markings for unanswered or non-MCQ questions.
There is no specific syllabus for the CAT exam. However, it covers the fundamental aspects of certain sectors. Moreover, the exam paper is designed to check the applicants' aptitude skills like data interpretation, reading comprehension, logical reasoning, quantitative ability, and verbal ability.
Strategies for CAT Preparation
Start Early
Begin your preparation for CAT at least 6 months before for extensive learning. You can prepare for 1-2 hours on weekdays and 5-6 hours on weekends, covering 15-20 hours per week. If you are from a non-quant academic background, then increasing the preparation time per week is essential.
Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses
An assessment before preparation will help you analyze your strengths and weaknesses to know the area to focus on during CAT preparation. You can take free mock online tests to get the comprehensive test results and personalized feedback reports.
Make a Plan
Carve a solid and simple plan to follow that will cover the entire syllabus before the month of the exam. Then, set weekly or daily goals to foster consistency with your preparation.
In the early preparation period, focusing on your weak concepts is wise. For instance, if the quantitative ability is your weak area, you can spend an hour extra for the sector to improve your skills and strengthen your understanding.
Test and Repeat
While preparing, opt for the weekly mock test to know how much you are improving yourself in the subject. Self-evaluation will help you better understand your plan and may allow you to change the plan, which will be beneficial for your preparation.
Therefore, after every test, check the wrongly-answered questions and examine why you couldn’t get them along with the questions you find challenging. Follow the same steps at the end of every part to increase speed and accuracy during the exam.
Final Words
Candidates seeking admission to the best MBA colleges must acquire a valid CAT percentile, which is an integral part of the selection. Earning this renowned degree will make you an individual competition by opening doors to various lucrative career opportunities.
HLM Group of Institutions provides a transformational learning experience for students through an inspiring and focused MBA program. Our eminent team of faculty and world-class facilities bring the leaders of tomorrow tougher to shape an inclusive and diverse future of business and industry.
