Preparing for the Common Admissions Test (CAT) while alongside studying for your college degree can be challenging. Having tons of assignment submissions, projects, and exams, and yet having a burning desire to clear the CAT and get into that dream B-school might sometimes sound impossible. Well, not really. We are here for the rescue. Having been trusted by more than 20,000 students, we have the experience and expertise to show you the right direction.
In this blog, we’ll provide you with the right steps and strategic approach for your CAT preparation journey alongside college. Let’s take a look at the step-by-step guide right away!
What is the CAT Exam for?
Before you look at the solutions, pause for a bit, and understand the root cause of your problem. It is very crucial to understand what the Common Admission Test actually tests you on. It is one of the most competitive exams, conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
It assesses the candidates on three major sections: Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). It tests you on your problem solving ability and aptitude. And in order to excel in CAT, you need a strategic approach, consistent practice and regular assessments.
Importance of Academics in CAT and more
Top B-schools such as the IIMs consider and give weightage to your academics as a crucial factor for the selection. Having a good academic record helps in boosting your profile at every stage of your career.
If you’re going to attempt CAT in your final year, it will be wise to focus more on CAT preparation. This is because only available marks will be considered in your case. However, if you are going to attempt the CAT after finishing your degree, an equal weightage will be given to all the semesters of your college degree.
Overall, your academics will stay with you forever, acting as a proof of your ability and potential. They give you an edge during the placement interviews as well.
Breaking Down the Goal into Actionable Steps
Between your current position and your destination of cracking the CAT exam, there are lots of steps and stages. You cannot jump directly to the final stage without clearing the step right in front of you.
You should give a CAT sample exam, to understand where you stand. Continue to keep a good hold on your strong section or topics and work on your weaknesses.
Identify Your Priorities
Never forget that time is money. Invest your time and resources where you will receive high returns on investment in the long term. Many times during your journey, you will be at a crossroads. You will have to set your priorities and decide what’s important for you in advance.
List down all your college assignments, project deadlines, and exam dates. Similarly, set deadlines and milestones in your CAT preparation. For instance, completing certain topics, taking mock tests, etc. Focus on these tasks mentioned, and minimize the time you spend on routine tasks that can be delegated, leisure activities, social media, etc.
Create a Weekly and Weekend Schedule
Having a weekly schedule that you can follow from Monday to Friday as well as a weekend schedule that you can follow on Saturdays and Sundays is very important.
If it is difficult to allocate the exact time of the day, you can decide the number of hours you want to give to a certain task beforehand. For instance, On weekdays, you can give 1 hour to Vocabulary building, 1 hour to Quants practice, 3 hours to CAT coaching, and so on. On the other hand, you can dedicate weekends to cover up any pending work from that week, mock tests, and revision.
Time Management Techniques
We often underestimate the time a certain task or work can take for us to finish, or overestimate our ability to do work. To maximize your efficiency, set a timer for the estimated time before you start doing a task. This would help you keep accountability for your time. However, next time, don’t forget to push yourself further and increase your efficiency.
Creating a Fool-Proof Plan
Many people recommend always having a Plan B. In spite of that, it is also very essential to have a plan that has no loopholes. Many times, you will be required to alter your plan and adapt to a slightly different approach. But don’t hesitate from making the necessary changes in your strategy.
Note down the number of hours you give to which activity in your day out of the 24 hours. Consider your class timings, study hours, extracurricular activities, and rest hours. This will help you pinpoint where exactly you can squeeze in your CAT preparation.
Keep Track of Your Time
Many CAT toppers recommend CAT aspirants to make an excel sheet where you can update your progress every day, every week, and every month.
Deep Focused Work
A study session that is full of distractions on the outside or thoughts inside your mind is not at all fruitful even if done for many hours. On the other hand, when your focus is pinpointed to just one goal at a time, even if for a short duration, it is a hundred times fruitful. Prioritize deep work and cut all the distractions.
Find Study Groups
A great option to maintain consistency is forming study groups with like-minded peers. Discussing topics, solving problems together, and sharing study material can enhance your own understanding while also keeping you motivated.
Stay Healthy and Rest Well
A healthy mind and body are the prerequisites to a good CAT prep journey. Balancing CAT studies and college can be stressful. Getting adequate sleep for 7 to 8 hours regularly will maintain your focus. Apart from that, staying hydrated and fueling your body with a nutritious diet is equally important.
Incorporate regular exercise and physical activity into your routine, even if it’s just a short walk or simply a quick workout.
Seek Help from the Mentors
Never hesitate to seek guidance and support from your mentors or students who have already been in your shoes. Share your goals and progress with your friends, family, or mentors. Their encouragement and advice can provide a significant morale boost.
Believe in Yourself
Preparing yourself for the D-day is like running in a marathon, not a sprint. Staying motivated and positive during the process is essential for long-term success. Celebrate small victories to achieve this.
Visualization is a powerful tool. Spend a few minutes right after you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed visualizing your success on the result day and securing admission to your dream B-school. This simple activity can significantly boost your self-confidence and performance in turn.
Conclusion
Managing college along with CAT is undoubtedly challenging, but definitely possible with the right approach. Remember, consistency and persistence is the key. Don’t spend a single day without being in touch with your ultimate goal. Stay committed to your plan, adapt whenever required, but always keep moving forward.
The journey might seem tough, but in the end, it will all be worth it.
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