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A Comprehensive Guide to CAT 2024: Everything You Need to Know

The Common Admission Test, popularly known as CAT, is the golden ticket for those aspiring to secure a seat in the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools in India. With CAT 2024 on the horizon, it's time for aspirants to gear up and understand the nuances of this highly competitive exam. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of CAT 2024 and equip you with the knowledge to ace the test.

1. Overview of CAT 2024:

CAT is a computer-based test that evaluates candidates on their quantitative ability (QA), verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC), and data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR). It's the primary selection criterion for the 20 IIMs and over 1,200 B-schools across India.

2. Important Dates:

While the exact dates for CAT 2024 are yet to be announced, aspirants can expect the notification in the last week of July or the first week of August 2024. Typically, the exam takes place in the last week of November or the first week of December.

3. Eligibility Criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD candidates) or equivalent CGPA.
  • Final Year Students: Those in the final year of their bachelor’s degree or awaiting results can also apply.

4. Exam Pattern:

The CAT exam lasts for 180 minutes, with 60 minutes dedicated to each section. It comprises both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs (type-in-the-answer type questions).

  • Quantitative Ability (QA): This section tests mathematical skills and comprises 34 questions.
  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): It evaluates English language skills and comprehension ability, consisting of 34 questions.
  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): This section has 32 questions that test analytical and logical reasoning skills.

5. Syllabus:

While the IIMs don't specify a fixed syllabus, based on previous years, the following topics are crucial:

  • QA: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, and Number Systems.
  • VARC: Reading comprehension, sentence correction, para-jumbles, and vocabulary.
  • DILR: Bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, tables, and logical sequences.

6. Preparation Tips:

  • Understand the Basics: Before diving into advanced topics, ensure you're clear with fundamental concepts.
  • Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve time management.
  • Analyze Weak Points: After every mock test, analyze your mistakes and work on your weak areas.
  • Stay Updated: Regularly read newspapers and journals to improve your reading speed and comprehension for the VARC section.

7. Best Books for CAT 2024:

  • QA: 'Quantitative Aptitude for CAT' by Arun Sharma
  • VARC: 'How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT' by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
  • DILR: 'Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT' by Nishit K. Sinha

8. CAT 2024 Registration:

The registration for CAT 2024 will likely start in the first week of August 2024 and close by the third week of September 2024. Candidates can register online by visiting the official CAT website.

9. Admit Card:

The admit card, a crucial document to be carried to the exam center, will be available for download on the official website from the last week of October 2024.

10. Result Declaration:

The results for CAT 2024 are expected to be declared in the second week of January 2025. Candidates can check their scores and percentiles on the official website using their login credentials.

In Conclusion:

CAT is not just an exam; it's a journey that tests your perseverance, dedication, and hard work. With a clear strategy, consistent efforts, and the right resources, cracking CAT 2024 is within reach. Remember, it's not the number of hours you put into preparation but the quality of those hours that counts. So, gear up, stay focused, and let CAT 2024 be the stepping stone to your dream B-school. All the best!

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