The CAT (Common Admission Test) is one of the most competitive management entrance exams in India. Securing a 99+ percentile in CAT requires a well-structured preparation strategy. In this blog, we will discuss a step-by-step approach to curate an effective CAT 2023 preparation plan. The insights are derived from a YouTube video by an experienced CAT mentor. Let’s dive into the questions and answers that will help you lay out a successful plan for the upcoming CAT exam.

What are the four phases of CAT 2023 preparation from April to November?

The CAT 2023 preparation can be divided into four phases:

April to May (Wave Phase): This phase is for those who might have other commitments such as college exams or unsettled work issues. Focus on building familiarity with concepts and understanding the exam pattern. Avoid starting with time-consuming chapters like geometry and number system during this phase.

 June to July (Compensatory Phase): Utilize this time to compensate for any time lost during the initial phase. Complete basics, especially in geometry and number system. Take at least three mock tests per month to gauge your progress.

August (Touch-up Phase): In this month, give your CAT preparation a final touch-up. Revisit weaker chapters, work on calculation speed, and practice LOD2 (Level of Difficulty 2) questions for stronger topics.

September to November (Game Changer Phase): Keep yourself motivated and practice a large number of questions. Focus on identifying your strengths and weaknesses. Take ample mock tests to get familiar with the CAT exam pattern.

Is it too late to start CAT preparation in April?

Answer: No, it is not too late to start CAT preparation in April. With the right plan and dedication, you can still achieve a good percentile. Avoid starting with time-consuming chapters and focus on building a strong foundation by understanding concepts, solving easy questions, and taking advantage of free resources like YouTube videos to clarify doubts.

How can repeaters approach CAT preparation differently?

Answer: Repeaters have the advantage of moving ahead faster than first-timers. They can complete their syllabus or brush up on concepts by May. Afterward, focus primarily on taking mock tests to work on speed and accuracy. For other aspirants, completing basics by July is crucial before shifting the focus to mock tests.

What is the significance of the August month in CAT preparation?

August is referred to as the “Touch-up Month.” During this time, aspirants can revisit weaker chapters, complete pending syllabus, and give a final touch to their preparation. They should also work on improving calculation speed, revisiting Vedic math tricks, and practicing LOD2 questions for stronger topics.

How can one ensure that the concepts studied earlier stay fresh in memory?

Regular revision is the key to retaining concepts. Maintain a formula book, jotting down all formulas, concepts, and tricks learned. Revise this book every weekend, covering all previously studied material. This repetitive process helps reinforce memory and understanding.

Conclusion:

Achieving a 99+ percentile in CAT 2023 requires a well-structured preparation strategy. The four phases, starting from April to November, allow aspirants to gradually build their foundation, work on strengths and weaknesses, and finally focus on mock tests and speed enhancement. Whether you are a fresher, working professional, or repeater, with the right plan and dedication, you can crack the CAT exam and pursue your dream of getting into a prestigious MBA program. Remember, consistency and practice are the keys to success in CAT preparation.