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Introduction
The Common Admission Test (CAT), a gateway to India’s most prestigious business schools, remains a pivotal examination for aspirants seeking an illustrious career in management. Understanding its intricate pattern and extensive syllabus is crucial for those aiming to crack this highly competitive test.
CAT Exam Pattern
The CAT exam comprises three fundamental sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
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Exam Structure:
- Time Duration: The total duration of the CAT exam is 2 hours (120 minutes).
- Section-wise Time Allocation: Each section—VARC, DILR, and QA—has a time limit of 40 minutes. However, for Persons with Disabilities (PwD), an additional 13 minutes 20 seconds per section is allotted, extending the time to 53 minutes 20 seconds.
- Exam Timings: The CAT exam is conducted in multiple slots: 8:30 am – 10:30 am (Morning Session), 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (Afternoon Session), and 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (Evening Session).
- Number of Questions: There are 66 questions across the sections.
- Total Marks: The CAT exam carries a weightage of 198 marks.
- Exam Mode: Conducted in Computer-Based Mode (CBT).
- Marking Scheme: For every correct answer, candidates receive +3 marks. In multiple-choice questions (MCQs), a penalty of -1 is applied for each incorrect response. However, there are no negative marks for Non-MCQs.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| CAT exam time duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) |
| Name of the Section | 1.) Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) 2.) Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) 3.) Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
| Section-wise CAT exam duration | 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA). 53 Minutes for 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section. |
| CAT exam timings | Slot 1: 8:30 am – 10:30 am (Morning Session) Slot 2: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (Afternoon Session) Slot 3: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (Evening Session) |
| How many questions in CAT exam | 66 Questions |
| CAT exam total marks | 198 marks |
| Mode of the CAT 2023 exam | Computer-Based Mode (CBT) |
| CAT Marking Scheme | 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA).53 Minutes for 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section. |
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CAT Syllabus Overview
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Verbal Ability English Usage or Grammar Close Passage Synonyms and Antonyms Facts-inferences-judgments Jumbled Paragraph Reading Comprehension Verbal Reasoning |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | Caselets Blood Relations Calendars Bar Graphs Column Graphs Tables Cubes Clocks Binary Logic Line Charts Combination of two or more types linked to each other Syllogism Venn Diagrams Pie Chart Number and Letter Series Seating Arrangement |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | Algebra Higher Maths Geometry Trigonometry Mensuration Arithmetic |
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Cracking the CAT: Tips for Success
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, time allocation, and marking scheme.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests to adapt to the exam format.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and work on weaker sections while honing your strengths.
- Time Management: Efficiently manage time during the exam to attempt maximum questions accurately.
- Improve Speed and Accuracy: Enhance your calculation speed and accuracy in problem-solving.
- Seek Guidance: Consider coaching or guidance from experts for strategic preparation.
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Previous Year Exam Pattern with Level of Difficulty
| Year | Number of Question | Difficulty Level | CAT exam time duration | Conducting Body |
| 2023 | – | – | 2 hours | IIM Lucknow |
| 2022 | 66 | Moderate | 2 hours | IIM Bangalore |
| 2021 | 66 | Moderate to High | 2 hours | IIM Ahmedabad |
| 2020 | 76 | Moderate to High | 2 hours | IIM Indore |
| 2019 | 100 | Moderate to High | 3 hours | IIM Kozhikode |
| 2018 | 100 | Moderate to High | 3 hours | IIM Calcutta |
| 2017 | 100 | Moderate | 3 hours | IIM Lucknow |
| 2016 | 100 | Moderate to difficult | 3 hours | IIM Bangalore |
| 2015 | 100 | Moderate to difficult | 3 hours | IIM Ahmedabad |
| 2014 | 100 | Moderate to Easy | 2.50 hours | IIM Indore |
| 2013 | 60 | Moderate to Easy | 2:20 hours | IIM Indore |
| 2012 | 60 | Moderate to Easy | 2.20 hours | IIM Indore |
| 2011 | 60 | Moderate | 2.20 hours | IIM Calcutta |
Conclusion
In conclusion, comprehending the CAT exam pattern and syllabus is the initial step towards a successful journey in securing admission to top-tier management institutions. A strategic and holistic approach to preparation, combined with dedication and consistent efforts, paves the way for a commendable score in the CAT examination.
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