STRUCTURE OF CAT EXAM

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based exam that is conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission into management programs offered by top business schools in India. The CAT exam is designed to test a candidate's aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and logical reasoning skills. In this article, we will discuss the structure of the CAT exam in detail.

The CAT exam is divided into three sections:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

The exam is conducted in English, and candidates are given 120 minutes (40min each section) to complete the test. The total number of questions in the CAT exam varies each year, and the exam is conducted in three sessions.

Section 1: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) The VARC section consists of 24 questions that are divided into two parts: Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability. The Reading Comprehension part includes passages that are followed by a set of questions. The Verbal Ability part includes questions on para-jumbles, sentence correction, vocabulary, and grammar.

Section 2: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) The DILR section consists of  20 questions that are divided into two parts: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. The Data Interpretation part includes questions on graphs, charts, tables, and diagrams. The Logical Reasoning part includes questions on puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, and other similar topics.

Section 3: Quantitative Ability (QA) The QA section consists of 22 questions that cover topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, numbersystem probability, and statistics. The questions in this section require candidates to use mathematical concepts and apply them to solve problems.

Marking Scheme: Each question in the CAT exam carries three marks, and there is negative marking for incorrect answers. For every wrong answer, one mark is deducted, and there is no negative marking for questions that are not attempted. The CAT exam does not have a sectional time limit, and candidates can move back and forth between the sections.

Scoring and Percentile: The CAT exam is a high-stakes exam, and the score obtained by candidates is used by top business schools to shortlist candidates for their management programs. The score obtained by a candidate is converted into a percentile score, which is used to rank candidates against each other. The percentile score is calculated based on the number of candidates who appeared for the exam, and the performance of the candidate in each section.

Preparation Strategy: Preparing for the CAT exam requires a structured approach and a clear understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus. Candidates are advised to start their preparation well in advance and to focus on building a strong foundation in the basic concepts of mathematics, English, and logical reasoning. Candidates can refer to various study materials, online courses, and coaching centers to aid their preparation.

Mock Tests: Mock tests are an essential part of CAT exam preparation as they help candidates to get a feel of the actual exam and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Candidates are advised to take as many mock tests as possible and to analyze their performance to improve their scores.

Tips for Success: To succeed in the CAT exam, candidates need to have a strong conceptual understanding of the topics covered in the exam. Candidates are advised to practice regularly, manage their time effectively, and remain calm and composed during the exam.

In conclusion, the CAT exam is a highly competitive exam that tests a candidate's aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and logical reasoning skills.