10 Last-Minute CAT 2024 Tips to Boost Your Exam Performance
By Arbind Singh, CEO, Career Strategists
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024 is just around the corner, set to be conducted on November 24. Thousands of aspirants across the nation are gearing up for this crucial exam, which could be their stepping stone to a prestigious management education. As the countdown to D-Day begins, it’s essential to focus on last-mile preparations that can make all the difference in your performance.
Here are ten practical tips to help you maximize your potential and walk into the exam hall with confidence:
The last few days are as much about mindset as they are about academics. Stay calm, confident, and positive. Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to centre yourself and reduce anxiety. A focused and composed mind can navigate the pressures of the CAT far better than a stressed one.
Break the 120-minute exam into smaller intervals and mentally rehearse your approach to each section—Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Visualize how you will manage time, prioritize questions, and switch strategies if needed.
Prepare for ideal as well as challenging scenarios. For instance, imagine a tougher-than-expected DILR section or a VARC passage that takes longer than anticipated. Have a Plan B ready so you can recalibrate on the spot without losing precious time or composure.
Now is not the time to experiment with new techniques or strategies. Trust the methods you’ve practiced over months of preparation. Stick to the question selection and time management strategies that have consistently worked for you in mock tests.
CAT is as much a test of time management as it is of aptitude. Decide beforehand how much time you’ll allocate to each question or section. Keep track of time during the exam, but don’t panic if you deviate slightly from your plan—quick recalibration is key.
In the quest to attempt more questions, don’t compromise on accuracy. Negative marking for incorrect answers can significantly impact your score. Be judicious in question selection and ensure you are confident about the answers you mark.
Spend the last few days revisiting core concepts and formulas, particularly for Quantitative Ability. Avoid diving into entirely new topics—your focus should be on consolidating what you already know.
Limit yourself to one or two mock tests in the final week. The aim here is to refine your strategy, not to burn out. After each mock, analyse your performance, identify areas for improvement, and mentally prepare to tackle similar challenges on the exam day.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as your admit card and valid photo ID. Plan your commute to the test centre and get a good night’s sleep before the exam. A well-rested mind performs far better than an exhausted one.
The last-minute nerves are natural, but remember: your preparation and hard work have brought you this far. Believe in your abilities, stay resilient, and keep a positive outlook. Confidence is your best ally on exam day.
The final leg of the CAT journey is not just about knowing what to do but also understanding why you are doing it. Mindfulness and preparation, coupled with adaptability, are the keys to performing well. Visualize success, plan for contingencies, and trust the process.
Best of luck to all CAT 2024 aspirants! May your efforts translate into remarkable results.
About the Author:
Arbind Singh, CEO of Career Strategists, is a renowned mentor and guide in the field of competitive exam preparation. With years of experience, he has helped thousands of students achieve their dreams of securing admission to India’s top management institutes.
