Common Admission Test or CAT is one of the most prestigious exams in India for those aspiring to pursue a career in management. With the CAT 2023 exam approaching for the academic year 2024-26, it’s time to gear up and start planning for it. As the competition is stiff, one needs to prepare strategically and diligently to clear this exam with flying colours. To start with, an understanding of the CAT syllabus and pattern is necessary. The syllabus primarily consists of three sections – verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR), and quantitative ability (QA). Knowing the CAT syllabus is crucial for devising an efficient preparation plan.
In such a scenario, CAT toppers of 2021 and 2022 can prove to be valuable sources of information. They have experienced the exam first-hand and can offer their insights into the exam pattern and difficulty level & this article has just those tips foe you. Selecting the right study material is also important for CAT preparation. There are various books available in the market, and choosing the best ones can be daunting. However, with proper research, aspirants can get their hands on the most suitable material. Best Books for CAT 2023 Preparation 2023 can prove to be a game-changer during the exam.
Online classes have become the preferred mode of learning with the emergence of top brands like CAT King, Unacademy, upGrad & others. With access to the internet, preparing for CAT 2023 from anywhere in the world has become possible. Enrolled in the best Online classes for CAT prep, you can seek live interaction with expert faculty, clear doubts, and discuss strategies.
CAT is a computer-based test which needs a well-planned strategy, and a study planner is a must. You must start by analysing your strengths and weaknesses. With a clear-cut vision in mind and a structured plan, it’s possible to keep track of progress and optimise study time.
Aspirants must also keep themselves updated on important dates for CAT 2023. The registration process usually commences in August or September, and the exam is scheduled for November or December. Being aware of the dates and adhering to them can prevent last-minute chaos. Finally, Tips & Tricks to crack CAT 2023 are always useful. You can seek expert advice from PG academies or online communities to understand the exam’s nuances and apply the right techniques.
CAT 2023 Important Dates
The following table contains details about CAT 2023 Registration, exam date & other exam details:
|
CAT 2023 (MBA Entrance Exam) |
Dates |
|
Date of Release of Notification for CAT 2023 |
4th week of July 2023 |
|
Beginning of CAT Application Form Process for 2023 |
1st week of August 2023 |
|
Application Form Fill-up Last Date for CAT 2023 |
2nd week of September 2023 |
|
Application Fee Submission Last Date |
2nd week of September 2023 |
|
Release of CAT Admit Card 2023 |
4th week of October 2023 |
|
Date of Exams for CAT 2023 |
4th week of November 2023 |
|
Release of CAT Answer Key |
1st week of December 2023 (released within a week of the CAT exam 2023) |
|
Results Announcement of CAT 2023 |
4th week of December or 1st week of January 2024 |
Fill the CAT application form on the official website @ https://iimcat.ac.in
How to Register for CAT 2023 Exam?
- Visit the official CAT exam website and click “Register.”
- Fill in personal details: Name, Contact Number, Email, Date of Birth, etc.
- Click “Submit” to generate a unique User ID and Password.
- Log in using the provided User ID and Password.
- Fill in personal details: Date of Birth, Gender, Category, Nationality, Address, Contact details, etc.
- Provide academic details: Class 10th and 12th marks, Qualifying degree scores, educational qualifications, university/college name, etc.
- Optionally, fill in work experience details: Organisation name, designation, job responsibilities, duration, etc.
- Select course preferences and choose the desired institute.
- Choose the interview city preference and select six preferred exam cities in order of preference.
- Upload the required documents: Scanned images of passport-size photo and signature, academic certificates, and applicable category certificates.
- Ensure the uploaded documents adhere to specified dimensions, formats, and sizes.
- Make the online payment of the CAT registration fee using accepted methods.
- General category fee: Rs. 2200/-; SC, ST, and PwD fee: Rs. 1100/-.
CAT 2023: Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The CAT 2023 exam pattern provides crucial details for CAT aspirants to understand the structure of the exam. Familiarising yourself with this pattern will enable you to prepare more effectively for the upcoming CAT examination.
|
Particulars |
Details |
|
Official Website |
|
|
Exam Mode |
Online |
|
Test Duration |
120 minutes 1. Quantitative Ability (QA) – 40 minutes 2. Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI) – 40 minutes 3. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) – 40 minutes |
|
Type of Questions |
Objective-Type |
|
Total Number of Sections |
3 Sections 1. Quantitative Ability (QA) – 40 minutes 2. Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI) – 40 minutes 3. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) – 40 minutes |
|
Total Questions |
66 Questions 1. Quantitative Ability – 22 2. Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation – 20 3. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension – 24 |
|
Total Marks |
198 |
|
Marking Scheme |
+3 for one correct answer -1 for one incorrect answer |
CAT 2023 – Syllabus | Subjects | Weightage
Following is the subject-wise weightage of the CAT 2023 syllabus:
Subject (Section of CAT) |
Weightage |
|
Reading Comprehension |
24% |
|
Verbal Ability |
10% |
|
Logical Reasoning |
16% |
|
Data Interpretation |
16% |
|
Quantitative Aptitude |
34% |
Syllabus of CAT 2023: Quantitative Aptitude
Here we have mentioned the topics and sub-topics included in the Quants section of the syllabus of CAT 2023
Topic |
Sub-Topics |
|
Numbers |
1. Numbers Basics 2. Divisibility 3. Remainders 4. HCF & LCM 5. Tips, Shortcuts & Practice |
|
Arithmetic |
1. Percentages 2. Profit & Loss 3. Dishonest Seller 4. Simple & Compound Interest 5. Instalments |
|
Time, Speed & Distance |
1. TSD: Basics 2. Relative Speed 3. Circular Motion 4. Tricks to Solve TSD Questions |
|
Modern Maths |
1. Permutations & Combinations: Basics 2. Arranging Distinct and Identical Things 3. Finding the Number of Solutions to Equations 4. Balls & Boxes Practice Questions 5. Probability |
|
Algebra |
1. Algebra Basics 2. Quadratic Equations 3. Inequalities 4. Maxima Minima 6. Graphs 7. Functions 8. Integral Solutions |
|
Progressions & Series |
1. Sequence & Series (AP, GP, A.G.P) 2. Special Series & Function |
|
Geometry |
1. Lines & Angles 4. Quadrilaterals 5. 3-D Mensuration |
Syllabus of CAT 2023: Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
The below list represents the topics and sub-topics in the Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation section of the CAT 2023 syllabus.
Topics |
Subtopics |
|
Data Interpretation |
1. Intro & Tools 2. Tables – 1 3. Tables – 2 4. Line & Bar Graphs 5. Pie Charts 6. Misc. Graphs – 1 7. Misc. Graphs – 2 8. Misc. Graphs – 3 |
|
Cubes |
|
|
Linear Arrangements |
|
|
Circular Arrangements |
|
|
Venn Diagrams |
|
|
Distribution |
|
|
Selection |
|
|
Binary Logics |
|
|
Games & Tournaments |
|
|
Network Flow Diagrams |
|
|
Quant Based DI |
Syllabus of CAT 2023: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
Here we have mentioned the topics and sub-topics that are included in the VARC section of the CAT 2023 syllabus.
Topics |
Sub Topics |
|
Grammar |
|
|
Reading Comprehension |
|
|
Para Summary |
|
|
Para Completion |
|
|
Odd One Out |
|
|
Para Jumbles |
|
|
Critical Reasoning & FIJ |
Preparation Strategy for CAT 2023 | How to Prepare for CAT Exam By Experts and Toppers
Prepare for the CAT 2023 or Common Admission Test (CAT) with a systematic and well-structured approach. Here is some advice you can follow to prepare effectively for the CAT exam:
How I Scored 100% Percentile In My All 3 Attempts? – Rahul Sharma, 100% – CAT 2021
I think the most important part of preparing for CAT is really understanding the concepts and how they apply. Once you’ve got that down, the next step is to review and take mock exams. These practice tests can help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus on improving where needed. It’s also a good idea to review previous year’s question papers as they give you a sense of the exam pattern and the kinds of questions you might encounter.
In my view, having a mentor or coach is crucial during your preparation. They can guide you in the right direction, keep you disciplined and consistent, and provide valuable guidance and support. At Possible Education, we strongly believe in being there for students throughout their journey.
Honestly, it really comes down to having confidence in yourself. CAT preparation is about building a successful future, which takes determination and perseverance. At Possible Education, we’re dedicated to fostering that mindset and helping students navigate their preparation journey with belief in their own abilities.
Access Full Article – “It’s about leading with example” – Ft. Rahul Sharma, an IIM A graduate & 3X CAT Topper
Prep Plan On How To Score 100% In 1st Attempt? – Soham Katkar, 100% – CAT 2021
In terms of preparation, I had previously attempted CAT in 2020, and this was my second attempt. For the examination, I prepared for a duration of two weeks. However, in my previous attempt, I had dedicated two to three months to preparation. During my preparation, I focused on solving mock papers and thoroughly analysing them. Since I had a strong foundation in quants and LRDI from my JEE preparation, my main emphasis was on strengthening my Verbal Ability, which I achieved through the analysis of mock tests.
You don’t have to worry if you cannot afford to coach. The CAT test components cover concepts learned up to the high school level, emphasising their practical application. However, I did benefit from the mock exam series provided by TIME and IMS, which constituted my entire preparation. Understanding the test structure is crucial because it’s not about answering all questions quickly but rather answering them correctly.
Access Full Article: 2 Weeks Of Revision, Countless Mock Tests, Is That All? Here’s How Soham Katkar Scored A 100% ile In CAT 2021 Exam
CAT Preparation Tips – Section Wise
Preparation for CAT 2023 becomes easy if you know how to approach each subject individually. Here are some strategies that you can use to prepare the sections in the CAT 2023 syllabus.
1. Quantitative Ability (QA)
To prepare for the Quantitative Ability section of the CAT exam, focus on the Number System, Algebra, Permutation and Combination, and other topics. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the fundamentals to solve complex problems effectively.
Memorise tables up to 40, square values up to 30, cube values up to 20, and fraction percentage equivalents up to 25 to save time during calculations. Keep a formula notebook with all the important formulas and review them regularly.
Aim to answer each question within 2 minutes and prioritise answering multiple simple questions over tackling one complex question in order to maximise your score in the limited time given during the exam.
2. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Many applicants often consider VARC, which evaluates English language proficiency, as challenging and intimidating. It consists of various types of questions, including passages to test reading comprehension skills.
To tackle this section effectively, candidates should select passages and questions they are most familiar with. If someone is comfortable with factual passages, they should avoid questions that require critical thinking. It is recommended to approach VARC in two sections: one for Reading Comprehension and another for the remaining topics.
Avoid guessing or randomly answering grammar-related questions. Instead, make informed deductions based on inference. If a particular topic appears too complex, move on to the next one to save time on a single question. Deductive logic plays a crucial role in reasoning and para jumbles, and candidates can navigate between topics to make accurate decisions.
When attempting the Reading Comprehension part, reading the questions before diving into the passage is advisable. Candidates scoring at or above the 85% level should focus more on Vocabulary and Grammar, Deductive Logic, Sentence Completion, Critical Reasoning, Para Jumbles, Para-Completion, and Summary Questions.
3. Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI)
Over the past two years, the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section has proven to be the most challenging among the three sections. The absence of a predefined syllabus makes this topic even more difficult, leaving practice as the only key to success. Here are some important tips to keep in mind while preparing for DILR:
Give special attention to Syllogism, as it is a high-scoring component. Utilise Venn diagrams to solve critical reasoning questions effectively.
Focus on solving questions related to inequalities. Start with problems that involve a limited number of variables in arrangement-based questions, gradually progressing to more complex questions with multiple variables.
Be cautious with complex reasoning questions, as they often lead to misinterpretation. It is recommended to go through the topics in this section multiple times to ensure a thorough understanding.
CAT Preparation 2023: List of Top CAT Preparation Books
If you are confused about which books you should use to prepare for your section-wise preparation for CAT 2023: Here’s a list of the top 10 books recommended for each section of CAT preparation, along with the respective authors.
|
Section |
Books |
Authors |
|
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
“How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT” |
Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay |
|
“Word Power Made Easy” |
Norman Lewis |
|
|
“Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT” |
Nishit K. Sinha |
|
|
“High School English Grammar and Composition” |
Wren and Martin |
|
|
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) |
“How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT” |
Arun Sharma |
|
“Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT” |
Nishit K. Sinha |
|
|
“Data Interpretation for the CAT” |
Nishit K. Sinha |
|
|
“Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation” |
R.S. Aggarwal |
|
|
Quantitative Ability (QA) |
“How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT” |
Arun Sharma |
|
“Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” |
R.S. Aggarwal |
|
|
“Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission into IIMs” |
Sarvesh K. Verma |
|
|
“Quantitative Aptitude for CAT” |
Nishit K. Sinha |
Note: The above list represents popular books recommended by many CAT aspirants and experts. It’s important to note that while these books are widely used, there are several other good resources available as well. It’s recommended to choose books that align with your learning style and provide comprehensive coverage of the CAT syllabus. Additionally, practising from previous years’ question papers and mock tests is crucial for exam preparation.
How to Prepare for CAT 2023: 3 Month-wise Study Plan and Strategy
If you are looking for CAT preparation strategies to start your CAT prep Journey the PG CAT experts for the best 3 Month CAT 2023 exam preparation strategy you can rely on, so start preparing for CAT 2023 Now!
|
Month |
Tasks |
Strategy |
|
Month 1 |
1. Understand the exam pattern |
Familiarise yourself with the CAT exam structure, question types, and marking scheme. |
|
2. Assess your strengths and weaknesses |
Take a diagnostic test to identify your areas of strength and weakness. |
|
|
3. Create a study schedule |
Develop a realistic study plan that allocates time for each section and revise concepts regularly. |
|
|
4. Brush up on basic concepts |
Review fundamental topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, grammar, and vocabulary. |
|
|
5. Practice mock tests’ |
Start taking regular mock tests to get accustomed to the time pressure and improve your test-taking skills. |
|
|
6. Analyze mock test performance |
Analyse your performance in mock tests to identify areas that need improvement and focus on those topics. |
|
|
Month 2 |
1. Focus on weak areas |
Devote more time to studying and practising topics in which you are weaker, using a combination of books and online resources. |
|
2. Learn shortcuts and tricks. |
Familiarise yourself with time-saving techniques and shortcuts for solving quantitative and verbal reasoning questions. |
|
|
3. Solve previous years’ question papers |
Solve CAT exam question papers from previous years to get a better understanding of the exam pattern and difficulty level. |
|
|
4. Time management practice |
Practice solving questions within the allotted time to improve your speed and accuracy. |
|
|
5. Strengthen reading comprehension |
Practice reading comprehension regularly and work on improving your reading speed and comprehension skills. |
|
|
Month 3 |
1. Revise all topics |
Review all the concepts and formulas you have learned so far and make concise notes for last-minute revision. |
|
2. Solve mock tests under exam conditions |
Take full-length mock tests under exam-like conditions to simulate the actual test environment. |
|
|
3. Analyze and learn from mistakes |
Analyze your performance in mock tests and identify the types of mistakes you are making. Work on improving those areas. |
|
|
4. Fine-tune time management skills |
Practice solving questions within strict time limits to ensure you can complete the entire exam within the given time. |
|
|
5. Stay calm and confident |
Focus on maintaining a positive mindset and stay confident in your preparation. |
Remember, this plan is just a guideline to prepare for the CAT exam, and you can modify it according to your individual needs and preferences.
Also Read: Top 5 Tips For CAT Exam Prep Strategy | CAT Preparation Tips For Beginners by CAT Author Arun Sharma
How to Prepare for CAT 2023:
CAT Preparation 2023: A Daily Plan to Prepare for CAT 2023
Are you straggling to create a schedule for your CAT prep requirement or not being able to give equal time for each section, then you may refer to our daily plan listed here:
|
Time |
Activity |
|
Morning |
|
|
6:00 AM |
Wake up |
|
6:30 AM |
Light exercise (workout or yoga) |
|
Study Session 1 |
|
|
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
|
– Review vocabulary |
|
|
– Practice reading comprehension passages |
|
|
– Solve questions from previous CAT papers |
|
|
Break |
|
|
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM |
Short break |
|
Study Session 2 |
|
|
9:15 AM – 10:45 AM |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) |
|
– Solve practice sets and puzzles |
|
|
– Work on data interpretation exercises |
|
|
– Learn problem-solving techniques |
|
|
Lunch Break |
|
|
10:45 AM – 12:00 PM |
Lunch break |
|
– Have a nutritious meal |
|
|
– Take a longer break to rest and rejuvenate |
|
|
Study Session 3 |
|
|
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
Quantitative Ability (QA) |
|
– Focus on QA concepts and problem-solving |
|
Note: The time durations mentioned above are approximate and can be adjusted according to your personal preferences and availability. It’s also essential to incorporate regular breaks to avoid mental fatigue and maintain productivity throughout the day, also, ensure to answer at least 1 mock test per week post 20 days from the beginning of your prep journey.
List of Top CAT Coaching Centres in India for CAT 2023 Exam
The table here talks about the best coaching centres in India for CAT 2023 coaching.
|
Name of The Institute |
Fees Structure |
|
CAT King |
Rs 50,000/- |
|
IMS |
Rs. 70,000/- |
|
Career Launcher |
Rs. 60,000/- |
|
TIME Institute |
Rs. 67,000/- |
|
PT Education |
Rs. 65,000/- |
|
Jamboree |
Rs. 40,000/- |
|
MBA Guru |
Rs. 70,000/- |
|
Alchemist |
Rs. 55,00s0/- |
|
Erudite Coaching Centre |
Rs. 35,000/- |
|
King’s Education |
Rs. 55,000/- |
*Mentioned rates are subject to change kindly refer to the original website for update fees & other charges related information*
List of Top Online CAT Coaching 2023
Apart from offline coaching, students can also opt for online coaching for the CAT 2023 preparation. Here we are presenting a table detailing all the coaching options for online preparation along with their fee structure.
|
Online Coaching Institute |
Complete Course Fees |
|
2IIM |
Rs. 49000/- |
|
Percentilers |
NA |
|
IMS Learning |
Rs. 37,450/- |
|
Career Launcher (CL) |
|
|
QDS Pro |
Rs. 20,000 – 60,000/- |
|
iQuanta |
Rs. 20999/- |
|
HITBULLSEYE |
Rs. 9,999/- |
|
EduShastra |
Rs. 18999/- |
|
Mindworkzz |
Rs. 22,700/- |
|
Cracku |
Rs. 37999/- |
*Mentioned rate are subject to change kindly refer to the original website for update fees & other charges related information*
CAT Preparation 2023: Solve Previous Years Papers
Boost your preparation by downloading CAT sample papers! These valuable resources provide firsthand experience of the exam format, question types, and difficulty level, helping you become familiar with the exam pattern.
By solving sample papers, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of question types, identify strengths and weaknesses, and enhance your problem-solving and time-management skills. Practice makes perfect, so make sure to incorporate CAT sample papers into your study routine to maximise your chances of success.
CAT Preparation 2023: Free CAT Mock Test you should try!
Mock tests are an important part of CAT 2023 preparation. This table depicts the best mock test series that you can find online.
CAT Mock Test |
Link |
|
BYJU’s Exam Prep |
|
|
HitBullsEye |
|
|
Shiksha |
|
|
Career Launcher |
|
|
GetMyUni |
|
|
MBA Universe |
|
|
Unacademy |
https://unacademy.com/goal/cat-other-mba-entrance-tests/XNDUS/test-series |
|
Cracku |
1. When is the CAT 2023 exam scheduled?
Ans: The CAT 2023 exam will be held on November 26, 2023. The official announcement of CAT 2023 will be released on July 31, 2023, at iimcat.ac.in.
2. How many questions are there for CAT 2023 exam?
Ans: According to the CAT official website a total of 120 questions asked in the exam.
3. When will I be able to apply for the CAT 2023 exam?
Ans: The registration process for CAT 2023 will commence in the first week of August. The Indian Institute of Management, responsible for conducting the exam, will announce the application schedule on July 31, 2023.
4.What colleges tend to accept the scores from CAT 2023?
Ans: In addition to the 20 IIMs and more than 1200 B-schools in India accept CAT scores for admission. K J Somaiya, GIM Goa, IMI Delhi, etc.
5. What is the pattern and syllabus of CAT 2023?
Ans: The CAT exam is conducted in three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam is conducted in computer-based mode and has a time limit of 180 minutes. The syllabus covers topics such as English language skills, logical reasoning, data interpretation, quantitative aptitude, and problem-solving. More details are mentioned under this article’s CAT 2023: Exam Pattern and Syllabus section.
6. What is the time duration required to prepare for CAT 2023?
Ans: The time duration required to prepare for the CAT exam can vary depending on several factors, including your current level of knowledge, aptitude, and the amount of time you can dedicate to prepare each day. PG experts & most CAT toppers recommend a 3-month preparation time is enough to prepare for CAT; get more information on how to prepare for CAT in 3 months from the How to Prepare for CAT 2023: 3 Month-wise Study Plan and Strategy section of this article.
7. What are the registration fees for CAT 2023?
Ans: The registration fee for the CAT exam in recent years has been as follows:
General and Non-Reserved Category: Approximately INR 2,000 to INR 2,500.
Reserved Category (SC/ST/PwD): Approximately INR 1,000 to INR 1,250.
8. Is work experience required to appear for the CAT exam?
Ans: No, work experience is not mandatory to appear for the CAT exam. Both fresh graduates and working professionals can apply.
9. How to manage time during full-time CAT prep?
Ans: To manage time for CAT preparation, create a study schedule, prioritise topics based on your strengths and weaknesses, set daily/weekly goals, practice time-bound mock tests, and maintain consistency in your study routine, refer to our CAT Preparation 2023: Day plan to prepare for CAT 2023 section of this article for more details.