There have been many debates on ‘which is better-coaching vs self-study?’ The fact is, both have pros and cons. What is important is that which method of CAT preparation suits you.
Now is the time to start planning for CAT 2023 preparation. The first thing that comes to a student’s mind planning to appear for CAT or any MBA entrance exam is – 'Should I take up coaching or opt for self-study?'
There have been many debates on ‘which is better-coaching vs self-study?’ The fact is both have pros and cons. What is important is that which method of CAT exam preparation suits you. While we have met many CAT toppers who say coaching is necessary, some also swear by self-study.
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There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.Swapnil Suman who scored 100 percentile in CAT 2018, says “I did not join any coaching institute except for mocks. If someone is weak with the basics, coaching can help up to some extent. But at the end of the day, CAT tests speed and aptitude more than knowledge which can only be developed by practicing a lot.”
Q: Which CAT exam slot is the toughest?
Q: How to prepare for CAT?
Preparing for the Common Admission Test CAT can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and study plan, it is possible to succeed.
Here are some tips on how to prepare for CAT:
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus of CAT thoroughly. The exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability.
- Make a Study Plan: Once you understand the exam pattern and syllabus, make a study plan that works best for you. Allocate time for each section, and include time for revision, practice tests, and solving previous year's question papers.
- Strengthen Your Basics: CAT is a test of your fundamental concepts in Mathematics, English and Logical Reasoning. Hence, focus on building a strong foundation by revising and practicing the basic concepts.
- Read and Analyze: To improve your Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, start reading newspapers, magazines, and books regularly. Analyze the content, style, and tone of the passages to gain a better understanding of the language.
- Practice Regularly: Practice is the key to success in CAT. Solve as many practice tests and previous year's question papers as possible to get familiar with the exam pattern and build your speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: CAT is a time-bound exam, and time management is crucial. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time frame to build your speed and accuracy.
- Join a Coaching Institute: If you find it challenging to prepare for CAT on your own, consider joining a coaching institute that offers specialised coaching for CAT. They will provide you with a structured study plan, guidance, and practice tests to help you prepare for the exam.
Remember, consistency, and dedication are key to success in CAT. Keep practicing and working hard, and you will achieve your goal.
Q: Is the CAT syllabus difficult?
Yes, the difficulty level of CAT syllabus is very high as compared to other MBA entrance exams. However, if you prepare well and follow the CAT exam pattern well, you will be able to score well. Besides having an understanding of the CAT syllabus 2025, candidates also need to be well aware of the CAT exam pattern before they start preparing for the exam. The CAT exam pattern was revised in 2021 and the number of questions were reduced from 76 to 66. The structure of CAT 2023 and CAT 2024 was the same. The syllabus is still tougher than other exams.
The most important things to keep in mind are:
- CAT exam mode is online
- Each question carries three marks
- There is negative marking of minus one mark for wrong attempts
The section-wise distribution of questions and difficulty levels as per the latest CAT exam pattern are listed below:
- Quantitative Ability (QA) - 24 questions, difficulty level - moderate to high
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) - 20 questions, difficulty level - moderate
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) - 22 questions, difficulty level - moderate. to high
Somansh Chordia, 100 percentiler in CAT 2019 however, says that faculty at coaching institutes guides you through the pattern and some tried and tested methods. “Coaching for competitive exams basically helps in the initial phase as the experienced faculty guides you through the pattern and some tried and tested methods. So, this makes it easier to discover the best strategy that suites you. Other than this, having some friends to compete with helps in keeping yourself motivated, and this can be easily ensured through a coaching institute. Other than this, mocks and its basic analysis is probably the most crucial thing that a coaching provides,” Somansh says.
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While some other high scorers in CAT 2020 exam like Ekansh Agrawal think that attempting mock tests is more important. “I think attempting mock tests is more important. If a student is preparing seriously, then he/she should buy a test series. But, if they think they need assistance in a particular section or sections, then they may opt for coaching but it is not necessary to join a coaching institute,” Ekansh says.
CAT 2021 topper Chirag Gupta focused mainly on giving mock tests and analysing them. He used to work on my weaknesses by watching various CAT preparation YouTube videos on various topics.
CAT 2022 topper Atish Naskar says, "I started my CAT preparation back in January 2022. I set a daily target for all 3 sections that included daily 3-4 RCs daily 3-4 LRDI sets 20-30 QA questions or some QA concept understanding. The last 2-3 Months gave mocks and analyzed them properly."
Q: Is CAT exam tough for an average student?
CAT is a speed based test which is designed to assess a candidate's analytical aptitude, logical reasoning skills, data interpretation and English comprehension. Now, it may sound tough, but these are the skills which we are taught in school so there is nothing new to learn. What is required is to learn these subjects at advanced level. If you are an average student but have studied Science or commerce in Class-12 and graduation, you will find a lot of familiar topics in Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning. All you will need is brush up the basics and practice the concepts on advance level problems.
However, since the competition is so high in CAT and less than 95 percentile can break your dream of joining a top college like IIM, the preparation for CAT requires a lot of focus, dedication, discipline and diligence. If you can do that, despite being an average student, you can crack the CAT exam.
Q: Are six months enough to prepare for CAT?
Q: Why is CAT considered a difficult MBA entrance exam?
Q: When should I start preparing for CAT exam?
Aspirants should start preparing for CAT exam at least nine months in before the test date. CAT preparation requires long-term planning thus one must start early. The best time to start CAT preparation is in March. Starting early will also help you assess that whether you need to join a coaching institute or not.
Divide your preparation into two phases -
- Covering the CAT syllabus
- Practicing mock tests, sample questions and revision.
The CAT syllabus includes the following topics:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension: Parajumbles, Parasummary, Sentence Completion and Inferences, Questions based on passages, para meaning, order of sentences
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning: Tables, Graphs, Pie Charts, Venn Diagram, Blood Relation, Seating Arrangement, Caselets and Syllogism
- Quantitative Aptitude: Geometry, Algebra, Number System, Arithmetic, Mensuration.
You can read the following CAT books for exam preparation:
- CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri
- Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
- Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha
- How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT by Arun Sharma
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
- 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary Mass Market Paperback by Wilfred Funk and Norman Lewis/ Simon and Schuster
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Sharma and Upadhyay
- High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren and Martin
- How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma
- Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha
- Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Sharma
- Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha.
Q: Can I prepare for CAT within 3 months?
| VARC Preparation Tips | DILR Preparation Tips | Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Tips |
Coaching vs Self Study: How to Choose?
When preparing for CAT 2023, keep in mind your grasp on VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. Also, that how much time you have for exam preparation.
Most of the coaching institutes begin their batches at least a year before the CAT exam. They also offer crash courses of short duration, which you can join at a later stage of CAT preparation, if you feel the need.
The biggest drawback of coaching institutes is exhaustion. Students have to attend classes of six to eight hours daily and then take mock tests on weekends. For some, it becomes too taxing. Let’s take a look at pros and cons of coaching and self-study and then discuss which is better for CAT 2023 aspirants.
CAT Preparation: Coaching vs Self Study
Given below are a few key aspects of CAT preparation by coaching and self study:
| Coaching |
Self-Study |
|---|---|
| Rigid study hours |
Flexible study hours |
| Special attention to tough topics |
No expert guidance on tough topics |
| Study material and mock tests provided |
Study material and mock tests easily available |
| Classroom discussions |
Can join online forums and study groups |
| Channelizing of energy in the right direction |
Can adjust resources according to time and need |
| Helps in developing analytical ability |
Helps in developing analytical ability |
| Competitive environment brings out the best in students |
No peer pressure |
| Motivation level is high at all times |
Need to stay self motivated at all times |
| Common problems and achievements instill confidence |
Chances of getting complacent higher |
Also Read:
- CAT syllabus 2023
- CAT exam pattern 2023
- CAT books and study material
- CAT question papers
- CAT mock tests
| Free VARC Questions with Answers for Practice | Free DILR Questions with Answers for Practice | Free Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice |
CAT Preparation by Coaching
Let’s have a look at pros and cons of MBA Coaching Classes. These are general observations and students must take a decision regarding their mode of preparation keeping in mind their own ability and situation.
| MBA Coaching Classes |
|
|---|---|
| Pros |
Cons |
| Focused preparation |
High fees |
| Competitive environment |
Long study hours |
| Constant support and guidance of mentors |
Physical exhaustion, no time to relax and unwind |
| Availability of study material |
Risk of complacency |
| Regular feedback on progress |
Peer pressure to always perform |
CAT Preparation by Self Study
Let’s have a look at pros and cons of Self Study. These are general observations and students must take a decision regarding their mode of preparation keeping in mind their own ability and situation.
| CAT Preparation by Self Study |
|
|---|---|
| Pros |
Cons |
| Free to study according to your own time and speed |
Lack of guidance can lead to deviation from focused path |
| No peer pressure of performing well |
Risk of complacency due to lack of competition |
| Better time management |
Students can end up wasting more time during study hours |
| Better development of analytical ability as one finds tricks and shortcuts for solving questions |
Lack of expert guidance on tough topics and doubts can lead to incomplete preparation |
| More opportunities to relax and unwind |
Absence of mentor or peers to talk to about road blocks in preparation can be demoralizing |
Also Read:
- What is the best time to start CAT preparation
- Simple tips to optimize CAT exam preparation
- Advantages of giving CAT for final year student
- How many questions to attempt in CAT to score 99+ percentile
- Your love for reading can get you the desired result
- CAT exam: How to prepare without quitting your job
To sum it up, both coaching classes and self study have their own significance in CAT exam preparation. Both methods of exam preparation require dedication and discipline (self study requires a tad bit more). Study material and books for CAT preparation are readily available in the market so you don’t have to worry about that.
You as an aspirant needs to weigh the two keeping in mind your abilites and personality traits. If you are lazy and lack focus, you need to go for coaching classes, but if you are self-disciplined and resolute, you can do well by self study.
Choose your option for CAT 2023 preparation carefully. All the best!
Try this CAT Mock Test, Powered by IMS, to assess your preparation level and time-management skill.
Free CAT Mock Test 1Try second CAT Mock Test, Powered by IMS, to assess your preparation level and time-management skill.
Free CAT Mock Test 2Also Read:
Tips and tricks for CAT 2023 preparation from previous years’ toppers. Know how CAT toppers prepared for the exam.
| CAT Toppers |
CAT Topper Interviews |
|---|---|
| Risshi Agrawal CAT 2022, 99.99 percentile
|
Mocks play a crucial role while preparing for CAT. It helps you determine the strategy which suits you the best. |
| Parul Arora CAT 2022, 99.93 percentile |
I started preparing for CAT in April. My preparation strategy for CAT was to clear my basic concepts in all topics and then maximum practice. |
| Aditya Singh CAT 2022, 99.90 percentile |
For my first attempt I attended offline coaching classes, post which I only took the online test series. This year I took the test series from two of the most renowned coaching institutes. Coaching really helps a lot. |
| Atish Naskar CAT 2022, 99.81 percentile |
I started my CAT preparation back in January 2022. I set a daily target for all 3 sections that included daily 3-4 RCs daily 3-4 LRDI sets 20-30 QA questions or some QA concept understanding. The last 2-3 Months gave mocks and analyzed them properly. |
| Tushar Sarkar CAT 2022, 99.80 percentile |
My serious preparation started in the month of June 2022. My overall strategy had three parts: Diagnosing my problems, guiding policy for improving and actions. |
| Chirag Gupta CAT 2021, 100 percentile |
I started preparing in March 2021. I focused mainly on giving mock tests and analysing them. I used to work on my weaknesses by watching various CAT preparation YouTube videos on various topics. |
| Bir Anmol Singh |
I started preparing in April 2021. I solved Arun Sharma sir's CAT books for VARC, LR, DI and Quant. I attempted as many past year CAT questions papers (timed attempt) that I could attempt, on weekends. I used to analyse my shortcomings to improve further. |
| Sagar Sengar CAT 2021, 99.48 percentile |
I started preparing around the end of June this year and went into the full-throttle mode by end of August. My overall strategy was to first complete the theory end to end and then practice different kinds of problems across all the sections. |
| Ved Vineet CAT 2021, 99.40 percentile |
It is not at all important to join a coaching institute for CAT preparation. You just need to prepare in a disciplined manner. Read Ved's full interview |
| Sareen Shah |
Don't delay your prep. Start as early as possible. Solve as many questions as you can. Understand RCs and DILR sets properly. Quality over Quantity should be your aim. |
| Kshitiz Singhal CAT 2020, 99.99 percentile |
My suggestion for the aspirants is to work on your fundamentals, speed and accuracy. |
| Ekansh Agarwal CAT 2020, 99.98 percentile |
I would say that mock tests are the most important part of CAT preparation. Attempt as many mock tests as possible. |
| Naval Mittal CAT 2020, 99.97 percentile |
Solve as many types of questions you can from each section. Secondly, focus on your accuracy. |
| Swarnadeep Ghosh CAT 2020, 99.92 percentile |
Attempt all kinds of mock tests, difficult and easy. Maximize your strengths and do not stress about the weaker areas. |
| Sabyasachi Mishra CAT 2020, 99.90 percentile |
Focus more on concepts more than the mock tests. I would say that mocks do not matter much. What you learn from the mock tests is what matters. |
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 13 hours ago
No, SKILL-CAT exam is not compulsory to get into MBA at Symbiosis Skills and Professional University. Candidates can also apply with a valid score of national-level examinations. The accepted entrance exams are CAT/MAT/SNAP/GMAT, etc. After shortlisting candidates based on exam scores, the universit
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Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
GIBS Bangalore offers a PGDM program, often considered equivalent to an MBA. It's designed to be industry-focused, with an emphasis on practical learning and entrepreneurial skills. The curriculum includes case studies, industry projects, and a focus on developing soft skills alongside core manageme
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Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 days ago
LEAD college og management ofers admissions based on entrance and merit. The institute offers courses such as MBA AND MCA for duration 2 year full timemode.
Candidates must have minimum marks of 50% in graduation from a recognised university or college. Apart from this, candidates must obtained vali
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Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 days ago
Hi Sanjana,
MDI Gurgaon primarily accepts CAT scores for admission to its PGDM programs. For Indian students, a valid CAT score is required. However, for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Foreign Nationals, and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), a GMAT score is accepted.
The last date to apply for the PGDM,
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Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 days ago
Dear Sayandip,
Achieving a 60 percentile in the CAT exam may not meet the typical cutoff requirements for admission to the KIIT School of Management (KSOM). Based on available information, KSOM generally considers candidates with higher CAT percentiles for admission.
Typical Cutoff Percentiles for KS
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Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 days ago
Yes, Mangalmay Institute of Management and Technology accepts the CAT exam for admission to MBA and MBA+. Further, the college accepts other entrance exam for admission to MBA, such as MAT, XAT, CAT, CMAT Additionally, the college has some basic eligibility criteria that differ from course to course
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Contributor-Level 6
Answered 3 days ago
No, CAT score is not required to secure MBA admission at The Neotia University. The university provides merit-based admissions to eligible applicants. Candidates who fulfil the course-specific eligibility criteria can visit the university's official website to apply. They must upload all the require
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 days ago
Manipal University offers admission to several MBA courses via its affiliated college called TAPMI Manipal. The institute accepts several national-level entrance exams, such as CAT/ XAT/ CMAT, and NMAT, for admission to the MBA/PGDM courses. During the TAPMI Manipal MBA cutoff 2023, the CAT cutoff p
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 days ago
Yes, freshers can apply for the MBA program at the National Institute of Financial Management (NIFM). For admission, NIFM considers scores from various entrance exams, including CAT, CMAT, XAT, MAT, and GMAT.
With a CAT percentile of 76.41, you have a good chance of securing admission at NIFM, as th
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Contributor-Level 8
Answered a week ago
Yes, Mody University of Science and Technology accepts the CAT exam for admission to MBA. Further, university also accepts various other entrance exam for admission, such as XAT/NMAT/CMAT/MAT/ATMA/GMAT. Additionally, the university has some basic eligibility criteria that differ from course to cours
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Contributor-Level 6
Is SKILL-CAT compulsory for MBA at Symbiosis Skills and Professional University?