Key points to remember while preparing for Computer Based Test (CBT)
As most of the common entrance exams are now paperless, i.e. being conducted online, it is imperative to understand that a Computer Based Test (CBT) requires different approach from that of a Paper Based Test (PBT).
Things to know about Computer Based Test (CBT)
While there’s no confusion over the fact that the approach of attempting a Computer Based Test (CBT) is not the same as attempting a Paper Based Test (PBT), the confusion lies in what is that different approach.
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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
Q: How many questions should I solve to get a good score in CMAT?
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.
Key points to remember while preparing for Computer Based Test
We have listed below some of the key factors to keep in mind for a Computer Based Test (CBT):
1. Do reading practice on the computer. Reading newspapers and business articles is not enough. You need to develop a habit of reading on screen. This will be beneficial in the Reading Comprehension (RC) section, as you will be able to save considerable time.
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2. Since the MBA entrance exams are time bound, you shall have to sharpen your memory to avoid going back and forth on a paragraph on the screen. Repeatedly glancing back and forth will increase your time spent on a question, thereby delaying your performance.
3. Practice solving analytical questions online. The more you get used to working on a computer screen the better it is. Practice a large number of MBA mock tests.
4. Another crucial thing is to learn to keep looking at the computer screen while working out solutions in mind or on a rough sheet. Moreover, you will have to constantly keep an eye on the timer running at one corner of the screen.
Q: Are six months enough to prepare for CAT?
Q: In how many months can I prepare for XAT 2025?
Ideally, XAT preparation takes six to nine months, but if candidates have prepared for CAT too, XAT preparation can be done in lesser time as one will have to only work on Decision Making and General Knowledge topics. Those who are weak in English Comprehension must start reading practice early on. The ideal time to start XAT preparation is May, so you can cover the whole syllabus by October and dedicate two months to mock test practice.
If you start studying for XAT late, by July or so, make sure you complete the syllabus by October only. Remember that XAT syllabus is tough, so you’ll need to study at least 6-8 hours daily from start until the end. Give ample time to yourself to complete the XAT syllabus.
5. There’s also the need to learn to solve certain questions mentally, especially in Quantitative Ability section. This trait will help you save crucial minutes. Learn and practice mental math.
6. Practice sample questions online to analyse time spent on each question and strategise much time you will be spending on a particular section.
7. Take a thorough look at the demo or sample papers before exam. The only difference between a mock test and the real test is that of the atmosphere and the pressure of performing. So if you will familiarize yourself well with CBT mocks you are less likely to face any anxiety in the actual exam.
8. The moment you start your test form, make sure you read all the instructions carefully.
9. Since there’s no option of going back to previous page in many exams (eg; CAT), please ensure you have solved all the questions before preceding to the next section.
10. Practicing questions online will make your eyes get used to enduring the computer screen glare for a longer time period. Sudden exposure to computer screen on the exam day will strain your eyes much faster which will directly affect your performance.
Shiksha Mock Tests (CAT, CMAT, MAT, XAT)
Shiksha provides free mock tests for practice for top four MBA entrance exams - CAT, CMAT, MAT and XAT. Check below:
CAT Mock Tests
| CAT_Mock_Test_1 | CAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| CAT_Mock_Test_2 | CAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
CMAT Mock Test
| CMAT_Mock_Test_1 | CMAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| CMAT_Mock_Test_2 | CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
MAT Mock Test
| MAT_Mock_Test_1 | MAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| MAT_Mock_Test_2 | MAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
XAT Mock Test
| XAT_Mock_Test_1 | XAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| XAT_Mock_Test_2 | XAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
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