Sectional time limits in CAT 2015: Good or Bad?

Sectional time limits in CAT 2015

CAT 2015 has re-introduced the concept of sectional time limits. MBA aspirants need to attempt 100 questions in 180 minutes. There are three sections (Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Verbal and Reading Comprehension) and each section needs to be attempted in 60 minutes.

The last time CAT exam had three sections was in 2009 and 2010. However, there were no sectional limits back then. So is the introduction of sectional limits in CAT 2015 a good thing or a bad thing?

How to improve CAT 2015 exam preparation strategy?  

Clearly, IIMs are back to three section pattern of 2009, but with the introduction of time limit. CAT 2015 will continue to be a paper where selection of questions will be important. Without sectional limits (like in CAT 2014), students could spend half hour on each section at first go and then go back to attempt the difficult questions.

But now this is not possible.

So students have no option to focus more on their weaker sections. One is forced to spend more time in each section.

Students will now have focus on proper selection of questions. Clearing the sectional cut-offs could be difficult challenge for students weak in certain areas.

CAT 2015 is for students who have a good base in all the three sections.

Solution

The best way to adapt to this introduction of sectional time limits is ‘Selection of Questions’. Going forward, aspirants will have to be extra careful while answering questions.

Candidates should devise a unique exam taking technique or strategy.

1. We have 60 minutes devoted to each section. So do each section in two to three rounds.

Round 1

In Round 1 solve only those questions which are very easy or direct-formula based. So it's like, you start with question number 1, if you can solve it in less than 1 minute, then attempt it. Then you move to question 2 and you find that it can be solved but will take 2-3 minutes. So mark it for Round 2. If it is difficult, you can leave it for now.

Round 2

Next, go back and attempt the moderately difficult questions.

2. Be selective in your approach. You can choose to attempt just 10 -15 questions, but make sure, all the answers are accurate.

3. Repeat the above four steps for the remaining two sections.

4. Also, keep in mind that CAT 2015 does not allow you to choose the sections. There's no option to attempt the weakest section at the end. So prepare thoroughly for each and every section.