CAT Exam Pattern 2024
One of the most competitive and esteemed examination for MBA candidates in India is the Common Admission Test (CAT). CAT is an annual examination administered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) that functions as an entryway to the nation's most prestigious business institutions. It is imperative that you comprehend the exam pattern in order to adequately prepare for the CAT 2024 exam. This blog offers a comprehensive examination of the CAT Exam Pattern 2024 to assist you in your preparation.
Overview of CAT Exam Pattern 2024
The CAT 2024 exam will adhere to the conventional format, which comprises three sections, each of which is intended to evaluate a distinct skill set. The exam will be administered online in a computer-based format, and candidates will be required to navigate through multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs (also referred to as TITA questions for Type in The Answer). The exam pattern is delineated below:
1. Sections in CAT Exam
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Each of these sections is timed separately, meaning that candidates cannot switch between sections during the exam. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes allocated to each section.
Topics of Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC):
Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out, Synonyms & Antonyms, Inferences, Syllogism and Analogies, Grammar (tenses, prepositions), Homonyms & Homophones, Odd one out, Verbal logic, One-word substitution.
Topics of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
Blood Relations, Puzzles, Data Sufficiency, Graphs Related, Seating Arrangement and Data Arrangement, Tables and Caselets, Clocks & Calendars, Assumption and Binary Logic, Syllogisms and Venn Diagrams.
Topics of Quantitative Aptitude (QA):
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Modern Maths, Number Systems, Logarithms, Mensuration & Probabilty.
2. Number of Questions
CAT 2024 is expected to consist of 66 questions, similar to previous years. Here’s how these questions are typically distributed across the sections:
- VARC: 24 questions
- DILR: 20 questions
- QA: 22 questions
3. Types of Questions
- MCQs: Multiple-choice questions with four options. Candidates must select the correct answer.
- Non-MCQs: TITA questions where candidates must type in the answer. These questions do not have negative marking.
4. Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for CAT 2024 is straightforward:
- Correct Answer: +3 marks
- Incorrect Answer (MCQs): -1 mark
- Incorrect Answer (Non-MCQs): No negative marking
It's important to note that there is no negative marking for non-MCQs, so candidates should attempt these questions without the fear of losing marks.
5. Sectional Time Limit
As mentioned earlier, each section of the CAT 2024 exam has a strict time limit of 40 minutes. Once the time for a section is up, candidates will be automatically moved to the next section. Time management is crucial as candidates must balance speed with accuracy within the given time constraints.
6. Preparation Tips for CAT 2024
- Understand the Exam Structure: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus.
- Practice Time Management: Practice with timed mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak sections and devote more time to improving them.
- Regular Revision: Regularly revise the concepts and practice questions to keep them fresh in your mind.
- Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests to simulate the exam environment and build your test-taking stamina.
The 2024 CAT exam is a difficult test that necessitates a well-organised preparation strategy. The initial step in your quest to succeed on the exam is to comprehend the exam pattern. By becoming acquainted with the sections, question categories, marking scheme, and time limits, you can develop a study plan that optimises your strengths and mitigates your weaknesses. Continue to assiduously practise in order to realise your MBA aspirations and remain informed about any modifications to the exam pattern.
Good luck with your preparation!!
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