Unleashing the Secrets of CAT 2019 Slot 2: A Comprehensive Guide

CAT 2019, the coveted entrance examination for admission to India's top management institutes, is just around the corner. With Slot 2 scheduled for November 24th, 2019, aspirants are eagerly seeking guidance and strategies to ace this crucial exam. This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of CAT 2019 Slot 2, providing invaluable insights and tips to help you maximize your performance.

Exam Overview

CAT (Common Admission Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to their postgraduate management programs. CAT 2019 will be held in three slots on November 24th, 25th, and 29th, 2019. Slot 2 will be conducted on November 24th, 2019, from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

The CAT exam comprises three sections:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): 34 questions (60 minutes)
• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): 32 questions (60 minutes)
• Quantitative Ability (QA): 34 questions (60 minutes)

Section-wise Analysis

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

The VARC section assesses your ability to read, comprehend, and analyze textual information. It consists of three types of questions:

• Reading Comprehension (RC): Questions based on long passages followed by multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
• Verbal Ability (VA): Questions testing grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, and parajumbles.

Effective Strategies:

• Practice reading extensively from diverse sources to enhance comprehension skills.
• Improve vocabulary by studying word lists and using online resources.
• Focus on understanding grammar rules and sentence structures thoroughly.
• Practice solving parajumbles to develop logical reasoning and coherence skills.

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The DILR section evaluates your ability to interpret data, draw inferences, and solve logical puzzles. It consists of six to eight sets of data, each followed by four to eight MCQs.

Effective Strategies:

• Familiarize yourself with different types of data sets, such as tables, charts, graphs, and venn diagrams.
• Practice solving a variety of logical reasoning puzzles, including syllogisms, critical reasoning, and circular arrangements.
• Focus on developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Quantitative Ability (QA)

The QA section tests your mathematical and quantitative aptitude. It covers a wide range of topics, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

Effective Strategies:

• Brush up on your foundational mathematical concepts and practice solving problems regularly.
• Master different problem-solving techniques and strategies, such as estimation, approximation, and mental calculations.
• Focus on developing speed and accuracy in solving numerical problems.

Exam Pattern and Question Distribution

Marking Scheme

• MCQs: Each correct answer carries three marks, while each incorrect answer deducts one mark.
• Non-MCQs: Every correct answer carries four marks, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers.

Test-Taking Strategies

• Time Management: Allocate time wisely for each section and question type based on your strengths and weaknesses.
• Question Selection: Focus on answering questions that you are confident about first.
• Elimination Technique: Use the process of elimination to narrow down answer choices.
• Guessing: If you are unsure about an answer, make an educated guess. You have nothing to lose by guessing.

Preparation Timeline

• Long-Term Preparation (6+ months): Start early by building a strong foundation in all three sections.
• Mid-Term Preparation (3-6 months): Focus on improving your skills in each section and practicing mock tests.
• Short-Term Preparation (1-3 months): Revise the syllabus, take full-length mock tests, and analyze your performance.
• Last-Minute Preparation (1-2 weeks): Revise key concepts, practice solving questions under timed conditions, and stay calm.

Resources for Preparation

• Official Website: IIM Calcutta
• Coaching Institutes: TIME, IMS, Career Launcher, etc.
• Online Platforms: Unacademy, Byju's Exam Prep, etc.
• Study Material: Official CAT materials, textbooks, and online resources

Humorous Stories and Lessons

Story 1:

A candidate spent weeks preparing for the QA section, neglecting the other sections. On exam day, they arrived at the exam center only to realize that the QA questions were unexpectedly difficult. Lesson: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Prepare comprehensively for all sections.

Story 2:

A candidate was so nervous on exam day that they forgot to read the instructions carefully. They answered all the questions in the wrong order, losing valuable time. Lesson: Stay calm and collected on exam day. Read the instructions thoroughly before starting the exam.

Story 3:

A candidate was so focused on answering every question that they ran out of time to guess on the remaining questions. Lesson: Manage your time effectively. Don't dwell too long on questions you're unsure about. Move on and guess if necessary to maximize your score.

Benefits of Taking CAT 2019 Slot 2

• Second Chance to Improve: Slot 2 provides a second opportunity for candidates to improve their performance over Slot 1.
• Reduced Competition: Typically, there is less competition in Slot 2 compared to Slot 1, potentially increasing your chances of scoring well.
• Limited Distractions: Slot 2 is often held on weekends, reducing the likelihood of external distractions such as work or college.

Potential Drawbacks of Taking CAT 2019 Slot 2

• Time Pressure: Slot 2 candidates have less time to prepare compared to Slot 1 candidates.
• Increased Pressure: The pressure to perform well in Slot 2 can be higher due to the limited opportunity to retake the exam.
• Less Practice Time: Candidates taking Slot 2 have less time to practice mock tests and analyze their performance.

Conclusion

CAT 2019 Slot 2 is a significant opportunity for aspirants to secure admission to their dream management institutes. By following the strategies and guidance outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can maximize your performance and achieve your desired score. Remember to stay focused, practice regularly, and manage your time wisely. Best of luck in your CAT 2019 endeavors!