Unveiling the Secrets of CAT 2018 Slot 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding CAT 2018 Slot 2

CAT (Common Admission Test), conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), is a highly competitive exam that serves as a gateway to postgraduate management programs in India. In 2018, the exam was divided into three slots, with Slot 2 taking place on November 25th.

Slot 2 had a total of 190,000 registered candidates, vying for a limited number of seats in IIMs and other top B-schools. The exam consisted of three sections:

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

Analysis of Slot 2

According to IIM Lucknow, which conducted Slot 2, the overall difficulty level of the exam was moderate to difficult.

QA: The QA section was considered slightly difficult compared to previous slots, with a higher proportion of questions from advanced topics such as Geometry and Algebra.

VARC: The VARC section was moderate in difficulty, with a mix of passages from diverse sources and a focus on comprehension and critical thinking.

DILR: The DILR section was difficult, with a majority of sets requiring strong analytical and reasoning skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To maximize your score in CAT Slot 2, it is crucial to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not practicing enough: Consistent practice is essential to build proficiency in all three sections.
• Ignoring weak areas: Identify your weaker sections and spend extra time strengthening them.
• Rushing through questions: Take your time to understand the questions thoroughly before attempting them.
• Neglecting accuracy: Aim for high accuracy rather than solving a large number of questions incorrectly.
• Panic: Stay calm and composed throughout the exam, even under time pressure.

A Step-by-Step Approach to Preparation

For effective preparation, follow these steps:

1. Start early: Begin your preparation at least 6-8 months before the exam.
2. Understand the syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus.
3. Build a strong foundation: Focus on clearing basic concepts in all sections.
4. Practice regularly: Solve mock tests and practice papers to improve speed and accuracy.
5. Identify your strengths and weaknesses: Analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement.
6. Work on your weak areas: Devote extra time to strengthening your weaker sections.
7. Stay updated: Keep abreast of changes in the exam pattern and syllabus.
8. Take breaks: Schedule regular breaks to avoid burnout and maintain focus.
9. Study smart: Use effective study techniques such as spaced repetition and active recall.
10. Believe in yourself: Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your abilities.

Pros and Cons of CAT Slot 2

Pros:

• Less competition: Slot 2 generally has fewer registered candidates than Slot 1.
• More time for preparation: Due to the earlier slot, candidates have more time to prepare compared to Slot 3.
• Higher number of attempts: Candidates can attempt CAT twice, increasing their chances of securing a higher score.

Cons:

• Increased difficulty level: Slot 2 is often perceived to be more challenging than Slot 1.
• Less time for syllabus revision: Candidates have less time to revise the entire syllabus compared to Slot 3.
• Fatigue: Scheduling two exams in close succession (CAT and XAT) can lead to fatigue and stress.

Conclusion

CAT 2018 Slot 2 was a competitive exam that required thorough preparation and strategic execution. By understanding the exam pattern, avoiding common mistakes, following a step-by-step approach, and balancing the pros and cons, candidates can maximize their chances of success and secure admission to their desired management programs.

Tables

Table 1: CAT 2018 Slot 2 Difficulty Level

Table 2: Comparison of CAT Slot 1 and Slot 2

Table 3: Step-by-Step Preparation Plan for CAT 2018 Slot 2

Call to Action

If you are aiming to crack CAT 2018 Slot 2, it is time to act. Follow the tips and strategies outlined in this article, prepare diligently, and strive for excellence. Your hard work and dedication will pay off on exam day.

Remember, the path to success in CAT Slot 2 is paved with determination, perseverance, and a belief in your abilities.