CAT 2018 Slot 2: A Comprehensive Guide

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India, serving as a gateway to admission into the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. Aspirants who have registered for the CAT 2018 Slot 2, scheduled to be held on November 25th, 2018, must prepare diligently to secure admission to their dream B-school.

Understanding CAT Slot 2

CAT is conducted in two slots each year to accommodate the large number of applicants. Candidates are randomly assigned to either slot based on their preferences. Slot 2 typically consists of a higher proportion of working professionals and re-takers who have already attempted the exam in previous years.

Section-wise Analysis of CAT Slot 2 2018

The CAT consists of three sections:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Focus on reading comprehension (60-70% of the section)
• Expect passages from diverse topics (Business, Economics, History, Science, etc.)
• Improve vocabulary and comprehension skills

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Data sets with charts, graphs, and tables
• Test analytical reasoning and problem-solving abilities
• Practice sets and mock tests to enhance accuracy

3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Topics include Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Mensuration
• Emphasis on application-based questions
• Practice formulas and problem-solving techniques

Step-by-Step Preparation for CAT Slot 2

1. Assess Your Current Level:

• Take diagnostic tests to identify strengths and weaknesses

2. Set Realistic Goals:

• Aim for 90+ percentile to secure admission to top B-schools

3. Create a Study Plan:

• Allocate specific time slots for each section
• Use study materials and online resources

4. Practice Regularly:

• Solve mock tests and previous year papers
• Analyze mistakes and improve accuracy

5. Stay Updated with Exam Pattern:

• Refer to official CAT website and trusted sources for latest updates

6. Manage Time Effectively:

• Practice sectional time management during mock tests
• Use scratch paper to avoid wastage of time

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Reading Comprehension: Focus on developing strong reading skills.
• Skipping Practice: Regular practice is crucial for improving accuracy and speed.
• Underestimating DILR: DILR requires analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Overconfidence: Avoid complacency and continue preparing until the exam day.
• Neglecting Previous Year Papers: Previous year papers provide valuable insights into the exam pattern.

Pros and Cons of CAT Slot 2

Pros:

• More time for preparation: Provides an additional month for preparation compared to Slot 1.
• Lower competition: Typically, a lower percentage of candidates are assigned to Slot 2.
• Availability of study materials: Ample study materials are available due to the longer preparation time.

Cons:

• Higher proportion of working professionals: Expect tougher competition from experienced candidates.
• Increased pressure: Re-takers may feel additional pressure to improve their previous performance.
• May not be suitable for freshers: Fresh graduates with limited work experience may prefer Slot 1.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the duration of the CAT exam?
* 180 minutes (3 hours)

2. How many questions are there in each section of the CAT?
* 34 questions (VARC), 32 questions (DILR), 34 questions (QA)

3. What is the sectional time limit for CAT?
* 60 minutes per section

4. Is there any sectional cutoff in the CAT?
* No, there are no sectional cutoffs.

5. What is a good percentile to secure admission to top IIMs?
* 90+ percentile

6. How many attempts are allowed in the CAT?
* Up to 5 attempts

Conclusion

Succeeding in CAT 2018 Slot 2 requires a dedicated and strategic approach. By understanding the exam pattern, preparing diligently, and avoiding common mistakes, aspirants can significantly improve their chances of securing admission to their desired B-school. Remember, the key is to stay focused, practice regularly, and maintain a positive attitude throughout the preparation process.

Table 1: Section-wise Question Distribution and Time Allocation

Table 2: Key Preparation Tips for CAT Slot 2

Table 3: Percentile Targets for Top IIMs