Mastering the CAT 2019 Slot 2: A Comprehensive Guide to Securing a Top B-School

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), is one of the most competitive entrance exams for MBA programs in India. With over 2 lakh candidates vying for a limited number of seats, securing a top slot in the exam is crucial for aspiring management professionals. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you master the CAT 2019 Slot 2, covering all aspects of the exam from preparation strategies to effective time management.

CAT 2019 Slot 2: A Snapshot

• Date: November 24, 2019
• Time: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
• Duration: 180 minutes
• Number of Sections: 3
• Total Questions: 100
• Question Types: Multiple-choice questions, non-MCQs (TITA/Type in the Answer)
• Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect answers

Preparing for CAT 2019 Slot 2

1. Establish a Study Schedule

• Dedicate at least 4-6 hours of study time each day.
• Break down your study plan into smaller, manageable chunks.
• Focus on completing one section at a time.

2. Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses

• Take mock tests to assess your current level of preparation.
• Analyze your results to identify areas where you excel and need improvement.
• Allocate more time and effort to strengthen your weaker areas.

3. Choose the Right Study Material

• Refer to official CAT study material provided by IIMs.
• Supplement your preparation with books, online resources, and coaching classes.
• Ensure that the material covers the latest CAT syllabus and question patterns.

4. Practice Consistently

• Solve as many practice questions as possible.
• Time yourself to improve your speed and accuracy.
• Analyze the solution to each question to enhance your understanding.

5. Seek Professional Guidance

• Consider joining a coaching class to gain expert guidance and structured study material.
• Consult with mentors or experienced CAT takers for advice and support.

Section-Wise Preparation Strategies

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Read widely from diverse sources to expand your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
• Practice identifying main ideas, supporting arguments, and inferring meanings.
• Focus on grammar, sentence structure, and usage.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Develop strong analytical and logical reasoning abilities.
• Practice solving puzzles, data tables, and charts.
• Learn to extract meaningful insights from complex information.

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

• Brush up on fundamental math concepts: algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and geometry.
• Practice solving word problems, data sufficiency questions, and quantitative reasoning puzzles.
• Focus on speed and accuracy.

Effective Time Management

• Section Allocation: Allocate 70 minutes for VARC, 60 minutes for DILR, and 50 minutes for QA.
• Time Distribution: Use the first 10-15 minutes to skim through all questions and identify easy ones.
• Attempt Order: Start with easy questions and gradually move on to more challenging ones.
• Answer Selection: Spend no more than 2 minutes on any question. If you cannot figure out an answer, make an educated guess and move on.

Tips and Tricks

• Elimination Technique: Eliminate incorrect answer choices to increase your chances of choosing the correct answer.
• Reverse Engineering: Start with the answer options and work backwards to find the correct solution.
• Time Management: Keep track of time during the exam and avoid getting stuck on difficult questions.
• Mental Math: Perform simple calculations mentally to save time.
• Guessing: Guess intelligently if you are running out of time or unsure of an answer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overconfidence: Do not assume that you know all the answers.
• Time Wastage: Do not spend too much time on difficult questions.
• Rushing: Avoid making careless mistakes by taking your time.
• Misreading: Read questions carefully to avoid misunderstanding the instructions.
• Overthinking: Trust your instincts and do not overanalyze questions.

Conclusion

Securing a top slot in the CAT 2019 Slot 2 requires a combination of strategic preparation, effective time management, and mental agility. By following the comprehensive guide provided in this article, you can optimize your preparation, enhance your performance, and increase your chances of securing admission to your dream B-school. Remember, the key is to stay focused, practice regularly, and approach the exam with confidence.

Call to Action

Start your CAT 2019 Slot 2 preparation today. Design a study plan, gather the necessary resources, and commit to consistent practice. With hard work and determination, you can achieve your target score and secure a top slot in the exam.

Appendix

Table 1: Section-Wise Distribution of Questions and Marks

Table 2: Recommended Time Allocation and Question Attempts

Table 3: Effective Study Resources