Some of the last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024 include knowing the exam pattern, take mock test, practice previous year question papers, etc.
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The last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024 include knowing the syllabus, exam pattern, solve previous year papers, and much more. The CAT exam assesses candidates on three core competencies: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
Common Admission Test also known as CAT is one of the most challenging entrance exams in India, for admissions to top MBA colleges like the IIMs, SPJIMR, FMS. While students prepare for months, the last few days before the exam are crucial for fine-tuning strategies, reinforcing strengths, and ensuring mental readiness. This article outlines the last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024.
Understanding CAT Exam Pattern 2024
One of the most important last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024 is knowing the CAT exam pattern. CAT 2024 has three core sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Each section has a time limit, and effective preparation requires balancing speed, accuracy, and strategic question selection across these sections. Here’s a breakdown of each section’s structure, key topics, total number of questions, etc.
| Section | Total Questions | Time Allocation | Score Range |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 minutes | 72 |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 minutes | 60 |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 22 | 40 minutes | 66 |
Know the Important Topics and Weightage
VARC section focuses heavily on comprehension, language use, and interpretation skills.
| Topic | Approximate Weightage | Importance Level |
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | 65-70% | High |
| Para Jumbles | 15% | Medium |
| Odd Sentence Out | 10% | Medium |
| Summary Questions | 5-10% | Low to Medium |
DILR section evaluates logical reasoning, data arrangement, and quick analytical thinking.
| Topic | Approximate Weightage | Importance Level |
| Graphs and Charts | 25-30% | High |
| Caselets and Data Tables | 25-30% | Medium |
| Arrangements and Puzzles | 20-25% | High |
| Logical Conditions (If-Then) | 15-20% | Medium |
QA Section focuses on mathematical ability and speed with accuracy.
| Topic | Approximate Weightage | Importance Level |
| Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios) | 35-40% | High |
| Algebra (Equations, Inequalities) | 20-25% | High |
| Geometry and Mensuration | 15% | Medium |
| Number Systems | 10% | Medium to Low |
| Modern Math (Probability, Permutations) | 10-15% | Low to Medium |
Also Read: How to Score 95 Percentile in CAT 2024?
Section-Wise Last Minute Preparation Tips to Score 90+ Percentile in CAT 2024
Students can check out the last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024 for each section. With this, students can ace in each section.
1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Focus on Reading Comprehension (RC): Practice reading passages and answering questions under timed conditions.
- Improve Speed and Accuracy: Jumbled paragraphs and odd-sentence questions are common in VARC, so do not miss on them
- Avoid New Vocabulary: Last-minute vocabulary building is inefficient.
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Master Familiar Sets: Avoid unfamiliar or new DILR sets as these can be time-consuming.
- Prioritize Accuracy: Since DILR questions are often complex, a few correct answers with high accuracy can significantly boost the score.
- Practice with Time Constraints: Practice 15-20 sets daily under exam-like conditions to sharpen speed and accuracy
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Revise Formulas and Shortcuts: Familiarize with key formulas in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number theory.
- Focus on High-Yield Topics: Topics like percentages, profit-loss, time-work, and geometry are frequent in CAT.
- Daily Practice of Mixed Questions: Set aside time to solve a variety of questions to retain flexibility across topics, as QA questions are often unpredictable.
Also Read: How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2024
Strategic Tips for Last Minute CAT Preparation 2024
Below mentioned are some strategic last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024.
- Aim for at least 3-4 CAT mock tests per week during the final preparation phase. Mock tests simulate the real CAT experience that helps develop effective pacing and accuracy.
- Use a time plan for each section. For example, dedicate 40 minutes to Reading Comprehension and 20 minutes to Verbal Ability within the VARC section.
- For Quant and DILR, keep a summary sheet of important formulas and rules. Quickly review these in the last few days to reinforce retention.
- Avoid trying new CAT books at the last minute. Stick to notes and materials used throughout the preparation.
- Ensure to get adequate sleep, eat well, and stay hydrated. Avoid overworking in the last few days to stay mentally fresh.
Also Read: Dress Code for CAT Exam 2024
Exam Day Last Minute Preparation Tips to Score 90+ Percentile in CAT 2024
Below mentioned are the last minute preparation tips to score 90+ percentile in CAT 2024 on the exam day.
- Arrive Early: Reach the exam center well in advance to avoid unnecessary stress.
- Stick to the Strategy: Trust the strategies and pacing methods developed during mock tests.
- Stay Focused and Avoid Panic: Maintain calm even to encounter tough questions. Shift focus to manageable questions instead.
- Mindful Time Checks: Keep an eye on the time, but don’t obsessively check the clock. Aim to complete each section with a few minutes to review flagged questions.
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