Two Weeks to CAT: Smart Study Tips to Maximize Your Score for SPJIMR's PGDM/PGDM (BM) Programme

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is among the toughest and most competitive entrance exams for entry into management schools in India. The examination evaluates the candidate’s numerical and linguistic skills and interprets data. Achieving a high score in the CAT exam is a key step for gaining admission to SPJIMR’s PGDM | PGDM (BM) programs.

Students must act smartly to score maximum in the last two weeks before the CAT exam. Concentration should be more on the topics that are already completed rather than new ones. At this point, candidates must focus more on revision, practice, and strengthening their mental resilience.

Understand the CAT Format and Prioritize Key Areas

Three main parts of the CAT examination are as follows:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

To excel in the VARC section, a student must have a good command of the English language. The questions in these sections are based on tenses, articles, propositions and other grammar topics. This segment has a total value of 72 marks.

• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

There are two parts in which DILR is divided into- Data interpretation and Logical reasoning. It is the toughest section of the CAT exam. This segment has a total value of 60 marks.

• Quantitative Ability

Quantitative Ability consists of modern maths questions, which include Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, and Arithmetic. This segment has a total value of 66 marks.

In the last two weeks, students must concentrate more on the section where they have the potential to score well. Candidates must analyze the section they are scoring well and should practice and revise the particular section more to maximize their score.

Smart Revision Techniques

In the last weeks left, aspirants must focus on revising the key concepts and formulas rather than starting new topics. Especially in the Quantitative Ability section, candidates should summarize and note down the formulas in a separate notebook for revision at the end moment of the exam.

Students must learn quick and shortcut tricks to save time during the exam. Dedicating time to making a list of the essential formulas and practising them continuously will reduce stress and help them solve the questions easily.

Time Management Strategies

Managing the Time can be a game-changer on the day of the CAT examination. Students must read each question carefully before attempting to answer them. An incorrect answer could lead to a negative mark therefore, reading the questions carefully should be an important habit.

Candidates should learn to skip difficult questions first and focus on the ones they can solve easily. It is important to balance speed with accuracy to avoid wasting time.

Strategies for Each CAT Section

Each Section requires a different approach for the CAT exam. Here are the ways to tackle them

• Verbal Ability:

Students must focus on reading comprehension and vocabulary. This will increase their reading speed and performance in terms of sentence completion and grammar mistakes.

• DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning):

Students must practice sets to improve their logical thinking skills. Regular puzzle practices and table and graph interpretation will help build the aspirant's confidence and approach towards questions.

• Quantitative Ability:

Students must Concentrate on high-yield topics like arithmetic and algebra as they carry significant weight in CAT exams. Practising the formulas and learning shortcut tricks for them is the key to solving these questions quickly without wasting any time.

Mental and Physical Well-being

The last two weeks can be exhausting and shake the mental well-being of an aspirant. Therefore, balancing a positive approach towards mental well-being is very important at this point in time.

It is important to take short breaks while studying to sustain focus. Managing stress is an important task during preparations. Therefore, students should practice meditation and engage themselves in some small activities. Sleep pattern plays an important role in proper functioning. 7-8 hours of sleep is a must to stay healthy and focussed.

A positive mindset plays a crucial role in the last two weeks of the exam. It can be achieved by setting realistic goals and creating a study plan that does not create a burden at the last moment.

Encouragement to Apply

SPJIMR PGDM/PGDM (BM) programmes are recognised as top courses in India for management programmes. These programmes help develop leadership, analytical, and managerial skills among students. The institute partners with leading corporations to bring industry insights into the classroom that allow students to learn things practically.

Take the next step in your academic journey- apply now for the highly regarded PGDM/ PGDM (BM) programs at SPJIMR.

Apply Now- SPJIMR PGDM Admission 2025

Conclusion

It is important for students to stay focussed in the final stretch as these last moments will decide their future. An aspirant must stay confident, give their best on the day of the CAT examination, and look forward to an impactful career with SPJIMR to face the real world with their managerial skills.