Preparing for CAT 2009

CAT 2009 has changed this year with respect to the mode of taking the test. There will not be any change as far as preparing the concepts are concerned. To begin with you do not need to be computer savvy to take the online test. All that is required is the ability to use the mouse and a few basic keys which you can pick up with a little practice.

Main areas where you need to concentrate are:

-Quantitative ability which requires you to work on basic mathematics concepts studied in class 12th.
-Data Interpretation and Analytical reasoning
-ReadingYour browser may not support display of this image. comprehension which requires a lot of reading.
-Verbal ability by strengthening your vocabulary word list

Beginning preparation
When you are starting preparation for CAT 2009, devote 2 months in getting a good grip on fundamentals and get familiar with all chapters and problems. Once you have brushed up the fundamentals then you can look for speed solving. Learn with your own efficiency and without building unnecessary pressure. All you need to work on is to manage your time well for preparation by allocating time for each section. You will need to devote one hour a day for reading newspapers, magazines to get well versed with current affairs.

Analyzing your Preparation
After going through the fundamentals you will need to analyze your areas of strengths and weaknesses by making a tabular form of topics to have a clear picture on it. Devote another two months to work on your weaknesses and building on your strengths. Analyzing will continue with taking time bound section tests along with revision of topics and regular reading.

Wrapping up Preparation

Devote 2 months on taking comprehensive test on every alternate day with analyzing and revision of topics on another day. You must start taking comprehensive tests which are of 2-3 hour long. You should think of scoring as much as possible, by attempting questions intelligently and not trying to attempt challenging problem to waste time. Managing your time during the exam is the key to scoring more and not solving difficult questions as all questions carry equal weightage.

Keep in mind few points like:

Speed: For speed you need is a good grasp on your fundamentals and good judgment to attempt the right set of questions.

Concentration: By taking comprehensive two hour tests you will be able to concentrate and sit for the duration of the test without much difficulty and increase your attention span.

Time Management: Once you have an idea of your strengths and weakness by taking tests you will be able to manage time well. You need to allocate certain time to each section and choosing the right questions to attempt in each section.

Accuracy: Accuracy is the number of correct questions out of attempted questions. Evaluate your scores in the tests you take and go back to topics that are reducing your score as each wrong answer will attract negative marking in CAT Exam.