The Common Admission Test (CAT)

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a widely recognized entrance exam for admission to postgraduate management programs in India, primarily for the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).

CAT Exam Pattern:
1. Mode of Exam:
⚫ CAT is a computer-based test (CBT).

2. Sections:
⚫ The exam usually consists of three sections:
⚫ Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
⚫ Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
⚫ Quantitative Ability (QA)

3. Number of Questions:
⚫ The total number of questions may vary, but it is typically around 76 to 100.

4. Duration:
⚫ The exam duration is usually 180 minutes (3 hours). Each section has a specific time limit.

5. Question Types:
⚫ Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): These have four answer options, and you need to choose the correct one.
⚫ Non-MCQs (TITA - Type in the Answer): These require you to type the answer directly.

6. Marking Scheme:
⚫ Different questions may have different marks.
⚫ Negative marking is applicable for wrong answers, usually with a penalty of 1/3rd or 1/4th of the assigned marks.

CAT Syllabus:
The syllabus for CAT is broadly categorized into three sections:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):
⚫ Reading Comprehension
⚫ Verbal Reasoning
⚫ Syllogisms
⚫ Analogies and Reverse Analogies
⚫ Antonyms and Synonyms
⚫ Fill in the blanks
⚫ Sentence Correction
⚫ Idioms and Phrases
⚫ Para Jumbles

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
⚫ Data Interpretation based on text, tables, graphs (Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, etc.)
⚫ Data Sufficiency
⚫ Logical Reasoning based on seating arrangements, blood relations, logical sequence, etc.

3. Quantitative Ability (QA):
⚫ Number Systems
⚫ LCM and HCF
⚫ Percentages
⚫ Profit and Loss
⚫ Interest (Simple and Compound)
⚫ Speed, Time, and Distance
⚫ Time and Work
⚫ Averages
⚫ Ratio and Proportion
⚫ Algebra
⚫ Geometry
⚫ Mensuration
⚫ Probability
⚫ Permutation and Combination

It's crucial to refer to the official CAT website or contact the conducting authority for the most current and accurate information, including any changes in the exam pattern or syllabus. Additionally, consider practicing with previous years' question papers and taking mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your time management skills.