A Few Tips as the CAT Countdown Begins

A Few Tips as the CAT Countdown Begins

Part - II

Tip No. 2: Sequence and prioritise

Sequencing and prioritising mean: -

• Deciding on the sequence in which you will attempt the various sections.

• Allocating an approximate time to each section.

• Prioritising questions within sections.

 

If you decide your sequence before entering the examination hall, it would help you attempt CAT methodically. So, you don't have to shuffle between sections and lose time. Once you have scanned the paper, allocate an additional 5-10 minutes to a tough section and take out 5-10 minutes from an easy section.

Before entering into the hall, let us assume that your strategy was: -

• Scanning: 3-4 minutes

• Quantitative Ability: 40 minutes

• Data Interpretation / Data Sufficiency: 35-40 minutes

• Verbal Ability: 40 minutes

 

If, say, Quantitative Ability is tough and the other two sections are comparatively easy, your changed strategy may look something like: -

• Scanning: 3-4 minutes

• Quantitative Ability: 45-50 minutes

• Data Interpretation / Data Sufficiency: 30 minutes

• Verbal Ability: 30-35 minutes

 

You should attempt your favourite section first. We advise you not to attempt Quantitative Ability in the end. QA utilises your core fundamentals and formulae; sometimes, they are difficult to recall under the twin pressures of time and mental fatigue. The other two sections are primarily practice-based.