CAT 2025 Strategy Guide: What to Focus On, What to Avoid & Proven Tips for Exam Success

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode is holding the Common Admission Test (CAT 2025) on November 30. With the exam only a week away, here's some helpful advice for those trying to get into a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) program.

CAT 2025 will have three sessions, each with a section. These sections include: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. The test lasts 120 minutes total, with 40 minutes for each section.

IIM CAT 2025 Admit Card: Where and How to Find It

In the final week, test-takers should keep things easy. Read two or three editorials each day for VARC, solve a DILR set, and work on spotting patterns. Taking mock tests can help you understand the exam format, figure out your strengths and weaknesses. 

And learn to manage your time. Still, experts say, don't take too many. One or two full-length tests should be enough. It's better to spend more time reviewing your mistakes than taking more tests.

Rather than attempting to learn everything, concentrate on a well-thought-out plan to ace the CAT. To identify your areas of weakness, use practice exams. Skip the subjects that take too long or compromise your accuracy if you are pressed for time. Instead, focus on your strengths to achieve the highest possible score.

Remember to take breaks. It's critical to look after your mental health. On the day of the test, eat a light meal and get plenty of sleep. Avoid discussing practice exams or test results just before the test to avoid adding to your anxiety.

Managing your time well is essential. Try to finish the more difficult questions first, and keep track of how much time you spend on each. Organise your exam day in advance. Be aware of the time, the food, and the method of transportation. A few days before the test, stop putting in a lot of study time. The night before, do a quick review, unwind, and go to bed early.

Try different study methods. Use flashcards to quickly go over important ideas.

Quick Advice: The last week should be about getting clear on things and feeling confident, not stressed.

IIM Kozhikode has released the admit cards for the CAT 2025 examination. Remember to bring your ID and a printed copy to the exam. You will be denied entry if you do not comply.

The mock test link is up on iimcat.ac.in. It has questions from past CAT exams to help you get used to the types of questions (multiple choice and non-multiple choice) and the test format. Keep in mind that you can only move to the next section after 40 minutes.