Preparing for CAT While in BCom 1st Year Without Maths

Currently in your BCom first year, you may wonder whether you should begin preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT). While you completed your 12th standard without maths, this is actually a great time to start your preparation. CAT includes a comprehensive syllabus covering Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Knowing the exam format and key topics will help you plan your study schedule effectively.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Start

Given that you're in your first year of BCom, you have plenty of time to prepare for the CAT. There are approximately 15-18 months before the exam. This long period allows you to immerse yourself in the preliminary stages of preparation, including reading materials like newspapers, novels, and solving basic math problems from NCERT books. You have the luxury of time to build a strong foundation and gradually increase your complexity as you progress.

Key Sections and Topics of the CAT Exam

The CAT exam consists of three sections:
1. VARC (Reading Comprehension, Paragraph Summary, Para-jumbles, and Grammar)
2. DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning)
3. QA (Quantitative Ability)

VRC (VARC) Topics

Reading comprehension Paragraph summary Para-jumbles and misfit sentences Sentence completion Grammar and usage (including common errors, confusing words, phrasal verbs, and sentence correction) Vocabulary questions

DILR Topics

Data interpretation Logical reasoning Tables, bar graphs, Venn diagrams, column graphs, line charts, pie charts, calendars, combinations of two or more types of games Seating arrangement Blood relations

QA Topics

Number systems Profit and loss Speed, time, and distance Ratio and proportion Binomial theorem and probability Geometry and trigonometry Complex numbers Averages Menstruation Percentages Surds and indices

Exam Format and Scoring

The CAT exam includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and tick-the-box-type questions (TITA). Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks. Therefore, your aim should be to maximise your score by understanding the question types, familiarising yourself with the exam format, and regularly practicing.

Preparation Strategies

VRC (VARC) Preparation

Read articles daily from newspapers, novels, and magazines; increase your vocabulary by noting down new words. Master basic grammar concepts and join mock tests offered by various coaching institutes. Refer to books by authors like Norman Lewis, Arun Sharma, and Meenakshi Upadhyay.

DILR Preparation

PRACTICE: Solve 324 sets based on seating arrangements, blood relations, and puzzles. Refer to Arun Sharma’s books for data interpretation. Learn and use arithmetic, numbers, and ratio percentage conversions to save time. Use a timer while solving DILR sets. Attempt 1-2 sectional mock tests every week.

QA Preparation

Start with basics and learn number systems first. Maintain a formula book and a book for shortcuts and tricks for quick revision. Refer to CAT preparation books by Arun Sharma and Nishit K Sinha. Practice 20-30 questions daily.

Second Year Preparation

While you have ample time now, it is advisable to join a coaching centre in your second year if you feel the need. This structured approach will help you prepare systematically and according to a timetable. Ensure you enrol in a reputable online coaching institute like Career Launcher, Mindworkzz, CATKing, and Unacademy, which provide comprehensive study materials and support.

Conclusion

Starting your CAT preparation now is wise and will give you a head start. Make use of the extensive online resources and materials available. With consistent practice, a strategic study plan, and focus on your weak areas, you can aim to score above 95 percentile in the CAT exam. Good luck with your preparation!