Once you have decided to prepare for CAT without coaching, it is important that you start with the basics, i.e., understanding the pattern and syllabus of the exam. Go through the entire syllabus in detail and check previous years' papers to get an understanding of the exam pattern. This will help you in making a comprehensive study plan and setting your priorities right in relation to the significance of various topics in all three sections. Focus on religiously sticking to the study plan in order to complete the syllabus on time.
Candidates who choose classroom or online coaching get easy access to the study material for CAT preparation. However, students who opt for CAT without coaching require a little research to get the best study material available both online/offline. While purchasing CAT preparation books, always ensure they are of the latest edition, have relevant content and are from a reliable publisher. Some of the best books you can read to prepare for the CAT exam include Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri, Mastering the Verbal Ability for CAT by Ajay Singh and Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations by RS Aggarwal.
After you've covered the basics, you should start attempting online CAT mock tests on a regular basis. No mock test attempt would help without a thorough analysis that helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses. A comprehensive and drill-down analysis is very significant for improving your preparation.
Initially, you should take the mock tests once or twice a week but with practice, you should increase your frequency of attempting mock tests to 3 or 4 times a week. Ensure that you analyse each mock for common errors. Know what causes those errors and try to avoid them. Candidates who have chosen to prepare for CAT without coaching can get an abundance of mock tests online.
Being in the good company of peers ensures that your preparation is on the right track. Joining a peer study group helps you discuss your problems, strategies, topics etc. with other aspirants. If some of them attend coaching classes as well, it could be furthermore advantageous for you as they could share some expert inputs. You can also attempt the same mock tests, analyse your competition, and improve your performance with inputs from your group members.
Make smart use of the internet by reading a number of articles and news shared by educational websites related to your target exam. Get study material and attempt free sample papers available on their website.
You may also join social media groups for the CAT aspirants on Telegram, Facebook, Insta, etc. There are plenty of online videos available on YouTube and other platforms, which you can watch and ace your CAT 2024 preparation.
The decision on how to prepare for CAT without coaching or with coaching is completely dependent on the candidate but it is generally advisable to introspect before making a decision. The amount of discipline required to prepare for an entrance exam on your own is quite high. This means only the most strong-willed candidates should attempt this risky strategy. For most of the candidates, CAT Coaching is essential to give regular reminders for the level of CAT preparation and act as milestones for the candidate to decide on whether they are following the CAT Preparation Plan.
Yes, CAT 2024 can be cracked without coaching but you must have a strong determination for it. Maintain your motivation and stick to a study plan to diligently prepare for the CAT exam.
To prepare for the CAT 2024 exam without coaching, manage your time to study regularly, invest in up-to-date preparation material and focus on attempting as many mocks as possible.
Yes, definitely. A working professional can prepare for CAT 2024 by self-study. However, it is important for working professionals to manage their time because self-study requires not only motivation but also time. Thus, if youâre a working professional, make a detailed study plan and focus on covering complex topics first.
Although CAT is a highly competitive exam but with consistent and resilient self-study, one can get the desired score. However, you shouldnât hesitate in asking for help if you get stuck anywhere in the challenging preparation process. It is not mandatory to take coaching, but you can seek help through mock tests and doubt-clearing sessions by experts.