Improving Speed for CAT Quantitative Aptitude

CL Team January 27 2025

3 min read

Improving Speed for CAT Quantitative Aptitude

The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section of the CAT exam can be challenging due to its vast syllabus and time constraints. Speed and accuracy are crucial for success, as aspirants must solve complex problems within a limited timeframe. Improving speed without compromising accuracy requires a strategic approach, regular practice, and the right mindset.

At Career Launcher, South Ex, we help CAT aspirants develop techniques to enhance speed and tackle the QA section confidently. As the saying goes, “It’s not that we use technology, we live technology.” Similarly, speed in CAT is not just about solving problems but developing a systematic approach to think and respond faster. Let’s explore how you can achieve this.

1. Master the Basics Thoroughly

Strong conceptual clarity is the foundation for improving speed. Without a solid grasp of fundamentals, solving questions quickly can become a challenge.

Focus Areas:

Arithmetic: Percentages, ratios, profit & loss, time & work.
Algebra: Equations, inequalities, progressions.
Geometry: Triangles, circles, coordinate geometry.
Number Systems: Divisibility, factors, remainders.

Action Plan:

Revise formulas and shortcut methods regularly.
Solve conceptual questions before moving to time-based exercises.
Attend foundation-building sessions at Career Launcher, South Ex, for expert guidance.

Pro Tip: Keep a formula cheat sheet handy for quick revisions before practice sessions.

2. Practice Mental Calculations

Relying on pen and paper for every calculation can slow you down. Developing mental math skills will help in solving questions faster.

Techniques to Improve Mental Calculation:

Learn multiplication tables, squares, and cubes up to 30.
Use approximation techniques for quick calculations.
Apply Vedic math tricks for faster multiplication and division.
Practice mental math exercises daily for 15 minutes.

Example: Instead of calculating $48 \times 52$ manually, use the formula:
$50 - 2)(50 + 2) = 50^2 - 2^2 = 2500 - 4 = 2496$

Pro Tip: Practice calculations in daily tasks such as grocery shopping or budgeting to build natural speed.

3. Time-Bound Practice Sessions

Practicing under timed conditions is crucial for improving speed in the actual exam.

Action Plan:

Set a timer for each question and gradually reduce the allocated time.
Attempt topic-wise tests to track your speed in different areas.
Take full-length mock tests at Career Launcher, South Ex, to simulate exam conditions.

Pro Tip: Use the 80/20 rule—spend 80% of your preparation on commonly asked topics and 20% on low-frequency ones.

4. Develop Shortcut Techniques and Tricks

Learning shortcuts and tricks can drastically improve your solving speed.

Key Shortcuts to Focus On:

Percentage Conversion: Use fraction equivalents for quick calculations (e.g., 25% = 1/4).
Unitary Method: Apply for time-speed-distance and work problems.
Algebraic Identities: Memorize and use them efficiently.
Approximation Strategies: Round off values for quick calculations.

Example Question:
Find 23% of 1450 quickly.

Instead of lengthy multiplication, break it down:
$23%=20%+3%23\% = 20\% + 3\%$
$1450=29020\% \text{ of } 1450 = 290$
$1450=43.53\% \text{ of } 1450 = 43.5$
$Total=290+43.5=333.5\text{Total} = 290 + 43.5 = 333.5$

5. Analyze and Learn from Mistakes

Improving speed is not just about solving faster but also reducing mistakes to avoid rework.

Action Plan:

After each mock test, analyze where you spent the most time.
Identify and eliminate redundant calculation steps.
Work on weak areas with targeted problem-solving.

Pro Tip: Keep an error log to track recurring mistakes and revise them regularly.

6. Prioritize Question Selection

Attempting the right questions first can save valuable time in the exam.

Smart Approach:

Categorize questions into easy, moderate, and difficult at a glance.
Solve easier questions first to secure quick marks.
Skip time-consuming questions and revisit them later if time permits.

Pro Tip: Follow the 2-minute rule—if a question takes more than 2 minutes, move on and return if time allows.

7. Solve Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests

Familiarity with CAT's question patterns can improve speed and accuracy.

Action Plan:

Solve at least 10 years’ worth of previous papers.
Enroll in Career Launcher’s mock test series for real-time performance tracking.
Analyze test patterns and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Pro Tip: Attempt sectional tests first, then move to full-length mock tests for gradual improvement.

8. Build Exam Stamina

Speed improvement is also about sustaining focus for the entire duration of the exam.

Tips to Build Stamina:

Take 3-hour simulated tests to improve concentration.
Follow a balanced routine with adequate breaks.
Practice deep-breathing exercises to reduce exam anxiety.

Pro Tip: Treat every mock test as the final exam to condition your mind and body for the real scenario.

9. Expert Guidance and Personalized Mentorship

At Career Launcher, South Ex, our expert faculty provide structured study plans and strategies tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.

What We Offer:

One-on-one mentorship to identify improvement areas.
Concept-building workshops for a strong foundation.
Speed enhancement sessions focusing on tricks and techniques.
Comprehensive mock test series with detailed performance analysis.

10. Stay Positive and Consistent

Improving speed takes time and effort. Stay motivated, track progress regularly, and avoid burnout.

Motivational Quote:
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier

Pro Tip: Reward yourself for reaching milestones to stay motivated throughout your preparation.

Conclusion

Improving speed for CAT Quantitative Aptitude requires a combination of conceptual clarity, strategic practice, and smart time management. With consistent effort and expert guidance from Career Launcher, South Ex, you can sharpen your skills and confidently tackle the CAT exam.

Visit Career Launcher, South Ex, today for expert mentorship, mock tests, and speed-building strategies. Let’s accelerate your CAT preparation journey together!