Last-Minute XAT Preparation: Tips to Maximize Your Score

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a highly regarded MBA entrance exam in India, known for its distinctive format, which requires strategic planning and accuracy, particularly during the final stages of preparation. With the clock ticking and the pressure building, last-minute preparation becomes a critical phase in ensuring success. In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies to help you make the most of your time and maximize your score.

Before diving into tips, let’s revisit the XAT exam structure:

XAT 2025 Exam Structure

• Time Limit: 170 minutes + 10 minutes
• Mode of Examination: Online
• Number of Answer Choices: Five
• Total Questions: 95
• Sections: 3 (Part 1) + 1 (Part 2)
• Marking Scheme:
• +1 mark for correct answers
• -0.25 marks for incorrect answers
• -0.10 marks for more than 8 consecutive unattempted questions
• The GK section does not have any penalty for incorrect answers.

Armed with this understanding, let’s get into last-minute preparation strategies.

1. Prioritize the High-Scoring Sections

With only days left, focus on sections where you can maximize your score. XAT primarily evaluates candidates across these areas:

• Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA): Concentrate on comprehension passages and logical reasoning. Work on solving inference-based questions quickly and accurately.
• Decision-Making (DM): Practice ethical and analytical dilemmas. This section often differentiates top scorers, so understanding the logic behind decisions is key.
• Quantitative Ability (QA) and Data Interpretation (DI): Revise critical formulas, geometry, arithmetic, and algebra. Work on data interpretation sets to enhance calculation speed.

Spending focused time on your strongest areas will yield better results than spreading yourself thin.

2. Take Mock Tests and Analyze Them

Practice tests are essential in the final stages of preparation. Use them strategically:

• Simulate Exam Conditions: Attempt mocks in one sitting to build stamina and simulate actual exam pressure.
• Analyze Mistakes: Spend as much time reviewing the test as taking it. Identify areas where you lost marks and work on similar problems.
• Focus on Time Management: Ensure you allocate appropriate time to each section based on your strengths. Decision-Making, for instance, is time-consuming and requires careful attention.

Mocks not only refine your skills but also instill confidence as you approach the big day.

3. Brush Up on General Knowledge

The GK section, while not considered for the percentile calculation, can impact your final score and eligibility for certain institutes. With no negative marking, it’s a scoring opportunity.

• Revise Current Affairs: Focus on events from the past 6–12 months, including politics, business, science, and sports.
• Prepare Static GK: Read about important global organizations, awards, and historical events.

Allocate at least 15–20 minutes daily to GK revision in these last days.

4. Practice Decision-Making Sets

The Decision-Making section is unique to XAT and can be a game-changer.

• Solve previous years’ XAT decision-making questions to familiarize yourself with the pattern.
• Understand the ethical, logical, and data-driven approach required for this section.
• Avoid emotional bias or instinctive decisions—stick to logical reasoning.

This section rewards candidates who can think critically under pressure.

5. Stick to Core Formulas and Shortcuts

For the Quantitative Ability section:

• Revise important formulas from geometry, algebra, and arithmetic.
• Focus on shortcuts for speed calculations and approximation techniques.
• Avoid getting stuck on complex questions—move on if needed to save time for easier problems.

This approach ensures that you maximize your attempts without wasting valuable time.

6. Optimize Time Management During the Exam

XAT demands efficient time management due to its structure.

• Part 1: Allocate time based on your strengths. For instance, 50 minutes for QA-DI, 40 minutes for VLA, and 30 minutes for Decision-Making is a balanced approach.
• Part 2: Spend 5–10 minutes on the GK section and aim to attempt as many questions as possible.

Keep a close eye on the timer during the exam, and ensure you don’t overinvest time in one section.

7. Don’t Overburden Yourself in the Final Week

The last week is as much about maintaining calm as it is about revising.

• Ensure you get enough rest and follow a balanced daily routine.
• Avoid starting new topics; instead, focus on consolidating what you already know.
• Take light, timed mocks to keep your brain in exam mode without overexerting yourself.

A calm mind performs better under pressure.

8. Exam-Day Tips

• Read Questions Carefully: XAT often tests your attention to detail, so avoid rushing through questions.
• Prioritize Accuracy: Attempt only those questions you’re confident about to avoid penalties for negative marking.
• Stay Positive: Trust your preparation and focus on one question at a time.

With these strategies, you can give your best shot on exam day.

Why Career Launcher FC Road is the Best Choice for MBA Preparation

For aspirants aiming to ace exams like XAT, having the right guidance is critical. Located in Pune, Career Launcher FC Road is renowned for its expert faculty, personalized coaching, and result-oriented strategies. With tailored mock tests, in-depth analysis sessions, and structured preparation plans, Career Launcher FC Road is the best choice for MBA preparation. Their proven track record of producing top results makes them the preferred institute for serious MBA aspirants.

By focusing on these last-minute preparation strategies and leveraging expert guidance, you can approach the XAT with confidence and achieve your desired score. Good luck!