How to Achieve the CAT Score Needed for Top IIMs: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you aiming to get into IIM Ahmedabad or other top IIMs? While your academic performance in high school and BTech is strong, achieving the right CAT score is crucial. This article provides you with all the insights to understand the score requirements and tips for CAT preparation to increase your chances of admission.

Understanding CAT Score Requirements

Based on your academic background, you need to aim for a specific CAT percentile to compete for a seat in any of the top IIMs. According to Ritika, this year, IIM C had a cutoff of 99.78 for GEMs. For your profile, IIM C offers the best odds. However, IIM A has a negative quota for Engineers, so you would likely need a score closer to 99.9 for a direct call. Similarly, IIM B values work experience, so even if you do not have work experience, you would need a score of 99.7 with 3 years of work experience to be competitive.

General Category Applicants

If you are from the general category without work experience, you will need a minimum of 99.6 percentile in CAT, and perhaps even more if you do not have any work experience.

Tips for CAT Preparation

To achieve the desired CAT score, it requires consistent hard work and the right strategy. Here are some key tips and resources to help you prepare effectively:

Initial Steps for Prep

Read Newspapers Daily: Start by developing the habit of reading newspapers daily and analyzing them. This helps in understanding the flow of arguments and economic concepts. Economics: Build a strong foundation in the basics of the Indian economy. Novels: Read good novels to improve your language skills and understanding of text flow and argumentation. Improve Communication Skills: Enhance your communication skills through reading books, novels, and newspapers. News Analysis: Pick any news and analyze it critically.

Focus Areas for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

To excel in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section, you should practice regularly and follow these recommended books:

Norman Lewis’s Word Power Made Easy ‘GMAT Official Guide’ and ‘Manhattan Verbal’ - recommended by CAT 2020 toppers ‘30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary’ by Norman Lewis/ Simon Schuster ‘How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT’ by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay/Arihant ‘PSC for VA for CAT’ by Nishit Sinha

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Preparation

For the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section, try these books:

‘How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT’ by Arun Sharma, Tata McGraw Hill ‘How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT’ by Arun Sharma, Tata McGraw Hill ‘The Great Book of Puzzles Teasers’ by George J Summers ‘CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning’ by Gautam Puri ‘Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT’ by Nishit K. Sinha ‘Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency’ by Ananta Ashish

Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Resources

To sharpen your Quantitative Aptitude (QA) for CAT, use these resources:

‘Arun Sharma’s How to Prepare for Quantitative Ability for CAT’, published by Tata McGraw Hill ‘Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations’ by Abhijit Guha, Tata McGraw-Hill ‘Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT’ by Nishit Sinha, published by Pearson

Practice and Consistency

The key to success in CAT is consistent practice and adherence to a rigorous study schedule. Engage in regular mock tests and analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement.

With these tips and the right preparation, you can significantly enhance your chances of achieving the desired CAT score and securing your dream spot in IIM Ahmedabad or other top institutions.

Good Luck!