Navigating the Path to a 90th Percentile in the CAT: Challenges and Strategies
Scoring in the 90th percentile in the Common Admission Test (CAT) is considered quite challenging, but it is attainable with a strong preparation strategy. This article explores key factors that contribute to the difficulty of achieving a high percentile and outlines effective strategies to overcome them.
Competition
The CAT attracts a large number of candidates, often exceeding 200,000. Achieving a high percentile means you need to outperform a significant portion of these candidates, making the competition fierce.
Syllabus and Format
The CAT tests a wide range of skills across various sections, including Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension. Mastering these areas requires extensive study and practice.
Time Management
The CAT is a time-constrained exam, and managing time effectively during the test is crucial. Candidates must practice completing questions quickly and accurately to ensure they have enough time to answer all questions.
Mock Tests
Regularly taking mock tests is essential for building stamina and familiarity with the exam format. High scorers typically take numerous mocks and analyze their performance to identify areas for improvement.
Conceptual Clarity
A deep understanding of concepts, especially in mathematics and reasoning, is necessary. Rote learning is not sufficient; candidates need to apply concepts to solve complex problems.
Preparation Duration
Most successful candidates dedicate several months to a year for preparation, which includes self-study, coaching classes, and group discussions. The amount of time required can vary based on individual preparation strategies and needs.
Stress Management
Preparation and exam day can be stressful situations. Maintaining composure and developing strategies to manage anxiety is important for peak performance.
Comparison with College Exams
Scoring 90 plus in the CAT is different from traditional college exams. In college exams, knowledge and understanding of the subjects are crucial, while in the CAT, reasoning and logical thinking are emphasized. Even without thorough preparation, a basic understanding of logical reasoning, numbers, and basic aptitude math can lead to a high CAT score.
Individual Variability
The difficulty of scoring 90 plus in the CAT depends on a combination of natural intelligence, training, and hard work. Some individuals may need more support and effort, while others, with inherent sharpness, may achieve the same without as much assistance.
Personal Experience
My personal experience as an average student demonstrates the variability of achieving a high CAT score. Success in the CAT can be achieved with the right resources and dedication. For instance, with the help of a correspondence course, a private tutor, and an additional course for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), I could score a 98.xx percentile. I know others who achieved 99 plus percentile by writing a few mocks and studying from some booklets.
The final answer to your question on how difficult it is to score in the 90th percentile depends on a range of factors that can vary significantly from person to person. The key is to start working towards your goals with the resources and strategies that work best for you.
Thanks for reading.