Preparing for the MAT Test: A Comprehensive Guide

The Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) is a critical step for students applying to various mathematics doctoral programs, such as the MSc in Mathematics at Oxford. This article provides a thorough guide on how to prepare for the MAT, including resources and strategies recommended by officials from the Mathematics department website.

Understanding the MAT Syllabus

The first step in preparing for the MAT is to familiarize yourself with the syllabus. The Mathematics department website offers detailed information about the MAT syllabus. It is important to check whether you have covered all the required material by 3 November 2022. If there are any gaps, private study or discussing the material with a teacher or private tutor can help fill these gaps.

Practicing with Example and Past Papers

One of the best ways to prepare for the MAT is to practice with example and past papers. The Mathematics department website provides these resources to help you gain a deeper understanding of the test format and question types. When practicing, it is vital to simulate exam conditions—stick to the time limit, refrain from using calculators, formula sheets, or dictionaries, and mark your answers against the provided mark sheets. Getting a teacher to assist with your practice sessions can be extremely beneficial.

A recommended strategy is to attempt one past paper a week. Over time, you will become familiar with the question structures and the incremental nature of the longer questions. Additionally, watching instructional videos can help hone your skills and technique.

Key Study Resources

If you prefer to prepare the MAT test separately from other MBA entrance exams like CAT, NMAT, CMAT, SNAP, etc., there are several highly recommended books and resources. Here are the best resources to help you prepare:

Quantitative Aptitude

Quantitative Ability by R.S. Aggarwal Quantitative Ability LOD-1 by Sarvesh Verma Quantitative Ability LOD-1 by Arun Sharma

Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning LOD-1 by Arun Sharma

Language Comprehension

How to Prepare for Reading Comprehension by Arun Sharma Pearson publication and newspapers for reading comprehension passages

General Knowledge (GK)

The GA section of the MAT is vast, and it is essential to study extensively. Here are some recommended resources:

Manorama Yearbook (one of the most advised books for the GK section) Reading Newspapers such as The Hindu, Financial Express, Business Standard, The Economist, and Economic Times

By thoroughly studying these resources and practicing with past papers, you can boost your confidence and improve your performance on the MAT test. Remember to familiarize yourself with the rubric, particularly which questions to attempt for your applied course, to ensure you score as highly as possible.

Don't forget to share this guide with your peers, and good luck with your preparation!