Popular Myths About the CAT

There are several popular myths about the Common Admission Test (CAT), which originate and get multiplied with the help of widespread rumours. A common myth is that it is extremely difficult to qualify in the CAT. Though the toughness of a test is a subjective question, it cannot be denied that the CAT does evoke such perceptions. The perceived toughness of a test depends on the knowledge and skills required for it and the relative difficulty of obtaining a certain test score. Even a test that does not demand a very high level of knowledge and skills may be perceived tough because it requires a relatively higher score to pass it.
On the other hand, another test may be perceived tough because it requires knowledge and skills of a high order.
It is a perceptual problem which demands an adequate solution.
The problem cannot be wished afway by saying that it is all in the mind.

We need to adopt the perspective of the test taker who will take the bull by the horns.
· I Need To Be An Engineer The fact is that it does not matter.
As of now the CAT features mathematics questions which are different from what they were earlier. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have an inclusive policy of choosing candidates from diverse backgrounds. But it should not be taken to mean a test that can be treated casually. · If I Am Good At Speaking English, I Can Conquer It Please do not have a complacent attitude towards English simply because you have great public speaking skills.

There is more to the CAT than just the ability to speak well.

One needs to be proficient in grasping and using the given information.

· I Need To Be Good At One of Them To do well in the CAT, you have to be equally good in all the sections as in the final analysis, the overall percentile score matters. Of course, there are individual cut off scores for both the sections, but they are just a few notches lower than the overall cut off score.
You should focus on your stronger section to boost your overall score while not losing sight of the cut off score.
· Fresh Candidates Stand No Chance The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have a policy of not giving preference to any group of candidates except in terms of their suitability for the programme.

In reality, the working professionals are perpetually short of time, but in college, you have ample time at disposal and also other test takers around you. Remember that grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. · How Much Is Too Much? Ample practice with basic concepts and their applications is essential but it is important not to stretch it.

If you start too early, you may peak quite early.
It makes the process unbearable and you may buckle just before the test.
· Repeaters Find It Easier Familiarity with a test does result in a certain comfort level but this alone does not mean much. Popular predictions about the CAT create notions, which can hamper your performance. · Shortcuts Lead To Success The CAT has now started focusing more on conceptual understanding rather than speed.

The latest version of the CAT which contains fewer questions than before, gives little importance to speed.
Just stick to good old school methods and try to develop conceptual clarity.

PRACTICAL TIPS · Do not be influenced by rumours.
Having a clean slate is important as preconceived notions can lead to emotions.
If you believe that the CAT features easy questions on reasoning and in reality, if you get a tough question paper, you have higher chances of messing it up.

· Take frequent breaks to relax a little.

Do not talk too much about the CAT with your friends and family.

Unsolicited advice often does more harm than good. · A good night's sleep before the test is much more helpful than any last minute preparation. · Eat enough to ensure sufficient energy levels during the test. · If you feel anxious before the test, simply relax.

This is perfectly normal.

Have a glass of water, take a walk or pray; these tips really work.