What is CAT Exam? Recommended Books and Study Materials
What is CAT Exam? Recommended Books and Study Materials
Blog Article
## What is CAT Exam?
What is CAT Exam? The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted annually for admission into prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. The exam is highly competitive and assesses candidates on their aptitude in Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). With thousands of aspirants appearing each year, proper preparation with the right books and study materials is essential for success.
## Exam Pattern and Syllabus
What is CAT Exam? CAT is a computer-based test (CBT) with a duration of 120 minutes, divided into three sections:
* **Quantitative Ability (QA)** – Covers topics like algebra, arithmetic, number systems, and geometry[4].
* **Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)** – Focuses on grammar, sentence completion, and reading comprehension[4].
* **Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)** – Tests problem-solving and analytical skills using charts, graphs, and puzzles[4].
The exam follows a marking scheme where each correct answer earns 3 marks, while incorrect answers in multiple-choice questions (MCQs) result in a penalty of 1 mark.
## Recommended Books for CAT Preparation
* **Quantitative Ability (QA)**
* How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT – Arun Sharma[4]
* Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams – R.S. Aggarwal[4]
* Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT – Sarvesh K. Verma[4]
* **Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)**
* How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT – Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay[4]
* Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis[4]
* High School English Grammar & Composition – Wren & Martin[4]
* **Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)**
* How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT – Arun Sharma[4]
* Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT – Nishit K. Sinha[4]
* The Pearson Guide to Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation – Nishit K. Sinha
## Study Materials and Online Resources
* **Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers** – Solving previous years’ CAT papers and taking regular mock tests helps in understanding the exam pattern and improving time management[3][2].
* **Coaching Institutes’ Study Materials** – Institutes like TIME, IMS, and Career Launcher offer comprehensive study materials and mock tests[1].
* **Online Learning Platforms** – Websites like Unacademy, Byju’s, and Cracku provide video lectures, practice questions, and mock tests.
## Conclusion
What is CAT Exam? It is one of the most challenging entrance exams for MBA aspirants in India, testing their aptitude across multiple sections. Success in CAT requires a well-structured study plan, consistent practice, and the right study materials[1][2]. By using the recommended books and online resources, candidates can enhance their preparation and improve their chances of securing admission into top business schools. It is the gateway to some of the best management programs in India, making dedicated preparation crucial for aspirants.