CUET Exam 2024 – Admit Card Released! Check the Deadlines, Eligibility, Registration, & More

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Introduction

The CAT exam is conducted in an online CBT mode in English. The test comprises MCQs and TITA (non-MCQ) questions. It includes three sections: Verbal & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Quantitative Aptitude (QA), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR).

The exam features a total of 66 questions, carrying 198 marks. Students earn +3 marks for each correct answer, while incorrect answers incur a -1 penalty. The CAT exam stands out compared to other MBA entrance tests like SNAP, which has only 60 questions.

In the CAT exam, the VARC section has the highest weightage with 37% of the questions. The QA and DILR sections have 33% and 30% weightage respectively. Past exams have ranged from moderate to difficult in terms of overall difficulty. However, with a solid study plan and effective preparation strategy, students can perform well.

Proper preparation includes understanding the exam pattern, practicing previous years’ question papers, and following a structured study plan. By focusing on each section and practicing regularly, students can improve their chances of scoring high in the CAT exam.

Highlights of the CAT Exam Pattern

Below is the overview of CAT Exam Pattern 2024 in a table form:

Aspect

Details

Mode

Computer Based Test

Duration

120 Minutes

Language/Medium

English

Question Type

MCQ + Non-MCQ

Total Questions

66

Total Marks

198 Marks

Marking Scheme

Correct Answer: +3 marks
Negative Marking for Wrong Attempt in MCQ: -1 mark

No Negative Marking for Wrong Attempt in Non-MCQ

 

CAT Exam Format

The CAT exam is a critical assessment for candidates aspiring to join prestigious management institutes in India. Designed to evaluate a candidate’s mathematical aptitude and logical reasoning, the CAT exam tests the ability to solve problems accurately and quickly. Familiarizing oneself with the CAT exam pattern is essential for effective preparation and achieving a high score.

CAT Exam Pattern

The CAT exam pattern comprises three main sections, each focusing on different skill sets. Here is a detailed overview of the CAT exam structure:

Section

Parameters

Number of Questions

Total Marks

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Focuses on reading comprehension, grammar, and verbal logic. Tests the candidate’s ability to understand and analyze written material.

24 (19 MCQs & 5 Non-MCQs)

72

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Includes questions on data analysis, logical reasoning, and problem-solving. Assesses the candidate’s ability to interpret data and make logical deductions.

20 (15 MCQs & 5 Non-MCQs)

60

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Covers topics in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems.

Evaluates the candidate’s mathematical skills and numerical ability.

22 (14 MCQs & 8 Non-MCQs)

66

 

Key Points of the CAT Exam Format

  • For candidates who belong to the PwD category, the duration of the test for these candidates is 160 minutes.

  • Candidates can use an on-screen calculator for computations during the exam.

  • A digital clock is available to keep track of the time.

  • Provided for rough work, to be submitted after the exam.

  • Candidates cannot switch between sections during the allotted time for each section.

  • An official mock test is available on the CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) to familiarize candidates with the exam format.

Exam Sessions

The CAT 2024 exam will be conducted in three sessions:

  • Morning Session: 8:30 am – 10:30 am

  • Afternoon Session: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

  • Evening Session: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm

CAT Exam Marking Scheme

The CAT exam is known for its challenging MCQ-based questions, which include negative markings. Understanding the CAT marking scheme is crucial for aspirants to optimize their performance. Here are the key points of the CAT 2024 marking scheme:

The CAT 2024 exam carries a total of 198 marks, with each question worth 3 marks. Incorrect answers for MCQs result in a penalty of -1 mark. It’s important to note that not all questions need to be attempted, and there is no penalty for skipping questions. Some questions in the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section are non-MCQs and do not have negative markings.

For a better score, it is recommended to attempt about two-thirds of the total questions in each section. The following table provides a summary of the CAT marking scheme:

CAT Sections

Number of Questions

Marks Per Question

Negative Marking (Only MCQ)

VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension)

24

3

-1

DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning)

20

3

-1

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

22

3

-1

 

Understanding the CAT marking scheme helps aspirants strategize their approach to the exam, enhancing their chances of achieving a higher score.

 

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