If you are preparing for CAT 2021, this is the time to get serious about studies. It's time to prepare and take as many mocks as you can, because when it come to the CAT - a test of speed and accuracy, practice makes perfect. But if you're just seriously starting your CAT prep, you probably need to figure out your prep strategy. Should you invest in all the well-known series right now? Or should you ask seniors and friends for recommendations? What's the best time to start with these test series? In this article, we answer these questions for you. Stay tuned!
Let's answer the various questions you may have about test series, here:
What are test series all about?
TEST SERIES are basically exams to check your capability. Up to what extent you are prepared for the exam before attempting the real one? This is what test series and mocks help you answer.
***
When Should I join a test series?
Many of you will be eager to join a test series. But wait. Have you completed the required syllabus first? If you are among these many who are signing up for a test series without having completed the syllabus, you're not really doing it right. How will you score when you don't even know the syllabus thoroughly? Kindly refrain from joining one until you complete the syllabus.
If you are still hell-bent on testing yourself though, go ahead and join a test series. But in this case, only take sectional tests of topics you have already studied.
***
Why can't I join a test series without having completed the syllabus?
If you are attempting any test series without complete preparation there are quite a few disadvantages.
For example, if you have just completed QA or portions of QA and have not completed your VA section, there is no point of taking mocks. You will be able to attempt the questions of that particular portion, while significantly reducing your performance (and thus your self-esteem) in the other sections.
Not only will you fail to score well, you will get demotivated and disturbed by looking at your total marks. If this pattern continues, you are likely to get frustrated. Frustration is NEVER a good thing. Especially if you're preparing for CAT!
It is advisable instead to just complete your preparation first and then go for mocks. July is the best time to start testing your mettle in mocks.
***
Which test series should I join?
Here's a list of test series that are considered some of the best, according to MBA students and alumni who have managed to crack the CAT.
- CL or Career Launcher is considered the closest to the actual CAT, but they have a reputation of making unstructured Verbal And RC questions, with stupid solutions.
- TIME Mocks are considered too tough for CAT level, but as we have seen in CAT 2013, CAT 2003-retest and numerous times, there is no "level" for CAT. Solving questions of a tougher level is always a good idea, if you are constantly in touch with easier and moderately difficult ones as well.
- IMS is hands down, the best when it comes to VA-RC and boosting your self-confidence.
So which one should you select?
Well, analyze where you are lacking and choose a combination of test series accordingly. The majority of the CAT Toppers over the years have suggested a combination of: CL and IMS (or BULLSEYE). Note that this is just a recommendation. You can choose the best option based on your priorities.
***
Found the article helpful? Here's some more reads to help you prep for CAT 2020: