If you're planning to crack the CAT 2025 exam, you're in the right place. Whether you're starting your preparation with a 1-year or 1.5-year plan, this article breaks down everything you need to know—from setting goals to choosing the right study material. Let’s dive into this structured and effective CAT preparation plan.

Why This Plan Matters

CAT is not just a test of aptitude—it's a test of patience, planning, and perseverance. With the right strategy and consistency, even an hour a day can make a difference.

Phase 1: Acclimatization – Understanding the CAT Exam

The acclimatization phase is all about understanding the exam pattern, getting familiar with the syllabus, and forming a solid base.

CAT Exam Pattern at a Glance

• Sections: Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Duration: 2 hours

• Questions: 66 (as per CAT 2021)

• Weightage: Roughly equal across all three sections

Key Insight: The concepts tested are from 8th–10th grade level—no 11th or 12th-grade mathematics is involved.

Goal Setting: Know Your Target B-School

Setting a clear goal is the foundation of your CAT journey. Ask yourself:

• Do you want to get into IIM Ahmedabad, FMS Delhi, or SP Jain?

• Have you researched their cut-offs, admission criteria, and fees?

Why It Matters:

• FMS Delhi requires 99+ percentile, but doesn't give much weightage to academics during the first stage.

• SP Jain Mumbai has a strong profile-based selection process, and it's important to build your resume early.

Pro Tip: Print out your dream college logo and stick it on your study table. Start manifesting success.

Resources and Study Material

Choosing the right resources is crucial. Here's what you need:

Recommended Books

• Arun Sharma (latest edition) – Excellent for Quantitative Aptitude

• Renowned Coaching Materials – Choose material from trusted CAT institutes

If you're a CATKing student, you’ll get access to CATKing Bibles:

• LOD 1 (Level of Difficulty 1): Start with this. Completing LOD1 well covers up to 90 percentile in CAT.

• LOD 2: Tackle this after you're comfortable with basics.

Organize Your Material: Don’t hoard resources. Stick to 1-2 trusted sources and revise them consistently.

Time Management: Study 1 Hour Every Day

Start with 1 hour per day for the first 6 months. It may feel slow initially, but consistency is key.

For College Students & Working Professionals:

Even with exams or job commitments, 1 hour a day can lead to exponential growth.

Tip: Review previous class content before the next one. Reinforcement boosts retention.

Work on Your Profile – Especially for SP Jain & FMS

Your profile is more than just academics. Colleges like SP Jain and FMS require you to submit:

• SOP (Statement of Purpose)

• Extra-curricular activities

• Certifications and internships

Recommendations:

• Take up the Engage 7X Course (learn Data Science, Leadership, Marketing, and Blockchain)

• Do internships and online certifications

• Participate in competitions or clubs

SOP Tip: Practice writing about your achievements and aspirations in 100–200 words.

Aptitude Is Your Superpower

Most companies, including Google and Facebook, begin hiring rounds with aptitude tests. Preparing for CAT sharpens your problem-solving, which helps in placements too.

CAT vs Other Tests:

• Engineers can also target GRE/GMAT along with CAT

• CAT preparation gives an edge in campus placement aptitude rounds

Find Your Idol or Mentor

An idol or mentor can keep you grounded and motivated.

Why It Works:

• Learn from someone you resonate with

• Commit to their teaching style and strategy

• Examples: Sachin for cricket, Warren Buffett for investing—find your CAT equivalent!

Final Advice: Plan and Stay Consistent

Planning beats procrastination.

Start small, but stay consistent:

• 1 hour daily for 6 months (acclimatization phase)

• Then increase gradually to 2–3 hours/day as CAT approaches

• Make study your priority—this only works if your goal is clear

Conclusion: Your CAT 2025 Journey Starts Today

If you’re serious about CAT 2023, start now. This journey isn’t just about solving questions—it’s about building discipline, clarity, and confidence.

Subscribe to reliable YouTube channels, join webinars, stay updated, and don’t let anyone else define your potential.

Believe in the plan. Believe in yourself. You got this!