As the countdown to the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024 begins, candidates are left in suspense regarding the number of questions they will face on exam day, as this detail has not yet been disclosed.
This uncertainty has become standard practice in recent years, with CAT known for its ability to surprise students with variations in question quantity, topic coverage, and overall difficulty levels. While there have been minimal changes to the exam pattern in the past, any significant deviations have typically been prompted by extraordinary circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
In CAT 2023, for instance, the Quantitative Ability (QA) section featured 22 questions, which included eight short-answer items that did not penalize incorrect answers. The remaining questions were multiple-choice, with a penalty of one mark for wrong answers and three marks awarded for correct responses. The individual timing of each section emphasizes the importance of comprehensive preparation, as candidates may face questions about topics they may have overlooked during their studies.
With just weeks remaining until the exam, students are urged to refine their understanding of all Quant topics while strategically focusing on areas that offer the most significant potential for improvement. Analyzing performance in All India Mock CAT (AIMCAT) tests is advisable to pinpoint topics where students may be struggling or showing inconsistent scores. This targeted approach will enable candidates to optimize their study time and ensure they can tackle questions across the entire syllabus, including those from more challenging areas.
Experts emphasize that balancing preparation across all topics is crucial, as neglecting certain areas could result in missed opportunities during the exam. By approaching their studies with a well-rounded strategy, CAT aspirants can enhance their confidence and maximize their chances of success when they sit for the test this year.
