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How to Crack XAT in 1 Month: XAT Test-taking Strategy & Tips
December 24, 2024
Overview: From time management tips to section-specific tricks, learn how to boost your score and secure a top MBA college. Read further to know how to crack XAT 2025 in 1 month.
Xavier Aptitude Test, commonly abbreviated as XAT, is a national-level management entrance exam conducted by XLRI. Every year, approximately 70,000 students enroll for this exam to bag seats in top B colleges.
Are you also appearing to XAT 2025 which is scheduled for January 5, 2025? Then, you might be curious to know how to crack XAT in the first attempt.
Read further to understand how to crack XAT and learn XAT exam tips every topper uses to score a good percentile.
Table of Contents
XAT Exam Pattern 2025: Syllabus & Marking Scheme
Before you know how to crack XAT, it's important to comprehend the exam pattern of XAT 2025. Refer to the following to digest the XAT exam syllabus thoroughly:
| Parts | Sections | Total Questions | Duration |
| 1 | Verbal and Logical Ability (VALR) | 26 | 170 minutes |
| Decision Making (DM) | 21 | ||
| Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | 28 | ||
| 2 | General Knowledge (GK) | 20 | 10 minutes |
| Total | 95 | 180 minutes |
Download PDF | XAT Syllabus 2025
XAT Marking Scheme 2025
Knowing about marking is important when learning how to crack XAT. Let's see the XAT marking scheme for 2025:
- No sectional time limit in Part 1
- For every correct answer, a +1 mark is given
- For every incorrect answer, a -0.25 mark gets deducted
- If you fail to attempt 8 questions in a row, -0.10 marks will be deducted
- Essay writing will be scheduled during XLRI selection process
How Difficult is it to Crack XAT 2025?
XAT is challenging and difficult as it is one of those national-level management entrance tests that takes you into India's leading business schools.
XAT has two tough sections: General Knowledge and Decision-making that demand most of your time. Compared to CAT, the verbal sections will possess lengthier passages.
However, with the right resources and preparation, you can crack XAT with good marks. Apart from this, you need to work on your time management skills to cover most of the questions in due course. We hope the answer to how hard to crack XAT is clear to you now.
How Much Time to Crack XAT?
This is one of the most sought questions asked by students when it comes to how to crack XAT. Well, the answer to this depends on how early you start your XAT exam preparation.
For example, if you begin 6 to 8 months prior to the exam date, you can build sound knowledge around the core concepts and have much time to revise.
Does this mean, if you have one month left, you can't learn how to crack XAT exam? No, you can still pass it with focused preparation and the right mentorship.
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How to Crack XAT in 1 Month?
The journey to how to crack XAT lies in maximizing your efforts in the last 30 days. Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind:
1. Understand the Exam Pattern
The first step to how to crack XAT is understanding the exam format. XAT differs from CAT when it comes to time management, switching between sections with the incorporation of Decision Making (DM) and General Knowledge (GK).
Compared to CAT, which has rigid timing for each section, XAT allows for flexibility when changing between sections.
2. Effective Time Management
As XAT doesn't impose sectional time limits, plan your time distribution according to your strengths. For instance, if you excel in Quantitative Aptitude (QA), you might dedicate additional time to areas such as Decision Making (DM) or Verbal and Logical Reasoning (VLR).
3. Utilize the Scientific Calculator
The scientific calculator available online can be a significant benefit in XAT, particularly for quickly tackling complex calculations. Discover how to utilize it efficiently, since it is intended to help you, not overwhelm you.
4. Prioritize Sections Based on Strengths
Determine your strengths (e.g., QA, VLR, DM) and concentrate your efforts on those areas. Don't spend time on questions you doubt-particularly in decision-making, where uncertainty can create confusion.
5. Mock Tests for Practice
Everything depends on your XAT test-taking strategy. So, prior to the real exam, practice and revise XAT Previous Year Papers to try out various strategies (e.g., which section to begin with).
Modify your strategy according to practice test outcomes to discover what suits you best. Taking mock test strengthens your how to crack XAT preparation.
6. Decision-making Strategy
In Decision Making, try to answer more questions, even if you are uncertain about a few. These questions can be challenging, but making an effort to answer them boosts your likelihood of achieving a good score.
7. Adapt Your Strategy on Exam Day
Be ready to adjust your approach according to the questions you encounter. If a particular section feels challenging, think about moving to a different section for a while and returning to it later.
8. Don't Be Complacent
Numerous students who perform well in CAT tend to become complacent and fail to prepare sufficiently for XAT. Remain driven and concentrate on strategies unique to the XAT, since its format and level of challenge vary.
9. Maintain Focus on Strategy Over Speed
In contrast to CAT, which emphasizes speed, XAT demands accuracy and a deliberate approach. You don't have to try to answer as many questions, but you should focus on increasing the correctness of your answers.
10. Mental Toughness and Temperament
When it comes to how to crack XAT, the psychological pressure peaks as it has various sections with varying complexities. However, a peaceful mindset and steady temperament can help you make better decisions.
Read More | XAT Exam Analysis 2024
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Resources and Study Materials for XAT 2025
Here are the best book recommendations from experts while encountering how to crack XAT:
| Sections | Book | Author |
| Verbal and Logical Ability | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | |
| Decision Making | Target XAT (Past papers and mock tests) | Disha Publications |
| Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | R.S. Aggarwal |
| General Awareness | Objective General Knowledge (Lucent's) | Sanjiv Kumar |
Students who want to excel in how to crack XAT must refer to the above resources.
XAT Exam Tips for Success
Here are some additional tips on how to crack XAT exam:
- Stay Calm: It is obvious that entrance exam pressure can make you worn out. But with activities like meditation and breathing techniques, you can learn to calm your mind and make good decisions.
- Gain Knowledge from Sources: The General Knowledge (GK) section can help you score better. Read newspapers to know current happenings and events in categories like business, sports, awards, etc.
- Take Mock Test: There are many institutes that conduct free mock tests before the XAT exam to allow students to assess their preparation. Try to enroll in as many mock test series as possible. This will help you with speed and accuracy.
Read More | XAT Colleges 2025
When it comes to how to crack XAT, you require a well-structured approach, discipline, and consistency. You can enhance your score by working on your ability to balance speed and accuracy. Finally, keep a positive mindset throughout your XAT preparation.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand Exam Format: Acquaint yourself with the key sections like QA, VA, GK, DM, and Essay.
- Practice Mock Tests: Regular mock tests help improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
- Focus on Key Concepts: Prioritize important topics in QA and VA for effective preparation.
- Create a Study Routine: Stick to a structured study plan with daily practice and regular revisions.
- Time Management: When it comes to how to crack XAT, managing your time is important. Try to focus on strengths while tackling difficult sections strategically.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Maintain a positive mindset and stay strong throughout the preparation and exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best resources for XAT preparation?
How can I improve my time management skills for XAT?
What is the role of decision-making in XAT, and how can I prepare for it?
How can I stay motivated during XAT preparation, especially with just one month left?
How to practice essay writing for XAT?