How to Prepare for GRE and CAT Simultaneously? Expert Tips & Guidelines

Overview: For individuals seeking higher education, two prominent examinations come into play: the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the Common Admission Test (CAT). The common question from aspirants preparing for both is, "How to prepare for GRE and CAT simultaneously?". Let's find out!

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The GRE is widely accepted worldwide, with thousands of graduate programs accepting its scores, but the CAT is the gateway to top Indian business schools such as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). 

In this article, we will look at the challenging process of preparing for both the GRE and the CAT at the same time, taking into consideration their different forms and requirements. 

How to Prepare for GRE and CAT Simultaneously?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are two main examinations that provide entry to prestigious business schools in India and abroad. The MBA aspirants often get confused between the two examination and their preparation strategies.

Preparing for the GRE and CAT entrance exams simultaneously is a difficult process that can considerably improve educational and employment opportunities. This approach benefits third-year college students since it optimizes their study time. 

Balancing preparation for both exams can be difficult for working professionals. It is more practical to focus on one exam while dedicating extra time to cover necessary topics for the other. 

This guide will provide significant insights for applicants from various backgrounds, equipping them with the knowledge and strategies required to navigate the complex journey of simultaneously preparing for the GRE and CAT. 

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GRE vs. CAT: Which One to Target? 

Before discussing the specifics of simultaneous preparation, it's critical to understand the differences between the GRE and the CAT so that you can make an informed selection regarding your focus. 

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GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

GRE is an extensive assessment test accepted by numerous international universities and colleges for admission to graduate programs worldwide.
It assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The GRE score is recognized globally and offers access to thousands of graduate programs. 

CAT (Common Admission Test)

CAT is a computer-based entrance exam conducted annually for admission into MBA programs at prestigious Indian business schools, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
It primarily evaluates your quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and data interpretation and logical reasoning skills. 

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Challenges on How to prepare for GRE and CAT simultaneously?

Preparing for GRE and CAT simultaneously can be an exhausting process. It requires high dedication, focus, and effective time management.
To successfully handle the situation, let's break down the significant areas of divergence between the two exams. 

Section	GRE Exam	CAT Exam
Verbal Reasoning/Ability	More challenging than CAT's. Involves multiple-choice questions, vocabulary tests, word selection, and paragraph formation. Requires a strong command of vocabulary and complex reasoning skills.	Covers similar question types as GRE. Reading comprehension passages are easier than the GRE. Focuses more on comprehension with simpler passages.
Quantitative Reasoning	Covers topics like arithmetic, geometry, trigonometry, and algebra. It may include questions requiring multiple solutions or typed responses.	It covers the same topics but is more difficult and demanding. Questions are multiple-choice with one correct answer.
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA)	Includes an AWA section. Requires development and support of ideas, critical thinking, evidence provision, and coherent essay writing.	There is no equivalent section in CAT.

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Simultaneous Preparation Strategy for CAT and GRE Exams

Here are the preparation strategies for the CAT and GRE examinations:

Focus on CAT Preparation

• Initiate your preparation by concentrating on CAT since it is often more challenging and requires a strong foundation in quantitative aptitude. 
• Master CAT's quantitative reasoning, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning sections. Enhance your problem-solving and critical thinking skills to excel in CAT. 

Leverage Overlapping Syllabus

• Recognize the significant overlap between GRE and CAT exam syllabus. Topics in quantitative aptitude and verbal reasoning in GRE will also benefit your CAT preparation. 
• Utilize your rigorous GRE preparation to reinforce your CAT readiness, efficiently using your study time. 

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Build Your Vocabulary

• A robust vocabulary is essential for GRE's vocabulary-based questions. To improve your verbal abilities in both exams, learn new words and learn their contextual meanings. 
• Extensive vocabulary will help your performance on the GRE and enhance your CAT verbal ability. 

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Time Management and Discipline

• Preparing for both exams requires meticulous time management and discipline. Create a well-structured study plan that allocates dedicated time for GRE and CAT. 
• Consistency and regular practice are key to mastering the syllabus for both exams. 

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Don't Get Intimidated

• The simultaneous preparation for GRE and CAT may appear daunting, but it's achievable with determination and the right strategy. 
• Focus on improving your weak areas in GRE and CAT, adjusting your GRE preparation to address CAT-specific variations. 

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Conclusion 

How to prepare for GRE and CAT simultaneously? Preparing for both GRE and CAT simultaneously is a demanding task but can be highly rewarding. You can improve your chances of passing both exams by following a well-structured plan and taking advantage of the syllabus.  

Remember to prioritize the CAT as the foundation for your preparation and gradually include GRE-specific skills, such as vocabulary expansion.

With dedication, perseverance, and efficient time management, you may overcome the obstacles of simultaneous GRE and CAT preparation, opening doors to prestigious colleges and business schools in India and throughout the world. 

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