How to Start MBA Preparation for CAT Exam 2024? Know the Complete Study Plan Here

Overview: With over 3.2 lakh candidates competing in the CAT exam 2023, figuring out how to start MBA preparation for 2024 is essential for any aspirant facing this intense competition. Read on to know the preparation tips here!

Achieving your dream of getting into an IIM is possible with dedication, consistency, and an intelligent preparation strategy.

In this blog, we'll address the question many aspirants like you ask: "How to start MBA preparation?" We're here to guide you through every step of the way.

Download FREE Study Material for CAT Exam 2024 by SuperGrads

Check | How to start preparation for CAT exam?

How to Start MBA Preparation: Creating a Study Plan Entrance Exams 

Before diving into the specifics of MBA preparations and entrance exams, crafting a daily study plan tailored to your needs is crucial. Here's how to begin: 

TIP 1: Choose the Right Exams

Determine which MBA entrance exams align with your preferred colleges, and then go through the exam patterns, CAT syllabus, and timeline of these entrance exams.

TIP 2: Set Realistic Goals

Define your daily target practice questions with deadlines. Having clear objectives will keep you boosted throughout the daily preparation journey. 

Download Free QA Section Daily Study Plan by Supergrads

TIP 3: Daily Study Timetable

Develop a daily, weekly, or monthly schedule that balances your study hours with other tasks and the right amount of breaks.

TIP 4: Gather Resources

Gather good study material with expert's help and suggestions. You look for both offline and online materials.

TIP 5: Coaching Classes

If you prefer structured guidance, join reliable coaching classes or online courses with seasoned mentors.

TIP 6: Mocks are a Must

Appearing for regular mock tests is an indispensable part of your prep. Most importantly, keep analyzing your mocks to improve your scores.

TIP 7: Track Your Progress

Analyze and evaluate your performance daily, especially after appearing for mocks, to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

TIP 8: Stay Healthy

Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and physical activity to maintain a balanced lifestyle. A healthy mind and body are essential for optimal exam preparation.

Check | CAT Exam MBA Preparation Strategy

Download Free QA Sample Questions for CAT Exam

MBA Preparation- Popular Entrance Exams in India 

Choosing the right MBA entrance exams depends on factors like your target colleges, exam pattern familiarity, syllabus comfort, and the exam's difficulty level. Here's a list of prominent MBA entrance exams in India: 

Name of the MBA Entrance Exam	About the Exam
Common Admission Test (CAT)	Conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), CAT exam is the most widely accepted exam for Tier-1 MBA colleges in India.
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)	MAT, organized by the All India Management Association (AIMA), is held four times a year and is commonly accepted by Tier-2 and Tier-3 MBA colleges.
Common Management Aptitude Test (CMAT)	CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is accepted by AICTE and UGC-recognized MBA colleges in India.
Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH-CET)	Also known as MAH MBA CET, this state-level exam is administered by the State Common Entrance Cell of Maharashtra and is accepted by MBA colleges within the state.
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)	Conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur, XAT is widely accepted by MBA colleges across the country.
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)	The GMAT is a popular entrance exam for international and Indian MBA colleges. It is administered by the Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC).
IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test)	Organized by the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, IBSAT is accepted by ICFAI Business Schools and affiliated institutions for MBA admissions.
NMAT (Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test)	GMAC conducts NMAT, which is accepted by various business schools in India and abroad, including NMIMS.
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test)	Symbiosis International University conducts SNAP for admission to MBA and postgraduate programs offered by Symbiosis institutes.
IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade)	IIFT conducts the entrance exam for its MBA (International Business) program, which focuses on international business and trade.
ATMA (AIMS Test for Management Admissions)	AIMS conducts ATMA, which is accepted by numerous management institutions in India for their MBA programs.

You should choose an exam based on your preferences and an understanding of its requirements. 

Check | Difference between CAT and CMAT exam

MBA Preparation- Entrance Exam Patterns 

Each MBA entrance exam has a unique pattern, with variations in the number of sections, total marks, and question types. To help you choose the right exam and prepare effectively, here's an overview of popular MBA entrance exam patterns: 

Exam	Sections	Duration	No. of Questions	Marks for Correct Answers	Negative Marking
CAT	3	120 mins	66	+3	-1
MAT	5	150 mins	200	+1	-1/4
CMAT	4	180 mins	100	+4	-1
MAH CET	4	150 mins	200	+1	No Negative Marking
XAT	4	180 mins	100	+1	-1
GMAT	4	187 mins	80	+1	No Negative Marking
IBSAT	4	120 mins	140	+1	No Negative Marking
NMAT	3	120 mins	108	+1	No Negative Marking
SNAP	3	60 mins	60	+1	-1/4
IIFT	4	120 mins	110	+3	-1/3
ATMA	6	180 mins	180	+1	-1/4

Speed, Time & Distance Practice Questions

Also Check | CAT Exam Previous Year Question Paper

These exams may include sections like Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The specific weightage of these sections may vary, so check each exam's detailed pattern. 

Check | How can I study MBA in top colleges?

MBA Preparation Tip for Entrance Exams

Successfully cracking MBA entrance exams requires hard work and a smart approach to your preparation. Here are some detailed tips to excel in each section: 

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

#1: Reading Practice: To improve your reading speed and comprehension, start by reading newspapers, magazines, and high-quality literature regularly. 

#2: Vocabulary Building: Learn new words daily and understand their sentence usage. Utilize flashcards and vocabulary apps for efficient learning. 

#3: Grammar and Sentence Correction: Brush up on your grammar rules and practice sentence correction exercises. 

#4: Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests for VARC to improve time management and identify weaknesses. 

Check | How to improve vocabulary for CAT exam?

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

#1: Concept Clarity

Understand the fundamental concepts of data interpretation and logical reasoning. Solve basic problems to build a strong foundation. 

#2: Practice Sets

Solve a variety of practice sets and puzzles to enhance your problem-solving skills. 

#3: Mock Tests

Regularly attempt DI & LR mock tests to gauge your progress and improve your speed. 

Check | How to prepare for data interpretation for CAT?

Quantitative Ability (QA): 

#1: Conceptual Clarity

Master the basics of mathematics, including algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and number theory. 

#2: Practice

Solve various quantitative problems from various sources, including CAT preparation books and online resources. 

#3: Time Management

Work on solving problems within the stipulated time, as time management is crucial in this section. 

#4: Mock Tests

Take full-length QA mock tests to simulate the exam environment

Download Free VARC Preparation Tips by Supergrads

Check | How to prepare for quantitative aptitude for CAT?

Best Books for MBA Entrance Exam Preparation 2024

Here are some of the best books to help you prepare for MBA entrance exams: 

Sections	Books	Authors
Verbal Ability	Wiley's Exam Xpert Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Captain AK Kalia
Verbal Ability	How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension	Arun Sharma, Meenakshi Upadhayay
Verbal Ability	Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Logical Reasoning	A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning	R S Aggarwal
Logical Reasoning	Complete Guide for MAT and Other MBA Entrance Exams	Disha Experts
Logical Reasoning	Concepts of LR - Logical Reasoning for CAT & Other MBA Exams	Gajendra Kumar
Quantitative Ability	How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT	Arun Sharma
Quantitative Ability	Quantitative Aptitude Quantum Cat	Sarvesh K Sharma
Quantitative Ability	Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations	R S Aggarwal

Know more: Best books for CAT exam Preparation

Choose the books that align with your strengths and weaknesses in each section. 

Read More| CAT Exam maths syllabus

How to Start MBA Preparation at Home 2024

How to start preparing for CAT by self-study? If you're looking to prepare for MBA entrance exams from the comfort of your home, here's how to do it effectively: 

• Strengthen your English language skills by studying grammar rules. 
• Create a well-structured study timetable. 
• Practice using sample papers and mock tests. 
• Balance your preparation with proper rest. 
• Stay motivated and focused on your goals. 

MBA entrance exams require dedication and consistency, so follow these tips for a successful preparation journey. 

Download Free DILR Study Plan by Supergrads

Conclusion

Starting your MBA entrance exam preparation with a well-structured plan and the right resources is key to your success.

Choose the exams that align with your goals, focus on each section, practice consistently, and follow expert advice.

By following these guidelines, you can embark on your MBA journey with confidence and determination. Good luck! 

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