Ways to Ace CAT Exam with Self-preparation

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most competitive MBA entrance exam, acting as the gateway to prestigious IIMs and other top B-schools like FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, and IITs. Every year, over 3 lakh aspirants compete for limited seats, making the exam highly selective and performance-driven.

While many students opt for coaching institutes to crack CAT, there’s a growing tribe of serious aspirants who choose self-preparation as their primary strategy and succeed. With the right mindset, proper planning, and disciplined execution, cracking CAT without coaching is possible and proven by hundreds of toppers every year.

In this comprehensive blog, we’ll show you:

• How to prepare for CAT without coaching,
• Which resources to rely on for each section,
• A step-by-step roadmap to stay consistent,
• Time-tested tips from experts and
• How can Tarkashastra support your journey even if you’re preparing independently?

Whether you’re a college student, a working professional, or a dropout, giving it one last shot, this guide will help you craft a winning self-study plan for CAT 2025.

Bonus: We’ll also include a 90-day revision plan and tips on analysing mock tests like a topper.

Let’s begin by understanding the CAT exam structure, which is a critical first step in any self-preparation journey.

Understanding the CAT Exam Structure

Before diving into preparation strategies, it’s essential to understand what the CAT exam actually tests, how it’s structured, and the kind of questions you can expect. Understanding the exam pattern will help you plan your self-preparation roadmap effectively and avoid guesswork.

A. Overview of the CAT Exam

The CAT exam is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted once a year, typically in November. It is divided into three sections, each designed to assess different skill sets.

Here’s a snapshot of the CAT 2025 exam pattern based on recent trends:

Note: The number of questions may vary slightly each year, but the time per section is fixed and switching between sections is not allowed.

B. Syllabus Breakdown: What to Study for CAT

CAT has no officially defined syllabus, but specific topics have consistently appeared. Here’s a section-wise topic list to guide your preparation:

VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension)

• Reading Comprehension (RC Passages)
• Para Jumbles
• Para Summary
• Sentence Elimination
• Odd Sentence Out

DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning)

• Bar Charts, Pie Charts, Line Graphs
• Caselets and Tables
• Venn Diagrams
• Puzzles, Seating Arrangements
• Games & Tournaments
• Logical Grouping and Number Series

QA (Quantitative Aptitude)

• Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio, Averages, TSD, Mixtures)
• Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
• Geometry & Mensuration
• Number Systems
• Modern Math (Probability, Permutation & Combination, Set Theory)

C. Skills Tested in CAT

Unlike many exams focusing on rote learning, CAT evaluates your conceptual understanding, decision-making under pressure, and logical reasoning abilities. Here’s what the exam truly tests:

By understanding the structure and focus of the CAT exam, you’ll be better equipped to:

• Set realistic targets,
• Choose the right study resources,
• And track your progress in each area.

Next, let’s tackle a common question: Is coaching necessary to crack CAT?

Self-preparation vs Coaching: Which Works Better?

One of the most common dilemmas CAT aspirants face is whether to join a coaching institute or prepare independently. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, self-preparation can be equally if not more effective when done with the right approach.

Let’s compare both paths based on key factors:

Self-Preparation vs Coaching: A Quick Comparison

When is Self-preparation the Right Choice?

Self-study can be your best bet if:

• You’re a college student with limited time due to classes or internships.
• You’re a working professional looking to prepare in the evenings or weekends.
• You’re disciplined and self-driven with access to quality study material.
• You’ve already attempted CAT once and understand the basics.

Topper Insight

“I didn’t join any coaching for CAT. I relied on free YouTube resources, religiously solved previous years’ papers, and regularly gave mocks. Consistency and self-analysis were game-changers.” — CAT 2023 Topper (99.45 %ile)

In short, you don’t need coaching to crack CAT, you need a well-structured plan, high-quality practice, and consistent effort.

Step-by-step Strategy to Prepare for CAT Without Coaching

If you’re preparing for the CAT exam without any coaching, it’s crucial to have a clear, time-bound, and section-specific strategy. Unlike a coaching program where things are scheduled for you, self-preparation demands planning, discipline, and smart resource usage.

Follow this step-by-step plan to stay on track and maximize your chances of cracking CAT 2025.

A. Set a Timeline and Daily Study Routine

Ideal Preparation Duration: 6 to 9 months

Whether you’re starting in May or August, your timeline should include:

• Concept Building: 2–3 months
• Practice Phase: 2 months
• Mock Test + Revision Phase: Last 3 months

Sample Weekly Study Plan (for Full-Time Students/Working Professionals)

Tip: Use time-blocking methods like Pomodoro to stay focused.

B. Build Your Foundation First (Months 1–2)

Start with concept clarity in all three sections. Don’t rush to solve CAT-level questions until your basics are solid.

Recommended Books for Concept Building:

Also read: The Hindu, Indian Express editorials for VARC improvement.

C. Choose the Right Study Material

Avoid the mistake of collecting too many books or random PDFs. Stick to quality over quantity. You’ll need resources for:

• Concept clarity
• Daily practice
• Sectional tests
• Full-length mocks

Top Free & Paid Resources for Self-Study

Subscribe to Tarkashastra’s YouTube Channel for free live CAT classes Monday–Friday.

D. Join Online CAT Communities

Staying connected with like-minded aspirants keeps you motivated and up to date.

Recommended Communities:

• Telegram Groups: Tarkashastra CAT Group, CAT Preparation India
• LinkedIn Circles: Follow mentors, toppers, and faculty
• Reddit Thread: r/CATprep

Get daily practice questions, tips, and mock analysis discussions from peers and mentors.

This roadmap ensures you’re not just studying hard but also studying smart.

Section-wise Preparation Strategy

To ace the CAT exam with self-preparation, you must adopt different strategies for each section. The Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) sections test distinct skill sets—and your preparation should reflect that.

Here’s a detailed strategy for each section:

A. VARC – Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

What CAT Tests:

• Reading speed and comprehension
• Grammar and logical flow
• Sentence arrangement and elimination

How to Prepare:

1. Read every day – editorial sections of The Hindu, LiveMint, and The Economist.
2. Practice RCs regularly – start with 1–2 per day; increase to 4 per day by Month 4.
3. Work on para jumbles, odd-one-out, and summaries using past year questions and online sets.

Tools & Resources:

Pro Tip: Don’t just read—summarize what you read in 3–4 lines. This builds retention.

B. DILR – Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

What CAT Tests:

• Ability to identify patterns and process data logically
• Decision-making under time pressure

How to Prepare:

1. Start with basic puzzle-solving: Sudoku, grid-based puzzles, and input-output patterns.
2. Learn different DI formats: bar charts, line graphs, tables, and caselets.
3. Solve 3–4 DILR sets daily, focusing first on accuracy, then speed.
4. Categorize sets as Easy, Moderate, and Tough during your mock analysis.

High-Yield DILR Topics:

Remember: DILR is about practice volume and pattern recognition—not theory.

C. QA – Quantitative Aptitude

What CAT Tests:

• Basic math understanding (up to Class 10)
• Speed, calculation tricks, and application

How to Prepare:

1. Focus first on Arithmetic – the most essential and high-weightage area.
2. Gradually cover Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, and Number Systems.
3. Maintain a formula notebook and revise it weekly.
4. Practice topic-wise tests and track accuracy.

QA Chapter Priority (Based on Importance & ROI):

Pro Tip: Practice mental math daily—calculate percentages, ratios, and approximations without a calculator.

Following these tailored strategies can turn each section into a scoring opportunity—even without coaching.

Importance of Mock Tests and Performance Analysis

No matter how long you study, mock tests are the real battleground for CAT self-preparation. They simulate the exam environment, help improve speed and accuracy, and, most importantly—reveal your strengths and weaknesses.

Without mocks, your preparation remains theoretical. With regular mocks and analysis, you prepare like a topper.

A. When to Start Giving Mocks

You don’t need to complete the entire syllabus to start taking mocks. In fact, starting early helps you:

• Build exam stamina,
• Adapt to the 40-minute sectional constraint,
• Learn time management strategies.

Ideal Mock Timeline

B. Types of Mocks You Should Take

1. Full-Length Mocks
   • Test all 3 sections under real CAT conditions
   • Helps stimulate exam-day pressure
2. Sectional Tests
   • Focused tests for VARC, DILR, and QA individually
   • Ideal for targeted improvement
3. Topic Tests
   • Micro-tests for Arithmetic, Algebra, RC, Puzzles, etc.
   • Best for mastering one topic at a time

Best Platform for Mocks

Pro Tip: Don’t judge your performance by just percentiles. Focus on accuracy, improvement, and question selection.

C. How to Analyze Mocks Like a Topper

Merely attempting mocks isn’t enough—you must learn from them.

Mock Analysis Checklist:

• Identify silly mistakes (read and mark every error)
• Categorize questions into:
  • Attempted & Correct
  • Attempted & Wrong
  • Not Attempted
• Maintain a “mistake logbook” for recurring errors
• Review the time taken per question
• Re-attempt questions you left or got wrong—without time pressure

Sample Mistake Logbook Format

In short, mock tests + mock analysis = CAT success formula. It’s what separates the 95 percentilers from the 99+ club.

Time Management and Study Discipline

When preparing for CAT without coaching, discipline is your greatest ally. Unlike coaching, where schedules are imposed, self-study gives you complete freedom—which can be both a blessing and a curse.

That’s why you must master time management, focus-building, and consistency to stay on track.

A. Build a Realistic Daily Study Routine

Don’t aim for marathon study sessions. Instead, focus on 3–4 focused hours per day consistently. Break your study time into blocks with clear goals.

Example: 4-Hour CAT Study Plan (For Students or Working Professionals)

Consistency > Intensity. Even 2 focused hours daily > 8-hour burnout once a week.

B. Use Time Management Techniques

Use techniques that train your brain to stay focused:

• Pomodoro Technique: Study 25 mins, break 5 mins (repeat 4 times, then take a more extended break)
• Time-blocking: Allocate fixed time for each section
• Task batching: Group similar tasks (e.g., 3 RCs together, 3 DILR sets together)

C. Weekly and Monthly Tracking

Set aside 30 minutes every Sunday to:

• Review the week’s progress
• Identify what topics took more time than expected
• Plan your next week based on that feedback

Weekly Tracker Template

D. Avoiding Burnout

Burnout is real—especially if you’re studying solo. To avoid it:

• Take one day off every 10 days
• Pursue a hobby: music, sports, reading non-RC books
• Don’t compare your journey with others (avoid toxic prep groups)
• Remember: CAT is a game of patience and performance under pressure

Tools That Can Help

In short, a disciplined mindset, smart time usage, and regular self-review can make you outperform even those with coaching—if you stick to the plan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Self-preparation

Self-preparation for CAT gives you complete control—but that freedom can easily become a trap if you’re not careful. Many aspirants waste valuable time due to poor strategy, inconsistency, or unrealistic expectations.

Avoiding these common self-prep mistakes will save you time, energy, and frustration.

1. Ignoring Mock Test Analysis

Many students take mocks regularly but don’t analyze them deeply. That’s like shooting arrows blindfolded.

• Don’t just check your score.
• Track accuracy, time spent per question, and repeated error patterns.
• Create a log of frequent mistakes and learnings.

Mock tests are your best teachers only if you listen to their feedback.

2. Focusing Too Much on One Section

Some aspirants spend 70–80% of their time on Quant or just solving VARC passages, thinking one strong section can carry them through.

In reality, CAT is a sectional percentile game.

Even if you get 99.8 percentile overall, you won’t make it to IIMs if one section drops below 80–85 percentile.

Balance is key.

Spend time on all three sections every week.

3. Collecting Too Many Study Resources

The “FOMO” (fear of missing out) trap leads students to collect:

• 10 books,
• 15 PDFs,
• 5 apps,
• and 6 coaching modules.

You end up reading bits of everything but mastering nothing. Instead, choose 1–2 quality resources per section and revise them well.

4. Postponing Mocks “Until I Finish the Syllabus”

Waiting for syllabus completion before attempting mocks is a huge mistake.

Mocks aren’t just for testing knowledge—they:

• Build stamina,
• Improve time allocation,
• Teach question selection.

Start mocks after completing 50% syllabus. Don’t delay.

5. Not Simulating the Actual Exam Environment

Giving mocks casually on your phone or solving DILR sets while watching Netflix won’t prepare you for exam pressure.

Practice in a quiet, timed, full-screen setup with minimal distractions.

• Set a 2-hour timer. Use a mouse. Sit at a desk.
• Train your mind and body for the real exam setting.

6. Comparing Your Progress with Others

Every CAT journey is unique. What worked for a 2023 topper may not suit your strengths or timeline.

• Focus on your growth curve, not someone else’s scores.
• Use others’ experiences for strategy—not as a benchmark.

Summary Table: Self-prep Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these pitfalls will give you a structure for self-preparation and long-term stability. Now that you know what not to do, let’s build your revision roadmap for the final 3 months.

Final 90-Day & 30-Day Revision Plan

The last 3 months before CAT can make or break your chances—especially if you’re preparing without coaching. This is when your preparation shifts from learning to execution.

You’ve already built your concepts. Now, it’s time to:

• Sharpen your strengths,
• Plug your weaknesses,
• And maximize your percentile through mock test strategy and smart revision.

A. Last 90 Days: Phase-wise Focus

Split the last 90 days into 3 blocks of 30 days:

Days 1–30: Mock-Driven Revision Begins

• Aim for 1 mock every 5–6 days.
• Focus on identifying question types you often get wrong.
• Revise concepts where accuracy is below 70%.

Days 31–60: Boosting Accuracy + Speed

• Increase mocks to 1–2 per week.
• Solve sectional tests daily (especially your weakest section).
• Maintain a “Formula + Tricks” revision notebook.

Days 61–90: Simulate Exam Conditions

• 2–3 full mocks every week.
• Strictly follow CAT exam rules: time limits, no breaks, desktop only.
• Use the same slot (morning/afternoon/evening) as your CAT test slot, if known.

Weekly Checklist (During 90-Day Plan)

Pro Tip: Treat each mock like the final exam. No distractions. Full focus.

B. Final 30-Day Strategy: Game Day Prep

This is the final stretch. Don’t try to learn new topics now. Your focus must be on:

1. High-yield Revision

• Revise formulas, concepts, and shortcut tricks.
• Focus on strong areas to guarantee scoring.

2. Mock Review > Mock Count

• Giving 5 mocks but analyzing them thoroughly is better than 10 without review.

3. Section Focus Per Day

• Rotate your prep: QA focus on Mon/Wed, VARC on Tue/Thu, and DILR on Fri/Sat.
• Sunday = Mock + Deep Analysis

7-Day Micro Revision Plan (Example Week)

Mental Prep in the Final Month

• Sleep well before mocks and on exam day.
• Practice stress control techniques: deep breathing, journaling, and short walks.
• Stay confident and consistent—you’ve already done the hard work.

By following this structured plan, you’ll walk into the CAT exam centre with the following:

• Confidence from mock practice,
• Clarity from focused revision,
• And calmness from knowing you’ve left nothing to chance.

How Tarkashastra Can Help in Self-preparation

Even if you’re preparing for CAT 2025 without coaching, you don’t have to do it alone. Tarkashastra supports self-driven aspirants with high-quality, structured, and completely free resources.

Whether you’re struggling with Quant basics or need expert mock analysis, here’s how Tarkashastra empowers your self-preparation journey:

1. Free Online YouTube Classes (Monday to Friday)

Get access to concept-driven CAT classes led by Aditya Thakare Sir, a CAT mentor and DILR expert.

• Covers QA, DILR, and VARC in rotation
• Real-time doubt resolution via comments
• Weekly practice sessions and previous year question discussions
• Subscribe Now – Tarkashastra YouTube Channel

2. Free Mock Tests and Analysis Support

Tarkashastra offers:

• Full-length CAT mock tests
• Sectional tests for targeted practice
• Answer keys with video-based solutions
• Personalized performance feedback and score-tracking templates

Bonus: Get mock test analysis sessions on YouTube every week.

3. High-Quality Study Material

Access concise, exam-oriented resources curated by experienced mentors:

• PDF notes for Arithmetic, Algebra, DILR sets, and RC strategies
• Practice sheets for every topic
• Daily “Question of the Day” with Telegram discussions

Join our CAT Telegram Group: Tarkashastra CAT Prep Community

4. Personalized Mentorship for Self-prep Students

Stuck with a concept or need help planning your next 60 days?

• Ask your doubts directly to mentors
• Get feedback on your prep strategy
• Access custom study plans based on your mock performance

Why Self-prep Students Love Tarkashastra

If you’re serious about cracking CAT 2025 through self-preparation, Tarkashastra is the partner you need—accessible, authentic, and 100% focused on your success.

Conclusion

Cracking the CAT exam through self-preparation isn’t a myth—it’s a reality proven by hundreds of students each year who get into top IIMs and B-schools without spending a rupee on coaching.

What truly matters is:

• A clear understanding of the exam,
• Smart planning and disciplined execution,
• Consistent practice through mocks and analysis,
• And most importantly, self-belief.

With high-quality free resources, a solid mock strategy, and support from platforms like Tarkashastra, you can build your own success story—on your terms.

So stop waiting for the “perfect moment.” Start now. Start small. And stay consistent.

Self-preparation is not about doing everything alone. It’s about owning your journey and Tarkashastra is here to walk with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Crack CAT Without Coaching?

Yes, thousands of students crack the CAT each year through disciplined self-study. With the right resources, mock practice, and structured planning, you can succeed without joining any coaching institute.

2. How Many Hours Should I Study Daily For CAT?

Ideally, 3–4 focused daily hours are sufficient for most aspirants. It’s better to study consistently every day than burn out with long sessions once a week.

3. When Should I Start Giving Mock Tests During CAT Preparation?

After completing at least 50% of your syllabus, you should start giving full-length mocks. Early exposure helps build time management and mental stamina.

4. Which Are The Best Books For CAT Self-Preparation?

Top books include Word Power Made Easy for VARC, Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Sarvesh Verma or Arun Sharma for QA, and Logical Reasoning and DI for CAT by Arun Sharma for DILR.

5. Is It Possible To Prepare For CAT Along With A Full-Time Job Or College?

Many working professionals and students have cracked CAT by following a focused study plan with 2–4 hours of daily preparation and regular mock test analysis.

6. How Do I Stay Motivated While Preparing Alone?

Join online study groups, follow CAT mentors like Aditya Sir from Tarkashastra, track your progress weekly, and celebrate small wins to stay motivated.

7. What Are Some Free Resources For CAT Self-Preparation?

Free resources include YouTube channels (like Tarkashastra), Telegram groups for daily practice, papers from previous years, and free mocks available online.

8. How Many Mocks Should I Give Before CAT?

Aim to attempt at least 20–25 full-length mocks and 30+ sectional tests before CAT. What matters more is your analysis of each mock.

9. How Should I Analyze My Mock Tests?

Track your accuracy, time per question, and recurring mistakes. Maintain a mistake logbook and revisit incorrect questions to strengthen weak areas.

10. Which CAT Section Is Most Difficult For Self-Preparation?

It varies per student. QA is often feared due to math, while DILR is challenging due to unpredictability. With consistent effort, all sections are manageable.

11. Can I Prepare For CAT In 6 Months Without Coaching?

Absolutely. A 6-month plan with concept building (2 months), practice (2 months), and mocks + revision (2 months) is more than enough with consistency.

12. How Should I Plan My Last 30 Days Before CAT?

Focus only on revision, mock tests, and error correction. Avoid starting new topics. Simulate exam conditions during practice and work on exam temperament.

13. How Do I Manage Time Effectively During Self-Preparation?

Use tools like the Pomodoro technique, Google Calendar, and weekly planning templates. Stick to a 3–3-section rotation weekly to maintain balance.

14. What Are The Common Mistakes To Avoid In CAT Self-Preparation?

Avoid skipping mocks, hoarding too many materials, over-focusing on one section, and comparing with others. Stay consistent and follow your plan.

15. How Can Tarkashastra Help Me If I’m Preparing Without Coaching?

Tarkashastra provides free YouTube classes, mock tests, PDF notes, Telegram discussions, and expert mentorship—all designed to support self-prep aspirants effectively.