CAT 2007

The CAT usually comprises Data Interpretation, Quantitative Analysis and English Usage sections. Always attempt the section that you are strong in and like first. This will ensure that you get a lot of marks quicker and more easily.An important factor to consider is to balance speed and accuracy. Do not spend too much time on a single question. If it takes a long while to read, skip it and go to a smaller question. If time permits you can always get back to it. Another vital aspect to keep in mind is that CAT has negative marking and every wrong answer will lead you to lose marks.Hence attempt those questions where you are sure of the answer. If you do not know, it is best to let go and move on rather than spend a lot of time with no results. CAT considers an all-round performance, hence focus on attempting all sections equally.If you score highly in one section and poorly in another it would not be considered at all. Hence focus on attempting the maximum number of questions in every section where you know the answers. Also remember that not all questions are difficult. The paper is interspersed with several easy ones that hardly need some seconds to answer. The key is to be able to identify them. That, of course, comes with a lot of practice prior to the examination.Understand the basic theories behind the concepts and then solve the problems without glancing at the solutions. When you finish, compare both your solution and the printed solution. The cutoffs for the section usually range anywhere between 12-14.The Reading Comprehension section usually has a passage followed by a series of questions. The faster you read, the better it is as you can save time. However, reading speed should match the understanding level. Make sure you understand what you are reading.Underline important names, keywords as you read. Broadly, this includes three types of questions.The first is paragraph forming where there are four to six sentences labelled A to E that are actually a part of a paragraph. These are presented in a jumbled order and you are expected to rearrange the sentences such that the sequence forms a coherent paragraph.A useful start will be to identify the first sentence of the paragraph and then establish potential links.Another set of questions relates to the correct usage of grammar. English Usage and Vocabulary include questions on synonyms, antonyms and analogies. If you do not understand what is inside the paragraph, you can revisit it if a question is asked from that paragraph.The Logical and Analytical Reasoning section comprises logical puzzles. Use visual aids to understand the question. For instance, if the question is on relationships, try drawing a family tree or use a grid if you need to match options.The Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency section includes questions based on tables, pie charts, bar graphs and line graphs. Ensure that you go through these questions carefully and this may also involve some calculations.