Common Mistakes Made While Taking CAT Mocks

If you’re aspiring to crack the CAT (Common Admission Test) and secure a spot in a prestigious business school, then taking mock tests is an essential part of your preparation journey. These mock tests simulate the real CAT experience and will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. However, just attempting mock tests isn’t enough, you need to approach them strategically to make the most out of your practice sessions. In this article, we will discuss some common mistakes that CAT aspirants often make while taking mock tests and how to avoid them.

Taking CAT mock tests is an integral part of preparing for the actual exam. They provide a platform to understand your current preparation status, improve your weak areas, and improve your test-taking strategy. However, there are several common mistakes that candidates make during this crucial phase of preparation.

1. Focusing only on strong areas

While it is tempting to focus solely on your strong subjects and scoring more during the mock tests, CAT requires proficiency in all sections. Neglecting weaker sections will only lead to degrading your overall preparation. Instead give equal amount of time to improve your weaknesses as well.

2. Underestimating the importance of review

After attempting every mock test, it is essential to review your answers. You should look for calculation errors, misinterpretations, or any alternative approaches. And then try to understand the mistake thoroughly and how you can prevent such error in future.

This way you can eventually help yourself to refine your problem solving techniques.

3. Selecting questions randomly

For each section, you should have some strategic approach/criteria to select questions for attempting. Remember, CAT is an exam that tests your ability to choose which questions to attempt first. Identify the types of questions that will consume more time or the topics where you consistently make errors.

4. Not adapting to recent changes

CAT exam patterns can change, and so can your performance. If your mock test scores are not improving, then you should make some changes to your study plan. Flexibility is crucial in achieving better results.

CAT mock tests are stepping stones towards success in the actual exam. By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting a strategic and disciplined approach towards solving mock tests, you can definitely enhance your preparation. Thus, increasing your chances of achieving a high percentile in the CAT exam. Attempting a mock test right before the actual exam can be little confusing and eventually lead to anxiety. Therefore, it is better to start practicing  the mock tests little early.

Also read: How to crack CAT Exam in first attempt?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are mock tests important for CAT preparation?

Mock tests gives you a real exam environment and help you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, ultimately improving your performance.

2. How frequently should I take mock tests?

Aim for at least two mock test per week.

3. What if I consistently perform poorly in a particular section?

Identify the weak areas that you are facing in that section and seek help from mentors or any strategic study resources.