How to use Calculator in CAT Exam 2024
The CAT exam will probably be starting on November 24, 2024. And to know how to use the calculator on screen is a crucial need to save time during the exam. The CAT 2024 requires calculative skills to ace tricky and numeric sections like data interpretation and quantitative ability. In such a scenario, candidates usually search queries like “Can we use calculator in CAT?” Indian Institute of Management first introduced an on-screen calculator in 2015 to carry out basic computations in the CAT Exams.
The introduction of on-screen calculators helps students boost their morale who are weak in quantitative aptitude or are from a non-engineering background as they appear for CAT 2024. Many students feel insecure about their calculations, such students can resort to the use of CAT calculators to ensure accuracy. However, one must utilize the calculator in CAT exam 2024 judiciously so as to make optimum use.
How to use Calculator in CAT 2024?
Here are the tips on how you can avail of maximum benefit from CAT exam on-screen calculator 2024.
Know how to use the on-screen calculator in CAT exam
The working of the onscreen calculator which is there in the CAT exam will be the same as that of the normal calculator. You will have to make your entries using the buttons that are there on the screen and then the result will display on the calculator window when you submit your entries. It is rightly said that a tool is only as good as the workman is hence, aspirants must be comfortable using the CAT online calculator beforehand. Practicing the use of an online calculator before the actual CAT 2024 exam will help students familiarize themselves with the interface. Additionally, knowing how can we use calculator in CAT exam will help students to utilize their time efficiently. Students are need to learn the features of the CAT online calculator by taking online mock tests for CAT.
Identify the questions that require the use of a calculator in CAT 2024
Students must not completely rely on the use of the calculator for every question related to CAT quantitative ability questions. Candidates must not use the calculator for basic calculations unless it is necessary as it can be time-consuming. If they can mentally solve CAT questions then should try to do so. Students must have a certain calculation speed before the CAT exam as it is an important prerequisite. Students must have a strong hand in basic calculations and must refrain from utilizing the calculator for CAT exam if not needed.
Don’t hesitate to utilize the calculator
Calculators should ideally bring in to use for intensive calculations in the CAT exam instead of basic calculations to save as much time as possible. Candidates must quickly identify the CAT questions where they need to to make use of the calculator in the CAT exam. Questions asked in CAT 2024 which involve decimals and complex calculations CAT calculators can be used there to save time.
Give CAT mock test to know the use
Students can begin practicing the use of calculators while giving CAT mock tests 2024. This will enable the students to identify when to use the CAT exam calculator and when not. While solving questions the CAT mock test calculators can be useful for solving higher power numerical which will be hard to solve manually. Furthermore, students can approximate the answer with the help of a calculator and such tricks can be practiced while giving the CAT mock tests.
Know short tricks
Having a good calculation speed gives students an edge to attempt more questions in less time during CAT exam. Using the on-screen CAT exam calculator may not be always helpful as some of the maths tricks mentioned below:
- Vedic maths – Vedic maths includes techniques to solve mathematical questions in a simple way. Using regular mathematical steps along with the CAT calculator will be time-consuming in CAT exam wherein the section-time limit of 40 minutes is provided. Using Vedic maths improves memory and confidence.
- Mind games – With the advancement of technology students must download various mathematics mind games on their mobile. Candidates must utilize this app in their free time and practice various skills in solving questions. This will help improve their calculation speed for the CAT exam 2024.
Create a repository
Students while learning the tricks must note them down to register it in mind. Often students believe simply watching videos and passive learning will help them retain till the day of the CAT exam, however, this is not true. Note down the CAT important tricks to solve certain CAT paper questions and while practicing apply those techniques.
Ensure accuracy
Students who have a habit of making silly mistakes must definitely utilize the calculator for CAT 2024 to verify their response. Even if the candidate is sure of his calculation skills, after completing the question, he/she must ensure that the answer is accurate by using the CAT calculator for calculations. This would eliminate the unnecessary negative marking and help achieve a good score in CAT 2024.