The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious and competitive entrance exams in India for admission to MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs offered by top business schools in the country. CAT is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis, and it serves as a gateway for aspirants to secure admission into renowned management institutes. Preparing for CAT requires rigorous study, and selecting the right books is crucial to achieving success. Here is an article on cat exam books.
- Introduction to CAT Exam
- CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus
- Importance of Choosing the Right CAT Books
- Best CAT Exam Books for Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Best CAT Exam Books for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Best CAT Exam Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Integrated CAT Preparation Books
- Online Resources for CAT Preparation
- Tips for CAT Exam Preparation
- CAT Exam Books FAQ
Introduction to CAT Exam
CAT is an annual computer-based test that assesses a candidate’s quantitative, verbal, and logical reasoning skills. It is a three-hour examination that consists of three sections:
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Each section is timed, and candidates are required to answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) as well as non-MCQs. CAT is known for its unpredictability, and its difficulty level can vary from year to year.
CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Before diving into the best CAT exam books, it’s essential to understand the CAT exam pattern and syllabus. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, here’s an overview of the CAT exam pattern:
- Total Sections: 3 (QA, DILR, VARC)
- Total Questions: Approximately 76-100
- Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours)
- Marking Scheme: +3 marks for each correct answer, -1 mark for each incorrect MCQ, no negative marking for non-MCQs
Quantitative Ability (QA):
- Arithmetic: Number System, Percentage, Profit and Loss, Time and Work, Time, Speed and Distance, Ratio and Proportion, Mixtures, Simple and Compound Interest
- Algebra: Equations, Inequalities, Quadratic Equations, Functions, Progressions
- Geometry: Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals, Polygons, Mensuration
- Modern Mathematics: Permutations and Combinations, Probability, Set Theory
- Trigonometry
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Data Interpretation: Tables, Charts, Graphs, Caselets
- Logical Reasoning: Seating Arrangements, Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding, Direction Sense, Syllogisms, Puzzles, Venn Diagrams, Assumptions, Arguments, Propositions
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Reading Comprehension: Passages on various topics
- Verbal Ability: Grammar, Vocabulary, Para-jumbles, Para-summary, Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning
Importance of Choosing the Right CAT Books
Selecting the right CAT preparation books is crucial because it forms the foundation of your study plan. High-quality books provide in-depth knowledge, practice questions, and strategies to crack the CAT exam. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing CAT books:
- Authorship: Look for books authored by renowned experts in the field of CAT coaching.
- Updated Content: Ensure that the books are up-to-date with the latest CAT syllabus and exam pattern.
- Practice Questions: Books with a wide range of practice questions and mock tests are valuable for improving problem-solving skills.
- Strategies and Tips: Look for books that offer strategies and tips for time management and approaching different question types.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Choose books that cover all three sections (QA, DILR, VARC) comprehensively.
- Online Support: Some books come with access to online resources, which can be beneficial for additional practice and doubt resolution.
Best CAT Exam Books for Quantitative Ability (QA)
- “How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT” by Arun Sharma: This is one of the most popular books for CAT QA preparation. It covers all topics extensively and includes practice exercises.
- “Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT” by Nishit K. Sinha: This book offers a wide range of practice questions and is known for its challenging problems.
- “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal: Although not exclusively for CAT, this book is excellent for building a strong foundation in quantitative aptitude.
Best CAT Exam Books for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- “How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for CAT” by Arun Sharma: This book is highly recommended for DILR preparation and includes a variety of caselets and puzzles.
- “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT” by Nishit K. Sinha: It provides a good mix of concepts and practice exercises for DILR.
- “Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency” by Ananta Ashisha: This book focuses specifically on data interpretation and data sufficiency problems.
Best CAT Exam Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- “How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT” by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay: This book covers all aspects of VARC and provides strategies for improving reading speed and comprehension.
- “Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT” by Nishit K. Sinha: This book emphasizes critical reasoning and includes a variety of passages for practice.
- “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis: While not CAT-specific, this book is excellent for improving vocabulary, which is crucial for VARC.
Integrated CAT Preparation Books
- “CAT 2022 – 27 Topic-wise & Year-wise Solved Papers (1990-2021)” by Disha Experts: This book provides a comprehensive collection of previous years’ CAT papers, which are invaluable for understanding the exam pattern and practicing.
- “A Comprehensive Manual for CAT” by Arihant Experts: This book covers all three sections of the CAT exam and includes practice questions, mock tests, and solutions.
Online Resources for CAT Preparation
online resources can be immensely helpful for CAT preparation. Some popular online platforms and resources include:
- Official CAT Website: The official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) provides information about the exam, registration, and sample papers.
- Online Mock Test Series: Websites like TIME, IMS, and Career Launcher offer online mock tests that simulate the CAT exam environment.
- YouTube Channels: Various YouTube channels, such as Unacademy CAT, offer free video lessons and tips for CAT preparation.
- CAT Preparation Apps: Mobile apps like BYJU’S, Adda247, and Oliveboard offer CAT preparation courses and practice questions.
Tips for CAT Exam Preparation
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that allocates sufficient time to each section.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in CAT. Solve a variety of problems to improve your skills.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length mock tests to gauge your performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Review and Analyze: After each mock test, analyze your mistakes and work on weak areas.
- Time Management: Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam, as time is limited.
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest CAT news and changes in the exam pattern.
- Stay Healthy: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise to stay focused and alert during preparation.
