How not to score 99 percentile in CAT - Message from a CAT 46.69%iler & 74.78%iler

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares their personal mistakes while preparing for the CAT 2024 exam and offers valuable advice for CAT 2025 aspirants. Key mistakes include collecting excessive study materials without actually studying, procrastination, worrying too much about profiles, overuse of social media, not taking mock tests early, giving up on difficult topics, and the risks of taking a drop year. Emphasis is placed on consistency, managing expectations, and understanding that luck plays a significant role. The speaker encourages focusing on preparation, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a steady study routine.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on studying, not collecting materials. Stick to one quality resource and master it rather than gathering too many materials.
• 😀 Avoid procrastination. Stop putting off study sessions and just get started.
• 😀 Stop worrying about your profile before achieving a good percentile. Get a solid score first, and then think about your chances for interviews and calls.
• 😀 Don't waste time watching irrelevant videos. Focus on preparing for the exam and avoid distractions like 'life after MBA' content.
• 😀 Start giving mocks early, even if your syllabus isn't complete. Mocks help you simulate the actual exam and are crucial for preparation.
• 😀 Don't give up too soon when faced with difficult topics. Give them time and try multiple approaches until you understand them.
• 😀 Don't take a gap year. If you are in college, get a job or internship and prepare for CAT alongside. Dropping a year is risky.
• 😀 Consistency is key. Even if you're not in the mood, study for at least 5-10 minutes to keep the momentum going.
• 😀 Prepare for an unpredictable exam. CAT can be unexpectedly easy or hard, so don't make assumptions about its difficulty.
• 😀 Luck plays a significant role in your performance. Don't stress about it; just focus on doing your best and stay prepared.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses how not to score a 99 percentile in CAT 2025, based on the mistakes the speaker made in 2024, and provides tips to avoid these mistakes.

What mistake does the speaker highlight regarding collecting materials for preparation?

The speaker emphasizes that collecting free study materials without actually studying them is a major mistake. Instead, sticking to one material and studying it thoroughly is more beneficial.

Why does the speaker advise against procrastination?

Procrastination, such as delaying study plans and pushing them to the next day, prevents actual progress. The speaker warns that thinking about studying is not the same as actually studying.

How does the speaker feel about worrying too much about one’s profile during preparation?

The speaker suggests that worrying about one's profile (like percentile, background, or scores) is unnecessary at an early stage. It is more important to focus on preparing well and achieving a respectable percentile first.

What is the impact of social media and irrelevant videos on CAT preparation?

The speaker points out that excessive use of social media and watching irrelevant videos, such as those about life after B-school or shortcuts to cracking CAT, is a waste of time and distracts from focused preparation.

What mistake does the speaker warn against when it comes to mock tests?

The speaker stresses the importance of taking mock tests as scheduled. Delaying mock tests or thinking that the syllabus must be fully completed before giving a mock can hinder preparation.

What does the speaker advise regarding difficult topics during CAT preparation?

The speaker advises not to give up too early on difficult topics. If a topic is challenging, spend more time on it and revisit it after a few weeks. Only give up if it becomes clear that the topic cannot be understood.

Why does the speaker recommend not taking a drop year for CAT preparation?

The speaker recommends against taking a drop year. Instead, one should consider preparing for CAT alongside a job or internship, as taking a break might not be as productive.

What role does consistency play in CAT preparation?

Consistency is key. Even if you're not in the mood to study, spending at least 5-10 minutes daily helps maintain the habit and keeps the momentum going.

How does the speaker view luck in the context of CAT performance?

The speaker acknowledges that luck plays a significant role in CAT. Despite strong preparation, factors like performance anxiety and unforeseen circumstances on exam day can impact results.