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How to Start Early for CAT 2025: Month-by-Month Prep Guide

Your Month-by-Month CAT 2025 Preparation Guide

By Career Launcher South Ex, Delhi

Introduction

Preparing for the CAT (Common Admission Test) is a long-term endeavor that requires consistent effort, strategic planning, and a well-balanced schedule. If you’re targeting CAT 2025, starting now allows you to pace your learning, avoid burnout, and build strong foundational skills in each section. Whether you’re a college student or a working professional, this month-wise plan will help you align your efforts with your goals.

For aspirants in Delhi, Career Launcher, CAT coaching center near South Ex offers structured mentorship and expert guidance to help you excel.

Why Start Early for CAT 2025?

Early preparation enables you to:

  • Develop strong conceptual clarity

  • Practice regularly without pressure

  • Analyze mock tests deeply and make revisions

  • Manage college/work alongside CAT prep

  • Approach the exam with calm and confidence

CAT Exam Pattern (Latest Format)

  • Total Duration: 120 minutes

  • Sections:

    • VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) – 40 minutes

    • DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) – 40 minutes

    • QA (Quantitative Aptitude) – 40 minutes

  • Total Questions: Around 66 (varies)

  • Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answers, -1 for wrong MCQs, no negative for non-MCQs

Phase-Wise Preparation Timeline

Phase 1: Foundation Building (March – September 2024)

Goal: Strengthen fundamentals across sections

Focus:

  • Revise Class 9–10 math

  • Read editorials and essays daily

  • Solve basic puzzles and logical reasoning questions

Routine:

  • Study 1.5 to 2 hours daily

  • Rotate between two sections per week

  • Reserve weekends for revision and timed drills

Sample Question – Quant:
If x + y = 10 and xy = 21, find x² + y².
→ (x + y)² - 2xy = 100 - 42 = 58

Sample Question – VARC (Para Jumble):
Arrange the following:
A. He always carried an umbrella.
B. He was an eccentric old man.
C. Even when the sun was shining.
D. Who lived in our neighborhood.
→ Correct order: B D A C

Phase 2: Skill Strengthening (October 2024 – February 2025)

Goal: Build problem-solving stamina and vocabulary

Focus:

  • Timed practice sessions

  • Grammar and vocabulary from context

  • Solve past CAT papers

Monthly Targets:

  • October: Arithmetic & RC

  • November: Algebra & Logical DI

  • December: Modern Math & Puzzles

  • January: Reading Speed & Data Sufficiency

  • February: Mixed timed tests

Sample Question – DILR:
Five people (A–E) are sitting in a row. A isn’t at the ends, C is to the right of B, D is at the end. Who’s in the middle?
→ A

Sample Question – Quant (Algebra):
If f(x) = x² – 4x + 3, minimum value?
→ At x = 2, f(2) = –1

Phase 3: Test Strategy & Mock Season (March – August 2025)

Goal: Master mock tests and personalize exam strategy

Focus:

  • Begin with one full-length mock every two weeks

  • Analyze every test thoroughly

  • Maintain a mistake/error log

  • Adjust section order and timing strategies

Routine:

  • Study 2–3 hours/day; increase on weekends

  • Sectional tests every alternate day

  • Prioritize weak areas

Sample Question – RC (Inference):
Passage on climate policy. What would the author most likely agree with?
→ Global policies must be equitable

Phase 4: Final Stretch (September – November 2025)

Goal: Perfect exam-taking strategy under test-like conditions

Focus:

  • Take 2–3 mocks/week

  • Simulate real exam environments

  • Focus on revision only—avoid new topics

  • Prioritize sleep and physical well-being

Tips:

  • Create a 1-page concept/formula sheet

  • Focus on accuracy over speed

  • Don’t let a poor mock define your progress

Section-Wise Strategy

VARC

  • Daily: Read for 45 minutes

  • Topics: RC (Philosophy, Econ, Fiction), Para jumbles, Sentence Elimination

  • Tip: Learn vocabulary through context, not rote lists

DILR

  • Practice 3–4 sets weekly

  • Identify puzzle types you’re comfortable with (e.g., arrangements, tables)

  • Tip: Prioritize sets that seem solvable and efficient

QA

  • Begin with Arithmetic

  • Then move to Algebra, Geometry, and Number Systems

  • Save Modern Math for later

  • Tip: Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing formulas

Balancing CAT Prep With Life

For Students:

  • Maximize holidays/weekends

  • Use 30–45 minute focused sessions

  • Form peer groups for accountability

For Working Professionals:

  • Use commute time for reading/math drills

  • Study in the mornings or late evenings

  • Quality over quantity

Tools to Track Progress

  • Mock tracker: scores, accuracy, learnings

  • Error notebook: recurring mistakes

  • Use timers for practice to build pacing

Challenges & Solutions

  • Inconsistent Study: Use digital reminders, habit trackers

  • Mock Score Anxiety: Focus on long-term trends

  • Time Management: Build a flexible study plan

  • Conceptual Gaps: Revisit basics thoroughly

Summary Timeline

  • March–Sept 2024: Build foundation and habits

  • Oct–Feb 2025: Practice past papers, take sectional tests

  • March–Aug 2025: Full mocks and detailed analysis

  • Sept–Nov 2025: Final mocks, mental prep, and revision

Final Thoughts

Cracking CAT is more about strategy and consistency than just intelligence. With early planning and the right support, you’ll enter the exam room prepared and confident. Start now, and let each day bring you closer to your B-school dreams.

For structured guidance and expert mentorship in Delhi, connect with Career Launcher South Extension—your CAT preparation partner.

CL Center @ Delhi – South Extension
Time: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Mobile: +91-9315737037
Email: delhi.dc@careerlauncher.com
Address: N-5, 2nd Floor, South Extension Part I, Near South Extension Metro Station (Pink Line), New Delhi, Delhi – 110049

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