CAT Exam Pattern 2023: Marking Scheme. Question Count and much more

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a standardized test for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. The CAT exam is conducted by the Indian Institute of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. 

The CAT exam pattern 2023 will be the same as the previous year. The test will have three sections:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
• Quantitative Ability (QA)

Why is it important to know the CAT Exam Pattern 2023?

Knowing the CAT exam pattern 2023 can benefit the aspirants in multiple ways. Some of these include:

• To understand the structure of the exam and the types of questions that are asked. This will help you to prepare effectively and focus on the most important areas.
• To know the time allocation for each section. This will help you to manage your time effectively and avoid spending too much time on any one section.
• To calculate your expected score. The CAT exam is a multiple-choice exam with a negative marking system. This means that you will lose one mark for every wrong answer. By knowing the exam pattern, you can calculate your expected score and set realistic goals for yourself.
• To identify your strengths and weaknesses. A wide range of topics are covered in the CAT exam. By knowing the exam pattern, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and focus your preparation on the areas that need the most improvement.
• To prepare for the exam environment. The CAT exam is a computer-based test (CBT). By knowing the exam pattern, you can get familiar with the CBT format and prepare yourself for the actual exam environment.

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: Question Count and Time Limit

Each section will have a different question count. The section timing for each section is 40 minutes. The total time duration of the CAT exam is 120 minutes i.e. 2 hours.

 

S.No.	Name of the Section	Total Question Count	MCQ type Questions	TITA type Questions	Time Limit
	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)	20 Questions	14 Questions	6 Questions	40 Minutes
	Quantitative Ability (QA)	22 Questions	14 Questions	8 Questions	40 Minutes
	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24 Questions	21 Questions	3 Questions	40 Minutes
	Total	66 Questions	49 Questions	17 Questions	120 Minutes (2 Hours)

Note: TITA-type questions are different from MCQ type. TITA type will require the candidate to type in the answer. Since TITA-type questions are subjective, they will not be marked negatively in case of incorrect response.

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: VARC Section

The VARC section will test the candidate’s skills in reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and grammar. The questions in this section will be based on a variety of passages, including essays, articles, and short stories. The candidate will be required to answer questions on the main idea of the passage, the author’s purpose, the tone and style of the passage, and the meaning of words and phrases.

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: DILR Section

The DILR section will test the candidate’s ability to interpret data and solve logical reasoning problems. The questions in this section will be based on a variety of data sets, including tables, graphs, and diagrams. The candidate will be required to answer questions on the interpretation of data, the identification of trends and patterns, and the solution of logical reasoning problems.

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: QA Section

The QA section will test the candidate’s mathematical skills. The questions in this section will be based on a variety of mathematical concepts, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and probability. The candidate will be required to answer questions on the calculation of basic mathematical operations, the solution of equations and inequalities, and the interpretation of graphs and diagrams.

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: Negative Marking

There will be negative markings for wrong answers in the CAT exam. 0.25 marks will be deducted from the final score for each wrong response. However, there will be no negative marking for unattempted questions and TITA-type questions

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: Scoring

The CAT exam will be scored on a scale of 0 to 198. The scores for each section will be added to get the overall score. The percentile rank of the candidate will be calculated based on the overall score. 

CAT Preparation Tips

The CAT exam is challenging, but it is possible to prepare for it with proper planning and hard work. Here are some tips for preparing for the CAT exam:

• Start early and allow yourself plenty of time to get ready.
• Examine your skills and shortcomings by taking a practice test.
• Create a study schedule and follow it.
• Pay attention to your areas of weakness.
• Make sure to revise.
• Practice regularly.
• On the exam day, remain composed and concentrated.

The CAT exam is a great opportunity to get into a top business school. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in the CAT exam.