What are the new changes in the CAT 2020 Exam Pattern?
IIM has always changed the exam pattern of CAT in every 3 to 4 years, so pattern change of CAT 2020 itself is no big deal rather it was expected. The ongoing pandemic has triggered the changes in CAT pattern to happen this year itself.
* So what is the major change in CAT Exam that has happened this year?
• Earlier there were 2 slots. Now there will be 3 slots ( Morning, Afternoon and Evening ).
• The test duration has been reduced from 180 minutes to 120 minutes.
• Sectional duration has also been reduced proportionately from 60 minutes to 40 minutes.
The 3 sections ( VARC, DILR and Quant ) will in all probability retain (almost) equal number of questions.
* So why was the change required?
• CAT will in all likelihood continue to be a CBT maintaining its tradition this year as well. So maintaining social distance among the candidates will be a challenge.
• Shortening the test duration is the only option that was left with the CAT conducting IIM (INDORE this year). Having 3 slots in place of 2 would give an option of wider and desired distribution of candidates.
• Given Social distancing norms and SOPs in mind, the capacity for each test centre should be reduced. This will ensure that the centres create more space among the candidates.
* What will be the positive Impact?
• Less time to spend in the pressure-cooker situation
• Less built up of mind and brain-wrecking tension
• Less tiring than before
* Strategy for CAT 2020:
• Time Management and Optimum utilisation of time would be the key to success in CAT 2020
• Find your strength areas in each section
• Do not waste time on your weaker areas
• Skip the areas you hate
• Attempt more mocks of 2 hour duration
• Make use of the sectional time to the fullest as you cannot move to other section till the time limit for the present section you are attempting is over.
• The process of finding the questions you want to attempt should be faster than ever before
Success in CAT Exam always dependent on the adoption and execution of the right strategy for you. This strategy will vary for each of the candidate. Successful strategy for one may backfire for another. So formulate your strategy based on your strengths and weaknesses.
(Author: Mr. Subhabrata Ghosh, CAT Faculty & Member, AIMA)
