Common Admission Test 2009

What is the minimum score to clear CAT?
This depends on the difficulty level of the paper and relative performance of others. Generally attempting around 60 per cent of the questions with around 80 per cent accuracy is good enough to get multiple IIM calls.

With a computer-based test, how should I do rough work/calculations?
The IIMs have stated that you will get writing pads with numbered pages on which you can do your calculations / rough-work. However, please do not tear off any part of the pad as you are expected to leave the pad and all sheets on the table before you leave. If you run out of paper, the invigilator will be happy to give you another pad.

What’s the CAT pattern?
CAT 2009 will have three sections and between 60–70 questions. But that is all that we know. For more clarity, we will have to wait for November 28.

What is the negative marking pattern this year?
The negative marking scheme last year was 1 mark per question (each question was worth 4 marks). The negative marking scheme for CAT 2009 is yet to be released.

Can I change my answer once I’ve made a choice?
Yes. You can change your answers as often as you like within the 2 hours and 15 minutes available to you. However, you can skip questions as well go back and forth between questions.

If I’ve marked an answer, can I deselect it?
There is no provision to deselect the answer choice or to skip a question after it has been attempted.

Give us some tips for CAT
Focus on the Concepts in Quant. For DI and Verbal practice, focus on the mock CAT and try to practice with as many questions as possible. Take one mock CAT a day and then analyse the paper for around 4–5 hours.

What documents do I need?
You need an Admit Card, Voucher, Photo ID card, and caste certificate in case you belong to SC/ST categories.

When will we get to know the score?
Only in the second week of January.

Courtesy: Jaideep Singh Chowdhary, Sr Member of the Academic team, T.I.M.E.