Preparing for CAT 2021: Books and Study Strategies for Success

Introduction to CAT Preparation

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a critical benchmark for students aspiring to enter top Indian business schools. Effective preparation can make or break your chances of securing a place in these prestigious institutions. This article delves into the essential books and strategies to excel in the CAT 2021. Whether you prefer self-study or formal coaching, the right resources can significantly aid your preparation.

Basic Foundation Phase (First 3 Months)

For the initial phase of your CAT 2021 preparation, it is crucial to build a strong foundational understanding. This phase focuses on strengthening your basic concepts and improving your overall grasp of the subjects.

Verbal Ability: Starting with a strong vocabulary is fundamental. Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis is a goldmine for building a vast vocabulary. This book has been deemed highly effective by many CAT aspirants. Additionally, developing a habit of reading a newspaper, particularly The Economic Times, can enhance your comprehension and language skills.

Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation (Quantitative Sections): A weak base in these subjects can hinder your performance in the CAT. Therefore, focusing on basic level questions is essential. CATKing's Basic Books offer a well-rounded set of easy to moderate questions that help establish a firm foundation.

Advanced Phase (March to May)

Once you have solidified your basics, it's time to ramp up your preparation intensity and tackle more advanced topics. Solving CAT-level questions in this phase is crucial to familiarize yourself with the exam format and difficulty level.

As you progress, you can explore other advanced books and practice materials. For instance, Verbal Ability for CAT by Ajay Singh, and To Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay. These books provide in-depth insights and strategies to tackle the verbal sections effectively.

Resources for Free Books

Finding the right study material can be a challenge, especially when resources are limited. Fortunately, there are websites like MyPustak that offer a treasure trove of books for free. Here are a few key points about MyPustak:

Free Books: MyPustak provides a wide range of books, including those essential for CAT preparation, at no cost. You can access each subject-specific book you need. Second-hand Books: They offer used and second-hand books at no cost to your doorstep. This service is invaluable for students who cannot afford new books. Social Impact: MyPustak has a mission to provide educational resources to the less privileged. Their service is trusted and well-received by students and educators alike.

Conclusion

Effective CAT preparation requires a strategic approach, starting with building a strong foundation and gradually moving to more advanced topics. The right combination of books and resources can be your key to success. Whether you opt for self-study or coaching, the materials you choose and the strategies you follow will play a pivotal role in your CAT 2021 success. Happy studying!