Although passing the Common Admission Test (CAT) can sometimes seem like a daunting task, Vaisakh found that it required hard work and strategic preparation. Every CAT candidate is motivated by his astounding rise from a 60%ile in the CAT DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) to an astounding 99.83%ile in the 2023 test. Vaisakh’s story is about developing the proper mindset, finding balance, and becoming proficient in logical and quantitative skills. We’ll go into great detail about his journey, his tactics, and the lessons that every CAT candidate can take away from his experience in this blog.
The Early Challenges: A 2022 Wake-Up Call
Vaisakh didn’t have a successful first attempt at the CAT in 2022. He performed shockingly well in the DILR section, scoring only 60 percentile, even though he had an impressive 98 percentile in Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). Vaisakh, who thought he was good at logical reasoning, was awakened by this outcome. The 60%ile score was more than just a figure; it was an obvious indication that his strategy was lacking something crucial.
Key Takeaway: Failure can serve as a strong source of inspiration. Following his 2022 setback, Vaisakh thoroughly examined his strategy and made the decision to alter it for his subsequent try.
Developing an Improvement Strategy: A Comprehensive 2023 Plan
In addition to being dissatisfied with his score, Vaisakh made the decision to take control of his CAT experience. Instead of giving up, he made the deliberate choice to strengthen his areas of weakness and approach the test in a much more methodical manner. He was aware that progress required more than just effort; it required astute work.
- The significance of DILR
Vaisakh put a lot of time and effort into this section because he realized that DILR was his weak point. He had a clear plan: to increase speed and accuracy, practice frequently and try to solve several sets at once. By consistently going over and resolving practice sets, he gained a deeper comprehension of patterns in data interpretation and logical reasoning. - Exam-Related Mental Strategy
Vaisakh understood the significance of a mental strategy in addition to academic preparation. CAT is about stress management and staying focused under time pressure, not just answering questions. A week prior to the test, Vaisakh practiced exam conditions to make sure he could peak at the appropriate moment. He had an exam-like routine every morning, which included rising at 8 a.m., acting out the exam setting, and even eating the same breakfast he would on test day.
Key Takeaway: You can get the edge you need on the test by taking a well-rounded approach that incorporates both technical preparation and mental conditioning.
Overcoming Personal Challenges and Workplace Pressure
The fact that Vaisakh was juggling a full-time job and CAT preparation only serves to heighten the inspiration of his story. Long hours and project-based work were part of his job as a project engineer at Saint-Gobain India in Palakkad, Kerala. Vaisakh’s preparation was made even more difficult by his personal struggles, such as his father’s accident, in addition to his work schedule.
Vaisakh continued to concentrate on his CAT preparation in spite of these obstacles. He remained focused on his objective despite personal challenges and work-related demands. Instead, even with limited time, he was able to stay on course thanks to Cracku’s structured approach, daily goals, practice exams, and study materials.
Key Takeaway: Although obstacles will always arise in life, a well-thought-out plan can assist you in maintaining focus on your objectives in the face of outside demands.
Performing Under Pressure on the Big Day
Vaisakh encountered the real test of his preparation on the day of the CAT exam. He found the exam to be more difficult than he had expected, with both DILR and Quant questions being more difficult. In particular, the lack of direct questions in the DILR section surprised a lot of students.
Vaisakh remained calm instead of panicking. His plan was instantly altered. He took each set as it came, emphasizing accuracy over speed. Despite one set taking him longer than usual (28 minutes as opposed to 15), he maintained composure and took care to ensure he didn’t make any errors. By sticking to his strategy, Vaisakh was able to attempt all questions correctly in the DILR section.
Vaisakh’s approach in the Quant section was to answer as many simple questions as he could. His method of choosing questions he was most comfortable with worked, even though he wasn’t sure how good he was at this. Amazingly, he was able to answer all seven of the questions correctly.
Key Takeaway: The secret to performing well in high-stakes scenarios is maintaining composure under duress. A well-honed approach can assist you in overcoming unforeseen obstacles on the test.
The Function of Mocks and Repeated Practice
Vaisakh emphasized the value of repeated practice, whereas many students only concentrate on learning concepts. He was able to pinpoint his areas of improvement by taking mocks on a regular basis. Additionally, the CAT practice exams helped him develop his endurance and test-taking techniques by simulating real exam conditions. He made sure to complete at least one sessional or practice set each week, even if he was unable to devote hours to studying.
He improved at DILR and gained confidence in answering challenging CAT questions as a result of his regular practice. His breakthrough performance in CAT 2023 was the result of his diligent practice and astute time management.
Key Takeaway: Success requires practice. Repeated problem-solving and mocks are essential for boosting self-esteem and enhancing time management.
The End Outcome: Resilience and Strategy Win Out
Vaisakh’s efforts paid off when the results were announced. He achieved an overall percentile of 99.84, with sectional percentiles of 99.33 in VARC and an amazing 99.83 in DILR. Compared to his 60%ile in DILR the year before, this was a significant improvement.
His success is a testament to the strength of willpower, planning, and mental toughness. Vaisakh’s journey required more than just intelligence; it required planning, following through on it, and adapting as necessary.
Key Takeaway: Studying more effectively and maintaining mental toughness to remain focused throughout the test are more important for CAT success than simply studying harder.
One Error to Steer Clear of: Delaying
In retrospect, Vaisakh gave future CAT applicants one crucial piece of advice: get started early. One of the most significant errors he made in his preparation was procrastination. Even though he signed up for his preparation platform early, he didn’t start actual preparation until June, which he acknowledges could have been a setback if he hadn’t been able to adjust and plan effectively.
Key Takeaway: By starting early, you have more time to hone your abilities and practice, which lessens the pressure at the last minute and guarantees better outcomes.
Concluding Remarks for CAT Candidates
Anyone can perform better with the correct approach, persistent work, and mental toughness, as demonstrated by Vaisakh’s journey. A few important lessons for all CAT applicants are as follows:
- Remain Consistent: Set aside time on a regular basis for practice and practice exams.
- Don’t panic during the test; stay composed and adjust your approach as necessary.
- Concentrate on Your Weaknesses and Strengths: Make improvements where necessary while utilizing your advantages.
- Mental Preparation is Crucial: Create a mental plan to maintain composure throughout the test.
Vaisakh’s CAT score went from a meager 60%ile to an incredible 99.83%ile by adhering to these guidelines, which helped him land a desired spot at one of the best IIMs. For all CAT applicants, his story is a ray of hope, demonstrating that anything is achievable with the correct attitude and strategy.