CAT 2008: The 100-day countdown

The CAT 2008 is rapidly approaching and anxiety levels are on the rise among CAT aspirants at this stage of preparation. At this crucial point of time, let's not forget that from here on in, it is all about strategy, stamina and diligence. As you continue your CAT preparation, make sure you keep in mind the following:

Do you have it in you?
CAT is no less than a battle. To win the battle you need a positive attitude. Remember:

If you think you can. You can.
And if you think you can't, you're right.

Build a strong desire to get into the best B-school and back it up with hard work. To succeed believe that 'I can'

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How much do you know CAT?
It is a testing time. So test yourself by taking practice tests regularly. Weekly mock CATs will help in tackling different and difficult sessions better. Keep the factor of time management in mind while taking the tests; set a time before taking a test and then do it undisturbed. But, analysing holds more importance than taking a test. What's the use of running if you are not on the right track? So, analyse the tests to arrive at the areas where you need to spend more time. And work on rectifying your weaknesses.

Are you well-timed?
You will never find time for anything. If you want time, you've got to make it. Proper scheduling according to the time available is important. Divide your work into schedules through the day. And, yes, do spare some time to relax and enjoy yourself. That ought to be part of your schedule.

What's the strategy?
What do you want to achieve? Your ultimate objective -- an MBA degree! How will you go about achieving it? By working out your strategies! These include: time allocation per question or per section, criteria for selecting or rejecting a question and sequencing the sections. A healthy discussion in a peer group can be a good strategy to tackle various problems regarding a particular section or strategy.

Isn't health the real wealth?
Lastly, don't forget: He who has health has hope. And he who has hope has everything. Don't take your health for granted. Maintain a healthy diet and a sufficient amount of sleep. And exercise regularly to keep stress at bay.

If you want to bell the CAT, you must strike a balance. If you have your original answers to the above 5 questions, your CAT preparation is 5-Dimensional. The key to success in any endeavour is the feeling of real need for the effort. You must enjoy the last 100 days. You must love analysing, strategising and, of course, executing with perfection.

Top Careers & You (www.TCYonline.com) has been preparing national and international candidates for high-end tests viz CAT, XAT, JMET, SNAP, CET, FMS, IIFT and GMAT since 1998. Visit www.tcyonline.com for FREE access thousands for these tests.