Sajid RazaPublished: Oct 13, 2026, 08:00 ISTUpdated: Oct 13, 2026, 08:00 IST
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is scheduled to be held on November 29, 2026. Conducted by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, the examination is a national-level entrance test for admission to MBA and other management programmes offered by IIMs and several other business schools across India.
For candidates preparing for CAT 2026, improving speed and accuracy is essential to achieving a good score. The examination tests candidates on three major sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Since the test has a fixed time limit for each section, candidates must learn to solve questions efficiently while avoiding unnecessary mistakes.
Simply attempting more questions does not guarantee a higher score. Candidates need to focus on question selection, time management, conceptual clarity and regular mock test practice. With a structured preparation strategy, aspirants can improve their performance and approach the CAT 2026 examination with greater confidence.
Before working on speed and accuracy, candidates should understand the CAT exam pattern.
The examination is conducted in computer-based mode and is divided into three timed sections.
Candidates should check the official CAT 2026 notification for the confirmed number of questions, section-wise time limits, marking scheme and other examination details. Practising according to the prescribed time limit will help aspirants develop a realistic exam strategy.
Candidates preparing for CAT 2026 need to focus on both speed and accuracy to achieve a good score.
The examination includes three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Regular practice, effective time management and a clear understanding of concepts can help candidates improve their performance.
A clear understanding of basic concepts helps candidates solve questions quickly and correctly. Focus on arithmetic, algebra and geometry for Quantitative Aptitude, practise different puzzles for DILR, and improve reading comprehension skills for VARC.
Revise formulas and important concepts regularly before attempting difficult questions.
Timed practice helps candidates manage the limited time available in the examination. Start by solving easy questions within a fixed time and gradually increase the difficulty level. Focus on solving questions correctly rather than rushing to attempt more questions.
Mock tests help candidates understand the exam pattern, identify weak areas and improve time management.
Attempt full-length mock tests under exam-like conditions. After each test, review your score, incorrect answers and the time spent on individual questions.
Do not attempt mock tests without analysing the results. Identify whether mistakes occurred because of weak concepts, calculation errors, incorrect reading or poor time management. Maintain an error notebook and revise these areas regularly to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Spending too much time on a difficult question can affect overall performance. If a question appears time-consuming, move to another one and return to it later if time permits. In DILR, select manageable sets before attempting more complex ones.
For VARC, regularly read editorials, essays and articles to improve reading speed and comprehension. For Quantitative Aptitude, practice mental calculations, percentages, fractions, ratios and basic arithmetic.
These skills can help reduce the time required to solve questions.
Develop a separate strategy for each section and practice within the prescribed time limit. Avoid random guessing, especially in multiple-choice questions, as incorrect answers may attract negative marks under the applicable marking scheme.
Revise important formulas, concepts and previously incorrect questions. Follow a realistic study timetable that includes sectional practice, mock tests and revision.
Take regular breaks and maintain adequate sleep to improve concentration.
Candidates can follow a flexible daily routine based on their preparation level and available time.
This schedule provides approximately three hours and five minutes of focused preparation. Candidates can adjust the duration according to their strengths, weaknesses and other commitments. Full-length mock tests should also be included in the weekly preparation plan, followed by a detailed analysis.
Candidates should avoid the following mistakes while preparing to improve their speed and accuracy:
The best approach is to focus on consistent improvement rather than chasing a particular number of attempts in every mock test.
