Time Management Hacks Every CAT 2025 Aspirant Should Know

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Aug 22, 2025

Aakanksha Singh

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive national-level entrance exam conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission into prestigious management programmes across India.

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CAT 2025: Exam Name: Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 Conducting Body: Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), Kozhikode Exam Date: November 30, 2025 Registration Period: August 1 to September 13, 2025

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Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT) Exam Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes) Number of Sections: 3 (VARC, DILR, QA) Number of Questions: 68 total

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CAT 2025 has three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section lasts 40 minutes, so manage your time accordingly.

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Assess your strengths and weaknesses. Allocate more time to difficult topics, but keep revising easier ones regularly.

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Before the exam, set an average time limit per question and per section. If a question takes longer than 6-7 minutes, move on and revisit it if time permits.

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For tough multiple-choice questions, try the reverse strategy—eliminate wrong answers first to save time.

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Practice regularly with timed mock tests to build speed without sacrificing accuracy. Avoid guesswork to prevent negative marking.

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Each section is timed separately. Keep an eye on the clock on your screen and allot time wisely across questions. Use the initial 2-5 minutes in each section to plan your approach.

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Improve your reading speed and comprehension by practicing skimming techniques, as VARC involves reading multiple passages under time pressure.

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Reserve 5-10 minutes at the end of each section or the exam to review your answers and check for mistakes.

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Consistent practice with mock tests under exam conditions builds familiarity and enhances your time management skills.

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Mastering time management is key to maximising your CAT 2025 score. Organise your preparation and exam approach using these tips to maintain a steady pace, reduce stress, and tackle the exam confidently.

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