For candidates preparing for Common Entrance Test (CAT) 2026, it is important to adopt the right strategy to score a better percentage. Just studying for a long time or taking mock tests continuously does not guarantee success. To get good marks in the exam it is necessary to use time properly, choose questions and learn from mistakes. Many times small mistakes affect the performance of candidates. In such a situation, candidates should regularly assess their preparation. Let us know what mistakes to avoid while preparing for CAT.

Not analyzing mistakes after mock test

Taking mock tests is important in CAT preparation, but taking the test alone does not improve performance. Candidates should analyze their results after each mock test. One should see which questions were wrong, which questions took more time and which questions were missed. By understanding the causes of mistakes and working on them one can perform better in the next exam.

Not planning for a repeat

Reading all the subjects again and again without any plan wastes time. So, candidates should make short notes of important topics, formulas and important concepts. These notes should be repeated regularly. Also more attention should be given to the subjects in which there is weakness and practice of strong subjects should also be continued.

Try to solve each question

It is not necessary to solve every question to get good marks in CAT. Spending more time on difficult questions leads to missing easy questions. Candidates should first focus on those questions which they can solve correctly in less time. If a question is taking too long, it can also be a good strategy to leave it aside and move on.

Adopting others’ preparation strategies

Every candidate has different abilities, learning speed and weaknesses. In such a situation it is not appropriate to adopt another candidate’s preparation plan without thinking. Candidates should make their strategy based on their mock test marks and performance. This can give a good direction to the preparation.

Pay more attention to study hours

Instead of studying for 10 to 12 hours every day, it is more important to focus on the quality of studies. Candidates should see how their accuracy, speed of solving questions and time management are improving. Regular practice and correcting mistakes can help in getting good results.