How to Prepare for CAT 2026: VARC, DILR and QA Tips By Our Expert Mentor

How to prepare for CAT 2026: To prepare for CAT 2026, start by using a few high-quality study material than buying too many CAT preparation guides. Maintain a personalised formula book for revision. For CAT VARC, focus on deep comprehension by solving 2 RCs per day. For CAT DILR, learn to pick the right sets. Solve puzzles like Sudoku, Kakuro, or KenKen, and remember the approaches of classic sets like Venn Diagrams and Binary Logic. For Quant, master arithmetic with an emphasis on speed and clarity. Fix knowledge gaps by taking regular mocks and inculcate a growth mindset by adopting manageable targets.   

Preparing for CAT 2026 is a journey that needs a structured approach, discipline and resilience. Whether you are a first timer or a repeater, the road to 99+ percentile in CAT can be achieved with consistent effort rather than sporadic bursts. In this guide, our top mentor Prasad Sawant, National Chief Mentor at IMS Learning Resources, lays down the CAT strategies for VARC, DILR and QA.  

Also Read: Is Work Experience Necessary for MBA? (CAT 2026 Guide)

How to Prepare for CAT 2026

To do well in CAT, use your study materials in a disciplined way:

1. Don’t fall into the habit of gathering lots of notes from everywhere without really learning any of them. Stick to one or two excellent resources and work through them carefully. 
2. To get the most out of your learning, follow a routine before and after each class. Before class, do the prep work like watching concept videos or reading the theory so you’re ready. 
3. After class, solve practice exercises right away to help you remember what you learned. 
4. Make your own notes and formula books. Using someone else’s notes doesn’t work as well because your own notes are tailored to you and save time when you revise later.

How to Prepare for CAT VARC 

The main skill in VRC is comprehension. This means you need to understand what you read and answer questions about it, not just be good at speaking English. 

1. Try to solve about 500 Reading Comprehension passages before the exam.
2. Don’t just stick to topics you enjoy. Read about different subjects like philosophy, psychology, history, and geography. Mix up the difficulty levels to build your mental stamina.
3. A good vocabulary helps you understand context, but you don’t need to memorise long word lists. Focus on understanding what you read instead of reading fast—your speed will improve as you practice.

Also Read: How to Prepare for CAT 2026 in 7 Months- IMS Expert Strategy

How to Prepare for CAT DILR

DLR is often seen as the hardest section because there isn’t a set syllabus. 

1. Learn to sort sets into three groups: Category A (do it now), Category B (do it later), and Category C (skip it). When you practice, try solving some Category C sets so you know why to avoid them during the real test.
2. You can get better at logic by solving puzzles like Sudoku, Kakuro, or KenKen.
3. If you solve two or three sets every day for eight months, you’ll work through about 500 sets. That’s enough practice for most people.

How to Prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude 

The QA section covers five main areas: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Numbers, and Modern Math. 

1. Arithmetic is the most important part of the CAT. To stay competitive, make sure you master Arithmetic and at least two other areas.
2. At first, don’t worry about solving questions quickly. Focus on understanding the concepts. Speed will come naturally as you solve more problems.
3. Many non-engineers are nervous about math, but you don’t have to love it to do well. You just need to study enough to get the score you need.

Strategy for First-Time Takers & College Students 

How to Prepare for CAT 2026 as a College Student

Your college grades should be your top priority, as they remain on your record and matter for IIM admissions. For CAT prep, it’s best to join a structured program, either in-person or online, to keep you on track. Keep up with your classes and don’t let work pile up. 

How to Prepare for CAT 2026 as a Repeat Test Taker

If you are on your second or third attempt, your strategy must shift from “Books to Mocks” to “Mocks to Books”. Take a mock, identify the specific gaps in your knowledge, and then go back to the books to fix those exact problems. Don’t shy away from solving the same material again; this time, focus on reducing steps and solving problems mentally.

How to Prepare for CAT 2026 As A Working Professional

The biggest temptation for professionals is to study only on weekends. However, you must create study opportunities during the week, even if it’s just one to two hours. Do not quit your job prematurely. Having a job provides a psychological safety net and creates a “sense of urgency” that can actually improve focus. If you must quit, wait until after July.

Also Read: How to Balance CAT Preparation with College/ Job in 2026?

How to Choose the Right CAT 2026 Program

• Classroom: Best for first-timers who need maximum structure, mentorship, and doubt-solving support.
• Live Online: Ideal for those who lack access to quality local coaching or require the flexibility of watching recordings.
• Self-Learning Program (SLP): Only for highly self-motivated students with strong discipline.
• Test Series: Best suited for repeat takers who already have a strong conceptual foundation and only need rigorous practice.

If you are looking for CAT 2026 prep, enrol with IMS India’s comprehensive CAT coaching programs. With over four decades of legacy, IMS has the record for producing the largest number of 99+ percentilers in CAT 2025. One in three 99+ percentilers is an IMS student. Not only that; IMS also has a stellar record of sending 2643 students to the IIMs in CAT 2024. 

How to Mentally Prepare Yourself for CAT 2026

It is common to feel bored or lose focus. To counter this, start small with 30-minute sessions and gradually increase the duration. Use “reward mechanisms,” such as watching an episode of a favourite show after completing a set number of tests.

Remember, you don’t have to be an IIT engineer to succeed. You can’t control the competition or diversity points, so just focus on getting the one seat you need. Keep a growth mindset: you’re not bad at math, you’re just getting better at it.

CAT 2026 is a marathon of persistence. By staying organised, focusing on conceptual clarity, and tailoring your strategy to your specific life situation, you can reach the top of the mountain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will CAT 2026 be tough?

It’s difficult to predict, but CAT 2026 is expected to be moderately difficult, with a tougher DILR section, slightly harder QA than in 2025, and moderate VARC. 

Which IIM will prepare for CAT 2026?

IIM Indore is expected to conduct CAT 2026.

Is 70 marks a good score in CAT?

70 marks in CAT correspond to a 97-98 percentile, which is good for third-generation IIMs like Kashipur, Ranchi, Raipur, Trichy, Nagpur, and Vishakapatanam. It is also great for non-IIMs like IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI, GIM, and KJ Somaiya.

Is it possible to get 100 percentile in CAT?

Yes, it is possible to score 100 percentile in CAT. Around 9-11 candidates yearly achieve the perfect score.

Can I crack CAT in 30 days?

Cracking CAT in 30 days is tough for a first-time test taker, but possible for someone who has strong foundation or has taken CAT before.