"No change in preparations for computer-based CAT entrance exam," says Nilesh Sarawate of IMS Learning on MBAUniverse.com Expert Chat on CAT 2009

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MBAUniverse.com News Desk |
July 25, 2016
The nature of study preparation doesn't depend on whether the CAT is a paper-based or a computer-based test

MBAUniverse.com on May 30, 2009 conducted its first round of expert online chats on ‘How to prepare for computer-based CAT 2009’. On the first day, Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning, gave tips on how to go about the online format of the CAT entrance exam. The chat was hosted on MBAUniverse.com for the benefit of MBA aspirants across the country.
 
Responding to a query on preparation of CAT entrance exam, Sarawate replied, “The nature of study preparation doesn't depend on whether the CAT is a paper-based or a computer-based test”.
 
Here is the edited transcript of the chat session with Sarawate on MBAUniverse.com:
 
Abhinav: Respected sir, I would like to know that since the CAT 2009 is going to be a computer-based test, how different it will be from the older format of CAT?
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning:
Every year the CAT has changed in some way or the other. This year, the change is with respect to the mode of taking the test. As far as preparing the concepts are concerned, there will not be any change. However, you have to go through sufficient online practice to acclimatize yourself with the online testing process.
 
Apurv: Hello sir, when will the IIMs announce the final pattern and dates of CAT 2009? Sir, when and where will the CAT 09 be conducted?
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning:  The IIMs will announce the final pattern and dates of CAT 2009 in July in their CAT bulletin. CAT 09 will be conducted across various centers in India over a 10-day period.
 
Khushbu: Hello sir, I heard that for CAT 2009, one should be the computer savvy. My concern is that I am not very comfortable working on the computer. Will it affect my performance even if I am a more than average student?
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning: You do not need to be computer savvy to take an online test. All that is required is the ability to use the mouse and a few basic keys. Do not worry on that front.
 
Vithya: Dear sir, what are the good books to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension etc especially for a computer-based CAT?

Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning: The nature of study preparation doesn't depend on whether the CAT is a paper-based or a computer-based test. You need material that will cover basic concepts explained in a friendly manner, CAT application based questions for practice with explanatory answers and test papers. Also check out the material of most of the reputed MBA training institutions.
 
Ankit: Sir, please tell me how are test prep institutes, like yours, assuring students for preparing online CAT? Which factor should I look upon before joining an coaching institute for my CAT prep?
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning: 1) We offer a complete online study plan for our students which compliment their offline preparation. The online component of our preparation has a comprehensive mix of full length tests on the line of previous year's CAT as well as concept tests for practice.
 
2) The most important factor to look at for joining any institute is the kind of mentoring and counseling that the institute offers to the student at various stages of the preparation.
 
Apurv: Sir, since I am a working executive, I won’t be able to join any coaching institute. Please tell me from where and what study material can help me for online CAT preparation?
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning:  Since you cannot join any institute, please ensure that you maintain self discipline and study regularly on a daily basis. 
 
Shailendra: Dear Sir, please tell me do I need experience to get admission in the IIMs? Should I go for a little work-ex before applying? Kindly reply sir…
Nilesh Sarawate, Director, Test Prep, IMS Learning: Work experience is given weightage by the IIMs. More than 50% of the students in IIMs have work-ex and the rest are freshers. It will help to have work experience, but it is not necessary to have it before applying to the IIMs.
 
Register here for the next Expert Chat on:
http://www.mbauniverse.com/registerChatUser.php?uid=705 
 
The upcoming Expert Chats on ‘How to prepare for CAT 2009’ are:

R Shivakumar, Director, R&D, Career Launcher (June 5, 2009)
Sai Kumar, Course Director, T.I.M.E. (June 6, 2009)