Meet Ankit Garg, first-year student of IIM Kolkata, who achieved 100 percentile in CAT 2009. A graduate in Electronics Engineering, he has once again proved that if you're determined to achieve something, then you can! In a conversation with Pritika Ghura, he shares his secrets behind his success in the dreaded CAT.
Q 1) What was your preparation strategy for CAT?
Ans) It is very important to be thorough with your basics. Once your concepts are clear then it is not very difficult to bell the CAT. Many students believe that CAT is a complicated and tricky exam, but that is not the case. If you divide your time well and start preparing well in advance, then nothing can stop you from achieving success in the exam. If you need some help with your preparations, you can join a coaching centre. I too joined Career Launcher. Besides this I took many mock tests as practice makes one perfect.
Q2) Since, you appeared for the first version of Online CAT. How was the experience?
Ans) Despite all the hype created around technical glitches that had marred CAT exam last year, I did not face any problem. Maybe I was lucky, but I did not face any hassle when I took the exam. Also, I believe that every year there are some minor issues in CAT paper- sometimes in format or maybe technical glitches. But last year the media had blown these technical glitches out of proportion.
Q3) How is this Online format of CAT different from the pen-and-paper format?
Ans) I don't see any difference between the Online and pen-and-paper format. If you're well-prepared and confident about your preparations, then the format of the test should not make a difference to you. But it is always advisable to make yourself familiar with the online format before taking the exam, like I did before sitting for the final exam.
Q4) What last-minute tips would you give to students aspiring for CAT?
Ans) This is not the time to revise or take mock exams. This is the time to relax. I would recommend all students appearing for CAT 2010 to wrap up what they have been doing and just relax. Listen to music, go for a walk, take enough rest, eat healthy and sleep well as you have to arrive at the test centre all bright and refreshed.
I do not think that CAT is a tricky or rigorous test, hence there is no need to take any tension. Taking unnecessary stress will not help you in the test. Also avoid last-minute discussions with your friends about your preparations as that will make you more nervous.
Also refrain from taking any mock exams at the last minute. A full-fledged mock test at this point, just days ahead of the real exam, might not be a good idea. If the scores in the mock test are not up to the expectations of the candidate, there are chances of feeling demoralised.
Hence, my mantra of success is 'Eat well, sleep well and perform well'. Just free your mind of worry about the test, and relax.
Q5) Was IIM-Kolkata your first preference?
Ans)Yes, IIM-Kolkata is one of the best B-schools in our country. It is simply the best as it boasts of great faculty, great image and great placements. It's just an awesome place to be.
Q6) What are your future plans?
Ans) I have n't yet decided. I will definitely like to join the corporate world and make some constructive contributions to the society.
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