Effective CAT preparation requires conceptual clarity, regular practice, and mock test analysis. Candidates should first understand the syllabus and exam pattern, then build strong fundamentals in arithmetic, algebra, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning. Daily reading (newspapers, editorials) helps improve VARC performance. Solving previous year question papers and taking full-length mock tests (at least 20–30 mocks) is essential. Detailed analysis of mocks to identify weak areas is crucial. A preparation timeline of 6–12 months is generally recommended, though it varies by individual background.