If you are planning to appear for CAT 2026, which is expected to be conducted in November 2026, the biggest advantage you have right now is time. Around 10 months are more than enough to prepare well— bas ek sahi roadmap chahiye. CAT is not about studying everything; it is about studying smartly and consistently.
Understanding CAT 2026 Before Starting Preparation
CAT (Common Admission Test) has three sections Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI)
The exam checks concept clarity, accuracy, logical thinking, and decision-making under pressure. Let’s now understand the roadmap for CAT 2026 preparation by ViaCareers in four clear phases.
Phase 1: February to May – Build Strong Foundation & Accuracy
This phase is the most important phase of your CAT journey. Agar yahan concepts weak reh gaye, aage jaakar speed aur mocks ka fayda nahi milega.
Goal of Phase 1
Build strong conceptual clarity and accuracy, removing fear of basic topics.
Modules to Cover
During February to May, you should systematically complete the following modules:
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Averages, Time & Work, TSD, Profit & Loss)
- Algebra (Linear equations, Quadratic equations, Inequalities, Functions)
- Geometry & Modern Maths
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
- Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
How to Study in Phase 1
Study topic-wise, one concept at a time. Solve basic to moderate level questions. Focus on why the answer is right or wrong. Don’t run behind speed — accuracy pe kaam karo pehle.
By the end of May, you should feel confident that “haan, concepts mujhe aate hain.”
Take your first step to start your preparation with module one of our Course.
Phase 2: June to July – Mixed Questions & Speed Building
This is where many students make mistakes. They keep doing topic-wise questions again, which feels easy but doesn’t prepare you for CAT.
Goal of Phase 2
Apply multiple concepts in questions, improve speed with accuracy, and get comfortable with CAT-style unpredictability.
How to Practice in Phase 2
- Stop topic-wise practice
- Start solving mixed questions
- Choose questions that involve more than one concept
- Practice sectional tests for VARC, QA, and LRDI
This phase trains your brain to think, not guess. CAT questions rarely announce which topic they belong to. Exam mein koi bolega nahi — “ye arithmetic ka question hai.”
Phase 3: August to October – Mocks & Deep Analysis
This phase decides your final score and percentile.
Goal of Phase 3
Develop exam temperament, master time management, and identify strengths and weak areas.
Mock & Analysis
- Start with 2 mocks per week
- Gradually increase the frequency
- Treat every mock like the actual CAT exam
- Analyze where you went wrong
- Revisit weak concepts and practice again
You can also connect with your ViaCareers faculties for guidance, especially when you are stuck or confused about patterns in your mistakes.
Contact us on WhatsApp.
Yaad rakho, one well-analysed mock is better than three mocks without analysis.
November – Revision & Fine-Tuning
November is not for learning new concepts. Revise important formulas and concepts. Focus on strengths. Keep your mind calm and confident. This is the time to trust your preparation.
CAT is not about solving everything.
It’s about solving the right questions correctly.
Accuracy → Speed → Strategy
Always in this order. If you follow this roadmap honestly, you won’t feel lost, confused, or late at any point. And yes — slow start always leads to a strong finish 💪