One of the biggest doubts CAT aspirants have is about the right time to start attempting full-length mock tests. Should you wait until you finish the syllabus, or should you begin earlier to track progress? Experts and past toppers suggest that mocks are not just a test of knowledge but also of strategy, stamina, and time management. For CAT 2025, beginning mock tests at the right stage can make a major difference in your preparation and eventual score.

I chose to write on this because I have seen many students prepare well in theory but still struggle in the actual exam due to lack of practice under real test conditions. CAT is as much about handling pressure as it is about solving questions, which makes mock tests an essential part of preparation. This topic matters because students often delay mocks, fearing low scores, when in reality, starting early helps identify weak areas and build exam temperament. Understanding when and how to use mocks effectively can turn preparation into performance, which is why it’s crucial for every aspirant to get this strategy right.

When Should You Start Taking Mock Tests?

• After basics are clear: Once you’ve covered the fundamentals of Quant, VARC, and DILR (around 3–4 months before the exam), begin with one mock per week.
• Gradual increase: As the exam gets closer (2–3 months before CAT), shift to 2–3 mocks per week to simulate the real testing frequency.
• Last 4–6 weeks: Attempt mocks almost every alternate day, but focus more on analysis than quantity.

Why Mocks Are Important

1. Time management – CAT is a 2-hour test, and mocks teach you how to allocate time between sections.
2. Stamina building – Sitting for the entire duration with focus is a skill that improves only with practice.
3. Error tracking – You learn whether mistakes are due to concept gaps, speed, or exam pressure.
4. Strategy testing – Mocks allow you to try different approaches, like question selection, skipping tough sets, or sectional order.

Common Mistakes Students Make

• Waiting to “finish the syllabus” before starting mocks
• Taking too many mocks without proper analysis
• Comparing scores with others instead of focusing on personal improvement
• Ignoring sectional tests that help strengthen weak areas

How to Analyse Mock Tests

• Check your accuracy and attempt rate in each section
• Identify repeated mistakes (like misreading questions or calculation errors)
• Revisit unsolved or wrong questions to understand concepts
• Note down learnings in a “mock diary” for future reference

For CAT 2025, the golden rule is to not delay mocks. Start with fewer tests early, increase frequency as you progress, and focus more on analysis than just taking them. Remember, the purpose of mocks is not to boost confidence immediately but to sharpen strategy, identify weaknesses, and prepare you for the actual exam environment. Starting on time could be the difference between just clearing CAT and securing a top IIM call.