Can we use calculator in CAT Exam? CAT examination policy

Author : Akash Kumar Singh

Updated On : May 2, 2024

SHARE

Overview: One question constantly on your mind while preparing for the CAT is, "Can we use calculator in the CAT exam?" This blog will answer this question. Having the proper understanding of the basic rules and instructions while appearing for CAT 2024 becomes imperative.

If you're planning to take the CAT (Common Admission Test) and get an MBA from a prestigious college, you might wonder, "Can we use calculator in the CAT exam?"

The CAT entrance exam is well-known for its rigorous nature and for assessing a candidate's problem-solving abilities.

Can We Use Calculator in CAT Exam?

Let's explore the right answer! 

The Importance of the CAT Exam 

Before we get into calculator trouble, it's important to understand the importance of the CAT entrance exam.

  • Common Admission Test (CAT) or CAT exam is a gateway for students who wish to pursue a career in business and management at top IIMs (Indian Institute of Management) and other top business schools in the country.
  • CAT entrance exam besides taking admission to IIMs, gives benefit of having a strong alumni network that helps students build their careers.
  • The CAT exam admission is considered one of the toughest exams since it assesses your overall aptitude and preparedness for admission to a top-tier management program. 
  • Examination Authorities will release the CAT entrance exam 2024 notification once the previous examination cycle is over.

Check: CAT Exam Centres 2024 

CAT 2024 is set to be conducted on November 24. Get the hold of all the CAT previous year's question paper and give a fuel to your preparation!

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

CAT 2024 Examination Policy 

Can we use Calculator in CAT exam?

CAT allows the use of an on-screen calculator, which is a basic one. Any type of physical calculator is not allowed.

This policy is based on the premise that CAT examines your ability to answer complicated mathematical problems and do quick mental calculations.

The exam committee aims to assess your numeric aptitude, logical reasoning, and analytical skills without the use of physical calculators. 

Read more: CAT Exam Day Instructions.

Implications for Candidates 

Being unable to use a physical calculator during the CAT exam can be stressful for a CAT candidate at first. However, it is necessary to acknowledge the benefits of this strategy.

  • For starters, the time limit forces you to improve your mental maths skills, which can be beneficial in real-world business situations when quick calculations are essential.
  • Second, it levels the playing field for all candidates, assuring fairness by removing any advantage that physical calculator use may bring to some. 

Read more: CAT Exam Preparation Strategy

Developing mental math skills 

The CAT exam assesses your ability to analyze and answer numerical problems quickly. You're forced to improve your mental maths skills without the help of a physical calculator. 

  • Regularly perform mental calculations, beginning with fundamental arithmetic and progressively graduating to more complex processes.  
  • Remember that repetition develops perfection, and constant effort will result in increased speed and accuracy. 

Read more: CAT Exam Maths Syllabus

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

Adopting Effective Problem-Solving Strategies 

Now that we have answered to the question "Can we use calculator in CAT exam?", another important thing you must know is that without a physical calculator in the CAT exam, adopting effective problem-solving skills becomes essential.

Approximation, estimate, and breaking down large problems into simpler components are all useful strategies.

These strategies not only save time but also allow you to approach difficult questions carefully. 

Read more: CAT exam previous year question papers

Mock tests and time management 

  • Mock exams are essential for passing the CAT entrance exam.  
  • Take mock tests under simulated exam conditions on a regular basis to become used to the calculator-free atmosphere.  
  • Focus on time management to ensure you finish the exam on time.  
  • Practice allocating adequate time to different sections and questions, refining your ability to prioritise and optimise your performance. 

Check: CAT Online Coaching

According to recent statistics, the number of applicants for the CAT exam has been gradually increasing over the years.

In 2022, over 2.30 lakh applicants attended the CAT exam. Moreover in 2023, over 3.3 lakhs aspirants applied for CAT exam. This indicates the competitiveness and demand for MBA programs.

This research emphasizes the significance of thorough preparation, including refining your mental math ability, in order to stand out among an extensive number of applicants. 

Read more: Why is CAT Exam important?

Conclusion

Can we use calculator in CAT exam?

While not using a physical calculator in the CAT exam may seem daunting, it ultimately attempts to assess your aptitude and problem-solving ability in a fair and complete manner (and remember, the basic on-screen calculator can still be used on the computer).

You can successfully overcome this challenge by focusing on developing mental math skills, applying effective problem-solving strategies, and practicing in real-life situations. Remember that the CAT exam is a test of your determination, adaptability, and willpower, as well as your knowledge. Accept the challenge, keep focused, and do your best. Best of luck! 

Check: CAT Preparation Tips

SuperGrads CAT 2023 Toppers

SuperGrads CAT 2023 Toppers

Download Your Free CAT Prep Material

Fill your details

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a calculator during the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam?

Why is calculator usage prohibited in the CAT exam?

What skills does the CAT exam aim to assess by not allowing calculators?

What are some effective problem-solving strategies to compensate for the absence of a calculator?

How can mock tests help me prepare for the calculator-free environment of the CAT exam?

How important is time management in the CAT exam, considering the absence of calculators?

Can we use calculator in CAT Exam? CAT examination policy

Author : Akash Kumar Singh

May 2, 2024

SHARE

Overview: One question constantly on your mind while preparing for the CAT is, "Can we use calculator in the CAT exam?" This blog will answer this question. Having the proper understanding of the basic rules and instructions while appearing for CAT 2024 becomes imperative.

If you're planning to take the CAT (Common Admission Test) and get an MBA from a prestigious college, you might wonder, "Can we use calculator in the CAT exam?"

The CAT entrance exam is well-known for its rigorous nature and for assessing a candidate's problem-solving abilities.

Can We Use Calculator in CAT Exam?

Let's explore the right answer! 

The Importance of the CAT Exam 

Before we get into calculator trouble, it's important to understand the importance of the CAT entrance exam.

  • Common Admission Test (CAT) or CAT exam is a gateway for students who wish to pursue a career in business and management at top IIMs (Indian Institute of Management) and other top business schools in the country.
  • CAT entrance exam besides taking admission to IIMs, gives benefit of having a strong alumni network that helps students build their careers.
  • The CAT exam admission is considered one of the toughest exams since it assesses your overall aptitude and preparedness for admission to a top-tier management program. 
  • Examination Authorities will release the CAT entrance exam 2024 notification once the previous examination cycle is over.

Check: CAT Exam Centres 2024 

CAT 2024 is set to be conducted on November 24. Get the hold of all the CAT previous year's question paper and give a fuel to your preparation!

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

CAT 2024 Examination Policy 

Can we use Calculator in CAT exam?

CAT allows the use of an on-screen calculator, which is a basic one. Any type of physical calculator is not allowed.

This policy is based on the premise that CAT examines your ability to answer complicated mathematical problems and do quick mental calculations.

The exam committee aims to assess your numeric aptitude, logical reasoning, and analytical skills without the use of physical calculators. 

Read more: CAT Exam Day Instructions.

Implications for Candidates 

Being unable to use a physical calculator during the CAT exam can be stressful for a CAT candidate at first. However, it is necessary to acknowledge the benefits of this strategy.

  • For starters, the time limit forces you to improve your mental maths skills, which can be beneficial in real-world business situations when quick calculations are essential.
  • Second, it levels the playing field for all candidates, assuring fairness by removing any advantage that physical calculator use may bring to some. 

Read more: CAT Exam Preparation Strategy

Developing mental math skills 

The CAT exam assesses your ability to analyze and answer numerical problems quickly. You're forced to improve your mental maths skills without the help of a physical calculator. 

  • Regularly perform mental calculations, beginning with fundamental arithmetic and progressively graduating to more complex processes.  
  • Remember that repetition develops perfection, and constant effort will result in increased speed and accuracy. 

Read more: CAT Exam Maths Syllabus

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

Adopting Effective Problem-Solving Strategies 

Now that we have answered to the question "Can we use calculator in CAT exam?", another important thing you must know is that without a physical calculator in the CAT exam, adopting effective problem-solving skills becomes essential.

Approximation, estimate, and breaking down large problems into simpler components are all useful strategies.

These strategies not only save time but also allow you to approach difficult questions carefully. 

Read more: CAT exam previous year question papers

Mock tests and time management 

  • Mock exams are essential for passing the CAT entrance exam.  
  • Take mock tests under simulated exam conditions on a regular basis to become used to the calculator-free atmosphere.  
  • Focus on time management to ensure you finish the exam on time.  
  • Practice allocating adequate time to different sections and questions, refining your ability to prioritise and optimise your performance. 

Check: CAT Online Coaching

According to recent statistics, the number of applicants for the CAT exam has been gradually increasing over the years.

In 2022, over 2.30 lakh applicants attended the CAT exam. Moreover in 2023, over 3.3 lakhs aspirants applied for CAT exam. This indicates the competitiveness and demand for MBA programs.

This research emphasizes the significance of thorough preparation, including refining your mental math ability, in order to stand out among an extensive number of applicants. 

Read more: Why is CAT Exam important?

Conclusion

Can we use calculator in CAT exam?

While not using a physical calculator in the CAT exam may seem daunting, it ultimately attempts to assess your aptitude and problem-solving ability in a fair and complete manner (and remember, the basic on-screen calculator can still be used on the computer).

You can successfully overcome this challenge by focusing on developing mental math skills, applying effective problem-solving strategies, and practicing in real-life situations. Remember that the CAT exam is a test of your determination, adaptability, and willpower, as well as your knowledge. Accept the challenge, keep focused, and do your best. Best of luck! 

Check: CAT Preparation Tips

SuperGrads CAT 2023 Toppers

SuperGrads CAT 2023 Toppers

Download Your Free CAT Prep Material

Fill your details

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a calculator during the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam?

Why is calculator usage prohibited in the CAT exam?

What skills does the CAT exam aim to assess by not allowing calculators?

What are some effective problem-solving strategies to compensate for the absence of a calculator?

How can mock tests help me prepare for the calculator-free environment of the CAT exam?

How important is time management in the CAT exam, considering the absence of calculators?

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