Oswaal 360: Mock Test vs PYQs: What’s Better for CAT Preparation?

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Aspiring MBA students in India often find themselves uncertainly torn between mock tests and previous year questions as preparation for one of the country's toughest entrance exams, the CAT. The two are important, but they come into play at different stages in the study program. This blog sheds light on how every tool helps and what to concentrate on depending on where you stand in CAT preparation.

Must Read: When Is the Best Time to Start Solving CAT Mock Tests for 2025?

What is CAT PYQs?

CAT PYQs gives you a real perspective about what to expect for the CAT. Working on old exam questions helps:

• To get used to the CAT pattern.

• Identify types of questions that occur frequently.

• To learn time management by practicing exam-level questions.

This comes with its own set of limitations. There are not too many of them to practice with. Also, considering the exam has undergone several changes over time, just relying on PYQs may not prepare you for all the new forms of questions.

Role of CAT Mock Tests

The CAT mock test series replicates the exam ambience with the latest flavor of questions. These tests help you:

• See where you stand.

• Assess your speed and accuracy under pressure.

• Acclimate yourself to the new question trends that PYQs do not get into.

Taking a CAT online mock test also builds your mental stamina for sitting through a 2-hour high-pressure exam.

Recommended Link: CAT Previous years question papers

Mock Tests vs PYQs: Comparative Overview

Here’s a table that outlines the key differences to help you decide better:

Criteria	CAT PYQs	CAT Mock Tests
Questions	Actual past exams	Newly created, exam-liked questions
Exam Pattern	Very High	High
No. of Questions	Limited	Unlimited (based on series)
Adaptability to Trends	Medium	High
Performance Tracking	Manual	Automated with analytics
Best for	Concept revision & pattern	Practice & performance improvement

Which One Should You Focus On?

Your current position in CAT preparation determines what you should concentrate on:

• Students starting their CAT preparation should focus on CAT PYQs because it helps them understand question patterns and basic exam design.

• Students at intermediate preparation levels should divide their time between PYQs and the CAT mock test free.

• Learners who want to improve their tactics and weaknesses must frequently participate in CAT online mock tests.

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Conclusion

The discussion about which is better between mock tests and PYQs does not have a definite answer. The combination of both methods according to your preparation level guarantees that you practice the correct questions with proper techniques.