Is self-prep for 6 months before joining coaching a good idea for CAT?
Asked by haider on 2026-07-02 in CAT Prep
I'm currently in the first year of my BBA and planning to appear for CAT 2027.
My current plan is to self-study until December and focus on building my basics in QA, VARC, and LRDI. Then, from January onwards, I'm thinking of joining an online coaching institute for structured preparation, mocks, and mentorship.
I initially wanted offline coaching, but the options around me haven't really convinced me, so online is looking like my last practical option.
For those who've already cracked CAT or are preparing seriously, do you think this is a sensible approach? Will six months of disciplined self-prep give me a good enough foundation before coaching, or would you recommend joining coaching right away?
I'd really appreciate honest advice, especially from people who've been through the process.
@shwetaarora mam beyond grateful if you can share your thoughts on this
2 Answers
Rashmi Sinha · 2026-07-02 · 3 helpful
You have a lot of time rn and yes self prep is a good idea before joining coaching. U can use self prep books for cat there are many available in the market. There is arun sharma oswal books nishit sinha and many more but just choose few in beginning. Btw online n offline I will say go for online to save time unless offline is close to ur house because it takes time.
Shweta Arora(Mentor) · 2026-07-02 · 2 helpful
I think Rashmi's advice here is sound. You can self-prep till Dec (side note - I also did the same before I took coaching in Jan 2017, I was preparing for CAT 2017). You can decide whether to take coaching or not from Jan onward. 11-12 months are sufficient.