Whether you have three months or six before the CBT, a structured roadmap beats random practice. Here's how to sequence your preparation for maximum score gain per hour invested.
In the first month, cover every topic in Analytical and Mathematical Capability at a basic concept level while simultaneously starting daily reasoning practice, since this section carries the most marks and needs the longest runway. In month two, shift to topic-wise timed practice sets across all three sections and begin light CBAT-style aptitude exposure. Reserve the final month almost entirely for full-length mock tests, error analysis, and revision of your weakest topic list rather than learning anything new.
6-Month Comprehensive Roadmap
With six months, spread concept-building across the first two months at an unhurried pace, add a third month focused purely on speed drills for high-weightage topics, and use months four and five for a mix of sectional tests and full mocks with detailed solution review. The final month mirrors the 3-month plan's last phase — mocks, revision, and closing weak areas — but with the advantage of a much more stable foundation going in.
Strategy for Working Aspirants
If you're preparing alongside a job, protect a fixed one-to-two hour daily block rather than relying on inconsistent weekend cramming, and use commute or break time for quick reasoning or vocabulary-style revision rather than passive scrolling. Weekend blocks of three to four hours should be reserved for full sectional or mock tests, since working aspirants often lack the daily volume for extensive new-topic learning and benefit more from consolidating what they already know.
Mock Test & Revision Strategy
Start sectional mocks once each topic has had at least one full practice round, then move to full-length mocks under strict time and negative-marking conditions at least once a week in the final two months. After every mock, spend as much time reviewing your incorrect and guessed answers as you spent taking the test itself — this review step is where most real score improvement happens, not the mock attempt alone. Pair your mock schedule with genuine previous year paper practice to calibrate against the real exam's question style.
Mistakes That Cost Toppers Marks
Even well-prepared candidates lose marks by over-attempting questions they're unsure of under negative marking, spending disproportionate time on one difficult question instead of moving on and returning later, and neglecting CBAT preparation entirely because it feels less 'score-based' than the CBT. Building a habit of a strict per-question time cap during mocks, and treating CBAT as a genuine preparation priority rather than an afterthought, addresses both of these common leaks.