FEBRUARY MAT 2016

Introduction

MAT is one of the most popular competitive exams among MBA aspirants as it gets them access to a large number of good B schools in India. Also, the other reason that attributes to the immense popularity of this exam is that the candidates can choose to take either Paper Based Test or Computer Based Test as per their convenience.
MAT is conducted by AIMA 4 times in a year i.e. in the month of MAY, September, December and February on the 1^st Sunday of the Month from 1000-1230 hours.Whereas the Computer Based Test is being conducted from Saturday onwards(6 Days after the Paper Based Test) and in different time slots. Candidates can choose to take either Paper Based Test or Computer Based Test as per their convenience.
MBA institutes offering recognized MBA programs and allied fields can participate in MAT. It is for the MBA aspirants to take MAT for admission into the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and equivalent MBA programs offered by participating MBA institutes. All B schools that participate in MAT are either AICTE (All Indian Council for Technical Education) approved or affiliated to universities.
Besides having test centers all over India, MAT is also conducted in overseas location. Every year it is taken by a lot of MBA aspirants in India, as a good score in MAT is likely to put the candidate in a reputed and AICTE approved B schools.
In a 'Computer Based Test' the candidate sits in front of a computer and the questions are presented on the computer monitor. The candidate is expected to submit the answers through the use of keyboard or mouse. The questions are prepared by AIMA in form of a question bank and uploaded on a server. Each computer is connected to the server, which presents the question set from the already prepared question bank to the candidate on the computer.
'Computer Based Test' assumes that the candidate has basic familiarity with use of computers like use of keyboard and mouse operation. It is the responsibility of the candidate to acquire these skills before appearing in the test and AIMA cannot take responsibility for the same. Online MAT is offered over a period of time and the candidate can choose the center, the day and time of his/her convenience to take the test.
This is unlike the Paper Based Test, which is generally offered on a single day to all candidates. In traditional Paper Based Test, Candidate is supposed to bring Pen, HB-Pencils, Erasers and Sharper with him/her whereas the Question Paper & OMR Answer Sheet is provided at the Test Centre.

AIMA (All India Management Association) has announced the official notification for MAT February 2016. Candidates can now apply online for MAT 2016 February. Below we are specifying all important dated associated with MAT February 2016; please have a look:

MAT 2016 Events	Important Date
MAT February 2016 online application form availability	Available
Last date for online registration for MAT February 2016	27 January 2016 (Wednesday)
Deadline of purchasing MAT February 2016 application form/online filling up process	23 January 2016 (Saturday)
Last date for submission of printout of filled in registration form at AIMA Delhi	27 January 2016 (Wednesday)
Availability of MAT February 2016 Admit Card	On or after 30 January 2016 (Saturday)
MAT 2016 February examination date	Paper Based Test (07 February 2016 (Sunday)) & Computer Based Test (13 February 2016 (Saturday) onwards)

MAT Eligibility

The minimum qualification for appearing in MAT is graduation in any discipline from any recognized University or equivalent.
A final year student in any undergraduate (i.e. B.A, B.Sc., B.Com, B.Tech., etc.) can also apply.
Usually, there is a minimum percentage requirement in graduation which is different for different management institutes and universities.
However, there is no restriction regarding percentages for taking the MAT test, no age bar and no experience required.

Pattern of MAT Entrance Exam

Total number of Questions: 200
Total Time allocated: 150 minutes

Marks allocation
Correct attempt: 1 mark
Incorrect attempt: Negative marking not specified

Sections with Questions
MAT entrance exam covers five sections in all. Scores of first four sections compose the final scores. However, institutions might choose to consider the score of the General Awareness section.

Section No.	Section	No. of Questions	Time Suggested(Minutes)
1.	Language Comprehension	40	30
2.	Mathematical Skills	40	40
3.	Data Analysis and Sufficiency	40	35
4.	Intelligence and Critical Reasoning	40	30
5.	Indian and Global Environment	40	15
	Total	200	150

MAT is the test conducted by All India Management Testing Service for entering into MBA or equivalent post graduate programs. The five sections mentioned above are basically comprised of the following five papers:

• Paper 1 : Language Comprehension
• Paper 2 : Mathematical Skills
• Paper 3 : Data Analysis
• Paper 4 : Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
• Paper 5 : Indian & Global Environment Section

Admit Card

All provisionally registered candidates both for Paper Based and Computer Based Test can download their Admit Card from AIMA website link: http://apps.aima.in/matadmitcard.aspx on or after 30 January 2016 (Saturday).
Specific Admit Card is generated both for the candidates opted for the Paper Based Test and for the Computer Based Test.
Admit Card contains Candidate's Name, Form No, Roll No, Test Date, Test Time and Test Venue Address. Candidate has to strictly follow the date and time allotted to him/her in the case of Computer Based Test.

Test City Center

Test Centre City list is provided in the Bulletin. Test Venues for Paper-Based Test and Computer Based Test are different.

The Paper-Based Test will take place only on one day i.e., 07 February 2016 at one time slot i.e., 10.00am-12.30pm, whereas the Computer Based Test will take place from 13 February 2016 in different time slots.

If the number of candidates registered for Computer Based Test is limited and it can be accommodated in a single day; the test will be completed on 13 February 2016 itself.

If the number of candidates registered for Computer Based Test is few in a particular centre, these candidates have to appear for the Paper-Based Test on 07 February 2016.

Validity of MAT Score

MAT scores are valid for one year for most management institutes. It help students in getting admissions in various management programs such as Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) in Insurance Management, HR, Finance, Marketing, Operations, and International Business, Post Graduate Diploma in Information Technology & Management (PGDITM) in IT Marketing, E-Commerce, Information Systems Management etc.
You can also mail your query in regard to MAT at contact@mbarendezvous.com

Very Important Last Minute Tips

• When you start the test use your experience of sample paper
• Do keep track of time
• Read directions very carefully
• Don’t assume information not provided
• Be cool during the test and don’t get bogged down by lengthy calculations
• In case of guessing, do it intelligently
• Pay attention to negative prefixes also, such as non-, un-, or dis-

MAT 2016 Syllabus

Quantitative Ability for MAT:

Geometry, (Lines, angles, Triangles, Spheres, Rectangles, Cube, Cone etc)	Arithmetic progression,	Installment Payments,
Ratios and Proportion,	Arithmetic mean,	Clocks,
Percentages,	Geometric mean,	Probability,
In-equations Quadratic and linear equations	Harmonic mean,	Permutations Combinations,
Algebra,	Median,	Trigonometry,
Profit & Loss,	Mode,	Vectors,
Averages,	Number Base System,	Binomial Expansion,
Partnership (Accounts),	BODMAS,	Co-ordinate geometry,
Time-Speed-Distance,	Mensuration,	Logarithm,
Work and time,	Alligation & Mixtures,	Calendar,
Number system,	Work,	Maxima & Minima Progression,
HCF & LCM,	Pipes and Cisterns,	Surds & Indices
Geometric Progression,	Set Theory,	Complex numbers
Vectors,	Venn diagram,	Etc.

DI And Reasoning for MAT:

Data Interpretation based on text, Data Interpretation based on graphs and tables.

Graphs can be Column graphs, Bar Graphs, Line charts, Pie Chart, Graphs representing Area, Venn diagram, etc. Critical reasoning, Visual reasoning, Assumption-Premise-Conclusion, Assertion and reasons, Statements and assumptions, identifying valid inferences , identifying Strong arguments and Weak arguments, Statements and conclusions, Cause and Effect, Identifying Probably true, Probably false, definitely true, definitely false kind of statement, Linear arrangements, Matrix arrangements. Puzzles, Syllogisms, Functions, Family tree - identifying relationship among group of people, Symbol Based problems, Coding and decoding , Sequencing , identifying next number in series, etc.

Verbal Ability for MAT:

Comprehension of passage (Poems can also come).

Verbal Reasoning, Syllogisms , Contextual usage, Analogies, Antonyms, Fill In the Blanks, Jumbled paragraphs with 4 or 5 sentences, Jumbled paragraphs (6 sentences with first and last fixed), Sentence Correction, Foreign language words used in English, Sentence completion, Sentence correction, odd man out, idioms, one word substitution, Different usage of same word etc.

General Awareness for MAT:

Current Affairs, Business, Punch line of companies, Top officials of big companies, Major corporate events

Famous award and prizes

World Records

Books and authors

Science, History, Geography, International organizations

Important quotations

Social issues, Sports, Finance, Automobiles, Entertainment, Politics, etc.

NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list of syllabus but an indicative list observed over the pattern of MAT entrance exam till date.

Few important reference books are:

R. S. Aggarwal - Math's - XI & XII	R.S. Agarwal - Reasoning	R.S.Aggarwal - Quantitative Aptitude	R.D Sharma - Quantitative Aptitude
S.L. Loni - Plane Trigonometry (Part I)	S.L. Loni - Co-ordinate Geometry	Hall & Knight - Higher Algebra	Arihant Publication books for competitive exams
Master the Mat	Mat Secrets	501 Word Analogy Questions	Kaplan
Magical Book on Quicker Maths M. Tyra	Practice Book on quicker Maths M. Tyra & K. Kundan	Analytical Reasoning by M. K. Pendy	Problem solving (Puzzles) by K. Kundan

As above, we tried to list the detailed syllabus for all the sections of MAT entrance exam. Be it Quantitative Aptitude or Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning or Comprehension, we attempted to spot and suggest reference books on each of them. But just buying the book or newspapers will not help. You will have to draft a complete strategy and implement it accordingly as well. Here, we will try to suggest some important tricks and techniques for preparation of MAT entrance exam.

Preparation for MAT 2016

MAT being a knowledge-based test with objective-type test pattern, will examine your general aptitude across varied parameters such as Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Indian & Global Environment etc. Hence, MAT preparation calls for carefully devised strategy, which helps you cover maximum topics and score high to get call from good management institutes across the country.

Since the aspect of negative marking of 25 percent exists, you need to be watchful and wise, and formulate a strategy to qualify the cut offs for each section. Hence, a decent level of preparation would suffice for this objective.

To get a better result, it is good and advisable to start preparing as early as possible. By reading daily newspapers and magazines you can improve your vocabulary in English. Also by watching English news channels, various usage of a particular word can be noted down.

For the other sections, it is important that you practice as many problems as you can. But it is also important that you don't repeat the mistakes time and again. Once you identify a mistake, you must certainly ensure that you understand the concept thoroughly. In addition to this, you must prepare a timetable to help you allocate your time in the best way possible.

The best method is to be systematic in studies. It would help you make fruitful use of time. Too much of study, at the same time, will lead to tiredness which will make it difficult for you to cover all the portions but, a small break will help to freshen up your mind. If you start your preparation early, you will get the better result.

It is strictly advisable to follow a step-by-step process:

1. Clear you basic Math's Concepts.
   The best way shall be to start practicing from the text books of Class 10 or from the study material provided by the institute who also provide classes for clearing entrance tests. Learn as many formulas as possible and try to develop your own shortcuts.


2. Work on you vocabulary.
   Reading a lot and observing how words are used in different contexts will be of great help.


3. Develop the habit of reading.
   Newspapers, Magazines and TV can be a great help here as well. Magazines, not necessarily should be on politics, business or anything like that. You can also read a fashion-magazine or sports-magazine or general current affairs magazine for that matter. The basic idea is to develop a reading and comprehending habit.


4. Reasoning skills can be improved by solving puzzles
   Practice a lot. Solving sets of questions within a time frame with concentration could be miraculous. Devoting equal time on each question and section will be of great help as well.


5. Know your Strength and Weakness
   Once you know your strengths and weaknesses go for some full-length tests. Observe how you could improve your score with each passing test.


6. Revise
   This is the mantra which most of the students miss out on.

Tackling each Section

For cracking MAT, it is really essential for you attempt and score in each section. It should always be kept in mind that scoring very high in one section and very low in the other will affect your overall percentile. So, to have a balance is very essential.

Here are some tips to help you out:

Quantitative Ability:
The quantitative ability of MAT checks your basic knowledge of math and that is why MAT exam has relatively easy math sums as compared to CAT or XAT, except probability and permutations which prove difficult. Generally the paper can be solved with some patience and a lot of practice. So, as mentioned earlier - stick to basics.

DATA ANALYSIS AND SUFFICIENCY (DI):
The DI section of MAT consists of conventional data interpretation like graphs and charts with questions based on finding percentage increase or decrease. This section, in particular, gives you the opportunity to score as high as you can because if you interpret even one table or graph, you can correctly answer 4 to 5 questions following it.

But, you should also be very attentive and careful as the speed breaker questions, most of the times, are in this section only.

REASONING:
Practicing from previous question papers of MAT will be the best way to get an idea of this section. Like many other MBA Entrance exams, MAT also follows old GRE books, so, it will be a good idea to get a reference from them.
Verbal Ability for MAT:
Verbal Ability section of MAT is pure comprehension. This is the area of concern for most students while we think it is an opportunity in disguise as this section, like the DI section, will help you score very high. Once you understand one paragraph, you will be able to answer 4 to 5 question based on the same Passage. It not only saves time but also gives you a lot of confidence. Only thing that can help you here is reading and reading a lot.

The other most important trick or technique we will like to suggest is to attempt and solve as many mock test as you can because that will help you develop a habit of writing test in specified time and you can also know your strength and weaknesses. The other important facts about mock tests and hoe to carry your test will be discussed as below:

Preparation Strategy of MAT

Test taking tips and strategies
BEFORE THE TEST

• Get adequate rest the night before
• Wear comfortable clothes
• Practice, Practice, Practice.

AS YOU START THE TEST

• Be aware and use the sample questions experience
• Keep careful track of time
• Read the directions for each question
• Read the questions carefully
• Use the scratch or rough paper provided by the test center
• Use your scrap paper for every calculation
• Read every answer choice
• NEVER assume or use any information that the question fails to give you

DURING THE TEST

• Be very sure of your answer before proceeding
• Do not get bogged down with complicated or lengthy calculations
• Use guessing intelligently and deploy the Selection by elimination method
• Learn how to work backwards, i.e., plugging the most attractive option in the question and see if it makes sense
• Convert quantities freely like 1/4 is nothing but 25% of any given quantity.
• In questions that ask you to select a valid conclusion, always choose the one conclusion that must definitely follow from the information you are given and vice-versa.
• Pay special attention to words like "all," "some," or "none" when you read the factual information each question gives you
• Pay attention to negative prefixes also, such as non-, un-, or dis-
• Pay special attention to negative numbers when they are used in some questions
• Pay close attention to the word "ONLY" and to the phrase "IF AND ONLY IF"
• Don't stick to one question for too long
• Aim to answer as many questions as you can

FROM SECTION TO SECTION TO THE END OF THE TEST

• Compose yourself between sections of the test and try to attempt maximum questions from each section.
• Do not underestimate the role that endurance plays as half the battle is just making it through all of the sections without becoming overly stressed or fatigued. Condition yourself by taking practice tests.
• Don't rush - devote just the right amount of time to each question
• Don't panic - Keep your cool all the time, even when you don't know the answer.

Importance of solving Mock Test Papers

Preparation for any entrance examination is incomplete without practicing mock tests. These are usually question papers which are similar to the pattern of the main exams. Management Aptitude Test is the entrance examination conducted by AIMA, which one must clear to gain admission in the participating B-schools of the country. Before you sit for the main examination, you must be well aware about what is coming your way and you know what's in it for you. The importance of the mock tests can be understood with the help of the following points-

Enlightens you about the main exam
With mock tests, you are aware as to what kind of questions you would be facing in the main examination. The mock test papers contain questions of the previous years and the pattern is also same as the main MAT exams. This way you are well prepared for the main exam and you know what would be the level of difficulty and kind of questions in the main exams.

Helps you in time management
Since the mock tests are on the lines of the main MAT exam, you can judge your timing. You get a fair idea of how much time you would require completing a section and hence will be able to make your preparations accordingly. Simply solving questions from the workbook will never assist you to keep a check on your timing. Time is a crucial factor and several times a student is unable to complete the paper even though he knows the answers. There time management is an important criterion that you must keep a check on while preparing for the MAT.

You know where you stand
Mock tests help you to analyze your accurate position. You get to know how well your preparation is going and where you need to put in more effort. Taking a mock test at least a couple of months before your exam can be of great help as you know where you exactly stand at that point of time and what should be your plan of action post the mock test. You need to judge your performance much before you sit for the main exam so that you can prepare for your exam knowing your strengths and area of concerns. Scoring high in MAT exam at one go is a very difficult task and a well planned approach can help you to achieve your target. In order to strengthen your exam preparation, a mock test is the best.

Mock test is a yardstick of your performance which gives you a true picture. It is designed in such a way that it gives you the feel of the real examination and you know what the main exams going to be like.

Disclaimer: http://mbadmission.blogspot.in is not an official website for MAT ; we are here just providing you details about MAT exam 2016.