The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is a challenging exam that requires consistent effort and smart strategies. Many aspirants, however, make avoidable mistakes that reduce their chances of success.
In this blog, we’ll discuss common pitfalls in IPMAT preparation and how you can overcome them to maximize your score.
1. Ignoring the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
One of the biggest mistakes students make is starting their preparation without fully understanding the exam pattern and syllabus.
Why is this a problem?
- You may spend too much time on irrelevant topics.
- You might miss out on high-scoring sections.
- Lack of familiarity can lead to panic on exam day.
How to avoid it?
- Study the IPMAT exam pattern carefully.
- Break down the syllabus into manageable sections.
- Focus more on high-weightage topics.
Exam Pattern (IPMAT Indore 2025 – Expected)
| Section | Number of Questions | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude (MCQs) | 30 | 40 |
| Quantitative Aptitude (Short Answer) | 15 | 40 |
| Verbal Ability (MCQs) | 45 | 40 |
| Total | 90 | 120 |
2. Poor Time Management
Many students struggle with time because they:
- Spend too much time on one question.
- Don’t divide their study hours efficiently.
- Fail to attempt all questions due to lack of time.
How to fix it?
- Time yourself while solving mock tests.
- Follow the two-round method:
- First, attempt easy and moderate questions.
- Then, return to difficult ones.
- Maintain a balanced study plan covering both Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Ability.
3. Focusing Only on Quant or Verbal
Many aspirants neglect one section while focusing entirely on the other.
Why is this a mistake?
- Both sections are equally important.
- A weak section can lower your overall score.
- IPMAT requires balanced preparation.
How to avoid it?
- Allocate equal time to both sections.
- Identify weak areas and work on them.
- Solve mixed-question practice sets to stay well-rounded.
4. Not Attempting All Short Answer Questions
Many students skip Short Answer (SA) questions in the Quantitative section because they:
- Think they might get them wrong.
- Don’t practice typing answers during preparation.
- Assume skipping a few won’t impact their score much.
Why is this a mistake?
Short Answer questions do not have negative marking, so skipping them is a lost opportunity.
How to avoid it?
- Attempt all Short Answer questions, even if unsure.
- Practice writing detailed, step-by-step solutions.
- Improve mental calculations to save time.
5. Ignoring Mocks and Sectional Tests
Many students make these mistakes:
- Avoid mock tests due to fear of low scores.
- Take too many mocks without analyzing mistakes.
- Focus only on full-length mocks while skipping sectional tests.
Why is this a problem?
- You won’t know where you stand against the competition.
- You won’t recognize your weak areas.
- You won’t develop exam-day stamina.
How to avoid it?
- Start taking mocks early in your preparation.
- After every mock, analyze mistakes and note down patterns.
- Attempt sectional tests to strengthen individual topics.
6. Over-Reliance on Shortcuts Without Conceptual Clarity
While shortcuts help solve problems quickly, relying on them blindly is risky.
Common mistakes:
- Memorizing formulas without understanding concepts.
- Using shortcuts incorrectly, leading to wrong answers.
- Struggling with difficult questions that require logic, not formulas.
How to avoid it?
- First, learn the concept, then apply shortcuts.
- Use shortcuts only for simple calculations.
- Solve questions step-by-step before relying on tricks.
7. Not Reading Enough for Verbal Ability
The Verbal Ability section in IPMAT is heavily comprehension-based. Many students:
- Skip reading newspapers or novels.
- Focus only on grammar rules.
- Struggle with inference-based questions.
How to fix it?
- Read editorials from The Hindu and The Indian Express.
- Solve at least two Reading Comprehension passages daily.
- Improve vocabulary using books like Word Power Made Easy.
8. Ignoring Mental and Physical Well-being
A stressed mind won’t perform well. Many students:
- Study for long hours without breaks.
- Sacrifice sleep and physical activity.
- Feel burned out close to exam day.
How to stay healthy and focused?
- Follow the Pomodoro technique (25-minute study, 5-minute break).
- Get seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day.
Key Takeaways – How to Avoid These Pitfalls?
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Ignoring Exam Pattern | Understand it before starting preparation. |
| Poor Time Management | Use timers while practicing. |
| Focusing Only on Quant or Verbal | Maintain a balanced study schedule. |
| Not Attempting All Short Answer Questions | Attempt them all—there’s no negative marking! |
| Avoiding Mock Tests | Take regular mocks and analyze mistakes. |
| Relying on Shortcuts | Learn concepts before applying tricks. |
| Ignoring Reading Practice | Read newspapers and books daily. |
| Neglecting Health | Sleep well, exercise, and take breaks. |
Final Words
Success in IPMAT isn’t just about studying hard—it’s about studying smart. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can:
- Improve accuracy and speed.
- Feel more confident on exam day.
- Increase your chances of scoring high.
Start applying these strategies today to stay ahead in your preparation!
