1. Create a Study Schedule Based on Your Strengths
Your preparation should be goal-oriented and time-bound. Here’s a sample study plan:
| Time | Activity | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM | Newspaper Reading | Editorials & Current Affairs |
| 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Quantitative Aptitude Practice | Concept Building & Problem Solving |
| 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Verbal Ability Practice | Reading Comprehension & Grammar |
| 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Mock Test / Sectional Test | Full-Length or Sectional Test |
| 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Short Answer Practice | Focus on Accuracy |
| 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Mock Analysis & Revision | Learn from Mistakes |
2. The 2:1 Time Management Rule
Follow a 2:1 ratio while studying:
- Two hours of concept learning should be followed by one hour of problem-solving practice.
For example, if you spend two hours learning a new concept in Quantitative Aptitude, the next hour should be dedicated to solving practice questions on that topic. This approach ensures:
- Strong conceptual clarity before working on speed.
- Immediate application of learned concepts.
- Better long-term retention.
3. Active Revision: The 60-30-10 Rule
A structured revision plan is essential for IPMAT success. Follow this approach:
- 60% of your time should be spent on mock tests and previous year’s papers.
- 30% should be dedicated to revising short notes and formulas.
- 10% should focus on working on weak areas.
This method balances preparation and reduces last-minute stress.
How to Manage Time During the Exam?
Quantitative Aptitude Strategy
Step 1: Prioritize Easy and Medium Questions
- Solve quick and formula-based questions first.
- Skip time-consuming questions and return to them later.
Step 2: Use the 50-25-25 Approach
- Spend the first 50% of the time solving easy questions with accuracy.
- Use the next 25% to attempt medium-level questions.
- Use the final 25% for difficult questions if time allows.
Step 3: Attempt All Short Answer Questions
- Since there is no negative marking, attempt all short-answer questions.
- Use logical estimation if exact solutions are difficult to find.
Verbal Ability Strategy
Step 1: Prioritize Reading Comprehension (RC) Passages
- Read the first question before the passage to locate answers efficiently.
- Eliminate wrong options first before selecting the correct one.
Step 2: Use the 40-40-20 Approach
- Spend the first 40% of the time on reading comprehension.
- Use the next 40% to solve grammar and vocabulary-based questions.
- Reserve the last 20% for reviewing marked answers.
Smart Strategies to Ace IPMAT
1. Master Time-Saving Calculation Tricks
Since Quantitative Aptitude requires quick problem-solving, use:
- Mental math and approximation techniques.
- Vedic math tricks for fast calculations.
- The substitution method for algebra-based questions.
2. Solve Mock Tests Under Timed Conditions
- Set a 120-minute timer while taking full-length mocks.
- Attempt sectional tests under real exam conditions.
- Analyze mistakes and identify recurring weak areas.
3. Adapt Based on Mock Performance
- If your accuracy is below 50%, focus on concept-building.
- If accuracy is between 50-70%, work on speed and efficiency.
- If accuracy is above 70%, fine-tune your strategy and decision-making.
Common Time Management Mistakes and Solutions
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Spending too much time on difficult questions | Move on and return later. |
| Not attempting short-answer questions | Attempt all, as there is no negative marking. |
| Poor Verbal Ability speed | Read the questions before reading the passage. |
| No time for revision | Follow the 60-30-10 rule. |
| Ignoring mock analysis | Review mistakes and improve weak areas. |
Final Words
IPMAT is not just about knowledge—it is about strategy and execution. By managing time wisely, you can:
- Maximize the number of attempts while maintaining accuracy.
- Stay confident and composed on exam day.
- Significantly improve your final score.
