How is CAT Score Calculated?
The CAT exam follows a marking scheme where candidates earn +3 marks for each correct answer & lose -1 mark for every incorrect answer in multiple-choice questions. The raw score is the total of all marks obtained across three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, & Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation.
Since CAT is conducted in multiple slots, a process called normalization is applied to adjust for variations in difficulty levels across different slots. This makes the scoring fair. After normalization, the final scaled scores are used to determine the percentile ranking in the CAT (Common Entrance Test).
Understanding CAT Percentile
Percentile represents the percentage of candidates who have scored lower than a particular aspirant. It is not a direct reflection of marks but rather a comparative ranking. For example, if a candidate secures the 95th percentile, it means they have performed better than 95% of the total test-takers.
Since CAT percentiles are relative, even a small improvement in raw scores can lead to a significant jump in percentile. Higher scores in one section can compensate for slightly lower scores in another, making a balanced performance essential. Aspirants should analyze previous years' score-percentile trends to estimate the raw scores required for their target percentile in the CAT (Common Entrance Test).
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between percentiles & CAT scores is important for effective preparation. While raw scores depend on the number of correct responses, percentiles reflect performance compared to others. Since a small score improvement can significantly impact percentile rankings, focusing on accuracy, time management, & sectional balance is key to achieving a high percentile in the CAT (Common Entrance Test).