IPMAT is the entrance exam for the respected 5-year Integrated Program in Management offered by IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, and some other IIMs. As the competition rises every year, cracking IPMAT requires smart preparation—especially a subject-wise approach.
This article gives you a clear subject-wise strategy to prepare for IPMAT. Whether you’re self-studying or taking coaching, this guide will help you streamline your efforts.
Overview of IPMAT Exam Pattern
Before jumping into subject strategies, it’s important to understand the structure of the exam. Although patterns slightly vary between IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak, the core subjects remain the same.
IIM Indore Pattern:
- Quantitative Ability (MCQ) – 40 Questions
- Quantitative Ability (Short Answer) – 20 Questions
- Verbal Ability (MCQ) – 40 Questions
- Time: 2 hours (divided equally across sections)
IIM Rohtak Pattern:
- Quantitative Ability – 40 Questions
- Logical Reasoning – 40 Questions
- Verbal Ability – 40 Questions
- Time: 2 hours (no sectional time limit)
- Now, let’s dive into the subject-wise preparation.
1. Quantitative Ability (QA)
This section is the most important and can be a game-changer in your selection. It tests your mathematical skills and problem-solving speed.
Key Topics:
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance)
- Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Polynomials)
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Number System
- Set Theory
- Probability
- Permutations & Combinations
- Data Interpretation (Graphs, Tables, Charts)
Preparation Tips:
- Strengthen Basics: Start with Class 9 and 10 NCERT books. Make sure your fundamentals are clear.
- Practice Daily: Solve at least 20–30 problems daily from different topics.
- Focus on Speed: Use a timer to improve your solving speed.
- Mock Tests: Attempt full-length mocks once a week. Analyze mistakes thoroughly.
- Short Answer Questions: Practice writing correct answers without options. Accuracy is key here.
2. Verbal Ability (VA)
This section evaluates your understanding of English grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. A good grasp of this section helps boost your overall score.
Key Topics:
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar (Tenses, Prepositions, Sentence Correction)
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
- Para Jumbles
- Fill in the Blanks
- Sentence Completion
Preparation Tips:
- Read Daily: Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express, especially editorials.
- Grammar Rules: Revise basic grammar rules and solve exercises regularly.
- Practice RCs: Solve at least one RC passage daily. Focus on inference-based questions.
- Time Management: Don’t spend too much time on tough RCs. Learn to skim and scan.
3. Logical Reasoning (LR) –
Applicable only for IIM Rohtak
While not part of IIM Indore’s exam, Logical Reasoning is a core section in IPMAT Rohtak and other management tests like JIPMAT.
Key Topics:
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Series & Sequences
- Puzzles
- Syllogisms
- Statements & Assumptions
- Direction Sense
- Input-Output
Preparation Tips:
- Daily Practice: Set aside 30-45 minutes daily for reasoning problems.
- Concept Clarity: Understand the logic behind patterns, don’t just memorize tricks.
- Solve Sets: Practice puzzle-based sets to build analytical thinking.
- Mock Practice: Reasoning questions are about speed. Take topic-wise mini-tests to improve timing.
4. Mock Tests & Analysis
Apart from subject-wise preparation, mock tests are the backbone of IPMAT prep.
How to Use Mocks Effectively:
- Begin with one mock test each week, and gradually move to 2–3 per week as the exam approaches.
- After each test, spend time analyzing:
Time spent per section
Accuracy rate
Types of mistakes - Maintain a clear record of your mistakes and go through it every week to avoid repeating them.
5. Sectional Time Management (For IIM Indore)
With only 40 minutes per section, you need a well-thought-out approach.
Tips:
- VA Section: In the VA section, begin with Reading Comprehension if you’re confident, or start with grammar questions to ease into the section.
- QA (MCQ): Attempt familiar topics first to gain confidence.
- QA (SA): Be cautious. There are no options, so accuracy is critical.
7. Final 30 Days Strategy
In the last month before the exam:
- Focus on revision and mocks.
- Don’t learn new topics—polish what you already know.
- Do sectional tests (QA, VA, LR) under time constraints.
- Avoid burnout—sleep well and eat healthy.
Conclusion
The IPMAT is a blend of speed, logic, and accuracy. A subject-wise preparation plan ensures that your study is balanced and effective. Remember, consistency matters more than intensity. Even if you start with 2–3 hours daily, stick to the schedule, and you’ll see strong progress.
If you’re serious about IIM dreams, start now—and stick to this subject-wise strategy for IPMAT.