Fighting the war 'within' is a bigger challenge for the average MBA aspirant gearing up for the upcoming CAT, than the war 'without'. The question now is how well you are girded up for the big day.

While a gloomy look or a nervous breakdown can spell doom for you, a 'cheerful challenge' can do a world of good. Remember, the CAT is not the end of the world!

Now, as the countdown begins, it's time for some retrospection -- looking over your shoulder and switching gears. You must relax and rewind; give some respite to your taxed nerves. While we don't suggest you to be complacent, you do need to maintain your cool.

• RC questions you can expect

You have come a long way. Relax with a leisurely walk around your apartment complex. How about a good massage followed by a warm shower?  Ever thought of a soft lilting music?

Keep your body and mind at peace by containing your urge to splurge on useless pursuits. The Diwali fireworks might be over but you have to keep the fire in your belly burning until November 16.  

Persistence. Perseverance. Patience. At least that's what years of experience have taught us. Your success at this elite exam hinges on how well you have prepared during all these months.

Here are some points to bear in mind:

1. Stay well connected
Come out of your cocoon and engage in some 'gup-shup' with your peers over your mobile or online chats. Or, better still have a small party. That will give you a chance to exchange your preparation strategies with your friends.

2. Learn to relax
Unfortunately, most of us don't know how to relax. We tend to oversleep and get tired. Ever think about listening to some soft instrumental music for your troubled nerves? That would be nice following a long and drab day glued to your books. If you are a movie buff, enjoy some real reel life.

• Quant questions you can expect

3. No sleep deprivation please
Remember, the CAT does not require any last-minute intensive preparation like the curriculum-based traditional examination. So, have your full quota of sleep and relaxation and ABSOLUTELY NO PREPARATION in the last 48 hours, except for punctuating your previous hard work with a couple of hours by delving into CAT revision Notes (not-to-be-missed strategies). These notes tell you, in a nutshell, how to attempt what type of question, in all the three sections.

4. Limber up
Exam preparation is bound to stretch you to your mental limit. To rejuvenate, go out for a long walk, stretch out your limbs, workout. This will keep you fresh and invigorated.

• Test yourself with this Mock CAT

5. Eat right
It goes without saying that fresh fruit and vegetables will go a long way in keeping you in fine fettle. Your long sittings will require lots of water to drain out toxins from the body.

Well, all sorts of thoughts might come to your mind at this stage. Sometimes you ask yourself, "Is it worth it?" One bad mock and you tend to feel down in the dumps. Everybody has highs and lows -- sometimes your mood swings you to cloud nine and sometimes to the lowest rung in the ladder. But you need to keep a positive attitude. Good luck!