In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the CAT syllabus, section by section. This blog is designed with proper readability, SEO optimization, and clear headings to make your preparation journey easier.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the CAT Exam
- CAT Syllabus: Section-Wise Breakdown
- 1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- 2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- 3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Important Topics for Each Section
- CAT Exam Pattern
- How to Prepare for the CAT Exam
- FAQs on CAT Syllabus
Overview of the CAT Exam
CAT (Common Admission Test) is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. The exam is used to shortlist candidates for MBA and PGDM programs in top B-schools across India.
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
- Number of Sections: 3
- Total Marks: 198
- Question Type: MCQs (Multiple-Choice Questions) and TITA (Type-In-The-Answer)
Understanding the syllabus thoroughly is the first step to excelling in this exam. Let's break down the CAT syllabus section by section.
CAT Syllabus: Section-Wise Breakdown
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
The VARC section of CAT assesses your command over the English language, comprehension skills, and verbal reasoning.
- Number of Questions: 24 (approx.)
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
Key Topics in VARC
- Reading Comprehension (RC)
- Long and short passages
- Inference-based questions
- Summary-based questions
- Main idea and author’s tone
- Verbal Ability
- Para-jumbles
- Sentence completion
- Sentence elimination
- Para-summary
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
The DILR section tests your analytical and reasoning skills. This section is considered one of the most challenging parts of the CAT exam.
- Number of Questions: 20 (approx.)
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
Key Topics in DILR
- Data Interpretation (DI)
- Tables and Charts (Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, Pie Charts)
- Caselets
- Venn Diagrams
- Logical Reasoning (LR)
- Seating Arrangements
- Blood Relations
- Puzzles
- Syllogisms
- Logical Sequences
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
The QA section tests your mathematical knowledge and numerical ability. This section requires speed and accuracy.
- Number of Questions: 22 (approx.)
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
Key Topics in QA
- Arithmetic
- Percentages
- Profit and Loss
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Ratio and Proportion
- Algebra
- Quadratic Equations
- Inequalities
- Linear Equations
- Geometry and Mensuration
- Triangles
- Circles
- Coordinate Geometry
- Number System
- Factors and Multiples
- Divisibility Rules
- Prime Numbers
- Modern Math
- Permutations and Combinations
- Probability
Important Topics for Each Section
Here’s a quick list of the most important topics you should focus on while preparing for each section:
VARC Important Topics
- Reading Comprehension
- Para-jumbles
- Summary Questions
- Sentence Completion
DILR Important Topics
- Tables and Graphs
- Logical Puzzles
- Seating Arrangements
- Venn Diagrams
QA Important Topics
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit and Loss)
- Geometry (Triangles, Circles)
- Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
- Number System
CAT Exam Pattern
Understanding the CAT exam pattern helps you prepare better. Here is the latest CAT exam pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration (in minutes) |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 22 | 40 |
Total Duration: 120 minutes- Marking Scheme: +3 for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer (no negative marking for TITA questions).
How to Prepare for the CAT Exam
1. Understand the Syllabus
Go through each section and understand the topics thoroughly. Make a study plan that covers all the sections equally.
2. Practice Mock Tests
Regularly practice CAT mock tests and previous year papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve time management.
3. Improve Reading Skills
For the VARC section, read newspapers, editorials, and journals to enhance comprehension skills.
4. Focus on Conceptual Clarity
Make sure your fundamentals are clear in each topic, especially in Quantitative Aptitude.
5. Work on Speed and Accuracy
CAT is a time-bound exam. Focus on solving questions accurately within the given time limit.
FAQs on CAT Syllabus
1. Is the CAT syllabus officially defined?
No, the CAT syllabus is not officially defined by the IIMs. However, the syllabus is based on the topics that have consistently appeared in previous years.
2. Can I prepare for CAT in 6 months?
Yes, with a structured study plan and consistent effort, you can prepare for CAT in 6 months.
3. What are the toughest topics in the CAT syllabus?
For many candidates, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) is considered the toughest section due to the complexity of the sets.
Conclusion
Preparing for the CAT exam requires dedication, consistency, and a clear understanding of the syllabus. By focusing on each section and practicing regularly, you can increase your chances of securing a high percentile. Stay motivated, stick to your study plan, and success will follow!
Best of luck with your CAT preparation!