If you are preparing for CAT, you already know that Quant can decide your percentile. Many students find the QA section challenging. But the reality is that Arithmetic can be a game-changer. It is typically the backbone of CAT Quants. It holds the highest weightage, i.e. 40% in the Quant section. If you master arithmetic, you can easily improve your percentile. Solving only Arithmetic in CAT can help you get a 24+ score, which can fetch you a 97+ percentile in CAT Quant. Many toppers who score 97+ percentile have one thing in common. Their arithmetic concepts are strong. Let’s discuss why arithmetic is important for CAT Quants and other relevant details.
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Why Arithmetic Dominates the CAT Quant Section?
Arithmetic is the largest contributor in CAT Quant. Arithmetic has around 40% weightage in CAT Quant. This means nearly half of the Quant section is based on arithmetic. CAT Quant usually comprises 22 questions. Out of these, nearly 8 to 10 questions are asked from arithmetic. This is the highest weightage compared to algebra (35%), geometry (15%), number system and modern math (5% each). If you prepare well for the arithmetic, you can secure a higher percentile. Arithmetic offers the best scoring opportunity in CAT preparation. You do not need to memorise many formulas. This topic is more logical in nature. Since question types often repeat, regular practice can improve speed and accuracy. All these approaches can maximise your chances of success. Skipping arithmetic means avoiding the most scoring area.
Why Arithmetic is Important for CAT Quants?
Arithmetic is a crucial part of the CAT Quant section. The reason is that it holds the highest weightage and predictable question types. A huge portion of CAT Quant questions are asked directly or indirectly from arithmetic topics. Even questions asked in algebra, geometry, or modern math require arithmetic calculations. Learning arithmetic basics can help you solve enough questions faster and with accuracy. Let’s discuss why arithmetic is important for CAT Quants:
Arithmetic Holds the Highest Weightage
Arithmetic usually covers the biggest share of CAT Quant questions. Topics like percentages, profit and loss, time and work, averages, ratios, and SI & CI are often asked. Nearly 8-10 questions are directly from arithmetic topics. This means strong concepts in arithmetic can help you attempt enough questions in Quant. It will enhance your CAT percentile.
Builds Solid Foundation for Other Topics
Many algebra, geometry, and modern math questions rely on arithmetic concepts. Thus, it is crucial to achieve mastery in this topic to improve performance in other areas. If you are weak in arithmetic, you may struggle in other topics too. Strong basics help you solve mixed-level questions without any confusion.
Arithmetic Questions Are More Scoring
Arithmetic questions are easier compared to other topics. It is more logical and based on fundamentals. You don’t have to learn many complex formulas to excel. Strong basics can help you solve arithmetic questions faster. This can save you time and improve accuracy.
Helps You Reach 97+ Percentile
Arithmetic can improve your percentile. If you master this topic, you can solve sufficient arithmetic questions with accuracy. This helps you gain an edge. Solving only Arithmetic questions can help you reach 24+ marks. Such a score can fetch you a 97+ percentile. Hence, you must first build a strong foundation in arithmetic and then focus on other areas.
Important Arithmetic Chapters You Must Prepare
Arithmetic has around 40% weightage in CAT Quant. You should achieve mastery in all the important topics to maximise your chances of success. Some of the important arithmetic chapters are as follows:
- Percentages
- Profit & Loss
- Simple/Compound Interest
- Ratios & Proportions
- Averages
- Mixtures & Alligation
- Time, Speed and Distance
- Time & Work
Start Arithmetic Preparation Early for CAT 2026
Early preparation for the Arithmetic is very crucial. It is the foundation of the CAT Quants. If you begin with arithmetic, your preparation becomes easy. It helps you build speed, accuracy, and confidence. This is where structured courses like those offered by iQuanta help you. iQuanta’s CAT 2026 New Batch has strated arithmetic only. Candidates must join the sessions on time to improve their preparation. This course offers the following features and feedback here:
- 24/7 Instant Doubt Solving Support: It aims to clear all your doubts immediately.
- 8000+ Quant, VARC & LRDI practice questions: These questions mirror the actual exam standards.
- 3 Basic & 3 Advanced Modules: These modules help you build strong basics from scratch.
- 35 Full & 45 Sectional Mock Test Series: The mock test comes with in-depth analysis reports and video solutions.
Arithmetic is the most important topic in CAT Quant. It holds 40% weightage. It is the highest-scoring area. If you master arithmetic, you prepare a huge portion of Quant. Solving arithmetic questions accurately can fetch you a 97+ percentile. All you need to do is start early, practice daily, and master important topics. You can even join iQuanta’s CAT 2026 course and get one step closer to your dream CAT percentile.
