CAT Syllabus (Latest): Aspirants should integrate only the latest syllabus for CAT when planning the strategy. It covers three subjects, namely Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). It enables candidates to cover only the topics that are important for the entrance test. The CAT syllabus PDF comprises all the exam-specific topics, chapter-wise weightage, recurring questions, and other details. As per the recent changes in pattern, VARC carries 24 questions, and DILR & QA carry 22 questions each. To excel in all the sections, it is important to make the most of the latest CAT syllabus for MBA. To help, we have shared below the latest syllabus for the CAT exam based on the latest exam format and previous year exam analysis.
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What is the CAT Syllabus for MBA?
The CAT syllabus for MBA covers all the relevant topics across all the sections. You must check the latest syllabus and pattern before commencing your CAT preparation. Each section is divided into a wide range of topics that assess the candidate’s verbal skills, numerical aptitude and critical thinking ability. The CAT VARC syllabus includes RCs, Odd One Out, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, etc. However, the CAT Quant syllabus covers areas like Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation, Profit & Loss, SI CI, Percentages, TSD & Time and Work, Geometry, etc. While the CAT DILR syllabus involves areas like Tables, Cubes, Line & Bar Graphs, Linear Arrangements, Pie Charts, Circular Arrangements, Quant Based DI, Venn Diagrams, etc. You should build a strong grip in every chapter to maximise your chances of success in the exam. Continue reading to download the latest CAT Syllabus PDF on this page.
CAT Syllabus- Highlights
The CAT exam is one of the highly competitive entrance tests conducted every year. It is a gateway to get MBA admissions in IIMs and other leading colleges. Let’s discuss below the weightage and key topics covered in the CAT syllabus PDF based on past trends:
- VARC syllabus for CAT is often divided into two parts, i.e. Reading Comprehension (RC) and Verbal Ability. VA covers Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out, etc. RC comprises approximately 16 questions. Verbal Ability consists of nearly 8 to 9 questions. The weightage of RC and VA is around 24% and 10%, respectively.
- DILR also has two sub-parts. Data Interpretation covers Graphs, Tables, Charts, Caselets, etc. Logical Reasoning covers Arrangements, Puzzles, Syllogism, etc. Each consists of about 11 questions with 16%.
- QA covers a wide range of topics. Arithmetic & Algebra covers Averages, Percentages, and Linear Equations. It also includes Geometry & Menstruation and Number Systems & Modern Math. About 14 questions were asked in Arithmetic & Algebra with nearly 34%. Geometry and Number System approximately comprises 3 questions each with 6% weightage.
Latest Changes in CAT Syllabus
The CAT syllabus has undergone many changes in recent years. However, there are no changes in the subject and marking scheme. It covers three main subjects. They are Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Look at the latest changes in the CAT syllabus for MBA:
- The overall CAT questions increased from 66 to 68.
- There are no changes in the number of questions in the VARC section. It comprises 24 questions.
- Questions in DILR have increased from 20 to 22.
- There are no changes in the number of questions in the QA section. It comprises 22 questions.
Types of Questions Covered in the CAT Syllabus
Knowing the high-priority topics in the CAT exam is crucial. It helps candidates identify high-weightage chapters across all the sections. This helps them plan their strategy accordingly. They should commence their preparation at the earliest to cover the syllabus on time. This helps them get sufficient time to practice high-priority topics with regular revision. Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section often carries questions from Averages, Percentages, Ratios, TSD, Time & Work, Geometry, etc. The VARC section includes questions from areas like Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, etc. The high-priority topics of Data Interpretation (DI) are Tables, Line Graphs, Bar Graphs, Caselets, Quant-based DI, etc. Most of the questions in CAT LR are asked from Games & Tournaments, Arrangements, Distribution, etc. Check below the complete list of questions asked in the CAT syllabus:
| Sections | CAT Topics |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | Arithmetic (Averages, Percentages, Ratio, TSD, Time & Work), Algebra (Equations, Inequalities) Geometry & Mensuration |
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Tables, Line, Graphs, Bar Graphs, Caselets, Quant-based DI |
| Logical Reasoning (LR) | Games & Tournaments, Arrangements (Linear/Circular), Distribution, Puzzles, Venn Diagrams |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Reading Comprehension (Science, Philosophy, Economics, Culture)Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out |
CAT Syllabus Quick Overview
The CAT Syllabus PDF serves as a valuable resource for your preparation. It helps you avoid irrelevant topics and focus only on the areas that can be asked in the entrance test. You must download the latest syllabus for the CAT exam to stay on track. This can help you master all the key chapters and achieve success in the test. Look below at the quick overview of the CAT syllabus:
| Mode | Computer-based |
| Total Questions in CAT | 68 |
| Questions in Each Section for CAT | VARC: 24DILR: 22QA: 22 |
| CAT Exam Timing | 120 minutes (40 minutes per section) |
| Type of Questions in CAT | MCQs and TITA (Type In The Answer) |
| Marks Per Correct Answer | 3 |
| Negative Marking in CAT Exam | -1 for every wrong answer. No negative marking for TITA |
CAT VARC Syllabus: Weightage and Pattern
The VARC syllabus for CAT is typically divided into two parts. It involves Reading Comprehension (RC) and Verbal Ability. This section carries a total of 24 questions. It includes areas like RCs, Odd One Out, Para Summary, and Para Jumbles. It mainly assesses candidates’ verbal skills, grammar concepts and vocabulary knowledge. Aspirants should focus on speed and accuracy to perform well.
CAT Syllabus for VARC: Topic-wise Weightage
Master all topics of the CAT VARC syllabus. Review the past analysis to understand high-weightage topics. This helps you prioritise chapters accordingly. For example, RCs often consist of 4 sets with approximately 16 questions. Check the CAT syllabus for VARC in terms of topic-wise weightage below.
| Topics | Weightage |
| RCs | 16 Questions (4 sets) |
| Odd One Out | 2 Questions |
| Para Summary | 3 Questions |
| Para Jumbles | 3 Questions |
CAT Syllabus: Question Trends in VARC
You must analyse question trends in the CAT VARC section over the years. It provides a clear picture of different themes asked over the years. Passages asked in the CAT RC sections are from topics like philosophy, sociology, economics, history, technology, environmental issues, etc. To excel in CAT RC passages, candidates should build reading habits and solve previous year papers regularly. Consistency in your practice can make your preparation productive. Check the CAT syllabus for VARC in terms of question trends from 2020 to 2024.
| CAT RC Passages | Slot 1 | Slot 2 | Slot 3 |
| 2024 | Utility & Human Economics Entertainment/ Netflix Australian Spices Craftsmanship | Spice Trade Unintended Consequences of Technology Peer Review of Research Carnivore-Human Conflict | Impact of AI Languages Chinese Moutai Saving outer space and other planets |
| 2023 | Wolf Environmentalists vs Farmer Philosophy Change in Work Culture Indian Ocean-based Geographical Literature Human Behavior | Garments, Fashion Industry & Pollution Netflix Dubbing of titles for Europe Good or Bad for Europe? Liberalism is DyingFacts & Interpretation in History | Romantic Aesthetics/ Philosophy Cultural Property Law Exploration of Sites Nutmeg Curse Environment Degradation Rational Thinking |
| 2022 | Ghosts & their mysteries – how we can’t find their history Chinese Copy of articles Two levels of emotional thinking STOICS | Social reorganisation increasing crime rate Software if more easy humans are not capable to get solutions)Indian history American migration / urbanization increasing | Social reorganisation increasing crime rate Software if more easy humans are not capable to get solutions)Indian history American migration / urbanization increasing |
| 2021 | Mayan Civilization Utopia and Dystopia Marshmallow Experiment Evolution of Tea as a Drink | Language/ Indigenous People Why Fiction Trumps Truth Colonialism/Nationalism Knowledge and Problems of Knowledge is a Scandal to Philosophy | Nanotechnology Language Instinct Time Accuracy Entropy Unconscious and Psychoanalysis |
| 2020 | Anarchism Migration of Northern Seals Currency of Tang Dynasty Grammar/Vocabulary | Investing in Renewable Energy Technologies Piracy in International Trade Freudian Models of Aggression A Study of Visualisation | Travel Writing and Feminism During Colonial Times The Need for Economic Literacy in the General Population Screen Time and Undercurrents of Social Class An Analysis of Human Nature |
VARC Syllabus for CAT
After combining expert analysis and previous year question papers, we have curated the latest VARC syllabus for CAT. It covers all the topics that can be asked in the upcoming exam. Thus, candidates are strictly advised to check the CAT syllabus and prioritise those chapters to excel. RC and Verbal Ability covers a wide range of topics. You should practice all the chapters from the basic to the advanced level to achieve mastery. Check the latest CAT VARC syllabus shared below.
| Reading Comprehension Genre | Verbal Ability |
| Science & Technology | Para Summary |
| Business & Economics | Para Completion |
| Arts, Society & Culture | Odd One Out |
| History & Politics | Para Jumbles |
| Philosophy & Psychology | – |
| Mixed | – |
How to Cover the CAT VARC Syllabus?
The CAT VARC preparation requires dedication and exam-level resources. You should first understand the CAT syllabus to identify key chapters. Look at the tips and tricks to excel in the VARC CAT exam:
- Examine the CAT syllabus for VARC to cover only essential topics.
- Prepare a study plan after considering the VARC syllabus for CAT. You must stick to it till the exam is over.
- Choose the best books to master topics from basic to core level.
- Practice CAT mocks that align with test standards and difficulty level. iQuanta covers all these features. They offer sectional and full-length mock tests with analysis.
- Revise all the crucial topics regularly to retain them in the long run.
CAT LRDI Syllabus: Weightage and Pattern
The CAT LRDI section is divided into two sub-sections. It covers Data Interpretation and logical reasoning. They cover areas like Circular Arrangements, Cubes, Games & Tournaments, Network Flow Diagrams, Pie Charts, Line & Bar Graphs, etc. A total of 22 questions are asked in this section. This section aims to evaluate the candidate’s logical skills, analytical ability, and critical thinking. The LRDI section is the most scoring section of the CAT exam. Thus, you must practice endless questions to succeed. Learn about the CAT syllabus for LRDI in terms of important topics, types of questions, weightage, etc.
CAT Syllabus: Topics Asked in DI
The DI section of the CAT syllabus covers numerical and graphical data. It includes topics like pie charts, bar graphs, and caselets. These questions assess a candidate’s ability to review and interpret data quickly. Thus, candidates should check the CAT DI syllabus to identify all the relevant DI sets. You must learn time management and techniques to identify patterns behind the questions. The CAT syllabus for DI includes the following chapters:
- Tables
- Pie Charts
- Line & Bar Graphs
- Quant-Based DI, etc
CAT Syllabus for MBA: Topics Asked in LR
Topics in the CAT Logical Reasoning syllabus cover linear and circular arrangements, distribution, games, cubes, etc. They aim to evaluate candidates’ analytical and problem-solving abilities. You must build a strong grip on all the topics to easily solve tricky logical sets. The CAT syllabus for LR includes the following areas:
- Circular Arrangements
- Venn Diagrams
- Games & Tournaments
- Linear Arrangements
- Cubes
- Selection
- Network Flow Diagrams
- Distribution
- Binary Logics
Types of Questions Covered in the CAT Syllabus for DILR
You should be familiar with the types of questions asked in the CAT DILR syllabus. This helps you understand test requirements and strategise accordingly. You should dedicate equal time to DI and LR topics during the preparation. Data Interpretation covers areas like Graphs, Tables, Charts, Caselets, etc. While Logical Reasoning covers Arrangements, Puzzles, Syllogism, etc. Practising all these topics under timed conditions can help you perform well. Look at the types of questions covered in the CAT Syllabus for DILR:
| DI | LR |
| Tables | Cubes |
| Line & Bar Graphs | Linear Arrangements |
| Pie Charts | Circular Arrangements |
| Quant-Based DI | Venn Diagrams |
| – | Distribution |
| – | Selection |
| – | Binary Logics |
| – | Games & Tournaments |
| – | Network Flow Diagrams |
CAT Syllabus: Question Trends in LRDI
Aspirants should stay updated with the question trends in the CAT LRDI section. It is basically the distribution of questions in this section over the years. They should carefully analyse the changes and prepare accordingly. Based on the analysis, it is found that around 4 questions are asked in chart-based tests, bar graphs, Venn diagrams, etc. Nearly 5 questions are asked in Games and Tournaments, Number-Based Arrangement, etc. Look at the CAT syllabus in terms of LRDI question trends slot-wise:
| Set Number | SLOT 1: Set- Topic/Area | SLOT 2: Set- Topic/Area | SLOT 3: Set- Topic/Area | Total Questions |
| 1 | Candlestick chart based on stock price – DI | Rating Distribution – DI | Countries GDP – DI | 4 |
| 2 | People visiting different countries bar graph + venn diagram – DI | 2 Graph Based DI – DI | OTT Subs, Bar Graph – DI | 4 |
| 3 | Web Surfers assign 30 stars – Distribution – LR | Diagram Based Calculation – LR | Content in Food Grains – LR | 4 |
| 4 | Games and Tournaments – Teams splitting in 2 groups – LR | Number Based Arrangement – LR | AC Temp, Line Graph – DI | 5 |
| 5 | Two candidates contesting election – DI | 8 Gymnasts and their Coaches – LR | ATM Network – LR | 5 |
How to Cover the CAT LRDI Syllabus?
The CAT LRDI preparation requires consistency and daily commitment. You must practice endless DILR sets from reliable sources. This can maximize your chances of success. Learn about the tips and tricks to excel in the CAT DILR section:
- Review the CAT syllabus for LRDI thoroughly.
- Master the basics first. Then apply theories to solve advanced topics.
- Solve previous year papers under timed conditions. This gives a clear picture of the real exam environment.
- Solve iQuanta sectional mocks to check where your preparation stands.
CAT Quant Syllabus: Weightage and Pattern
Quantitative Ability (QA) is the crucial section of the CAT exam. It carries a total of 22 questions. It assesses test-takers’ knowledge of numbers, calculation skills, and ability to apply mathematical concepts in question-solving. QA section covers areas like number system, geometry, arithmetic, algebra and modern mathematics. They have a variety of topics and sub-topics. It is crucial to understand the fundamentals of all topics. This helps you get used to solving advanced chapters. This can enhance your chances of scoring well. Learn about the CAT syllabus for Quant in terms of important topics, types of questions, weightage, etc.
Quant Syllabus for CAT
The CAT syllabus for Quant covers various topics from Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Higher Mathematics. This includes Ratio, Profit & Loss, Percentages, Average, Polynomials, Quadratic Equations, Progression, Probability, Logarithms, PnC, etc. Understanding the Quant Syllabus for CAT is crucial. It helps you formulate a strategy that focuses on both basic and advanced chapters. Practising unlimited quant questions will boost your speed, confidence, and efficiency. Look at the key topics covered in CAT Maths syllabus:
- Average
- Ratio
- Mixture & Alligation
- Number System
- Progression and Series
- Inequalities
- Profit & Loss
- SI CI
- Surds & Indices
- Percentages
- TSD & Time and Work
- Geometry
- Probability and P&C
- Logarithm
- Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Equations
- Venn Diagrams
- Modulus & Functions, etc
CAT Syllabus for Quant: Topic-wise Weightage
The topic-wise weightage in the CAT syllabus explains the number of questions asked from every topic. Nearly 3-5 questions are often asked from Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation. 2-3 questions are asked from Profit & Loss, SI, CI, and Percentages. Questions asked about the number system are around 1-3. Check below the topic-wise weightage for the CAT Quant syllabus:
| Topic | 2022 (No. of Ques Asked) | 2023 (No. of Ques Asked) | 2024 (No. of Ques Asked) |
| Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation | 3-5 | 4-6 | 3-5 |
| Profit & Loss, SI, CI, Percentages | 1-3 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| TSD & Time and Work | 3-5 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| Geometry | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Eq | 1-3 | 3-4 | 1-2 |
| Progression and Series | 1-3 | 2 | 1 |
| Inequalities, Modulus & Functions | 3-4 | 1-2 | 1-2 |
| Logarithm, Surds & Indices | 0-1 | 1-3 | 2 |
| Probability and P&C | 1 | 1 | 0-1 |
| Number System | 1 | 1 | 2-3 |
| Venn Diagrams | 0 | 0 | 0 |
How to Cover the CAT Quant Syllabus?
Quantitative Ability (QA) is one of the challenging sections of the CAT exam. Integrating the right strategy and resources can clear the basics for all the topics. Below are the tips to excel in the CAT Quant section:
- Review the CAT syllabus to study all key chapters.
- Formulate a study plan to balance learning and practice.
- Choose the top books to master concepts.
- Maintain short notes for formulas and shortcut tricks to solve questions correctly and accurately.
CAT Syllabus for MBA: Subject-Wise Analysis
Candidates should review the CAT previous year exam analysis of all the sections. It will help them determine weightage and difficulty level over the years. It provides an idea of the overall competition level and prepares accordingly. As per the past trends and analysis, the CAT exam is moderately difficult. The QA section tests your accuracy, LRDI can be uncertain, and VARC are lengthy. Check the difficulty level and weightage across all the CAT sections below:
CAT Quant Difficulty Level
| CAT Quantitative Aptitude Topics | No. of Questions | Difficulty Level |
| Geometry | 1-2 | Moderate to High |
| Arithmetic | 9-10 | Moderate to High |
| Modern Maths | 3-4 | Moderate to High |
| Algebra | 6-7 | Moderate to High |
| Overall | 22 | Moderate to High |
CAT DILR Difficulty Level
| CAT DILR Syllabus | No. of Questions | Difficulty Level |
| Data Interpretation | 11 | Easy to Moderate |
| Logical Reasoning | 11 | Moderate to Difficult |
| Overall | 22 | Moderate |
CAT VARC Difficulty Level
| VARC Topics for CAT | No. of Questions in CAT Exam | Difficulty Level |
| Reading Comprehension | 16 | Moderate to Difficult |
| Odd Sentence | 2 | Easy to Moderate |
| Parajumbles | 3-4 | Moderate to Difficult |
| Summary | 2-3 | Easy to Moderate |
| Overall | 24 | Moderate to Difficult |
CAT Syllabus PDF: Download Latest Syllabus PDF
Candidates can download the CAT Syllabus PDF for free on this page. It covers a list of all the chapters that are relevant from the exam point of view. The CAT exam syllabus covers VARC, DILR and Quant. Understanding the CAT topic-wise syllabus ensures you are in the right direction. You must learn, practice, and revise exam-specific topics to excel. Get the CAT Syllabus PDF download link on this page.
Click Here to Get the CAT Syllabus
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CAT Syllabus FAQs
The CAT syllabus mainly covers three subjects. They are Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
In 2024, VARC consisted of 24 questions, and DILR & QA included 22 questions each. The overall question was 68. You must ensure you complete the CAT syllabus for every section to perform well.
IIMs do not officially release the syllabus for the CAT exam. You can download the CAT exam syllabus in a PDF file from the iQuanta website.
You should first understand the list of all important topics in the CAT exam syllabus. Master the basics and practice all the questions related to it to advance your preparation.
Yes. There is negative marking only for MCQs in the CAT exam.
The VARC syllabus for CAT covers topics like RCs, Odd One Out, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, etc.
The CAT Quant syllabus covers areas like Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation, Profit & Loss, SI CI, Percentages, TSD & Time and Work, Geometry, etc.
The CAT DILR syllabus covers topics like Tables, Cubes, Line & Bar Graphs, Linear Arrangements, Pie Charts, Circular Arrangements, Quant-Based DI, Venn Diagrams, etc.
