How Many Questions to Attempt for 100 Percentile in CMAT 2026?

Preparation Focus Area

Core Strategy

Detailed Explanation and Implementation

Master the Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Understand CMAT Structure Thoroughly

The first and most crucial step toward CMAT success is gaining complete clarity about the exam pattern and syllabus. CMAT consists of 100 multiple-choice questions divided equally across five sections: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Each correct answer carries 4 marks, while 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect response. The total duration of the exam is 180 minutes, making time management essential. Familiarity with core concepts such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Reading Comprehension, Static GK, and Current Affairs helps aspirants align their preparation with exam demands.

Master the Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Design a Balanced Study Schedule

Once the syllabus is clear, aspirants should formulate a comprehensive study plan that gives balanced attention to all five sections. Ignoring any section can negatively affect the overall percentile. While equal weight should be given initially, extra time must be allotted to weaker subjects to bring them up to a competitive level. A well-structured schedule ensures systematic coverage of topics, periodic revision, and sufficient practice, reducing last-minute stress and uncertainty.

Aim for Maximum Accuracy

Minimize Guesswork

Accuracy plays a decisive role in achieving a top percentile in CMAT due to the presence of negative marking. Random guessing can significantly reduce the final score. To aim for a 100 percentile, aspirants should target an accuracy rate of 95–100 percent. This requires strong conceptual clarity and disciplined question selection. Attempting only those questions where the answer is reasonably certain helps maintain a high score without unnecessary risk.

Aim for Maximum Accuracy

Use a Smart Question-Solving Approach

A mixed strategy of attempting easy questions first and returning to tougher ones later proves effective in maintaining both speed and accuracy. Solving simpler questions early builds confidence and secures marks, while complex questions can be revisited with remaining time. This approach prevents early fatigue and ensures that accuracy is not compromised under pressure.

Attempt the Optimal Number of Questions

Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Achieving a top percentile does not necessarily require attempting all 100 questions. Instead, aspirants should focus on answering approximately 95–100 questions correctly with high accuracy. Attempting fewer questions with confidence is far more beneficial than attempting all questions with excessive guesswork. Strategic attempts help maximize net scores while minimizing negative marking.

Attempt the Optimal Number of Questions

Manage Sectional Time Effectively

Allocating around 35–40 minutes per section allows aspirants to work at a steady pace without rushing. Keeping some buffer time at the end of each section helps in revisiting flagged or skipped questions. Effective time allocation ensures that no section is rushed or neglected, improving overall performance consistency across the paper.

Prioritize Mock Tests and Analysis

Take Regular Full-Length Mocks

Mock tests are the foundation of effective CMAT preparation. Regularly attempting full-length mock exams helps build exam stamina, improves speed, and refines time management skills. Mocks simulate real exam pressure and help aspirants identify their natural strengths and weaknesses across sections.

Prioritize Mock Tests and Analysis

Analyze Performance in Depth

The real value of mock tests lies in post-test analysis. Aspirants should carefully review incorrect and skipped questions to understand the underlying reasons, whether conceptual gaps, time pressure, or careless mistakes. Comparing mock scores with previous 100-percentile benchmarks provides a realistic performance target and helps fine-tune preparation strategies accordingly.

Build General Awareness Knowledge

Strengthen Current Affairs and Static GK

General Awareness is often a decisive section in CMAT, as it requires minimal calculation and can be completed quickly with proper preparation. Reading newspapers such as The Hindu or The Economic Times daily keeps aspirants updated on current events. Simultaneously, focusing on static GK topics like history, geography, economics, and Indian polity ensures comprehensive coverage. Using flashcards, mobile apps, or concise notes for frequent revision enhances retention and accuracy, freeing up valuable time for other sections during the exam.