50+ Important Formulas for CAT 2025 Preparation: Topic-Wise Formulas

50+ important formulas for CAT 2025 preparation mostly include formulas from common CAT QA topics like profit and loss, algebra, number system, percentages, etc. Learning these formulas can help you speed up your problem-solving skills for CAT 2025!

Table of Contents

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Algebra
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Number System
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Permutation and Combination
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Percentages
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Averages
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Simple Interest and Compound Interest
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Profit, Loss and Discount
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for HCF and LCM
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Set Theory & Function
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Logarithms
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Surds and Indices
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Time, Speed, and Distance
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Boats and Streams
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Mixtures and Alligations
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Trigonometry
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Mensuration
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Probability
Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Coordinate Geometry
Best Formula Books for CAT Preparation 2025
Faqs

50+ Important Formulas for CAT Preparation: Topic-Wise Formulas Used in CAT 2025

50+ formulas for CAT 2025 preparation cover topics like profit and loss, algebra, number system, permutation & combination, percentages, etc. It is essential that every candidate be aware of several key CAT formulas aside from these topics for CAT 2025 exam preparation. CAT formulas are mostly relevant to the Quantitative Aptitude section, which includes Maths topics. Strategies mentioned in the CAT 2025 preparation tips in addition to these important formulas can help you perform better in the exam. There are many formula-based questions in CAT 2025 where all you need to do is use a formula to reach the answer. You must learn all the formulas mentioned here to the best of your abilities to ensure a stellar performance in CAT 2025!

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Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Algebra

Topic	Formula
Square of a + b	(a + b)(a – b) = (a2 – b2) (a + b)2 = (a2 + b2 + 2ab) (a – b)2 = (a² + b² – 2ab)
Square of a + b + c	(a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2(ab + bc + ca)
Cube of a + b	(a + b)3 = a3 + 3a2b + 3ab2 + b3 (a – b)3 = a3 – 3a2b + 3ab2 – b3 (a3 + b3) = (a + b)(a2 - ab + b2) (a3 – b3) = (a – b)(a2 + ab + b2) (a3 + b3 + c3 – 3abc) = (a + b + c)(a2 + b2 + c2 – ab – bc – ac) When a + b + c = 0, then a3 + b3 + c3 = 3abc
Root Formula	(a+b)n = an + nC1 an – 1 b + nC2 an – 2 b2 + ..... nCx an – x bx + ....... bn

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Number System

(12 + 22 + 32 + ….. + n2) = n ( n + 1 ) (2n + 1) / 6	1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + … + n = n(n + 1)/2
(13 + 23 + 33 + ….. + n3) = (n(n + 1)/ 2)2	Sum of first n odd numbers = n2
Sum of first n even numbers = n (n + 1)

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Permutation and Combination

Combination: ⁿ C _r = n! / (n-r)!r! = ⁿ P _r / r!	ⁿ_r Permutation: = n! / (n-r)! P

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Percentages

Percentage Change = {(Final Value – Initital Value) / Initial Value} x 100
Total Percentage Change for two successive changes of a% and b% = (a + b + ab/100)%
eg. for two successive changes of 10% and 20%, the total percentage change will be = (10 + 20 + 10*20/100)% = 32%

Important Fractions and Their Percentage Values

Fraction	Equivalent Percent	Decimal Value
1/2	50%	0.5
1/3	33 ¹ / ₃ %	0.333...
2/3	66 ² / ₃ %	0.666...
1/4	25%	0.25
3/4	75%	0.75
1/5	20%	0.2
1/6	16 ² / ₃ %	0.1666....
5/6	83 ¹ / ₃ %	.8333...
1/8	12 ¹ / ₂ %	0.125
3/8	37 ¹ / ₂ %	0.375
5/8	62 ¹ / ₂ %	0.625
7/8	87 ¹ / ₂ %	0.875
1/9	11 ¹ / ₉ %	0.111...
1/10	10%	0.1
1/11	9 ¹ / ₁₁ %	0.999...
5/11	45 ⁵ / ₁₁ %	0.4545...
1/12	8 ¹ / ₃ %	0.08333...
1/16	6 ¹ / ₄ %	0.0625
1/25	4%	0.04
1/32	3 ¹ / ₈ %	0.03125
1/50	2%	0.02

Also Read : 15+ CAT 2025 Percentage Questions

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Averages

Average = Total Sum / Total Number	₁₁₂₂₃₃_n_n₁₂_n) Weighted Average = (w + w + w .... + w ) / (w + ..... + w x x + w x x

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Simple Interest and Compound Interest

Topic	Formula
Amount	Principle + Interest
Simple Interest	P x r x n
Compound Interest	P(1 + r) ⁿ – P

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Profit, Loss and Discount

Topic	Formula
Profit	SP – CP
Profit Percentage	(SP – CP)/CP x 100
Loss	CP – SP
Loss Percentage	(CP – SP)/CP x 100
Discount	MP – SP
Discount Percentage	(MP – SP)/MP x 100
Total Discount on successive discounts of a% followed by b%	(a + b – ab/100)%
If articles worth Rs. b are free along with articles worth Rs. a, Discount	y/(x+y) x 100

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for HCF and LCM

Topic	Formula
HFC of Fractions	(HCF of numerators) / (LCM of denominators)
LCM of Fractions	(LCM of numerators) / (HCF of denominators)
LCM x HCF	Product of Numbers

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Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Set Theory & Function

Topic	Formula
Demorgan’s Law is the basic and most important formula for sets, which is defined as	(A ∩ B) ‘ = A’ U B’ and (A U B)’ = A’ ∩ B’
The relation R⊂A×AR⊂A×A is said to be called:	Reflexive Relation: If a R a ∀∀ a ∈∈ A. Symmetric Relation: If aRb, then bRa ∀∀ a, b ∈∈ A. Transitive Relation: If aRb, bRc, then aRc ∀∀ a, b, c ∈∈ A.

If any relation R is reflexive, symmetric, and transitive in a given set A, then that relation is known as an equivalence relation.

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Logarithms

log _x 1 = 0	_x log x = 1
log _x (mn) = log _x m + log _x n	log _x (m/n) = log _x m – log _x n
log _x a ^b = b log _x a	log _x a ^x = a
log _x m = (log _y n) x (log _a n)

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Surds and Indices

Important Formulas for Surds and Indices

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Time, Speed, and Distance

Speed = Distance / Time
1 km/h = 5/18 m/s
1 m/s = 18/5 km/h

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Boats and Streams

S _downstream = S _boat + S _stream
S _upstream = S _boat - S _stream

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Mixtures and Alligations

Topic	Formula
Alligation	It is the rule that enables us to find the ratio in which two or more ingredients at the given price must be mixed to produce a mixture of the desired price.
Mean Price	The cost of a unit quantity of the mixture is called the mean price
Rule of Alligation	If two ingredients are mixed, then (Quantity of cheaper / Quantity of dearer) = (C.P. of dearer – Mean Price / Mean price – C.P. of cheaper)

Topic

Formula

Alligation

It is the rule that enables us to find the ratio in which two or more ingredients at the given price must be mixed to produce a mixture of the desired price.

Mean Price

The cost of a unit quantity of the mixture is called the mean price

Rule of Alligation

If two ingredients are mixed, then

(Quantity of cheaper / Quantity of dearer) = (C.P. of dearer – Mean Price / Mean price – C.P. of cheaper)

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Trigonometry

Right Angle Triangle with Sides AB, BC and CA

Topic	Formula
Trigonometric Formulas	sin A = Perpendicular / Hypoteneuse = a / c cos A = Base / Hypoteneuse = b / c tan A = Perpendicular / Base = a / b cot A = 1 / tan A sec A = 1 / cos A cosec A = 1 / sin A
Trigonometric Identities	Sine=Opposite/Hypotenuse Cosine=Adjacent/Hypotenuse Tangent=Opposite/Adjacent Secant=Hypotenuse/Adjacent Co−Secant=Hypotenuse/Opposite Co−Tangent=Adjacent/Opposite
The reciprocal identities	sinΘ=1/CosecΘ cosΘ=1/secΘ tanΘ=1/cotΘ CosecΘ=1/sinΘ secΘ=1/cosΘ cotΘ=1/tanΘ

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Mensuration

Check out the important formulae for mensuration mentioned below:

Plane Figures

Solids

CAT Mensuration Formulae

NOTE: (3.14) is an approximation of pi.

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Probability

Sample Space: When performing an experiment, the set S of all possible outcomes is called the sample space.
Event: Any subset of a sample space is called an event.
The probability of Occurrence of an Event: Let S be the sample and let E be an event.
Therefore, P(E) =n(E) / n(S)

Important CAT 2025 Formulas for Coordinate Geometry

The Distance Between Two Points A and B:

AB ² = (Bx – Ax) ² + (By – Ay) ²

The Equation of a Line Using One Point and the Gradient

The equation of a line that has gradient m and which passes through the point (x1, y1) is:

y – y1 = m(x – x1)

The Midpoint of a Line Joining Two Points

The midpoint of the line joining the points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) is:

[½(x1 + x2), ½(y1 + y2)]

Best Formula Books for CAT Preparation 2025

The best formula books for CAT 2025 preparation have been tabulated below.

Section	Book Title	Author/Publisher
Data Interpretation & LR	Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT	Nishit K. Sinha (Pearson)
Quantitative Aptitude	Quantitative Aptitude for CAT	Arun Sharma (TMH)
VARC / Vocabulary	Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Quantitative Aptitude	Quantum CAT	Sarvesh K. Verma

The best way to remember important formulas for CAT is to use them in solving questions. Practicing will help you become familiar with important formulas. It will also train you to use these formulas with more speed and accuracy.

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FAQs

What is the percentage important formula for CAT?

The important percentage formulas for CAT include the following:

Percentage=(Total/Value)×100
Percentage Increase=(y−x/x)×100
Percentage Decrease=(x−y/x)×100
Net Percentage Change=a+b+a⋅b/100
Final Value for an increase of x%=P×(1+x/100)
Final Value for a decrease of x%=P×(1-x/100)

What are the important formulas in CAT algebra?

Some of the important formulas in CAT algebra include the following:

(a+b)²=a²+2ab+b²
(a−b)²=a²−2ab+b²(a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2(a−b)²=a²−2ab+b²
(a+b)(a−b)=a²−b²(a + b)(a - b) = a² - b²(a+b)(a−b)=a²−b²
(a+b+c)²=a²+b²+c²+2ab+2bc+2ca(a + b + c)² = a² + b² + c² + 2ab + 2bc + 2ca(a+b+c)²=a²+b²+c²+2ab+2bc+2ca
ax²+bx+c=0
log(ab)=log a+log b

Is it possible to excel in CAT 2025 without a thorough knowledge of formulas?

While formulas are an integral part of CAT 2025 preparation, it is also crucial to develop logical reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Understanding the concepts and their applications will allow you to solve problems even if you momentarily forget a specific formula.

How can I revise and reinforce the CAT 2025 formulas regularly?

Set aside dedicated time for CAT 2025 formula revision regularly. Use flashcards, practice problems, and solve mock tests to reinforce your understanding and memorization of the formulas.

Should I focus only on CAT formulas or also practice problem-solving techniques?

It is essential to not solely rely on memorizing CAT formulas but also develop problem-solving techniques. Understanding the logic and approach behind different types of questions will allow you to apply the appropriate formulas effectively.

Are there any online resources or books specifically dedicated to CAT formulas?

Yes, there are several online resources and CAT preparation books that provide comprehensive formula compilations. Some popular books include Arun Sharma's "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT" and Nishit Sinha's "The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for CAT."

Can I create my own formula sheet for CAT preparation 2025?

Yes, creating a personalized formula sheet can be helpful for CAT preparation 2025. Include formulas that you find particularly important or difficult to remember. Writing them down and reviewing them regularly will aid in reinforcement and familiarity.

How can I practice using these CAT formulas effectively?

Solve a variety of CAT-level problems that require the application of these formulas. Practice from previous years' question papers and CAT preparation books. Additionally, take mock tests to simulate exam-like conditions and enhance your speed and accuracy in utilizing the formulas.

Should I focus on memorizing CAT formulas or understanding their applications?

It is crucial to strike a balance between memorizing CAT formulas and understanding their applications. While memorizing helps in quick recall during exams, understanding the underlying concepts and applications will enable you to apply the formulas effectively in problem-solving.

Are there any shortcuts or tricks for remembering CAT formulas?

Yes, there are certain mnemonic techniques and patterns that can help in remembering CAT formulas. For example, creating acronyms or using visual imagery can make it easier to recall the formulas during exams.

How can I memorize and retain the CAT formulas?

To memorise and retain CAT formulas, practice regularly and apply the formulas in solving various types of problems. Create flashcards or cheat sheets to revise the formulas frequently. Understand the derivation and logic behind each formula to enhance comprehension and retention.

What are some important formulas for CAT preparation 2025?

Some important formulas for CAT preparation 2025 include those related to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, percentages, profit and loss, time and work, probability, and permutations and combinations.