CAT Previous Year Question Papers PDF: Download CAT Question Paper with Solutions (2016-2023)

Updated By Subhashri Roy on 29 Nov, 2023 18:02

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CAT Previous Year Papers

CAT applicants must solve CAT previous year question papers which are one of the vital sources of preparation for the exam. Students often put more emphasis on CAT previous year papers than sample papers to understand the CAT syllabus 2024 and exam pattern. CAT exam's previous year papers also give an understanding of the distribution of questions across sections, the number of questions, and the time allotted for each section followed by the CAT question paper. The CAT 2024 exam will be conducted on November 24, 2024, by IIM Calcutta in 155 test cities across India.

CAT Question Papers

Regularly solving CAT question papers from previous years will help you know the sectional breakdown which will allow you to allocate your time and effort based on your strengths and weaknesses. Practicing CAT previous year papers PDF under timed conditions can help you develop time management skills, ensuring you complete the entire paper within the given time. Students can also identify trends in terms of topics and frequently asked questions by analyzing CAT previous year question papers.

CAT difficulty levels can vary from year to year. By solving CAT previous year question papers, you become adaptable to varying levels of difficulty, which is important as CAT doesn't have a fixed difficulty standard. If you wish to study in one among the list of top IIMs in India or other top B-schools, find the CAT previous year question paper PDF free download links available on this page!

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Overview of CAT Previous Year Papers

Have a look at the major highlights of CAT previous year question papers provided in the table below. Students must note that the CAT exam pattern has changed over the years, so the overview provided here is from the last two years.

Particulars

Details

Mode of Exam

CBT (Computer Based Test)

CAT Sections

  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

  • Quantitative Aptitude

Total Number of Questions

66

Total Duration

2 Hours or 120 Minutes

Sectional Time-Limit

40 Minutes

Marking Scheme

  • +3 Marks Allotted for Every Correct Answer

  • -1 Mark Deducted for Every Incorrect Answer

  • No Negative Marking for Non-MCQs or TITA Questions

CAT 2022 Question Paper PDF with Solutions

CAT question paper with solution PDF is released by the exam authority after the completion of the exam. Candidates preparing for the CAT 2023 must download the CAT previous year papers PDF to boost their preparation. CAT 2022 was conducted on November 27 in three slots. The CAT question papers 2022 for all three slots have been provided in the table below:

CAT 2022 Question Paper Free PDF Download with Solutions

CAT 2022 Slot 1 Question Paper Free PDF Download with Solutions

CAT 2022 Slot 2 Question Paper Free PDF Download with Solutions

CAT 2022 Slot 3 Question Paper Free PDF Download with Solutions

CAT 2021 Question Paper Free PDF with Solutions

The CAT previous year papers are an indispensable tool for candidates preparing for the exam. These papers offer a comprehensive understanding of the exam pattern, enabling students to enhance their preparation effectively. Go through the CAT previous year question papers 2021 for all three slots.

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CAT 2020 Question Papers PDF Free Download

By solving CAT previous year papers, candidates can fine-tune their time management skills and identify crucial topics for focused study. With the availability of CAT previous year question papers, candidates can conveniently access and practice them as mock tests. Moreover, the inclusion of solutions in these papers facilitates learning and boosts candidates' confidence. Click on the PDF links provided below to download the CAT question papers 2020 for all three slots.

CAT 2020 Question Paper

Question Paper

Answer Key

CAT 2020 Slot 1 VARC Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 1 DILR Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 1 Quant Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 2 VARC Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 2 DILR Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 2 Quant Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 3 VARC Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 3 DILR Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2020 Slot 3 Quant Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Download Here

Download Here

CAT 2019 Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

Solving CAT previous year papers has always proved to be helpful in boosting exam preparation. Those who are able to solve the CAT previous year question papers get the confidence to attempt the real question paper and improve their chances of scoring high. Candidates who wish to access the CAT 2019 question paper with detailed solutions can find the same in the table below:

CAT 2019 Question Paper Free Download

CAT 2019 Slot 1 Question Paper Free Download

CAT 2019 Slot 2 Question Paper Free Download

CAT 2018 Question Paper PDF Download with Solutions

Candidates should download the previous year papers of CAT and solve them, as it can help them keep track of the time taken to solve the entire paper. They can also practice solving the paper section-wise to determine the time taken for each section, which can improve their time management skills for the main examination. To download the CAT past year papers from 2018, candidates can click on the link provided below.

CAT 2017 Question Paper PDFs with Solutions

CAT previous year papers can help candidates convert their weaknesses into their strengths. Tricky questions can be conquered once they are identified. Download the CAT previous year papers 2017 with solutions by clicking on the links given below.

CAT 2017 Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

CAT 2017 Slot 1 Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

CAT 2017 Slot 2 Question Paper PDF with Answer Key

CAT 2016 Question Paper with Solution PDF

MBA aspirants must familiarize themselves with the previous year CAT question papers to enhance their preparation. This practice enables candidates to comprehend the paper pattern, improve their time management skills, and identify their weak areas. You can click on the link given below to access the CAT previous year question paper with solution 2016.

CAT 2016 Question Paper with Solution PDF

How to Download CAT Previous Year Papers PDF?

Candidates preparing for CAT 2024 must solve CAT previous year papers after completing the syllabus to improve their chances of getting a good percentile. Candidates can easily download CAT previous year question papers by following the steps given below.

CAT Previous Year Papers Download

  • Click on any of the above-mentioned links for CAT previous year papers.

  • A new page displaying the CAT Question Paper in PDF format.

  • Download the CAT question papers with solutions and start practicing. 

Advantages of Solving Previous Year CAT Paper

The benefits of solving the CAT previous year question papers are enlisted here.

Benefits of Solving CAT Previous Year Papers

  • Solving CAT question paper PDFs from previous years is crucial among the key CAT 2024 preparation tips as they help one understand the exam pattern and structure of CAT. Candidates need not search for references in order to check the exam pattern if they are into a regular practice of solving CAT previous year papers.

  • By taking mock tests and solving previous year papers, candidates can understand how to use a calculator in CAT 2024.

  • It will also help candidates identify their weak sections of CAT. Once the areas are identified, candidates can work on them and improve their performance. This in a way also helps in the identification of easy and quick sections that can be dealt with first in the main paper.

  • Time management in terms of preparation can also be sorted out by solving the question papers of the past years, as it helps to find the strengths and weaknesses of the preparation, and this in return helps to set the time for better preparation and get solutions for CAT.

  • Try to solve as many CAT papers as possible as it will help you build self-confidence and inner strength, which is required at the time of examination.

  • Lastly, by practicing CAT old question papers, you will get an insight into CAT exam analysis 2024 that will be helpful in cracking the exam.

When to Start Practicing CAT Previous Year Question Papers?

It's best to begin practicing CAT previous year papers well ahead of time, preferably after finishing the syllabus and understanding the concepts clearly.

  • Start Early: Begin practicing CAT previous year papers well before the exam. Do this after finishing your studies and understanding the concepts.
  • Time Frame: Start solving CAT previous year question papers 2-3 months before the actual exam.
  • Weekly Assessment: Once you know the syllabus, try one paper per week to see how well you're doing.
  • Increased Practice: Closer to the exam, increase the frequency to 2-3 papers per week.
  • Check and Improve: Look at how you're doing, find your weak spots, and work on getting better.
  • Learn Approaches: Use previous year papers of CAT to understand how to approach different types of questions.
  • Simulate Exam: Practice previous year papers like you are in the actual exam to manage your time better.
  • Use PDFs: Get previous papers in PDF format for easy access and practice.
  • Variety Matters: Solve a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging papers to check if you're ready for everything.
  • Consistent Practice: Keep practicing CAT previous year papers until a few weeks before the exam for the best preparation.

How to Utilize Previous Papers to Get 100 Percentile in CAT 2024?

Preparing for CAT 2024 requires a systematic approach and utilization of various resources to enhance your chances of success. Here are some valuable preparation tips to consider:

  • Starting your CAT exam preparation early is crucial to cover the extensive syllabus and give yourself enough time for practice.
  • It's also essential to learn about the structure of the exam, including the number of sections and types of questions asked.
  • To gain knowledge about the difficulty level of the CAT exam, question types, and time management, practising online CAT papers is highly recommended.
  • After practising authentic CAT previous year papers, it's crucial to analyze your performance thoroughly, identify your weak areas, and make efforts to strengthen them.
  • Creating a comprehensive research plan, allotting sufficient time for each segment, and strictly following it are also essential.
  • To imitate exam conditions, enhance speed, and develop endurance, taking regular mock tests is highly recommended.
  • Devote some extra time to strengthen your weakest areas by practising more questions and, if required, enrolling in coaching classes or seeking guidance from mentors to get expert advice and strategies.
  • It's also essential to keep up with current affairs and topics that will be covered in the General Awareness section.
  • By routinely reading newspapers, articles, and editorials, you may improve your reading and comprehension skills.
  • To properly handle each component in the actual exam, practising time-bound solving is highly recommended

Who Can Benefit from CAT Previous Year Papers?

Students preparing for the CAT exam can significantly benefit from CAT previous year papers in the following ways:

  • Gain insights into the exam pattern, question types, and sectional distribution.
  • Improve time management skills by practicing under exam-like conditions.
  • Identify important topics and prioritize their preparation accordingly.
  • Assess their readiness and adapt to the exam's difficulty level.
  • Identify weak areas and work on improving problem-solving abilities.
  • Become familiar with the CAT format, including MCQ and non-MCQ questions.
  • Boost confidence and reduce exam-related stress and anxiety.
  • Verify answers and learn correct approaches through papers with solutions.
  • Track progress and set targets for improvement in preparation.

The CAT previous year papers serve as an invaluable resource for MBA aspirants, helping them ace the exam and secure admission to top-notch MBA programs. Regular practice with these papers strengthens their overall preparation and maximizes their chances of achieving a commendable CAT score.

CAT 2024 Sample Papers

CAT sample papers help understand the type and nature of questions that might be asked in the CAT exam 2024. Check out the CAT sample papers provided in the table below.

CAT Sample Paper

Download Link

CAT Sample Paper 1

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 2

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 3

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 4

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 5

Download PDF

CAT 2024 Mock Test

CAT 2024 mock test  are an essential aspect of exam preparation since they help one understand the exam pattern, syllabus, types of questions, etc. By taking mock tests, candidates can check their preparation level and work on their weaknesses. If you are preparing for CAT 2024, then click on the links below to attempt mock tests and boost your preparation.

CAT Mock Test

CAT Mock Test Link

CAT Mock Test 1

Attempt Here

CAT Mock Test 2

Attempt Here

CAT Mock Test 3

Attempt Here

CAT 2024 Question Paper Pattern

The CAT 2024 exam will have a total of 66 questions across three sections - Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Previously, the exam had a total of 100 questions, but in CAT 2020, this was reduced to 76, and further, it was reduced to 66 in CAT 2021. Check the section-wise CAT exam pattern 2024 provided below.

CAT Exam Pattern

CAT 2024 Section

Total Questions

Total MCQs

Total Non-MCQs

Time Limit

VARC

24

19

5

40 Minutes

DILR

20

15

5

40 Minutes

QA

22

14

8

40 Minutes

Total

66

48

18

120 Minutes

CAT Previous Year Papers - Changes in CAT Exam Pattern Over the Years

Take a look at the changes introduced in the CAT exam pattern over the years. 

Parameters

CAT 2023

CAT 2022

CAT 2021

CAT 2020

CAT 2019

Exam Mode

Online

Online

Online

Online

Online

Number of Shifts

3 Shifts

3 Shifts

3 Shifts

3 Shifts

2 Shifts

Time Duration

40 Minutes

40 Minutes

40 Minutes

40 Minutes

60 Minutes

Types of Questions

MCQ & TITA

MCQ & TITA

MCQ & TITA

MCQ & TITA

MCQ & TITA

Sections

VARC, DILR & QA

VARC, DILR & QA

VARC, DILR & QA

VARC, DILR & QA

VARC, DILR & QA

Number of Questions

66

66

66

76

100

Total Marks

198

198

198

228

300

How to Answer CAT 2024 Questions?

A combination of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and time management is required to solve CAT questions. Here are some strategies to help you answer CAT questions effectively:

  • Candidates are required to read the question carefully to understand its requirements and constraints. Determining the key information and the type of problem provided is also an essential part.
  • Dividing complex problems into smaller, manageable parts, and simplifying the problem step by step will help to solve questions effectively. 
  • Use the elimination method to eliminate options that are incorrect, if the question has multiple-choice answers. Your options are reduced as a result, improving the probability that you will choose the correct answer.
  • Make a reasonable assumption based on your comprehension of the question if you are unsure about an answer. Avoid making random guesses since CAT has negative markings.
  • Set time constraints for yourself during practice sessions. This prepares you for the time restrictions you'll encounter during the actual exam.
  • Start by answering the questions that you find easier. This gives you some extra confidence and allows time for subsequent, more difficult questions.
  • Learn and practice shortcut techniques for mathematical calculations and problem-solving. These techniques can save you valuable time.
  • Before reading the questions, just read through the passage to acquire a broad understanding. Identify the primary concepts, main points, and details that support them.
  • Concentrate on understanding the context, syntax, and logical flow of the text to complete sentences, identify errors, and improve reading comprehension.

Best CAT 2024 Coaching Institutes in India

Candidates preparing for CAT 2024 can check out the CAT 2024 coaching institutes in India in different cities provided in the table below.

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Mumbai 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Kolkata 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Bangalore 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Delhi NCR 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Madhya Pradesh 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Tamil Nadu 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Hyderabad 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Chennai 2024

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FAQs about CAT Question Papers

What is the purpose of CAT Previous Year Question Papers?

CAT Previous Year Question Papers help the candidates know about the type of questions as well as the number of questions that could be asked in the exam. It also gives an understanding of the exam pattern and the weightage given to each topic.

When should I start solving CAT previous year question papers?

According to experts, you should start solving CAT previous year question papers at least 30 days before the exam date. This strategic timing not only helps reduce anxiety for students appearing in the test but also significantly boosts their confidence by familiarizing them with the exam format and structure.

 

What are some of the benefits of solving CAT previous year question papers?

One of the benefits of solving CAT previous years’ question papers is that it helps in knowing the exam pattern of CAT. The question papers also help the candidates in knowing the time taken to solve the entire paper. Candidates can also solve the paper section-wise to estimate the time taken in each section. It will also help the candidates in knowing their strength and weaknesses in CAT.

How many questions were there in the VARC section of CAT 2023?

There were 18-21 MCQs and 5-8 Non-MCQs in the VARC section of CAT 2023. The total number of questions from this section was around 25-26. The main areas from where questions were asked are para jumbles, sentence correction and completion and summary based.

How many questions were there in the DILR section of CAT 2023?

There were 17-18 MCQs and 6-7 Non-MCQs in the DILR section of CAT 2023.  In the Logical Reasoning section, questions ranged from symbol operations, direction tests, etc. The questions were easy to solve. The Data Interpretation questions were complex and time-consuming. 

How many questions were there in the QA section of CAT 2023?

18-20 MCQ Questions and 6-8 Non-MCQ questions were asked in the QA section of CAT 2023. There was a total of 24-26 questions from the five main sections that are Basic Arithmetic, Algebra, Number System, Geometry & Mensuration and Modern Maths. The weightage given to arithmetic is generally the highest.

How many previous year CAT question papers need to be solved?

Students must try to practice at least the last ten papers of the previous year's CAT question papers. It is necessary to attempt maximum question papers in the last month before the exam. However, if you have more time, you can start solving the papers two months before the CAT.

Are previous year question papers enough for the preparation of CAT?

No, just solving the previous year question papers won't be enough for the preparation of CAT. You need to ensure that you have covered all the topics which are included in the CAT syllabus 2023 and also practice other mock papers before the exam.

In what medium will the CAT 2023 question paper be set?

The medium of the CAT 2024 question paper will be set in English. It's important for candidates to note that the paper will not be available in regional languages. Therefore, a strong command of the English language is essential for successfully taking the CAT exam.

 

Do I need to pay to download CAT previous year question papers?

No, you don’t need to download CAT previous year question papers. They are completely free of charge. You can access and download the papers in PDF format from the CollegeDekho website under the "CAT previous year question papers" section, saving them for your future reference.

 

Is CAT previous year paper available in PDF format?

Yes, CAT previous year papers are available in PDF format. Aspirants can access CAT previous year question papers with solutions, CAT exam previous year question paper, and CAT question paper with solution PDF. They can download CAT previous year paper PDF from above mentioned links for practice and preparation.

Should I solve CAT previous year papers in a systematic manner during my preparation?

Yes, you should solve CAT previous year papers in a systematic manner during your preparation. Analyzing questions from these papers, available in PDF format along with solutions, provides valuable insights into the exam pattern and enhances problem-solving skills, contributing to a more comprehensive CAT preparation.

 

Can CAT previous year papers help me identify my strengths and weaknesses?

Yes, CAT previous year papers can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Analyzing your performance in these papers, which are conveniently available in downloadable PDF format, aids in pinpointing specific areas that require improvement for a more targeted and effective preparation.

 

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