CAT Syllabus 2024 PDF - Download PDF for QA/ VARC/ DILR Syllabus & Weightage

Updated By Shivangi Ahirwar on 28 Nov, 2023 18:09

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CAT Syllabus 2024

The syllabus for CAT 2024 exam includes Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The CAT VARC section covers a wide range of English Grammar, Verbal Reasoning, and Critical Reading discussions. The QA segment of the CAT 2024 exam syllabus for MBA covers basic Mathematical concepts and topics, including Arithmetic, Geometry, Quadratic Equations, Coordinate Geometry, and Mensuration. The DILR section of the CAT syllabus 2024 includes topics such as Pie Charts, Puzzles, Tables, and Bar Graphs that necessitate quantitative analysis of data.

The CAT syllabus is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude and preparedness for pursuing management education. It encompasses various topics and concepts that are relevant to business and management studies. The IIMs do not have a fixed CAT exam syllabus 2024, thus there is no official syllabus, but the questions are mostly based on basic English and Maths topics. The syllabus for CAT 2024 can be considered similar to that of the CAT 2023 exam since no major changes have been announced. We have provided below a detailed CAT syllabus 2024 and weightage of the topics from each section as well as the CAT exam syllabus PDF. Candidates preparing for the CAT exam for MBA need to study and download PDF of the given syllabus thoroughly to crack the test.

Also Read:

Important Topics for CAT 2024

How to Approach CAT 2024 Question Paper?

Importance of CAT 2024 Mock Test

What is a Good CAT 2023 Percentile/ Score?

CAT Toppers List 2023

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CAT Syllabus 2024: Highlights

Check out the major highlights of the syllabus for the CAT exam 2024 provided below.

Particulars

Details

No. of Sections

Three;

  • Quantitative Ability
  • Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

No. of Questions

  • Quantitative Ability: 22
  • Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation: 20
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension: 24
  • Total: 66

QA Important Topics

Arithmetic, Algebra, Modern Maths, Number System, Geometry & Mensuration, etc.

DILR Important Topics

Seating Arrangement, Blood Relation, Syllogism, Tables, Graphs, Data Caselets, etc.

VARC Important Topics

Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, etc.

Time Allotted for Each Section

40 Minutes (53 Minutes & 20 Seconds for PwD Candidates)

Total Marks

198

CAT 2024 Syllabus Download PDF

Candidates must have all the necessary and correct information when preparing for the exam. The CAT 2024 syllabus is expansive and any mistake in the preparation can lead to disastrous results in their CAT score and overall performance. Candidates must conduct thorough research and cross-reference the information to ensure the accuracy of the syllabus topics they are studying. The MBA experts at CollegeDekho have prepared the PDF of CAT syllabus, which is a reliable source. You can take a look by visiting the direct link below!

CAT 2024 Syllabus PDF Download

Latest Changes in CAT Syllabus and Exam Pattern

The CAT syllabus has witnessed modifications over time. However, the CAT 2024 Syllabus remains unaltered, offering consistency and familiarity to aspirants. This unchanging syllabus assures candidates that their preparation efforts align seamlessly with the anticipated paper pattern. However, you can check the table below to learn about changes in the CAT exam syllabus and exam pattern:

Particulars

Changes in 2014 - 2019

Changes in 2020

Changes in 2021 - Present

Total Number of Questions

Increased to 100 from 60

Reduced to 76 from 100

Reduced to 66 from 76

Raw Score

Increased to 300 from 180

Reduced to 228 from 300

Reduced to 198 from 228

Exam Structure

DI merged with LR instead of QA

No Major Change

No Major Change

Total Number of VARC Questions

Increased to 34

Reduced to 26 from 34

Reduced to 24 from 26

Total Number of DILR Questions

Increased to 32

Reduced to 24 from 32

Reduced to 20 from 24

Total Number of QA Questions

Increased to 34

Reduced to 26 from 34

Reduced to 22 from 26

Exam Duration

  • Increased to 170 Minutes from 140 Minutes in 2014
  • Increased to 180 Minutes from 170 Minutes in 2015

Reduced to 120 Minutes from 180 Minutes

No Major Change

Top Management Colleges :

CAT Syllabus 2024: Section-wise Weightage

CAT syllabus comprises three major sections, namely Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. The number of questions asked from each section and sub-section is different every year. However, as per the previous year trends, the weightage of each topic in the CAT 2024 syllabus can be estimated. Check the table below for the section-wise CAT major topics.

CAT Syllabus 2023: Section-wise Weightage

Section

Total Weightage

Verbal Ability

10%

Data Interpretation

16%

Quantitative Aptitude

34%

Reading Comprehension

24%

Logical Reasoning

16%

CAT Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Weightage

For CAT 2024, the weightage of Verbal Ability section is estimated to be 10%, while Reading Comprehension may cover 24%. This section will have 24 questions out of which 5 questions will be non-MCQs (TITA-type questions). The RC passages cover 65-70% of the VARC section.

CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Weightage

The weightage of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning is expected to be 16% each. The total number of questions will be 20, out of which 6 may be non-MCQs (TITA-type questions). The Data Interpretation section comprises 3-4 sets.

CAT 2024 Quantitative Aptitude Weightage

The Quantitative Aptitude section will have the highest weightage among the other sections, which will be 34%. The total number of questions will be 22 out of which 7 will be non-MCQs. Arithmetic and Algebra have the highest weightage in this section.

CAT VARC Syllabus 2024 - Important Topics for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

VARC is the first section in CAT exam and has to be attempted first. The CAT syllabus 2024 for VARC is divided into 2 subparts - VA and RC (Verbal Abilty & Reading Comprehension). The sectional time limit for the VARC section of CAT is 40 minutes. The detailed topics in CAT VARC Syllabus 2024 can be checked below.

Fact Inference Judgement

Grammar

Fill in the blanks

Para Completion and Inference

Para Jumble

Sentence Completion

Verbal Reasoning

Word Usage (Vocabulary)

Idioms

Analogies

Syllogisms

Reading Comprehension

Sentence Correction

Contextual Usage

Verbal Logic

Different Usage of the Same Word

Antonyms

One-word Substitution

Foreign Language Words Used in English

Types of Clauses

CAT Syllabus 2024 VARC Section Important Topics

  • Reading Comprehension (Economics, Philosophy, History, Sociology, Politics, Literature, Science, Arts, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Psychology or other fields)
  • Para Jumbles
  • Para Summary
  • Odd One Out
  • Para Completion
  • Fill in the Blanks
  • Verbal Logic

CAT 2024 Verbal Ability (VA) Key Points 

  • There are 8 questions.
  • No negative marking in VA.
  • All questions are non-MCQs, and candidates must type in the answer (TITA).
  • This section includes para-jumbles, error correction in a para, vocabulary usage, context sentence in a paragraph, analogies, sentence completion, and critical reasoning.

CAT 2024 Syllabus - Reading Comprehension (RC) Key Points

  • Negative marking of -1 as questions are MCQs.
  • This section in the CAT includes a mix of RC passages and will have 3-4 long with 2-3 short passages. Long passages will have 900 words usually, and short will have 600 words usually.
  • The subjects in CAT for RC will cover politics, history, society, literature, science, environment, abstract, and mythology.

CAT Reading Comprehension Passage Topics of Previous Years

Aspirants must be well-versed in reading comprehension, as it constitutes a significant portion of the CAT VARC section and the entire question paper. Though the Reading Comprehension passages are usually not repeated, candidates should practice them from the previous year's exam to gain a better understanding. To assist in the preparation, the following are the topics of the RC passages from the past few years of the CAT exam:

CAT Exam Slot

CAT 2022

CAT 2021

CAT 2020

CAT 2019

CAT Slot 1

  • STOICS
  • Ghosts & their mysteries how we can’t find their history
  • Two levels of emotional thinking
  • Chinese Copy of articles
  • Mayan Civilization
  • Evolution of Tea as a Drink
  • Marshmallow Experiment
  • Utopia and Dystopia
  • Migration of Northern Seals
  • Grammar/Vocabulary
  • Anarchism
  • Currency of Tang Dynasty
  • Origin of Story of Alladin
  • Topophilia
  • Internet Shopping and Choice Anxiety
  • British Folk Music
  • Emperor Penguins

CAT Slot 2

  • Philosophy
  • Octopus
  • Engineering Technology
  • Music
  • Language/ Indigenous People
  • Knowledge and Problems of Knowledge is a Scandal to Philosophy
  • Why Fiction Trumps Truth
  • Colonialism/Nationalism
  • Investing in Renewable Energy Technologies
  • A Study of Visualisation
  • Piracy in International Trade
  • Freudian Models of Aggression
  • Distributing Bureaucracy
  • British Colonial Policy
  • Google and Archaeology
  • Language & Culture
  • Dense Cities

CAT Slot 3

  • Indian history
  • American migration/urbanization increasing
  • Social reorganization increasing crime rate
  • Time Accuracy Entropy
  • Nanotechnology
  • Unconscious and Psychoanalysis
  • Language Instinct
  • The Need for Economic Literacy in the General Population
  • Travel Writing and Feminism During Colonial Times
  • Screen Time and Undercurrents of Social Class
  • An Analysis of Human Nature

-

CAT DILR Syllabus 2024: Important Topics for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

CAT LRDI is the second section of the exam which has to be solved after the VARC section. The sectional time limit for this is 40 minutes. Candidates can find the important topics in CAT LRDI Syllabus 2024 below:

Section

CAT DILR Syllabus 2024

Data Interpretation

Bar Graph, Combination of Graphs, Caselet, Data Sufficiency, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Tables, etc.

Logical Reasoning 

Assumptions, Blood Relations, Binary Logic, Clocks and Calendars, Constraint-based puzzles, Data Arrangement, Family Tree, Matching Puzzles, Propositions, Statements, Seating Arrangement, Sets, Syllogism, Venn Diagram

CAT Syllabus 2024 - DILR Important Topics

  • Data Arrangement
  • Tables
  • Pie Charts
  • Seating Arrangement
  • Sets & Caselets
  • Bars & Line Graphs
  • Data Sufficiency
  • Blood Relations

CAT 2024 Data Interpretation (DI) Key Points 

  • The number of questions asked in Data Interpretation for CAT is 8.
  • It comprises both MCQ and non-MCQ-type questions.
  • The number of MCQs and non-MCQs can vary.
  • There is a negative marking for MCQs and no negative marking for non-MCQs.

CAT 2024 Syllabus - Logical Reasoning (LR) Key Points 

  • The number of questions asked in LR is also 12.
  • LR includes MCQs and non-MCQs, and the number of questions for both can vary. 
  • There is no negative marking for non-MCQs.
  • There is a negative marking for MCQs.

CAT QA Syllabus 2024: Important Topics for Quantitative Aptitude

The Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT exam has to be attempted in the last hour of the exam. Take a look at some of the important topics in CAT Quant Syllabus 2024.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Topics 

Sub Topics

Arithmetic

Number System, HCF, LCM, Ratio & Proportion, Simplification, Percentage, Average, Age Calculation, Time & Work, Distances

Algebra

Theory of Equations, Quadratic Equation, Permutation & Combination, Sequence & Series

Geometry

Angles, Lines, Triangles, Circles

Mensuration

Areas and Volumes – Rectangles, Squares, Triangles, Circles, Cubes, Cones, Spheres, Pipes and Cistern

Calculus

Maxima and Minima, Function

Trigonometry

Trigonometric Ratios, Heights, and Distances

CAT 2024 Syllabus - QA Important Topics

  • Number System
  • Time-Speed-Distance
  • Work and Time
  • Geometry
  • Mensuration
  • Algebra
  • Ratios and Proportion

CAT 2024 Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Key Points

  • It has MCQ as well as non-MCQ questions.
  • The number of MCQs and non-MCQs varies every year in the CAT exam.
  • According to past trends, the number of MCQs in this section range between 15-17, and non-MCQs range between 3-5.
  • For MCQs, there is a negative marking.
  • For non-MCQs, there is no negative marking.

Also Read:

Stress Management During CAT Preparation 2024

How to Start CAT Preparation 2024 from Scratch

Common Mistakes to Avoid During CAT Preparation

CAT Preparation Tips for Non Engineering Students

CAT 2024 Syllabus: Topic-Wise Weightage of QA/ VARC/ DILR

Candidates can check the section-wise weightage of topics in CAT syllabus 2024 available here. The following information is based on previous year trends and is a general assumption of the CAT 2024 question paper for the candidate's reference only.

QA Topics Weightage

In the QA section, there are a few topics like Arithmetic and Algebra which are extremely important and asked every year. A total of 22 questions are asked out of which 7 are non-MCQs. Take a look at the most important topics in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude along with their weightage and difficulty level.

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage %

Difficulty Level (as per 2022 Question Paper)

Number System

2

9

Moderate

Algebra

6

28

Moderate to Difficult

Arithmetic

8

36

Easy to Moderate

Modern Mathematics

2

9

Moderate

Geometry & Mensuration

4

18

Moderate to Difficult

CA QA Topic-wise Weightage

DILR Topics Weightage

The CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation is about Graphs, Tables, Charts, and Series which require good calculation skills. The section comprises 20 questions out of which 6 are TITA-based questions. Check the topic-wise distribution of the DILR section based on data from the past few years:

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage %

Difficulty Level (as per 2022 Question Paper)

Bar Graphs

4

20

Moderate

Pie Charts

2

10

Moderate

Table Based

10

50

Easy to Moderate

Combination of Graphs

4

20

Easy to Moderate

Data Arrangement

6

30

Moderate to Difficult

Games and Tournaments

4

20

Easy to Moderate

Logic-Based

6

30

Easy to Moderate

CAT DILR Topic-wise Weightage

VARC Topics Weightage

The CAT VARC section assesses a candidate's English Grammar skills. A total of 24 questions are asked out of which 5 are non-MCQs. 66% of the total questions are from the Reading Comprehension part. Some of the important topics for the VARC section along with their weightage and difficulty level are given below:

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage %

Difficulty Level (as per 2022 Question Paper)

Reading Comprehension

16

68

Moderate to Difficult

Odd Sentences

1

4

Easy to Moderate

Para Jumbles

3

12

Moderate

Para Completion/Para Summary

3

12

Moderate

Others: Sentence Correction, Word Usage, Fill in the Blanks, etc.)

1

4

Moderate

CAT VARC Topic-wise Weightage

Note: The number of questions mentioned against each topic is tentative.

How to Cover CAT 2024 Syllabus for MBA

If you adhere to the strategies provided below, you may be able to cover the most important segments of the CAT syllabus 2024 for MBA:

How to Cover CAT Syllabus 2023

  • First of all, become acquainted with the CAT syllabus 2024. Quantitative Ability (QA), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) are the three main sections of the CAT syllabus that should be divided into separate segments for effective preparation of the candidates. Prepare for each section by making a list of the topics that will be covered and begin your preparation.
  • Depending on the time available for the CAT 2024 exam, develop a detailed study plan that allocated specific time slots for each section and topic.
  • Begin your preparation by making the basic concepts clear and building a strong foundation. Understanding the fundamental principles in quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning is essential to perform efficiently in the CAT 2024 exam. The best CAT 2024 books, online platforms, and coaching materials will help the candidates cover the CAT syllabus 2024 effectively. 
  • Make mock tests a significant part of your preparation strategy. Take a CAT mock test to gauge your level of preparation at the beginning of your preparation. Try to take a mock exam every two weeks to develop the habit of solving questions; don't wait until the CAT syllabus 2024 is finished. Appear for full-length mock tests or practise more and more questions from each CAT section to assess your strengths and weaknesses. In this way, you will be able to evaluate which areas require additional attention.
  • Focus on improving your speed and accuracy by solving more questions under time constraints and developing effective time management skills. 

Important Points About Syllabus for CAT 2024 Exam

When preparing for the CAT exam, every candidate must stay informed about the CAT syllabus due to various reasons mentioned below.

  • Through the latest syllabus, candidates will get an idea of all the major topics asked in the CAT exam.

  • The CAT syllabus 2024 PDF will also determine the difficulty level of the question paper.

  • It will also highlight the current structure of the CAT 2024 exam and the guidelines.

  • The syllabus for the CAT 2024 mock test will be the same as the CAT syllabus.

  • If you download the CAT syllabus PDF, you will know the past trends.

  • The CAT exam syllabus 2024 may differ from the previous year. Therefore, the aspirants must only refer to the updated syllabus.

How to Prepare for Different Parts of the CAT Syllabus?

CAT is an exam that is taken by over 2.5 lakh candidates every year. Students must make sure they know how to prepare for the CAT exam effectively if they wish to achieve a high score in the exam. The CAT 2024 syllabus is divided into three broad categories and each of these categories requires different approaches during exam preparation. Check out the CAT 2024 preparation tips for all three sections of the CAT syllabus mentioned below.

Section

Preparation Tips

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

The VARC section can be an easy and high-scoring section of the exam if the candidate prepares for it well. However, aspirants often neglect this section and consider it to be easier than it is, which leads to a lack of performance. That being said, here's how to prepare for CAT VARC section:

  • While answering questions and passages, candidates are required to to select the ones with which they are most familiar. Avoid questions requiring critical thinking if you are competent in dealing with factual information.
  • Since the Reading Comprehension section makes up the majority of the VARC component, it is imperative that you practice reading rapidly. You should read fact-rich books, novels, journals, and reports to improve your understanding of what you are reading.
  • The most effective resource for verbal ability preparation is CAT sample papers. Practice answering a wide range of questions in order to become competent in verbal ability.

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning is by far the toughest CAT section and has been for the last two years. Since there is no defined syllabus for CAT DILR, it is challenging to prepare for this portion of the exam. Nevertheless, take a look at the pointers below to understand how to prepare for CAT DILR section:

  • Numerous calculations are carried out in the DILR section. You must increase your calculation speed and accuracy as well as your ability to decode patterns and spot small details. There are times when the calculations become confusing and you need to know the right method. Practise more and more tables, graphs, charts, and series.
  • Regular practice is the key to prepare for the DILR section. You should treat mock tests with the same seriousness as the CAT. You can learn how to approach a paper, what to solve, what to skip, and what strategies to implement by taking mock tests. It is ideal for you to take one mock test per week while you are getting prepared.
  • A candidate's ability to read charts quickly can help them do better on the DILR section of the CAT. Reading through the topics in this section several times is advised because it's common to misunderstand complex reasoning questions.

Quantitative Aptitude

Quantitative Aptitude can be a scoring component of the CAT exam if candidates are well-versed in the topics and concepts included in this section. Since QA mostly focuses on mathematical concepts taught at the school level, candidates should not find it difficult to prepare for this section. Check out below how to prepare for CAT QA section:

  • It is critical to boost problem-solving skills and increase calculation speed. At this point, it is possible to examine the various tips and techniques to determine which ones are effective for the candidate and which ones should be avoided.
  • Once the fundamentals have been clear, utilize the NCERT books for Classes 10 and 12 to practice the level of questions asked in the CAT exam in order to advance your preparation to the next level. The candidate should appear for as many mocks as possible in the final phase. 
  • Understanding the equivalents of fractions up to 25%, cubes up to 20, and tables up to 40 can help speed up complex calculations. Additionally, it is crucial to memorize as many of the significant formulas as possible to solve a significant number of questions in CAT 2024. 

Comparison of CAT Syllabus 2022 vs 2021 vs 2020

Since there is no fixed syllabus for CAT 2024 exam, the number of questions asked from the important topics varies each year. Thus, it's crucial for candidates to not leave anything out and prepare for all the important topics. Check the CAT syllabus comparison of each section over the years provided below.

CAT QA Syllabus Comparison 2022 vs 2021 vs 2020

The QA section is dominated by Arithmetic and Algebra every year; however, the number of questions varies. Take a look at the comparison of Quant topics over the past three years.

CAT QA Topics

CAT 2022

CAT 2021

CAT 2020

Arithmetic

8-9

7-10

10

Algebra

4-9

6-8

6-8

Geometry & Mensuration

3-4

3-5

5-6

Number System

1-3

1-2

2-3

Modern Math

0-3

1

0-2

Overall

22

22

26

CAT VARC Syllabus Comparison 2022 vs 2021 vs 2020

Parasummary, Parajumbles, and odd-sentence out are some of the important topics from the CAT Verbal ability part. The Reading Comprehension holds a greater weightage and the passages vary each year. Check the VARC syllabus comparison for the last three years provided in the table below.

CAT VARC Topics

CAT 2022

CAT 2021

CAT 2020

Reading Comprehension

16

16

18

Para Jumbles

3

3

3

Para Summary

3

3

3

Odd Sentence Out/ Para Completion

2

2

2

Overall

24

24

26

CAT DILR Syllabus Comparison 2022 vs 2021 vs 2020

Check the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning syllabus comparison for the last three years provided in the table below.

CAT DILR Topics 2022

CAT DILR Topics 2021

CAT DILR Topics 2020

Drivers and Ratings - 4

Smoothies- DI - 4Token - 5

Students and Exams - 6

Bar Graph - 4University Team - 5

Set on Patients - 4

Arrangement - Researchers, Publishing - 615 girls get together - 5

Institutes  Vendors - 6

Arrangement - Friends, Strangers, Acquaintances - 6Metrolines - 5

Set on Musicians - 4

--

CAT Exam Pattern 2024

The exam pattern for CAT has undergone several changes over the last few years. Take a look at the CAT 2024 exam pattern mentioned below:

CAT Exam Pattern 2024

  • The CAT 2024 exam will be a computer-based test that will be conducted across multiple test centres across the country.
  • The total duration of the CAT exam 2024 is 120 minutes or 2 hours. The sectional time limit is 40 minutes per section. For PwD candidates, there will be an additional 13 minutes and 20 seconds per section.
  • There will be a total of 66 questions divided into three sections - Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
  • The total marks on the CAT exam is 198. Each question carries 3 marks and there is a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer. Candidates will not be penalized for unattempted questions.
  • The question paper will have both MCQ and non-MCQ type questions. There will be no negative marking for Non-MCQ questions.
  • Each MCQ question will have four options.
  • The language medium of the question paper will be English.

Previous Year CAT Question Papers

To prepare for the exam effectively, candidates must incorporate every possible resource available to them. CAT previous year question papers are one of the most vital preparation resources available to aspirants. Here are some CAT question papers you must solve to boost exam preparation

CAT Question Paper PDF 2017-22

CAT 2022 Question Paper

CAT 2021 Question Paper

CAT 2020 Question Paper

CAT 2019 Question Paper

CAT 2018 Question Paper

CAT 2017 Question Paper

It is often recommended by both toppers and experts that the previous year CAT papers should be practiced rigorously to achieve a high score. Some of the biggest advantages of practicing previous year papers are as follows:

  • Candidates can significantly improve their time management skills if they practice previous year question papers for CAT regularly and focus on exam analysis.

  • Candidates will gain a clear idea of how to exam pattern of CAT has changed over the year and how they should plan their preparation accordingly.

  • Previous year CAT questions will also help aspirants gain a better understanding of the type of questions asked in the exam.

  • Candidates will be able to improve their examination strategy by incorporating changes based on CAT papers of previous years.

  • Candidates will also become more accustomed to solving questions in a manner that is similar to the CAT exam if they practice CAT past year papers on a daily basis.

Best Books for CAT Preparation 2024

A crucial component of your preparation is reading the top books for CAT preparation in 2024. All of the chapters and topics necessary for thorough preparation are included in CAT 2024 best books. Additionally, in order for candidates to score well on the exam, the CAT books consist of important shortcut tricks and formulas. Aspirants should always study from the most recent book editions for the most up-to-date CAT study material. That being said, we have mentioned some of the best CAT books available for preparation below:

CAT 2024 Sections

Best Books

Quantitative Aptitude

  • Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Nishit K. Sinha
  • Arun Sharma's How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT
  • NCERT Mathematics books for Class 8, 9 & 10
  • Sarvesh K Verma's Quantum CAT

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

  • Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay's How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension by Arihant Publication
  • The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning by Nishit Sinha
  • R.S. Aggarwal's A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

  • Arun Sharma's How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for CAT
  • Nishit K. Sinha's Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT
  • Class 11 and 12 NCERT Books
  • Word Power Made Easy by NORMAN LEWIS

Other important books include:

  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri
  • Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by  Ananta Ashisha
  • 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary Mass Market Paperback – Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/ Simon & Schuster
  • How to Prepare for Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability for the CAT – Sharma and Upadhyay
  • CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning – Gautam Puri

Best Coaching Institutes for CAT 2024

Candidates must cover the entire CAT syllabus 2024 in order to succeed in the exam and get into one of the top B-schools in the country. Among the best ways to do that is by enrolling in the best CAT coaching institutes. Check out some of the best CAT coaching institutes 2024 below:

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Kolkata 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Madhya Pradesh 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Bangalore 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Delhi NCR 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Tamil Nadu 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Hyderabad 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Chennai 2024

Best CAT Coaching Institutes in Mumbai 2024

Want to know more about CAT

FAQs about CAT Syllabus

Is the CAT syllabus same every year?

CAT syllabus has almost been the same for almost 10 years. The only change in the CAT exam syllabus for IIM is the decrease in the number of questions, which has decreased from 100 to 66 in the last 2 years.

When should I start preparing for the CAT 2024?

Since CAT 2024 will be held on November 24, 2024, the recommended time to begin CAT preparation is from February or March onwards. The CAT exam 2024 is the doorway to India's top B-Schools, the IIMs, and over 1000 other MBA colleges.

Is one year enough for completing the CAT syllabus 2024?

There is no specified time limit for completing the CAT syllabus 2024. Each applicant has a different threshold and can complete the syllabus at their own pace. However, if you work hard and study regularly for the CAT exam in 2024, one year is sufficient time.

Can I cover CAT syllabus in 3 months?

Yes, even though it appears to be a difficult task, it is possible to cover the CAT syllabus in 90 days. Whether or not you pass the CAT is determined not by the amount of time you have available, but by how effectively and strategically you use that time. Start with a mock test to evaluate where you stand in terms of preparation. Take a target of 2 weeks and cover all the basics of Quantitative Aptitude.

Can I complete the CAT syllabus in 6 months without coaching?

Yes, one can complete the CAT syllabus in 6 months without coaching. It is possible to prepare for and complete the official CAT syllabus without any form of tutoring. If you study diligently, you will easily complete the CAT syllabus on time. Strengthen the foundational concepts, appear for more and more mock tests, analyze your performance, and try to improve your areas of weakness.

Which CAT section has the highest weightage?

Quantitative Aptitude, abbreviated as QA, has the highest weightage in the CAT exam. The section has a 34% weightage and is frequently time-consuming. The QA section has TITA (Type in the Answer) type questions, which can cause additional difficulties for CAT candidates. 

Is the CAT 2024 syllabus difficult?

Overall, the CAT exam has a moderate difficulty level. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is expected to be moderate to difficult, the Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) section will be difficult, and the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section will be easy to moderate. However, covering the CAT 2024 syllabus can become easy for those who begin their study early and practice all three sections. You can easily pass the CAT 2024 if you plan ahead of time. 

What are tips for preparing for CAT syllabus 2024?

It is crucial to create a well-structured study plan that allocates time to each section. Candidates must also focus on building a strong foundation in basic concepts, especially in the quantitative and logical reasoning sections. In order to improve speed and accuracy, practising time-bound mock tests is essential. Here are some other tips to help CAT candidates prepare for the CAT syllabus 2024:

  • Understand the CAT syllabus and exam pattern
  • Acquire the habit of reading
  • Familiarise yourself with equations and Maths calculations
  • Practice mocks and previous year papers

What is the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus for 2024?

The CAT Quant syllabus 2024 covers all about mathematics that one learns in school. The following are some of the important subjects covered in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude:

  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
  • Numbers
  • Geometry
  • Trigonometry
  • Sequences and Series

What is the CAT DILR syllabus for 2024?

The following is the CAT DILR syllabus for 2024:

  • Data Interpretation: Bar Graph, Combination of Graphs, Caselet, Data Sufficiency, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Tables, etc.
  • Logical Reasoning: Assumptions, Blood Relations, Binary Logic, Clocks and Calendars, Constraint-based puzzles, Data Arrangement, Family Tree, Matching Puzzles, Propositions, Statements, Seating Arrangement, Sets, Syllogism, Venn Diagram

What is CAT 2024 VARC syllabus?

The CAT 2024 VARC section focuses on topics of English such as grammar, reading comprehension, inferences, and verbal reasoning. The CAT VARC syllabus includes topics like Reading Comprehension (Economics, Philosophy, History, Sociology, Politics, Literature, Science, Arts, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Psychology, or other fields), Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, Fill in the Blanks, Verbal Logic. The questions based on Reading Comprehension are generally fact-based and inferential.

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