Updated By Tiyasa Khanra on 14 Jan, 2026 14:35
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The MAT 2024 Mathematical Skills syllabus includes topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Fundamental Statistics. The section assesses a candidate's proficiency in quantitative aptitude and numerical problem-solving. AIMA provides the MAT 2026 syllabus and MAT 2026 exam pattern in its official notification. To prepare effectively, candidates should review these elements, including the key topics, marking scheme, sectional weightage, and question types, particularly in the Mathematical Skills section. The MAT exam consists of five sections: Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Economic and Business Environment. The Mathematical Skills topics are uniform across all MAT formats — IBT, PBT, and CBT. To excel, candidates should utilize the latest MAT Language Comprehension details outlined below for the upcoming exam sessions.
The Intelligence and Critical Reasoning section of the MAT syllabus encompasses a wide range of topics that test logical thinking, analytical skills, and decision-making abilities. Familiarizing yourself with these topics and practicing extensively with sample and mock questions is crucial for success in this section. Below is a comprehensive list of topics included in the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning.
MAT 2026 Section | Key Topics |
|---|---|
MAT Mathematical Skills Syllabus |
|
Some of the top shortcut techniques for MAT Mathematical Skills are given below.
Shortcuts for Arithmetic
Vedic Maths should be applied for rapid calculations.
Percentage Change: Use (a + b + a*b/100)% for successive increases/ decreases.
Profit/ Loss: Quick ratio: CP:SP = 100 : (100 + profit%) or (100 - loss%).
Time-Speed-Distance: Relative speed = sum (same direction) or difference (opposite); avg speed = 2ab/(a+b).
Algebra & Number Shortcuts
You are required to simplify equations and series.
Quadratic Factorization: For x² + (a+b)x + ab = (x+a)(x+b); check discriminant for roots.
Series Sum: AP sum = n/2 [2a + (n-1)d]; GP = a(r^n -1)/(r-1).
HCF/LCM: Product = HCF * LCM; prime factorization for quick LCM.
DI & Geometry Tips
You should master visualization for faster DI and learn formulas for mensuration.
DI Estimation: Round off data; use approximation (e.g., 48% ≈ 50%) for options.
Area/ Volume: Equilateral triangle area = (√3/4)s²; cylinder volume = πr²h.
Practising 50 problems daily from RS Aggarwal or Tyra's Magical Book is crucial.
Arithmetic and basic algebra are the core areas from which questions will be asked in the MAT Mathematical Skills 2026 section.
The anticipated number of questions from the Arithmetic section is between 15 and 20, all of moderate difficulty. The MAT Mathematical Skills section will include a total of 40 questions, with each question carrying 1 mark. This section carries significant weight in the overall exam, with each question contributing equally to the total score. The table below provides details about the section weightage, including the number of questions and total marks allocated to the Mathematical Skills section of the MAT syllabus.
Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
Mathematical Skills Syllabus | 40 | 40 |
The difficulty level of the MAT 2026 Mathematical Skills section is moderate. Quantitative Aptitude of Class 10-12 level will be asked with 30 questions that can answered effectively by improving speed and accuracy. 40% questions will be asked from Arithmetic, followed by 30% questions from Algebra and Geometry each. Solve at least 50 questions daily to enhance your speed. There will be a sectional time limit of 40 minutes.
The MAT Mathematical Skills section is regarded as one of the most challenging parts of the MAT exam due to its extensive syllabus and the high difficulty level of the questions. The books listed below are recommended for comprehensive preparation, covering various topics and providing strategies for solving problems efficiently. These resources are suitable for exams like CAT, MAT, and other competitive tests. The table below presents a selection of popular Quantitative Aptitude books along with their authors.
Book Title | Author |
|---|---|
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | RS Aggarwal |
Quantum CAT | S K Verma |
Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Nishit K Sinha |
Speed Mathematics: Do it Quick, Do it Right | Rajesh Kumar Thakur |
Magical Book on Quicker Maths | M. Tyra |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
MAT 23 Years Topic-wise Solved Papers (1997-2019) | Agarwal Deepak |
Vedic Mathematics Made Easy | Dr Shastri Ramnandan |
Weapons of Math Destruction | O'Neil Cathy |
Data Interpretation for the MAT Mathematical Skills section will be thoroughly covered in the following books:
To excel in the Mathematical Skills section of MAT 2026, candidates need a solid preparation strategy. This section tests a wide range of quantitative aptitude topics, and it’s essential to have clarity on concepts, formulas, and time management techniques to perform well. Below are some effective preparation tips for tackling the Mathematical Skills section of MAT 2026.
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