May 5, 2025
Overview: Geometry is a scoring topic of the the QA section of the CAT exam, testing spatial reasoning and logical thinking. To ace this section you need to have good hold on the CAT geometry formulas and theorems. Read the blog to know more about them!
In this blog, we will guide you through the essential 20+ CAT Geometry Formulas, break down their importance, and provide expert tips to enhance your preparation.
Additionally, we’ll recommend some of the best books for CAT Geometry that can further solidify your knowledge and ensure you’re well-prepared for the exam.
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The importance of CAT Geometry formulas lies in their critical role within the Quantitative Aptitude section of the exam. Geometry contributes a significant portion to this section, making it essential for candidates to understand and memorize key formulas. A solid grasp of these formulas allows aspirants to solve problems quickly and accurately, eliminating the need to derive them during the exam. This time-saving factor is crucial, as every second counts in CAT. Furthermore, many advanced questions in the exam are based on fundamental geometry concepts, making a strong foundation vital for solving more complex problems.
In addition to direct geometry problems, these formulas are often necessary for solving Data Interpretation sets, where spatial reasoning and geometric relationships are tested. The versatility of geometry formulas across various topics such as mensuration, coordinate geometry, and polygons makes them even more important for overall success.
A clear understanding of these formulas not only improves accuracy but also boosts candidates' confidence. With the ability to solve geometry-related questions swiftly and correctly, aspirants are well-equipped to achieve a higher score and improve their chances of securing a top percentile in the CAT exam.
The geometry topic consist of types of angles, including complementary, adjacent, obtuse, and right angles.
Angle Type |
Definition |
Acute Angle |
The angle is less than 90∘. |
Right Angle |
The angle is equal to 90∘. |
Obtuse Angle |
The angle that is greater than 90∘ but less than 180∘. |
Straight Angle |
The angle that is equal to 180∘. |
Reflex Angle |
The angle which is greater than 180∘ but less than 360∘. |
Complementary Angles |
Two angles, whose sum is 90∘, are complementary to each other. |
Supplementary Angles |
Two angles, whose sum is 180∘, are supplementary to each other. |
Adjacent Angles |
Adjacent angles must have a common side. |
Linear Pair |
One side must be common (e.g., OB), and these two angles must be supplementary (sum to 180∘). |
Angle Bisector |
A line segment that divides an angle equally into two parts and is equidistant from the two sides. |
Property 1: The sum of all the angles of a triangle = 180°
Property 2:The sum of the lengths of the two sides > the length of the third side
Property 3: The difference between any two sides of any triangle < length of the third side
Property 4:The area of any triangle can be found by using this formula:
Area of any triangle = 1/2 × base × perpendicular to base from the opposite vertex.
Check: How to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT exam
The list of important theorems of the Triangle includes:
Any line parallel to one side of a triangle divides the other two sides proportionally. So, if DE is drawn parallel to BC, then it would divide sides AB and AC proportionally.
Any line joining the mid-points of two adjacent sides of a triangle is joined by a line segment, and then this segment is parallel to the third side.
In a triangle, the sum of the squares of any two sides of a triangle is equal to twice the sum of the square of the median to the third side and the square of half the third side.
In a triangle, the angle bisector of an angle divides the opposite side to the angle in the ratio of the remaining two sides
In a triangle, the angle bisector of any exterior angle of a triangle divides the side opposite to the external angle in the ratio of the remaining two sides
Check: How to prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT
Key Properties and CAT geometry formulas of a Polygon
Interior and Exterior Angles: Interior Angle + Exterior Angle = 180°
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1. Parallelogram
2. Rectangle
3. Square
4. Rhombus
5. Trapezium (or Trapezoid)
6. Kite
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Here are the key formulas for Circles:
Concept |
Formula |
Area of Circle |
πr² |
Circumference |
2πr |
Arc Length |
(θ/360) × 2πr |
Sector Area |
(θ/360) × πr |
Find: Important Formulas for CAT 2025
The formula for different quadrilaterals includes the following
Shape |
Area Formula |
Square |
side² |
Rectangle |
length × breadth |
Parallelogram |
base × height |
Trapezium |
½ × (sum of parallel sides) × height |
Rhombus |
½ × d₁ × d₂ |
Check: Venn Diagram Practice Questions for CAT 2025
The different formulas for polygons include:
Concept |
Formula |
Sum of Interior Angles |
(n - 2) × 180° |
Each Interior Angle (regular) |
(n - 2) × 180° / n |
Area of a Regular Polygon |
½ × Perimeter × Apothem |
The important coordinate geometry formulas include:
Concept |
Formula |
Distance |
√[(x₂ - x₁)² + (y₂ - y₁)²] |
Midpoint |
((x₁ + x₂)/2 , (y₁ + y₂)/2) |
Slope |
(y₂ - y₁) / (x₂ - x₁) |
Section Formula |
(mx₂ + nx₁)/(m+n), (my₂ + ny₁)/(m+n) |
Click Here: Download CAT Arithmetic questions PDF with Solutions
Apart from the essential CAT geometry formulas, the candidates also need to learn the important theorems. Some of the key theorems you must know:
Theorem |
Explanation |
Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales) |
If a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle, it divides the other two sides proportionally. |
Angle Bisector Theorem |
The angle bisector of a triangle divides the opposite side in the ratio of the adjacent sides. |
Pythagoras Theorem |
Applies only in right-angled triangles. |
Similarity of Triangles |
If two triangles have corresponding angles equal, they are similar. |
Cyclic Quadrilateral |
Opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral are supplementary. |
Tangents from a Point |
The tangents drawn from an external point to a circle are equal in length. |
Know more: CAT DILR Syllabus Overview
Conclusion
Geometry might seem a bit tricky at first with all the shapes, lines, and formulas. But don't worry! It's all about understanding the basic formulas and theorems and practising regularly. Remember, every shape has a story, and each formula helps you solve a piece of the puzzle.
So, take your time, learn those key CAT geometry formulas and theorems, and don't be afraid to draw diagrams.
With a little bit of practice and confidence, you'll find that geometry can actually be one of the most interesting and score-boosting parts of the CAT exam. Grab those geometry notes, keep practising, and get ready to ace those questions!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important geometry formulas to remember for CAT?
Are geometry questions in CAT difficult?
How many geometry questions are asked in CAT?
What are some tips to solve CAT geometry questions faster?
Are coordinate geometry questions common in CAT?
Where can I find a complete list of CAT Geometry Formulas for revision?
Are there any shortcut techniques for applying CAT Geometry Formulas in the exam?