CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers PDF Download

Q: What is the weightage of the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section in the CAT exam?

The CAT exam comprises three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA. Typically, each section has equal weightage. However, the exact number of questions might vary year-to-year. Historically, the QA section has had around 24-34 questions.

Q: Are there negative marks for incorrect answers in the QA section?

Yes, for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) in the QA section, there's a negative marking for incorrect answers. However, Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions do not carry negative marks for wrong answers.

Q: Which topics in the QA section are generally considered the most scoring?

While the scoring potential varies based on an individual's strengths and preparation, topics like Arithmetic and Number Systems are often considered foundational and scoring. However, it's essential to be well-prepared across all topics to maximize scores.

Q: How much time should I allocate to the QA section during my preparation?

It's advisable to dedicate a significant portion of your exam preparation time to QA since it requires both conceptual understanding and practice. Depending on your proficiency, you might spend 1-3 hours daily focusing solely on QA.

Q: Is it advisable to guess answers in the QA section?

For MCQs, there's a penalty for incorrect answers. Hence, wild guesses are not advisable. However, if you can eliminate some options and make an educated guess, it might be worth the risk.

Q: What types of CAT Exam Quantitative Aptitude Questions are included in the CAT exam section?

The Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT exam includes questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and data interpretation, all requiring strong problem-solving skills.

Q: How can I prepare for the CAT Exam Quantitative Aptitude Questions of the CAT exam?

To prepare effectively for Quantitative Aptitude, focus on practicing problems from each topic, strengthening your basic concepts, and taking timed mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

Q: How can I improve my accuracy in CAT Quant Questions?

To improve accuracy in CAT Quant Questions, focus on conceptual clarity, practice a variety of problems regularly, and analyze your mistakes. Timed practice and mock tests also help enhance precision and speed.

Q: What topics are commonly covered in CAT Quant Questions?

CAT Quant Questions typically cover topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, and Modern Mathematics. A strong foundation in these areas is essential to perform well in the Quantitative Aptitude section.

Author : Lalita Vishwakarma

November 24, 2025

Overview: If you are a CAT aspirant, you must know that the CAT exam Maths questions are generally tricky and might confuse you with its conceptual aptitude CAT questions. Hence, it becomes imperative for you to practice the CAT Quantitative Aptitude questions daily.

The CAT quant questions with solutions PDF section of the CAT exam is generally time-consuming, being on the higher side of the difficulty level.
Practising Quantitative Aptitude questions for CAT is crucial, demanding both speed and accuracy in problem-solving.

In this article, we will provide you with many CAT Quantitative Aptitude questions with answers PDF for rigorous practice. These CAT quant questions with solutions pdf have been carefully selected based on an analysis of the past year's trends in the CAT exam and cover each topic of the QA section.

Check | CAT Exam Analysis Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3

Important CAT Quant Questions PDF 2026: Topic Wise

Get access to the complete CAT 2026 Study Plan, and download the CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Solutions PDF to strengthen your problem-solving skills effectively.

Download Topic-wise CAT Quant Questions and Answers PDF

Number System CAT Questions PDF
Arithmetic CAT Questions PDF
Number Theory CAT Questions PDF
Quadratic Equation CAT Questions PDF
CAT Inequalities Questions PDF
Logarithms, Surds & Indices Questions PDF
Time, Speed & Distance Questions PDF
Linear Equations Questions PDF
Ratio, Proportion & Variations Questions PDF
Simple Interest - Compound Interest Questions PDF
Profit & Loss CAT Questions PDF

What is Quantitative Aptitude in CAT 2026?

Quantitative Aptitude (QA) is one of the three sections in the CAT exam, alongside Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). It assesses a candidate's mathematical skills, problem-solving abilities, and numerical aptitude. The section primarily covers topics from basic high-school mathematics.

Exam Format

The QA section is the last section of the CAT exam and has a specific time limit. The number of CAT quantitative aptitude questions and the proportion of different question types can vary slightly from year to year.

The section typically has around 22 questions.
Question Types: Questions are a mix of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and non-MCQ questions, which are also known as TITA (Type in the Answer) questions.
Marking Scheme: Each correct answer fetches +3 marks, while an incorrect MCQ answer results in a -1 penalty. There is no negative marking for incorrect TITA questions.
Time Limit: You are allotted 40 minutes to complete this section.

CAT Quantitative Questions with Solutions 2026: Sample Questions

Sample Aptitude CAT Questions 2026 are as follows:

Q1. Peter received 30% of the total marks and failed by ten marks, whereas John received 40% and scored 15 marks more than the passing marks. Find the passing marks.

a) 250
b) 150
c) 70
d) 85

Answer - d) 85

Check | CAT 2025 Cut Offs

Q2. In a Tennis tournament, John has played 60 matches so far and won 60% of them. If he wins 37.5% of the remaining matches, their overall win percentage will be 50%. Suppose he wins 75% of the remaining matches, then the total number of matches lost by him in the tournament will be

a) 24
b) 36
c) 42
d) 48

Answer - b) 36

Q3. A class has 120 students; each one has majored either in Arts or in Science. 3% of students who have majored in Arts is equal to 9% of the students who have majored in science. Find the number of students who have majored in Arts.

a) 80
b) 100
c) 60
d) 90

Answer - d) 90

Check | CAT Exam Day Instructions

Q4. Two numbers a and b are inversely proportional to each other. If "a" increases by 50%, then b decreases by:

a) 25%
b) 100%
c) 50%
d) 33.33%

Answer - d) 33.33%

Check:CAT Exam Slot Timings

Q5. In an election between 2 candidates, A and B, A received 46% of the total valid votes and lost the election by 1440 votes. If 10% of the votes were invalid, find the number of votes polled in the election.

a) 20,000
b) 19,000
c) 19900
d) 18100

Answer - a) 20,000

Check | CAT Exam Colleges

Q6. John spends 30% of his salary on his house rent. He spends 20% of his remaining salary on food, 20% of the remaining salary for commuting to the office, and 25% of the remaining salary on entertainment. If he is left with INR 16800, then find the house rent paid by John.

a) INR 50000
b) INR 35000
c) INR 25000
d) INR 15000

Answer - d) INR 15000

Check | CAT Exam Cut Off Trends

Q7. In a class, 60% of the students are boys, which is 40 more than the number of girls. Suppose 44% of the students were selected for a quiz competition, including 60 boys. What percentage of the girls are not selected for quiz competitions?

a) 58%
b) 65%
c) 60%
d) 52%

Answer - b) 65%

Q8. A company processes the fresh juice pulp of fruits to prepare the Jam. Find the number of KG of juice pulp required to make 800 KG of Jam; fresh juice pulp consists of 75% liquid, and jam consists of 5% liquid.

a) 3040
b) 2850
c) 2950
d) 3250

Answer - a) 3040

Check | CAT Exam Notification

Q9. The average temperature on the 1st four days of the week is 36 degrees, and on the last four days is 39 degrees. If the average temperature for the entire week is 37 degrees, find the temperature on the 4th day.

a) 37 degrees
b) 38 degrees
c) 39 degrees
d) 41 degrees

Answer - d) 41 degrees

Use SuperGrads Free Resources 2026 Strategically

CAT VARC Mock Test 2026
CAT DILR Mock test 2026
CAT QA Mock Test 2026
CAT VARC Prep Videos 2026
CAT DILR Prep Videos 2026
CAT QA Prep Videos 2026
CAT Syllabus 2026
CAT PYQs
CAT VARC Questions

CAT Quant Practice Questions for Beginners

Q10. A tank has a 240 litres mixture of syrup and water in a ratio of 5:7: 40 litres of the mixture is replaced with water, and then 48 litres of the mixture is replaced by water and again 60 litres of the mixture is replaced by water. Find the amount of syrup remaining in the tank.

a) 40 litres
b) 50 litres
c) 60 litres
d) 80 litres

Answer - c) 60 litres

Check: CAT Exam Answer key

Q11. The average mark scored by 5 friends is 84; the average decreased by 4 when the score of John is added. Find the marks scored by John.

a) 60
b) 64
c) 65
d) 70

Answer - a) 60

Check | How to download CAT Admit Card

Q12. The cost of a glass slab is directly proportional to the square of its thickness. Find the cost of the slab with a thickness of 3mm if the slab with a thickness of 4mm costs Rs. 64.

a) Rs 56
b) Rs . 48
c) Rs . 45
d) Rs . 36

Answer - d) Rs 36

Q13. A shopkeeper mixes 2 oils 1 and 2. One litre of oil 1 weighs 1 KG and one litre of oil 2 weighs 800 g. If 750ml of the mixture weighs 720 gm, then the percentage of oil 1 in the mixture, in terms of volume, is

a) 60%
b) 70%
c) 80%
d) 90%

Answer - c) 80%

Read More: CAT Exam Pattern

Q14. Charan started the business with an investment of Rs. 300000, and Kiran invested Rs. 600000 three months later. As Charan is an active partner, he receives 20% of the profit as a salary. Find the total amount received by Charan if the profit at the end of a year is Rs. 2000000.

a) Rs. 1200000
b) Rs. 1040000
c) Rs. 960000
d) Rs. 112000

Answer - b) Rs. 1040000

Q15. If John goes at a speed of 12 km/h, he will be 20 minutes late, and if he travels at a speed of 18km/ h, he will be 10 minutes early. Find the distance if it is the same in both cases.

a) 17 KM
b) 18 KM
c) 19 KM
d) 20 KM

Answer - b) 18 KM

Check: CAT Exam Previous Year Question Papers

Q16. A person invests a sum of ₹5,000 in a scheme that offers simple interest at a rate of 8% per annum. The money remains invested for 3 years. Calculate the total amount the person will receive at the end of the investment period, including the principal and interest.

A. ₹6,200

B. ₹6,000

C. ₹6,400

D. ₹6,500

Answer: A. ₹6,200

Check: How to prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus

Explanation: Simple Interest (SI) = (Principal × Rate × Time) / 100
SI = (5000 × 8 × 3) / 100 = ₹1,200
Total Amount = Principal + Interest = ₹5,000 + ₹1,200 = ₹6,200

Q17) A shopkeeper buys an article at ₹500 and sells it at a profit of 20%. What is the selling price of the article?

A. ₹550

B. ₹600

C. ₹580

D. ₹620

Answer: B. ₹600

Read More: CAT Total Marks

Explanation: Selling Price (SP) = Cost Price (CP) × (1 + Profit Percentage)
SP = 500 × (1 + 20/100) = 500 × 1.20 = ₹600

Q18) A car is travelling a distance of 300 kilometres in a time span of 5 hours. Determine the car's average speed in kilometres per hour (km/h).

A. 50 km/h

B. 55 km/h

C. 60 km/h

D. 65 km/h

Answer: C. 60 km/h

Explanation: Average Speed = Total Distance / Total Time
Average Speed = 300 / 5 = 60 km/h

Check: CAT Score vs Percentile

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions 2026: Key Topics

The syllabus for the CAT QA section is broad and is generally divided into five main areas:

Arithmetic
Algebra
Geometry & Mensuration
Number System
Modern Mathematics

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions Types

CAT-level aptitude questions with answers PDF cover many topics, each testing different facets of one's numerical abilities. You need to look for the complete CAT QA Syllabus to see the list of topics that come in the exam.

The CAT quant Questions pdf typically include Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs or Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions. MCQs carry a negative marking for incorrect answers, while TITA questions do not.

Check | CAT Exam Response Sheet

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions Pattern 2026

The QA section generally consists of 22–26 questions and forms part of the overall CAT paper. The CAT Quant questions pdf are divided into two types:

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): Require you to choose the correct answer from the given options.
Non-MCQs (TITA – Type in the Answer): Require you to type the exact numerical answer.

The QA section is designed to test your conceptual understanding and problem-solving efficiency within the allotted time of 40 minutes (for non-PwD candidates).

Detailed Breakdown of Important CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions 2026

Here is the detailed breakdown of the most important CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions:

Major Topic	Subtopics
Arithmetic	Profit and Loss Percentages Ratio and Proportion Simple and Compound Interest Averages Mean Median Mode Mixtures and Allegations Time and Work Time Speed, and Distance
Algebra	Basics Algebraic Formulae Linear Equations Quadratic Equations Finding Out Roots Maxima and Minima Problems with Ages Number of Integer Solutions Higher Degree Equations Functions Modifications of Graphs The Smallest Value in a Maximum Function Descartes' Rule of Signs Inequalities Logarithm
Number System	Fermat’s Theorem Euler’s Theorem Pattern Recognition and Cyclicity of Remainders Wilson’s Theorem Basics of Numbers Properties of Numbers Divisibility Rules Divisibility and Factors Highest Common Factor and Lowest Common Multiple Number of Trailing Zeros Finding out Remainders based on Basic Divisibility Rules Binomial Theorem Finding Out the Last Digit Finding Out the Last Two Digits Simplifying the Dividend (Single and/or Multiple Divisors) Base Systems Conversion of Bases Addition / Subtraction / Multiplication in different bases
Geometry	Geometry Coordinate Geometry Trigonometry Lines and Angles Triangles – Basic Concepts Area, Angles Similar Triangles Polygons Circles Solids / Mensuration – 3D
Modern Maths	Sequence and Series Binomial Theorem Set Theory Permutation and Combination Probability

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions: MCQs vs.TITA

The CAT Quant section consists of 22 questions. These CAT QA questions are divided into MCQ and TITA format.

There are around 14 MCQ questions with four options each.

The remaining 8 CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions are asked in the TITA format.

Marking Scheme:

MCQs: +3 for a correct answer, -1 for an incorrect answer.
TITA: +3 for a correct answer, no negative marking for an incorrect or unattempted answer.

CAT Quant TITA vs Non-TITA Questions Weightage

Question Paper Slot	TITA	Non-TITA
2023 - Slot 1	8	14
2023 - Slot 2	8	14
2023 - Slot 3	8	14
2022 - Slot 1	8	14
2022 - Slot 2	8	14
2022 - Slot 3	8	14
2021 - Slot 1	8	14
2021 - Slot 2	8	14
2021 - Slot 3	8	14
2020 - Slot 1	8	18
2020 - Slot 2	8	18
2020 - Slot 3	8	18

Importance of mastering CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions 2026 for High Scores

Significant Weightage: The QA section contributes a significant portion of the total exam score, typically one-third of the total marks.

Sectional Cutoffs: Most top-tier B-schools have sectional cutoffs, meaning you must perform well in each section, including QA, to be considered for admission, regardless of your overall score.

Tests Key Managerial Skills: The CAT QA questions aren't just about math; they're designed to assess your analytical abilities, logical reasoning, and time-management skills—all of which are essential for a career in management.

Conceptual Clarity and Problem-Solving: The section tests your understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and your ability to apply them to solve complex, real-world problems under time pressure.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions: Year-wise Trend Analysis

Number of Aptitude CAT questions asked in 2024

CAT Quant topics 2024	Slot 1 (Number of CAT Quant Questions)	Slot 2 (Number of CAT QA questions)	Slot 3 (Number of CAT Quant Questions)
Number System (Remainder, Indices)	2	2	2
Algebra (Log, Equations, Functions, Maxima-Minima, Sequence & Series, Algebraic Expression)	8	8	8
Arithmetic (TSD, T&W, SI-CI, Percentage, PLD, Mixture, Averages, Ratios)	8	8	8
Modern Math (P&C)	1	1	1
Geometry (Circle, Cuboid/Square, Coordinate Geometry)	3	3	3

Number of CAT QA Questions asked in 2023

CAT quant topic-wise weightage	CAT 2023, Slot 1	CAT 2023, Slot 2	CAT 2023, Slot 3
Number System (Surds, Factors, Indices, Integral Values)	1	3	4
Algebra (Log, Equations, Surds, Sequence & Series)	8	7	7
Arithmetic TSD, T&W, Ratio, SI & CI, PLD, Mixture, Clock	9	9	8
Modern Math (P&C)	1	-	-
Geometry & Mensuration (Triangle, Quadrilateral, Coordinate Geo Circle)	3	3	3
Total	22	22	22

Number of CAT QA Questions asked in 2022

Here is the CAT Quant Topic Wise Weightage 2022

CAT quant topic-wise weightage	CAT 2022, slot 1	CAT 2022, slot 2	CAT 2022, slot 3
ERPV	2	-	-
Percentages, Profit & Loss	2	1	-1
Simple Interest & Compound Interest	1	1	1
Time & Distance	1	1	2
Time & Work	-	1	2
Numbers	3	1	1
Geometry	2	2	4
Progressions/Series	2	2	1
ILS	-	2	-
Sets	1	-	-
Quadratic Equations	1	2	4
Inequalities & Modulus	2	-	-
Averages Mixtures & Allegations	3	4	3
Coordinate Geometry	1	-	4
Permutations & Combinations	1	1	1
Trigonometry	-	1	1

Number of Aptitude CAT Questions asked in 2021

Here is the CAT Topic-wise Weightage 2021

Topics	2021 - Slot 1	2021 - Slot 2	2021 - Slot 3
Averages, Ratios, Percentage, Mixtures	4	5	4
Profit, Loss and Interest	2	1	1
Time, Distance and Work	3	3	3
Functions, Graphs and Statistics	-	1	1
Progression and Series	2	2	1
Linear Equations	2	1	2
Quadratic Equations	1	2	1
Inequalities	2	2	3
Logarithms, Surds and Indices	1	1	1
Geometry	3	3	4
Number Systems	1	-	-
Probability and Combinatorics	1	1	1
Venn Diagrams	-	-	-

Number of Aptitude CAT Questions asked in 2020

CAT Topic-wise Weightage 2020

Topics	2020 - Slot 1	2020 - Slot 2	2020 - Slot 3
Averages, Ratios, Percentage, Mixtures	4	3	3
Profit, Loss and Interest	2	2	2
Time, Distance and Work	4	5	4
Functions, Graphs and Statistics	2	1	3
Progression and Series	-	1	-
Linear Equations	1	1	2
Quadratic Equations	1	1	1
Inequalities	2	4	2
Logarithms, Surds and Indices	4	1	4
Geometry	3	4	2
Number Systems	1	1	3
Probability and Combinatorics	2	1	-
Venn Diagrams	-	1	-

Mistakes to Avoid While Solving CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions 2026

When solving CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions, a strategic approach is essential to avoid common pitfalls that can cost you valuable marks. The most prevalent mistakes often revolve around poor preparation, flawed time management, and a lack of conceptual clarity.

1. Neglecting the Basics

Many candidates jump to complex problems without a strong foundation in core mathematical concepts. Ensure you have a deep understanding of fundamental principles in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems before moving on to advanced aptitude CAT quant practice questions

2. Skipping Mock Test Analysis

Merely taking a mock test isn't enough. You must thoroughly analyze your performance to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This includes reviewing every incorrect and unattempted question to understand the reason for the error—was it a conceptual mistake, a silly calculation error, or a timing issue?

3. Avoiding Weak Areas

It's tempting to focus on topics you're already good at. However, true improvement comes from tackling your weaker topics. Allocate specific time to revise and practice these areas, as the CAT can have easy questions from any topic.

4. Poor Time Management

The CAT is a time-bound exam, and spending too much time on a single, difficult question is a major error. Start by quickly scanning the section to identify and solve the easiest questions first.

This "low-hanging fruit" strategy ensures you maximise your attempts and secure quick marks. If you find yourself stuck on a question for more than a couple of minutes, it's often best to move on.

5. Misreading Questions

A simple misreading can lead to a completely wrong answer. Take a moment to read each question carefully, paying close attention to keywords, units, and any specific conditions mentioned (e.g., "whole numbers," "positive integers," etc.).

6. Silly Calculation Errors

These are frustrating but common mistakes that can be easily avoided. Be meticulous with your calculations and, if time permits, double-check your work, especially in the final steps.

Check | How to prepare for CAT exam in 2 months

Tips for Solving CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions 2026

Tips to practice CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions are as follows:

1. Start by Learning the Basics

Before solving the complex problems directly, ensure you clearly understand the basics. This approach aids in problem-solving and reduces the likelihood of errors.

2. Practice, Practice and Practice

Consistent practice is the mantra. The more you solve, the better you identify patterns and shortcuts.

3. Practice Mock Tests

Simulating the actual test environment through mock tests helps in time management and provides a realistic understanding of where you stand.

Check: CAT Exam Marking Scheme

4. Review and Improve Your Mistakes

Review the mistakes made after every mock or practice session. Understand the reasoning behind them to avoid repeating them in the main exam.

5. Time Management

It's crucial to strike a balance. Do not spend too much time on one question. If stuck, move on and come back if time allows.

6. Stay Updated with the Pattern

The CAT exam pattern or emphasis on certain topics can shift. Stay updated with the latest trends by engaging in forums or coaching classes.

Check: CAT Exam Maths Syllabus

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers PDF Download

Important CAT Quant Questions PDF 2026: Topic Wise

Download Topic-wise CAT Quant Questions and Answers PDF