December 23, 2025
Overview: Understanding the CAT 2026 Syllabus is the first step in making the study plan for the final day. Here, let’s scroll down and learn the section-wise CAT syllabus PDF and weightage for the CAT exam!
According to the exam pattern, the CAT exam syllabus 2026 will be divided into three main sections:
Section 1: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Section 2: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Section 3: Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Read the CAT exam pattern and syllabus here and download the CAT syllabus for MBA 2026 PDF below!
Read More | CAT Admission Process 2026
| Section | What it tests (quick idea) | Top focus areas |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | Reading + verbal reasoning | RC, parajumbles, summary, inference, VA |
| DILR | Data sets + logical reasoning | Tables/charts, puzzles, arrangements, games & tournaments |
| QA | Math fundamentals + application | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, numbers, modern maths |
The MBA CAT 2026 syllabus covers quantitative ability, data interpretation and logical reasoning, verbal ability and reading comprehension. It assesses mathematics, logical thinking, reading, and language abilities. The test consists of 68 questions in 120 minutes.
To do well on this competitive admission exam, you must be well-prepared and manage your time. You can download the CAT Syllabus 2026 PDF and prepare for the important topics for CAT 2026.
Learn More: Logical Reasoning Questions and Answers for CAT
The CAT exam pattern 2026 includes three sections (VARC, DILR, QA) with a sectional time limit. The total exam duration is 120 minutes (40 minutes per section). CAT questions are a mix of MCQs and TITA (non-MCQ). The marking scheme is typically +3 for every correct answer and -1 for every incorrect MCQ (no negative marking for TITA).
Key highlights of CAT 2026 exam pattern:
| Section | Time Limit | What you’ll see |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | 40 minutes | Reading Comprehension + Verbal Ability (MCQ + TITA) |
| DILR | 40 minutes | Data Interpretation sets + Logical Reasoning sets (MCQ + TITA) |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 minutes | Math-based questions across arithmetic/algebra/geometry etc. (MCQ + TITA) |
Note: Each correct answer carries 3 marks. Incorrect MCQs carry a penalty of –1 mark, while TITA (non-MCQ) questions do not have negative marking.
Download: CAT Syllabus 2026 PDF (Section-wise)
Note: IIMs do not publish a fixed topic-wise CAT syllabus; this PDF is based on previous year CAT papers and the latest pattern.
The CAT 2026 exam assesses candidates on their quantitative, verbal, and reasoning abilities through three main sections: VARC, DILR, and QA. It is designed to evaluate a candidate’s problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and proficiency in basic mathematics and language.
| Sections | CAT 2026 Syllabus Key Topics | CAT Syllabus 2026 PDF Links | ||
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
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Quick note: CAT doesn’t have an official topic-wise syllabus PDF. The priority below is compiled from recent CAT patterns and topic-weightage trends so you can focus on the most recurring + high-return areas first.
| Topic Bucket | Typical Weightage | What to Practise |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | ~60–70% | Inference, tone, central idea, paragraph function, vocabulary-in-context |
| Para Summary | ~10–15% | Main idea + elimination-based options |
| Para Completion / Odd Sentence Out | ~5–10% | Logical flow + theme detection |
| Topic Bucket | Typical Weightage | What to Practise |
|---|---|---|
| Puzzles & Arrangements | ~50–60% | Linear/circular/grid sets, distribution, ranking, hybrid logic |
| Tables & Charts DI | ~40–50% | Tabular DI, bar/line/pie, mixed chart sets, caselets |
| Games & Tournaments | ~10–20% | Round-robin/knockout, points table logic |
| Topic Bucket | Typical Weightage | What to Practise |
|---|---|---|
| Arithmetic | ~35–50% | Percentages, ratios, TSD, time & work, averages, P&L, SI/CI, mixtures |
| Algebra | ~25–35% | Equations, inequalities, functions, sequences & series, logs |
| Geometry & Mensuration | ~10–15% | Triangles, circles, 2D/3D mensuration, coordinate basics |
| Number System + Modern Maths | ~5–10% each | Divisibility/remainders + P&C/probability/sets basics |
Why this matters: CAT moved back to 68 questions in recent years with DILR at 22 questions, so set-selection and high-yield topic mastery have become even more important.
The CAT Syllabus 2026 covers three main sections: Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. Questions will be based on concepts from class 8 and above, designed to test a candidate’s analytical, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
The CAT VARC syllabus 2026 mainly tests Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability. Most aspirants score higher here by strengthening RC speed + accuracy and practising para-based VA questions regularly.
Also Read: CAT QA Question with Answers
The CAT VARC section comprises four key areas: Reading Comprehension, Parajumbles, Verbal Ability, and Sentence Completion.
The format and composition of the VARC section typically remain consistent each year. Based on last year's CAT paper, the weightage and difficulty levels of these areas can be summarised as follows:
|
VARC Topics for CAT |
Number of Questions in the CAT Exam |
Level of Difficulty |
|
Reading Comprehension |
16 |
Moderate to Difficult |
|
VA-Para jumbles |
3 |
Moderate to Difficult |
|
VA-Odd Sentence |
2 |
Easy to Moderate |
|
VA-Summary |
3 |
Easy to Moderate |
|
Overall |
24 |
Moderate to Difficult |
Know More| CAT Exam Fees for Different Categories
The CAT DILR syllabus 2026 focuses on solving caselet-style sets using logic, data reading, and smart selection. Accuracy matters more than attempting everything—choose sets strategically..
To get a good score in the DILR section, take a look at the important topics for CAT 2026: <ul>
DILR priority: Arrangements/Grouping > DI Tables/Charts > Games & Tournaments.
Check: CAT Previous Year Cut-off Marks
Data Interpretation (DI) questions focus on tables and graphs, while Logical Reasoning (LR) encompasses a variety of topics, including verbal, non-verbal, and abstract reasoning.
Below is the basic structure of the DILR section of CAT, along with the difficulty levels from previous papers, aligned with the CAT syllabus 2026 PDF
|
Section |
No. of Questions |
Level of Difficulty |
|
Data Interpretation |
4 |
Easy |
|
Data Interpretation |
6 |
Moderate |
|
Logical Reasoning |
6 |
Moderate to Difficult |
|
Logical Reasoning |
6 |
Easy to Moderate |
|
Overall |
22 |
Moderate to Difficult |
Check: CAT Exam is for What Purpose
The CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2026 is built around Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, and Modern Maths. Most toppers prioritise arithmetic first, then build speed in algebra and geometry.
Here are some of the major topics of the CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2026
QA priority: Arithmetic > Algebra > Geometry > Numbers > Modern Maths.
Also check: How to download the CAT Admit Card
CAT topic-wise weightage is always indicative because IIMs do not publish a fixed topic-wise syllabus or official weightage. Still, CAT follows strong trends based on previous year papers. Use the weightage tables below to prioritise preparation, not to predict exact questions.
How to use CAT weightage smartly:
| Section | High-priority topics | What to prioritise first |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | Reading Comprehension, Parajumbles, Summary, Odd sentence | RC accuracy + para-based VA practice |
| DILR | Arrangements, Grouping, DI Tables/Charts, Games & Tournaments | Set selection + 4–6 core set types |
| QA | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Modern Maths | Arithmetic first, then Algebra + Geometry |
Key takeaway: If you’re short on time, prioritise RC (VARC), Arrangements/Grouping sets (DILR), and Arithmetic (QA) before moving to the next layers.
| Take DILR Demo Classes by Supergrads | |
| Take VARC Demo Classes by Supergrads | |
| Take QA Demo Classes by Supergrads |
The Arithmetic section of the CAT syllabus 2026 pdf free download encompasses fundamental mathematical operations and their applications.
Key topics include
1) Percentages: (profit/loss, discounts, simple/compound interest),
2) Ratios and proportions: (mixtures and allocations, partnerships),
3) Averages
4) Time and work, time, speed, and distance: (including trains, boats, and streams), and
5) Basic number properties relevant to arithmetic calculations.
A strong foundation in these areas, coupled with efficient calculation techniques and problem-solving strategies, is crucial for success in this component of the Quantitative Aptitude section. Emphasis is placed on applying these concepts to real-world scenarios and solving word problems.
The Algebra syllabus for CAT covers a range of topics from basic linear equations and inequalities to more advanced concepts.
Key areas include:
Understanding algebraic identities, solving systems of equations, and manipulating algebraic expressions are essential skills.
The focus is on applying these concepts to solve abstract problems and understanding the underlying principles. Familiarity with different types of functions and their properties is also important.
The Geometry section in the CAT 2026 syllabus tests spatial reasoning and knowledge of geometric figures and their properties. Important topics include:
Mensuration, dealing with areas and volumes of 2D and 3D shapes (cubes, cuboids, cones, cylinders, spheres), is also a significant part.
A strong grasp of theorems and the ability to visualise and apply geometric principles are crucial for solving problems in this area.
| Free CAT Mock Test -01 | |
| Free CAT Mock Test- 02 | |
| Free CAT Mock Test- 03 |
The Number System syllabus for CAT focuses on the properties and relationships of different types of numbers.
Key topics include:
The Modern Maths section of the CAT syllabus 2026 pdf free download typically includes topics that are relatively newer additions to the standard curriculum.
Key Areas in Permutations, Combinations & Probability for CAT:
Explore: CAT Exam Centres
Having the tips and strategy to prepare for the CAT DILR section can help you score high in the main examination. This section includes solving questions based on tables, graphs, charts and series.
To help you out, we have mentioned some of the key tips that are easy to follow:
Learning and memorising tables up to 25 will help you solve square, cube, square roots and other mathematical values to speed up your calculations.
Data interpretation largely depends on your mathematical ability. You should be proficient in mathematical calculations.
Solving mocks is one of the best practices to improve your marks and CAT percentile. Download the previous year's papers for the CAT exam or solve full-length mock tests to boost your prep.
The CAT 2026 syllabus PDF quantitative aptitude (QA) section is one of the scoring sections. Good preparation can help you get good marks. Here are the key preparation tips for the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section:
Be smart if you want to get good marks on the CAT exam. Try to memorise all the formulae and theorems of algebra, geometry, arithmetic and trigonometry.
The CAT exam is all about speed and accuracy, so invest your time in solving full-length mock tests in real exam conditions.
A good and effective way to improve your speed and accuracy is to solve the CAT previous year papers. This will give you an idea of the exam pattern and the difficulty level of the questions asked.
Practice by dividing your session into easy, moderate, and high levels. Start solving easy CAT questions first, then move to moderately high and tough questions.
The more you solve, the more you get clarity about the question. Try to solve the question at least three times. It will improve your speed and accuracy.
| 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 PDF | |
| CAT PYQs | |
| CAT VARC Questions |
To excel in your CAT exam 2026 with good marks and a high percentile, it is essential to have a well-prepared strategy and effective study materials.
Here are some good free resources that you can choose from to boost your preparation:
Check | CAT 2026 Maths Syllabus
Here is the list of books for the CAT 2026 Syllabus:
For Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), focus on building strong reading habits and improving comprehension skills. Some recommended books include:
Supplement these with regular reading of newspapers (editorials), magazines, and online articles on diverse topics to enhance reading speed and comprehension.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) requires a mix of analytical thinking and practice with different types of question sets. Consider these books:
Practice with previous years' CAT question papers is highly recommended to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Quantitative Aptitude (QA) preparation involves mastering mathematical concepts and practising problem-solving. Some useful CAT preparation books are:
NCERT Mathematics books (especially Classes 9 and 10) can be beneficial for understanding basic concepts. Consistent practice is key to excelling in this section.
Here is the month-wise plan that you can follow to cover CAT 2026 syllabus
|
Week(s) |
Overall Goal |
VARC Weekly Goals |
DILR Weekly Goals |
QA Weekly Goals |
|
Week 1-2 |
Build a strong base in core concepts |
Improve reading speed & comprehension, Main idea & arguments |
Basic DI (tables, bar, pie); Simple LR (arrangements, blood relations) |
Number Systems, Basic Algebra, Ratio & Proportion, Percentages; Understand 'why' |
|
Week 3-4 |
Reading comprehension practice: Identifying the main idea & supporting details |
Basic DI practice; Simple LR puzzle-solving |
Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Averages, Time & Work; Basic problem-solving |
Fundamentals |
|
Week 5-6 |
Develop proficiency in core topics |
Reading Comprehension practice (varied topics); Identifying inferences |
Advanced DI (case lets, multiple graphs) introduction; Moderate LR (seating, selections) |
Geometry (lines, angles, triangles), Mensuration; Formula application |
|
Week 7-8 |
Reading Comprehension practice (analysing tone & purpose); Vocabulary building |
Advanced DI practice; Moderate LR puzzle solving |
Time, Speed & Distance, Permutations & Combinations, Probability (basic) |
Practice & Application |
|
Week 9-10 |
Cover complex topics & apply concepts |
Critical Reasoning (arguments, assumptions); Identifying logical fallacies |
Complex LR (network diagrams, Venn diagrams) introduction; Time-bound sets |
Coordinate Geometry, Functions & Graphs, Inequalities; Application-based problems |
|
Week 11-12 |
Critical Reasoning practice: Drawing inferences & conclusions |
Complex LR puzzle solving; Strategy development for LR sets |
Logarithms, Sequences & Series; Problem-solving shortcuts |
Speed & Accuracy |
|
Week 13-14 |
Assess preparation, identify weaknesses, and develop a strategy |
First 1-2 full-length mock tests; Analyse VARC performance |
First 1-2 full-length mock tests; Analyse DILR performance |
First 1-2 full-length mock tests; Analyse QA performance |
|
Week 15-16 |
Review VARC concepts & practice weak areas |
Review DILR concepts & practice weak areas |
Review QA concepts & practice weak areas |
Weak Area Improvement |
|
Week 17-18 |
Consolidate learning, revise important concepts |
Section-wise revision of VARC topics; Practice a variety of questions |
Section-wise revision of DILR topics; Practice a variety of sets |
Section-wise revision of QA topics; Practice a variety of problems |
|
Week 19-20 |
2-3 mock tests; Focus on VARC speed & accuracy; Analyze performance |
2-3 mock tests; Focus on DILR speed & accuracy; Analyze performance |
2-3 mock tests; Focus on QA speed & accuracy; Analyze performance |
Skill Refinement |
|
Week 21-22 |
Simulate exam environment, refine strategy |
Regular mock tests (simulate exam); Review key VARC concepts |
Regular mock tests (simulate exam); Review key DILR strategies |
Regular mock tests (simulate exam); Review key QA formulas |
|
Week 23-24 |
Focus on strengths; Minimise silly mistakes; Light VARC revision |
Focus on strengths; Minimise silly mistakes; Light DILR revision |
Focus on strengths; Minimise silly mistakes; Light QA revision |
Final Preparation |
Don't try to master everything new in the last month. Concentrate on the topics you are already good at. This will boost your confidence and help you score better in those areas.
Identify the high-weightage topics from each section (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension - VARC, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning - DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude - QA). Focus your revision on these areas as they contribute more to your overall score. You can usually find this information from previous years' CAT analyses.
Take at least 2-3 full-length mock tests every week. This will simulate the actual exam environment, help you manage your time effectively, and identify your weak areas.
Simply taking mocks isn't enough. Spend significant time analysing your performance. Identify the questions you got wrong, understand the concepts behind them, and figure out why you made those mistakes.
Along with full-length mocks, take sectional tests to focus on specific areas where you feel less confident. This will help you improve your speed and accuracy in those sections.
Go through all the important formulas, theorems, and concepts, especially in QA and DILR. Make short notes or flashcards for quick revision.
Ensure you are comfortable with various types of questions within each section. For VARC, practice different reading comprehension passages and question formats. For DILR, practice different types of sets (tables, graphs, puzzles). For QA, practice a variety of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry problems.
Practice time management during your mock tests and sectional tests. Learn to allocate time effectively to each section and each question. Don't get stuck on a single question for too long.
It's natural to feel stressed during this time, but try to stay calm and positive. Believe in your preparation. Avoid comparing your progress with others.
Read More: CAT Slot Timings
Several pitfalls can hinder the effective preparation of a CAT syllabus 2026 PDF.
You may refer to the official link for the Official CAT syllabus Link
Finally, knowing the CAT syllabus 2026 PDF and sectional topics will help you prepare accordingly. The CAT 2026 syllabus for all three sections is vast and needs a proper study plan to prepare for the main exam day.
We have listed the significant topics of the CAT 2026 syllabus PDF for MBA and their weightage. You can make a good study plan based on it. Good luck with your exam!
Frequently Asked Questions
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