How to prepare for quantitative aptitude for CAT

Summary: Quantitative analysis accounts for 22 questions for 66 marks. Here's how to prepare for logical reasoning for CAT!

Quantitative Aptitude is an integral part of the Common Aptitude Test (CAT), one of the most sought-after entrance exams for admission into the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). 

The Quantitative Aptitude section of the exam consists of multiple-choice and descriptive questions that test the candidate's ability to solve mathematical and data interpretation problems. 

Preparing for this exam section can be challenging, but with the right approach, it is possible to ace the Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT. 

This article will discuss how to prepare for the Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT.

How to prepare for Important topics for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT

One of the most significant parts of the CAT is the QA, which assesses applicants' proficiency in fundamental mathematics. 

The CAT QA questions are of the 10th standard and are simple to answer, but the applicants still find it challenging because they must complete the questions accurately and promptly. 

The CAT is a crucial MBA entrance exam that includes questions of a higher difficulty level that require extensive practise. 

The primary goal of the Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT is to gauge a candidate's aptitude for answering problems quickly and accurately.

Check: CAT Exam Pattern 2023

Important topics for Quantitative Aptitude in CAT

The Quantitative Aptitude in CAT syllabus includes. 

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Mensuration and Geometry
• Number System
• Modern Mathematics

The sub-topics under Number System are Factorials, Divisibility Rules, HCF & LCM, Cyclicity, Remainder, Base change, Prime Factorization and Indices and Surds

The sub-topics under Arithmetic are Percentage and Average, Time and Work, Mixtures and Allegation, Ratio, Proportion and Variation, Profit, Loss and Discount, Pipe and Cistern, SI and CI and Time, Speed and Distance

The sub-topics under Geometry and Mensuration are Lines and Angles, Polygons, Triangles, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Circles, Cones, Cylinders, Sphere

The sub-topics under Modern Mathematics are Permutation and Combination, Probability, Set Theory, Venn Diagram, Binomial theorem, Arithmetic Progression, Geometric Progression and Harmonic Progression

The sub-topics under Algebra are Algebraic Identities, Functions and Groups, Maxima and Minima, Logarithms, Polynomials, Linear and Quadratic Equations and Inequalities and Modulus

Check: CAT Exam Preparation 2023

Quantitative Aptitude Weightage

You can expect approx values listed in the table below.

Major Areas	Expected number of Questions
Arithmetic	13 to 15
Algebra	6 to 8
Modern Maths	4 to 6
Geometry	6 to 9

Check: CAT Exam Question Paper 2023

Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Books for CAT

You can refer to the following books to ace your quantitative aptitude test for CAT. 

• Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Sharma
• Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha
• Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
• Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha
• NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10)
• How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma

Get your basics right for QA

Quantitative Aptitude basics in CAT are important because they form the foundation of the quantitative aptitude section of the exam. 

They are essential for understanding the various types of questions asked in the section, such as Data Interpretation, Arithmetical Reasoning, and Algebra. 

Knowing the basics helps the candidate to develop the ability to solve questions faster and increase accuracy.

Check: CAT Exam Subjects 2023

Quantitative Aptitude shortcut techniques

Quantitative Aptitude shortcut techniques are important because they allow test-takers to quickly complete difficult calculations and solve difficult problems in a shorter amount of time. 

This is important for competitive exams, such as the GMAT, where time is a factor in scoring. 

Shortcut techniques also allow test-takers to understand the material better and quickly recall it when needed. 

This can significantly improve a test-takers performance and increase their chances of success.

Check: CAT Books 2023

Previous year's papers and mocks 

You understand the type of questions that can be asked in this section. Practising QA questions can help you gain accuracy and speed to solve the answers. 

Also, ensure you learn tables to 30, squares up to 25, percentage equivalent of fractions to 20, and cubes up to 20, as it will save a lot of time-solving the questions.

Lastly, dedicate 3 hours per day to the quant section. Maintain a Formula book with all the important formulae for this section. 

Check: CAT Application Form 2023

Conclusion

You can maximise your preparation for this section with the right approach and resources. 

Regularly review and practice your weak areas and use the resources available in this article. 

Lastly, stay organised and consistent in your preparation and always maintain a positive attitude. 

With the right approach, you will be well prepared to tackle the quantitative aptitude section in the CAT.