CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus: The CAT exam is the prestigious gateway to many top and premier Master of Business Administration (MBA) institutes and opens the gate to almost 5000+ b-schools within India and outside India. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is renowned for its difficulty, and thus to prepare for the exam, candidates must understand the CAT Syllabus. The CAT syllabus has 3 sections- Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). Click here to know if CAT exam is tough or not.
Read in Detail: CAT Syllabus
In this article, we will understand the detailed CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus, including the CAT quant topics covered, the important topics of the CAT quant section, and the weightage of each topic. The article will also aim to provide the following details:
- What is CAT Quantitative Aptitude?
- What is covered in the CAT Quant Syllabus?
- CAT Quant Important Topics
- Best Books for Quant syllabus, and
- The changes in the CAT quant section over the past years, and trends followed
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CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus At a Glance
The CAT aspirants need to be well aware of the quantitative aptitude syllabus in the CAT exam and understand the topics from which the questions have been asked in previous years. Check the complete list of topics covered in the CAT quant section.
CAT QA Syllabus | ||
Coordinate Geometry | Mensuration | LCM and HCF |
Set Theory and Function | Probability | Quadratic and Linear Equations |
Number System | Averages | Complex Numbers |
Ratio, Proportion, and Variation | Speed, Time, and Distance | Geometry |
Compound Interest | Profit, Loss, and Discount | Algebra |
Trigonometry | Permutation and Combination | Progressions and Series |
Quantitative Aptitude Questions | Quantitative Aptitude Shortcut Techniques for CAT | Number System Shortcut for CAT |
Shortcuts in Averages | Remainder Concepts | Circles |
Factorials | Power Cycle | Relatives Speed |
Arithmetic Progression | Polygons | Harmonic Progression |
Quadrilaterals | Points, Lines, and Planes | Circles |
Angles | Geometric Progression | Weighted Average |
Graphical Division Geometry | Similar Triangles | Derangement |
Applications of Averages | Conditional probability | Application of Power Cycle |
Constant Product Rule | Laws in Set Theory | Properties of Ratio |
Triangles | Boats and Streams for CAT | Escalator Questions for CAT |
What is Quantitative Aptitude in CAT?
In the CAT exam, the quantitative aptitude section, often referred to as the quant section is nothing but the mathematics covered till class 12th. The CAT quant section aims to assess the students on their thinking abilities, their judgment, and their calculations. The Quantitative section in CAT is often the most difficult and to solve the questions in this section, the candidates must be well-equipped with shortcuts, and the mathematical formulas that will come in handy at the time of the exam. The topics covered in this section include Algebra, Arithmetic, Modern maths, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Mensuration, etc.
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CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus - General Highlights
This section aims to provide the CAT aspirants with a few key highlights of the quantitative section in the CAT exam. This includes the topics covered, the number of questions asked, time limit for the section, among other details. Check these key highlights below.
- The difficulty level of the CAT quantitative aptitude section is usually between moderate and difficult
- Algebra and Arithmetic constitute the maximum weightage in the section
- Based on the changes introduced in the CAT Exam Pattern last year, a total of 22 questions worth 66 marks will be asked from the CAT 2024 Syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude.
- As per the CAT 2024 QA marking scheme, 3 marks will be awarded for every correct answer and 1 mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
- In 2022, the CAT question paper for QA comprised 14 MCQs and 8 TITA-type questions, and attempting 16-17 questions was considered good. Check CAT QA Exam Analysis
- CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation should begin early as it requires more practice and focus to learn various formulas, tips & tricks for solving mathematical problems in less time. Download CAT QA Question Papers
- The CAT QA Section can be the most decisive subject when it comes to deciding the CAT Cut-off, which ranges from 70-85 percentile in the Quantitative Aptitude Section.
Helpful Reading: CAT IIM Cutoff | IIM Admission Process
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Exam Pattern 2024
The table below presents the basic and key highlights of the CAT Exam Pattern for the CAT Quant section for the upcoming CAT 2024 exam.
Pattern | Details |
Total Questions in CAT Quantitative Aptitude Section | 22 |
Total Marks in Quantitative Aptitude For CAT Section | 66 |
Type of Questions in Quantitative Section | MCQs and TITA (non-MCQ) |
Total MCQs in Quant for CAT Section | 14-15 |
Total Non-MCQs (TITA) in QA Section | 7-8 |
Time Limit | 40 minutes |
Difficulty in Quantitative Aptitude For CAT Section | Moderate to High |
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
Now that we have understood the key highlights and exam pattern of the CAT syllabus, let us dive into the details of the topics covered in the CAT quant syllabus. The CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus is sub-divided into 4 sections, which are as follows:
Arithmetic: This topic typically consists of the highest number of questions based on the previous CAT papers, making it important for all students to prepare thoroughly.
Algebra: This topic has the second-highest weightage in terms of the number of questions asked in the CAT exam; therefore, aspirants must focus on. However, in CAT 2023, this section had the highest weightage.
Numbers: In the past years, it has been observed that topics from the number system demand a clear understanding of the basics to secure good marks.
Geometry: This includes topics such as 3D Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, and Mensuration, which are frequently asked in the CAT exam. There are 3-4 questions on this topic in each section. A good hold on geometry can help you fetch a good score in this section.
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus - Detailed Analysis of the topics covered
Now that we are clear on the 4 sub-sections included in the CAT quantitative aptitude section, let us dive directly into the topics that are covered in each of these 4 divisions. Check the topics covered in each sub-section tabulated below for reference.
Arithmetic | ||
Averages | Profits and Loss | Simple & Compound Interest |
Mixtures & Allegations | Percentages | Speed, Time & Distance |
Pipers and Cisterns | Ratio & Proportion | Simplification |
Algebra | ||
Graphs | Linear Equations | Quadratic Equations |
Higher Order Equation | Logarithms | Modulus |
Inequalities | Maxima and Minima | Sequence and Series |
Number System | ||
Base System | Divisibility | LCM & HCF |
Complex Numbers | Factors | Remainders |
Digits | Higher Powers | Surds and Indices |
Modern Maths | ||
Permutations & Combinations | Geometric Arrangements | Sequences & Series |
Probability | Progressions | Roots |
Geometry | ||
Circles | Polygons | Trigonometry |
Coordinate Geometry | Quadrilaterals | Angles |
Mensuration | Triangles | Parallel Lines |
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus - Types of Questions to Expect
Candidates often find it difficult to prepare for the CAT quantitative aptitude section because the syllabus for the section is not pre-defined. It is only a list of topics that have been curated by observing the past year's papers and trends. However, to make this preparation journey easier for the candidates we have tabulated below a list of all the possible topics in quantitative aptitude, along with a brief description of the type of questions that one can expect from the topic. Check out these topics below.
Candidates must note that the questions may not be asked from all the topics given here. However, to avoid any surprises during the exam, it is recommended that the aspirants prepare all the topics well.
Topic | Description |
Percentages | Expect questions mostly from percentage changes; increase or decrease. Go through the basic percent formula. |
Profit, Loss, and Discount | This section simply revolves around the topic of percentages. Questions are mainly from profit, loss, cost price, selling price, discount, and market price. You can also expect questions from false weights. Learn all the formulas for profit and loss along with tricks for shortcuts. |
Simple and Compound Interest | The number of questions from this section has been mostly low. One might expect mostly calculation-based questions. Basic formulas of Simple and Compound Interest are adequate. Questions related to the rate of increase in population are not to be missed. |
Ratio and Proportion | A wide variety of questions based on multiple and fundamental concepts are important. You will find the basic concepts handy in solving questions about time, work, time speed, distance, mixtures, allegation, geometry, and more. |
Averages, Mixtures, Allegation | This topic is quite important in CAT. Questions such as “which two elements are mixed together in different proportions to get a new mixture”. This topic combines other topics like ratios and proportions, averages, and percentages. |
Time and Work | There can be more than one hundred varieties of questions from this section. Pipes and cisterns, which make up the core concept are also included. The method of LCM is recommended over formulas as there are over 20 of them. |
Time, Speed, and Distance | Expect questions from average and relative speed, meeting points, boats, and streams, are important. Proper knowledge of relative speed and shortcuts on meeting points should suffice. |
Equations | Stress on questions from quadratic equations. Don't miss out on topics like integral solutions for variables. Learn the concepts of nature of roots, quadratic equations, and integral solutions. |
Progression | Stress on arithmetic and geometric progressions. Do not miss out on summation of series. Put effort into formulas from areas like number of terms, cum of AP and GP series, and their means. |
Functions and Graphs | Most questions are on functions of simplification. Other sections like modulus functions and graphs have also occurred frequently. Trying to understand the graphs of a few functions such as modulus, log, and greatest integer, is helpful. Do not miss out on functions and composite functions. |
Maxima Minima | Mostly 3 types of questions (maximum in equation form), AM-GM concept, polynomials, functions/graphs. Learn the method for solving each of these problems. |
Properties of Numbers | Expect questions from topics such as perfect squares, prime numbers, fractions, and integers. Learn the elementary concepts along with the properties of numbers. The level of difficulty of questions is moderate to hard. |
Divisibility Rules | Questions from this topic are expected to be pretty to the point. Expect problems based on divisibility rules on the initial sets of natural numbers. Learn the divisibility rules of these numbers - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, and 13. |
Remainders | The difficulty level of questions from this topic is mostly easy to moderate. This is not a very important topic as over the past few years, questions from this section were not set. Learn the basic concepts like remainders and negative remainders. |
Factors, HCM & LCM | This too is not a very important topic. Previous CAT papers featured questions from factors and remainders. Focus on prime factorization and the approaches involved in finding integral solutions. |
Factorials | Not an important topic, problems are mostly based on finding the number of zeros that are trailing. |
Unit and Last Two Digits | Questions are based on finding the last or second last digit in the expansion from a single-digit number raised to an exponent. Learn power cycles and last 2 digit tricks. |
Base System | Not an important topic. Learn the fundamental concepts of the base system. Questions are based on the method of converting numbers from a given base to another. Learning fundamental concepts of the base system should suffice. |
Triangles | Questions from this topic mostly test the fundamental theorems of triangles. This is an important topic and candidates should focus on Pythagoras theorem, various degrees of triangles like isosceles, equilateral, and mass point geometry. |
Circles | Another important topic in geometry, you can expect questions that test the basic concepts, problems involving multiple circles, tangent is important. Focus on learning the theorems, formulas, segments, and tangent circles. |
Quadrilaterals | Expect questions mostly from parallelograms, trapeziums, squares, and rectangles. Learn the formulas of areas for all quadrilateral figures and their perimeters. |
Polygons | Not an important topic. You can expect questions on hexagon. Shortcut tricks and direct formulas hexagon diagonals should suffice. |
3D mensuration | This topic is now quite frequent in CAT. learning the formula for the area and volume of cones, cylinders, cubes, cuboids, spheres, and cylinders should do the trick. |
Coordinate Geometry | Not at all an important topic: learn the basics of coordinate geometry. The conic section can be ignored. |
Permutations and Combinations | Moderately important topic. You can expect questions mainly from committee formation, arrangements, and counting. You should learn the elementary formulas for this topic. Do not ignore the fundamental principles of counting. |
Probability | You can ignore this topic completely as problems from probability have stopped coming altogether. |
Set Theory | Variable Venn diagram problems that include minima and maxima are important. Get a working knowledge of Venn diagram concepts. |
CAT Quant Important Topics - Weightage & Number of Questions
It is to be noted here that the topics mentioned above are not just for the CAT quant section, but can also be used for other exams. Candidates are therefore advised to have a thorough knowledge of the CAT quantitative aptitude section and the broader topics covered in this section. Some of the most important topics with the number of questions that one can expect in each topic have been presented below for the reference of the candidates. Again, it should be noted that not all the topics may be asked in the exam, and this is just an analysis of what can be expected. Check the number of questions, and their weightage expressed in percentage below.
Quick Links:
CAT VARC Syllabus | CAT DILR Syllabus
CAT Quant Important Topics Weightage - Expected Number of Questions
Topic Name | Expected No. of Questions | Difficulty Level |
Number System, Basic Arithmetic | 5-10 Questions | Moderate |
Geometry & Mensuration | 7-8 Questions | Moderately Difficult |
Algebra | 6-7 Questions | Moderate |
Permutation & Combination | 1-2 Questions | Easy |
Probability | 1-2 Questions | Moderate |
Time, Speed, and Distance | 1-2 Questions | Moderately Difficult |
Trigonometry, Logarithms, and Sets | 1-3 Questions | Easy |
Profit, loss, and Discounts | 1-2 Questions | Moderately Easy |
Interests (SI, CI) | 1-2 Questions | Moderately Difficult |
Time and Work | 1-2 Questions | Difficult |
CAT Quant Important Topics Weightage - Percentage Analysis
The table presents an analysis of the weightage some important topics carry in the CAT quant section expressed in percent. Check the table below.
CAT Quant Topics | Expected Weightage |
Geometry | 29% |
Algebra | 24% |
Arithmetic | 23% |
Number System | 15% |
Modern maths | 9% |
Quantitative Aptitude Trend Analysis
In this section, we have provided a detailed analysis of the sub-sections in the CAT quant section, and the number of questions that have been asked from various topics. Check the section-wise analysis of these topics presented below for each section individually.
Quantitative Aptitude Arithmetic Trends Analysis
Students can check the below table to know the previous years' trends in the number of questions from the Arithmetic topic of the CAT Quant Syllabus.
Topic | 2018 Shift 1 | 2018 Shift 2 | 2019 Shift 1 | 2019 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 1 | 2020 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 3 |
Percentage | 1 | - | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Profit, Loss, and Discount | - | - | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
SI and CI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Ratio and Proportion | 2 | 1 | - | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Average | 2 | - | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | - |
Mixture and Allegation | 2 | 4 | 1 | 1 | - | - | 2 |
Time, Speed, Distance | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 1 | - | 1 |
Time and Work | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | - | 1 | - |
Pipes and Cisterns | 1 | 2 | - | - | - | - | - |
Quantitative Aptitude Algebra Trends Analysis
The number of questions from the Algebra part of CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus for different years is given below.
Topic | 2018 Shift 1 | 2018 Shift 2 | 2019 Shift 1 | 2019 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 1 | 2020 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 3 |
Equations and Polynomials | 1 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
Inequalities and Absolute Value | - | 2 | 1 | - | 1 | 3 | 1 |
Functions and Graphs | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Logarithm and Exponents | 4 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 2 |
Progressions and Series | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | - | 2 | - |
Quantitative Aptitude Geometry and Mensuration Trends Analysis
Check the previous years’ trends of CAT QA Geometry and Mensuration part from the table below.
Topic | 2018 Shift 1 | 2018 Shift 2 | 2019 Shift 1 | 2019 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 1 | 2020 Shift 2 | 2020 Shift 3 |
Lines, Angles, and Triangles | 1 | - | - | 2 | - | 1 | - |
Quadrilaterals | 3 | 2 | - | - | - | - | 1 |
Polygons | - | - | 1 | 1 | - | - | - |
Circle | 2 | - | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | - |
Mensuration | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | - |
Co-ordinate Geometry | - | 1 | 2 | - | - | - | 3 |
CAT Quant Preparation Strategy and Reference books
This section lists a few important tips and tricks that can be useful for the preparation of the CAT quantitative aptitude section. Check out some key preparation tips below.
- Focus on high-yielding topics like Number system and Algebra since they carry the most weightage and questions have been asked from this section continuously.
- Solve CAT previous years' question papers, mock tests, and sample papers to understand what kinds of questions are asked in the exam, and what you can expect in the upcoming CAT exam.
- Analyse your CAT mock tests, and make notes of all the topics or sections where you could not perform well. Set the timer to 40 minutes, and attempt the mocks. This will not help in improving your speed and accuracy, but will also guide you with your strong and weak areas.
- With each mock, aim to improve your quant score, and try to get at least 17 questions right out of 22.
- Create a study plan to cover the topics in this section, and devote a decent amount of time to the section. A brief preparation schedule to cover the quant topics is given below.
Session No. | Topic | Time (Hours) |
Session 1 | Averages | 2 |
Session 2 | Percentages | 2 |
Session 3 | Profit & Loss | 2 |
Session 4 | Linear & Quadratic Equations | 2 |
Session 5 | Ratio Proportion | 2.5 |
Session 6 | Mixtures | 1.5 |
Session 7 | Speed, Time & Distance | 2.5 |
Session 8 | Races | 1.5 |
Session 9 | Pipes & Cisterns | 2 |
Session 10 | Simple & Compound Interest | 2 |
Total | 20 | |
Best Books and Resources for CAT Quantitative Aptitude
The best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus are the ones with the latest edition carrying the latest features as per the current CAT exam pattern.
Name of the Book | Name of the Author |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10) | NCERT |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R S Aggarwal |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh K Verma |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha |
Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Nishit Sinha |