<strong>CAT syllabus</strong> <strong>2023</strong> includes Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The syllabus is prescribed by the Indian Institute of Management and is said to be one the toughest exam syllabus among all MBA entrance exams in India.

Main topics to focus while covering the <strong>CAT syllabus 2023 </strong>should be<strong> Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Percentage, Graphs, English Grammar, Coding-Decoding, Series Completion, etc</strong>. as most of the questions will be asked from these. To be ble to cover all the topics of CAT exam syllabus, candidates must start studying from March-April onwards. Read below all the details related to the <strong>CAT syllabus 2023. </strong>
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<h2 id="syllabus_toc_0">CAT Syllabus 2023: Overview</h2>
The CAT question paper 2023 will be based on VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude topics Take a look at the detailed <strong>CAT syllabus 2023</strong> and best books for <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-preparation">CAT preparation</a> below:
<ul>
 	<li>The <strong>VARC section </strong>of CAT exam syllabus for MBA covers various topics of <strong>English Grammar, Verbal Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.</strong></li>
 	<li>The <strong>Quantitative Aptitude section </strong>of CAT syllabus includes all the topics of Mathematics from Class 9 to 10 such as <strong>Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Mensuration</strong>.</li>
 	<li>The <strong>DILR syllabus </strong>of <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam">CAT exam</a> includes topics that require analytical interpretation of data presented in the form of <strong>Puzzles, Pie Charts, Tables and Bar Graphs</strong>.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_1"><strong>Latest changes in CAT syllabus</strong></h2>
There has been no change in the <strong>CAT exam syllabus</strong> for over 10 years. The only change that one can consider in the <strong>CAT syllabus for IIM</strong> is the change in the number of questions, which has reduced from 100 to 66 in the last two years. Check the table below for details.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="35%"><strong>CAT Syllabus &amp; Pattern </strong></th>
<th width="13%"><strong>Changes in CAT 2019 to 2020</strong></th>
<th width="50%"><strong>Changes in CAT 2020 to 2021, 2022</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="35%">Total questions</td>
<td width="13%">Reduced from 100 to 76</td>
<td width="50%">Reduced from 76 to 66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="35%">Total score</td>
<td width="13%">Reduced from 300 to 228</td>
<td width="50%">Reduced from 228 to 198</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="35%">Total questions in VARC section</td>
<td width="13%">Reduced from 34 to 26</td>
<td width="50%">Reduced from 26 to 24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="35%">Total Questions in DILR section</td>
<td width="13%">Reduced from 32 to 24</td>
<td width="50%">Reduced from 24 to 20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="35%">Total Questions in QA section</td>
<td width="13%">Reduced from 34 to 26</td>
<td width="50%">Reduced from 26 to 22</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Is CAT 2023 syllabus released?</h3>
The CAT syllabus will be released along with the exam notification on July 31, 2023. <strong>CAT exam syllabus for MBA </strong>admission has not changed in the last 10 years. Let's take a look at the important topics of <strong>CAT syllabus 2023</strong>. During the <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2023-exam-dates-blogId-97399">CAT 2023</a> preparation, your main focus should be on these topics. Check below sample questions from the lated CAT exam syllabus:
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a class="smce-docs smce-ftype-ico pdf " href="https://images.shiksha.com/mediadata/pdf/1684478901phpt79cO4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAT_Sample_Questions</a></td>
<td><a class="smce-docs smce-ftype-ico pdf smce-cta-link" data-link="rd8uSHrTuyEzOSGklqFoV/HgfuSNdsbGyJZerPWBsCwsLucsIJ+84Fz+LylnFSnHYriwth6vFku/LnGtSU+zcgZWsOxHusjbvaRmwf88LukShiEzNCFuLj7CITM5IY7HQQeGITEzIXKT35ur">CAT_Sample Questions_Solutions</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_2"><strong>What is CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2023?</strong></h2>
<a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam">Quantitative Aptitude</a> is the last section of CAT question paper and is to be solved in the last 40 minutes of the exam. Take a look at important topics and some key points of CAT 2023 syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude:
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" width="100%"><strong>CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/conic-sections-preparation">Geometry</a></td>
<td width="33%"> Ratios and Proportion</td>
<td width="33%">Inequalities</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/inverse-trigonometric-functions-preparation">Trigonometry</a></td>
<td width="33%">In-equations Quadratic and linear equations</td>
<td width="33%">Work and Time</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/vector-algebra-preparation">Algebra</a></td>
<td width="33%">Surds and Indices</td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/percentages-2589">Percentages</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/mensuration-formula-2591">Mensuration</a></td>
<td width="33%">Time-Speed-Distance</td>
<td width="33%"> Logarithms</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Partnership (Accounts)</td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/number-systems-2593">Number System</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/square-root-and-cube-root-2559">Square Root and Cube Root</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Profit &amp; Loss</td>
<td width="33%">Geometric Progression</td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/probability-2553">Probability</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/mean-mode-median-2563">Mean, mode, median</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/binomial-theorem-2595">Binomial theorem</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/quantitative-aptitude-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/interest-and-simple-interest-formula-2555">Simple interest and compound interest</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>Quantitative Aptitude (QA): Key Points</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT exam contains both MCQ and non-MCQ type questions</li>
 	<li>The <strong>number of MCQs and non-MCQs varies</strong>every year in Quantitative Aptitude</li>
 	<li>Past trends suggest that <strong>Arithmetic questions dominate </strong>this section of CAT</li>
 	<li>There is negative marking for MCQs but not for non-MCQs</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Topic wise weightage in CAT Quantitative Aptitude</strong></h3>
The QA section as mentioned earlier, includes question from Modern Maths, Numbers, Algebra, Arithmetic and Geometry. Given below is the composition of the QA section:
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="41%"><strong>CAT Maths Syllabus</strong></th>
<th width="29%"><strong>No. of Questions</strong></th>
<th width="29%"><strong>Level of Difficulty</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Arithmetic</td>
<td width="29%">10</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Algebra</td>
<td width="29%">5</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Geometry</td>
<td width="29%">3</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Modern Maths</td>
<td width="29%">4</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Overall</td>
<td width="29%">22</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3><strong>Important Topics for Quantitative Aptitude Section of CAT</strong></h3>
Given below is the table indicating chapter wise important topics included in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus. Candidates must plan their Quantitative Aptitude preparation on the basis of the following topics.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th colspan="2" width="100%"><strong>CAT Syllabus: Important Topics for Quantitative Aptitude</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%">Arithmetic Topics for CAT</td>
<td width="50%">Averages, Mean Median Mode, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss Mixtures and Allegations,Time and Work, Time Speed and Distance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%">Algebra Topics for CAT</td>
<td width="50%">Basics Algebraic Formulae, Linear Equations, Problems on ages, Number of integer solutions, Quadratic Equations, Finding out roots, Maxima and Minima, Higher Degree Equations, Descartes Rule of Signs, Inequalities, Logarithm, Functions, Modifications of Graphs, The Smallest Value in a Maximum Function</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%">Number System Topics for CAT</td>
<td width="50%">Basics of Numbers, Properties of Numbers, Divisibility Rules, Divisibility and Factors, Highest Common Factor and Lowest Common Multiple, Finding Out the Last Digit, Finding Out Last Two Digits, Number of Trailing Zeroes, Finding out Remainders based on, Basic Divisibility Rules, Binomial Theorem, Simplifying the Dividend (Single and/or Multiple Divisors), Fermat’s Theorem, Euler’s Theorem, Pattern Recognition and Cyclicity of Remainders, Wilson’s Theorem, Base Systems, Conversion of Bases, Addition / Subtraction / Multiplication in different bases</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%">Geometry Topics for CAT</td>
<td width="50%">Lines and Angles, Triangles – Basic Concepts, Area, Angles, Similar Triangles, Polygons, Circles, Solids / Mensuration – 3D Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%">Modern Maths Topics for CAT</td>
<td width="50%">Sequence and Series, Binomial Theorem, Set Theory, Permutation and Combination, Probability</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_3"><strong>What is CAT DILR Syllabus 2023?</strong></h2>
<a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam">Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR)</a> is the second section of the CAT question paper and is to be solved after the VARC section. This section has two sub-sections - <strong><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/">Data Interpretation </a></strong>and  <strong><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/logical-reasoning-2333">Logical Reasoning</a>. </strong>Take a look at important topics and some important logical reasoning and data interpretation topics included in CAT syllabus.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" width="100%"><strong>CAT DILR syllabus</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Blood Relations</td>
<td width="33%">Clocks and Calendars</td>
<td width="33%">Syllogism</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Series</td>
<td width="33%">Statements</td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/dilr-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/venn-diagrams-2557">Venn Diagram</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Proposition</td>
<td width="33%">Data Arrangement</td>
<td width="33%">Data Structures</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Direction Sense</td>
<td width="33%">Family Tree</td>
<td width="33%">Tables</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Coding-Decoding</td>
<td width="33%">Binary Logic</td>
<td width="33%">Pie Charts</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Assumptions</td>
<td width="33%">Seating Arrangement</td>
<td width="33%">Data Sufficiency</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Puzzles</td>
<td width="33%">Sets &amp; Caselets</td>
<td width="33%">Bars &amp; Line Graphs</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>CAT Syllabus: Data Interpretation Key Points</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>The CAT question paper has about <strong>14 questions on Data Interpretation</strong></li>
 	<li>Data Interpretation questions are usually of <strong>moderate to high difficulty level</strong></li>
 	<li>Data Interpretation section contains <strong>both MCQ and non-MCQ type </strong>questions</li>
 	<li>The number of MCQs and non-MCQs varies in Data Interpretation section</li>
 	<li>There is negative marking for MCQs in Data Interpretation section of CAT</li>
 	<li>There is <strong>no negative marking for non-MCQs </strong>in Data Interpretation section</li>
</ul>
<strong>CAT Syllabus: Logical Reasoning Key Points</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>The <strong>Logical Reasoning section has about 10 questions </strong>in total</li>
 	<li>The questions in this section are of <strong>moderate to high difficulty level</strong></li>
 	<li>Logical Reasoning section contains <strong>both MCQ and non-MCQ type </strong>questions</li>
 	<li>The number of MCQs and non-MCQs varies in Logical Reasoning section</li>
 	<li>There is negative marking for MCQs but not for non-MCQs</li>
</ul>
<h3>Important Topics &amp; Weightage for CAT DILR</h3>
<strong>Topic wise weightage in CAT DILR</strong> The DILR section as mentioned earlier, includes question of two types – Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Given below is the basic structure of the DILR section of CAT.
<table width="77%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="41%"><strong>CAT DILR Syllabus</strong></th>
<th width="29%"><strong>No. of Questions</strong></th>
<th width="29%"><strong>Level of Difficulty</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Data Interpretation</td>
<td width="29%">4</td>
<td width="29%">Easy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Data Interpretation</td>
<td width="29%">4</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Logical Reasoning</td>
<td width="29%">6</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate to difficult</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Logical Reasoning</td>
<td width="29%">6</td>
<td width="29%">Easy to Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="41%">Overall</td>
<td width="29%">20</td>
<td width="29%">Moderate to difficult</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_4"><strong>What is CAT VARC Syllabus 2023?</strong></h2>
<a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam">VARC</a> section is the first section of the  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-previous-year-papers-blogId-20845">CAT question paper</a> and is to be solved within 40 minutes. The section is divided into two sub-parts,  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/verbal-ability-2325">Verbal Ability</a> and  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/reading-comprehension-2327">Reading Comprehension</a>. the section is dominated by RC questions. Take a look at <strong> important VARC topics for CAT exam syllabus.</strong>
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" width="100%"><strong>CAT VARC Syllabus</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Fill in the blanks</td>
<td width="33%">Para completion and inference</td>
<td width="33%">Verbal logic</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Verbal reasoning</td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/subject-verb-agreement-2409">Subject-verb agreement</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/parajumbles-with-exercises-2393">Parajumbles</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Sentence completion</td>
<td width="33%">Foreign language words used in English</td>
<td width="33%">Different usage of same word</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Grammar</td>
<td width="33%">Reading comprehension</td>
<td width="33%">Idioms</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Syllogisms</td>
<td width="33%">Analogies</td>
<td width="33%">Antonyms</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%">Jumbled paragraphs</td>
<td width="33%">Sentence correction</td>
<td width="33%">One word substitution</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/parts-of-speech-2587">Parts of speech</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/prepositions-with-exercises-2395">Preposition</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/types-of-clauses-2411">Types of clauses</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/phrases-modifiers-2585">Phrases modifiers</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/errors-in-tenses-2597">Errors in tenses</a></td>
<td width="33%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/varc-preparation-tips-for-mba-exam/examples-of-articles-2413">Articles usage</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>CAT Syllabus: VARC Key Points</strong>
<ul>
 	<li>In CAT exam, there are usually eight Verbal Ability questions</li>
 	<li>Some <strong>questions in VARC </strong>section are <strong>non-MCQs</strong>, which means candidates have to Type In The Answer (TITA)</li>
 	<li>There is <strong>no negative marking for</strong>non-MCQ type</li>
 	<li>Types of questions in CAT VARC include:
<ul>
 	<li>Reading Comprehension based</li>
 	<li>Para-jumbles</li>
 	<li>Out of context sentence in a paragraph</li>
 	<li>Error correction in a paragraph</li>
 	<li>Vocabulary usage</li>
 	<li>Sentence completion</li>
 	<li>Analogies</li>
 	<li>Critical reasoning</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Important Topics &amp; Weightage for CAT VARC</strong></h3>
A: <strong>Topic wise weightage in CAT VARC:</strong> In CAT syllabus, the VARC section as mentioned earlier, includes four major sub-topics– RC, Parajumbles, Verbal Ability and Sentences.  <strong>Composition of the VARC section is usually the same.</strong>
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="36%"><strong>VARC Topics for CAT</strong></th>
<th width="24%"><strong>No. of Questions in CAT Exam</strong></th>
<th width="24%"><strong>Level of Difficulty</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="36%">Reading Comprehension</td>
<td width="24%">16</td>
<td width="24%">Moderate to Difficult</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="36%">VA-Parajumbles</td>
<td width="24%">3</td>
<td width="24%">Moderate to Difficult</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="36%">VA-Odd Sentence</td>
<td width="24%">2</td>
<td width="24%">Easy to Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="36%">VA-Summary</td>
<td width="24%">3</td>
<td width="24%">Easy to Moderate</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="36%">Overall</td>
<td width="24%">24</td>
<td width="24%">Moderate to Difficult</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_5"><strong>CAT Syllabus: Reading Comprehension Passages of Past Few Years</strong></h2>
The Reading Comprehension section of VARC forms the two-third part of the first section of  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-question-papers">CAT question paper</a>. There are about four to five RC passages with 18-24 questions. Check below, the Reading Comprehension topics of CAT 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018:
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="11%"><strong>CAT RC Passages</strong></th>
<th width="29%"><strong>Slot 1</strong></th>
<th width="32%"><strong>Slot 2</strong></th>
<th width="26%"><strong>Slot 3</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="11%"><strong>CAT 2022</strong></td>
<td width="29%">
<ul>
 	<li>Ghosts &amp; their mysteries how we can’t find their history</li>
 	<li>Chinese Copy of articles</li>
 	<li>Two levels of emotional thinking</li>
 	<li>STOICS</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="32%">
<ul>
 	<li>Music</li>
 	<li>Engineering technology</li>
 	<li>Octopus</li>
 	<li>Philosophy</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="26%">
<ul>
 	<li>Social reorganization increasing crime rate</li>
 	<li>Software if more easy humans are not capable to get solutions)</li>
 	<li>Indian history</li>
 	<li>American migration / urbanization increasing</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="11%"><strong>CAT 2021</strong></td>
<td width="29%">
<ul>
 	<li>Mayan Civilization</li>
 	<li>Utopia and Dystopia</li>
 	<li>Marshmallow Experiment</li>
 	<li>Evolution of Tea as a Drink</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="32%">
<ul>
 	<li>Language/ Indigenous People</li>
 	<li>Why Fiction Trumps Truth</li>
 	<li>Colonialism/Nationalism</li>
 	<li>Knowledge and Problems of Knowledge is a Scandal to Philosophy</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="26%">
<ul>
 	<li>Nanotechnology</li>
 	<li>Language Instinct</li>
 	<li>Time Accuracy Entropy</li>
 	<li>Unconscious and Psychoanalysis</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="11%"><strong>CAT 2020</strong></td>
<td width="29%">
<ul>
 	<li>Anarchism</li>
 	<li>Migration of Northern Seals</li>
 	<li>Currency of Tang Dynasty</li>
 	<li>Grammar/Vocabulary</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="32%">
<ul>
 	<li>Investing in Renewable Energy Technologies</li>
 	<li>Piracy in International Trade</li>
 	<li>Freudian Models of Aggression</li>
 	<li>A Study of Visualisation</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="26%">
<ul>
 	<li>Travel Writing and Feminism During Colonial Times</li>
 	<li>The Need for Economic Literacy in the General Population</li>
 	<li>Screen Time and Undercurrents of Social Class</li>
 	<li> An Analysis of Human Nature</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="11%"><strong>CAT 2019</strong></td>
<td width="29%">
<ul>
 	<li>British Folk Music</li>
 	<li>Topophilia</li>
 	<li>Emperor Penguins</li>
 	<li>Internet Shopping and Choice Anxiety</li>
 	<li>Origin of Story of Alladin</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="32%">
<ul>
 	<li>Dense Cities</li>
 	<li>Google and Archaeology</li>
 	<li>Distributing Bureaucracy</li>
 	<li>Language &amp; Culture</li>
 	<li>British Colonial Policy</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="26%">No exam</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="11%"><strong>CAT 2018</strong></td>
<td width="29%">
<ul>
 	<li>Genetics</li>
 	<li>India’s View on its Legacy of Second World War</li>
 	<li>Plastic Pollution</li>
 	<li>Elephant Society</li>
 	<li>Consumer Behaviour Studies</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="32%">
<ul>
 	<li>Grover Snails</li>
 	<li>Meritocracy and Diversified Teams</li>
 	<li>Use of Technology in Essential Services</li>
 	<li>Rings of Saturn and Their Age</li>
 	<li>Human Resource and Learning</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td width="26%">No exam</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3><strong>CAT Syllabus: Reading Comprehension Key Points</strong></h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Reading Comprehension questions are all MCQ type, hence there is <strong>negative marking of one mark</strong></li>
 	<li>On an average, RC section of the CAT exam has <strong>three to four long passages and two to three short passages</strong></li>
 	<li>In CAT 2022, there were only four passages. In CAT 2023 too, candidates can expect <strong>four RC passages</strong></li>
 	<li>The long passages in CAT are of <strong>900 words</strong>and short passages are of <strong>600 words </strong></li>
 	<li>The RCs could be from <strong>Science, History, Politics, Environment, Society to Literature, Mythology and Abstract topics</strong></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_6"><strong>How to Download CAT 2023 Syllabus PDF?</strong></h2>
CAT 2023 syllabus PDF is not released by the exam convening IIM. However, various coaching institutes and preparation portals provide CAT syllabus for download. Such PDFs include the important topics for CAT preparation. For example, the CAT syllabus PDF contains:
<ul>
 	<li>Quantitative Aptitude topics of Geometry, Algebra, Arithmetic, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Modern Math and their sub topics.</li>
 	<li>Data Interpretation topics like Data Structure, Data Sufficiency, Tables, Pie Charts, Graphs and their sub topics.</li>
 	<li>Logical Reasoning topics like series, coding-decoding, family tree, blood relation, seating arrangement, assumptions and their sub topics.</li>
 	<li>VARC topics like reading comprehension, filling in the blanks, para jumble, para completion, vocabulary, grammar and their sub topics.</li>
</ul>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>You can also download CAT 2023 syllabus PDF from Shiksha website, link for which is given here:

<a href="https://images.shiksha.com/mediadata/pdf/1678701365phpaHVSSw.pdf">CAT syllabus PDF</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_7"><strong>How to prepare for CAT 2023?</strong></h2>
CAT preparation based on the official syllabus is the only way to score high in the exam. Candidates interested in appearing for CAT exam must make a preparation plan based on their knowledge of the <strong> topics included in the CAT syllabus</strong>. Many Quantitative Aptitude topics are those, which are taught in school and so is the case with English Grammar. So, the first thing to do to prepare for CAT is make the list of topics in terms of familiarity –  <strong>familiar, somewhat familiar </strong>and <strong>not familiar at all</strong>. After that, start studying unfamiliar topics first and then move to somewhat familiar and finally to familiar topics. Take a look at some <strong>section-wise tips for CAT preparation</strong> are listed below:
<h3><strong>How to Prepare for CAT VARC?</strong></h3>
<ul>
 	<li>VARC preparation should start at the early stage of CAT preparation, specifically Reading Comprehension practice</li>
 	<li>Check the VARC syllabus of CAT and revise all the Grammar rules and definitions</li>
 	<li>Get hold of a dictionary and word meaning books to learn new words and phrases</li>
 	<li>RC dominates VARC section so it is important have the practice of speed-reading. This can be developed by reading books, novels, magazines and data heavy reports.</li>
 	<li>The best source of preparation of Verbal Ability is sample questions. Solve a large number and a wide range of Verbal Ability questions to master it.</li>
</ul>
Also Read:
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-plan-for-verbal-ability-blogId-13092">CAT Preparation Plan For VARC</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/make-these-7-guys-your-study-companions-for-mba-verbal-ability-prep-blogId-11559">Make These 7 Guys Your Companion For VARC</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-your-love-for-reading-can-get-you-the-desired-result-blogId-12797">CAT Preparation: Your Love For Reading Can Get You Desired Result</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/types-of-reading-comprehension-questions-in-cat-exam-blogId-48821">Types of Reading Comprehension Questions in CAT</a></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>How to Prepare for CAT DILR?</strong></h3>
<ul>
 	<li>DILR section of CAT is all about Tables, Graphs, Charts and Series</li>
 	<li>This section requires, good calculation skill as well as eye for detail</li>
 	<li>20 questions of this section will be equally divided into DI and LR thus, you need to work on both</li>
 	<li>Memorise Tables up to 20, Square, Square Roots, Cube, Cube Roots and other such mathematical values to read and calculate fast</li>
 	<li>Practice as many sample questions and sectional mock tests as you can because there is no formula to be remembered</li>
 	<li>The more experience you have at speed reading charts and tables better the chances of scoring high in DILR section of CAT</li>
</ul>
Also Read:
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-plan-for-">CAT Preparation Plan for DILR</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/how-to-crack-logical-reasoning-blogId-1397">How to Crack Logical Reasoning</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-prep-2014-time-management-in-quantitative-ability-and-">Time Management in QA and DI</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/articles/cat-prep-the-challenges-of-">Challenges of Data Interpretation</a></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>How to Prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?</strong></h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT is all about conceptual clarity and practice</li>
 	<li>Pick up each topic of the CAT syllabus and gain conceptual clarity. Solve a few questions to assess whether you’ve understood the application correctly or not.</li>
 	<li>Start practicing full length and sectional mock tests only after completing the syllabus</li>
 	<li>Divide <strong>practice sessions </strong>into – <strong>easy, moderate and high</strong>. Start solving easy questions first, then move to moderately high questions and then to tough questions.</li>
 	<li>Time yourself while solving questions and solve each of them at least three times. The first attempt is to understand the question, second attempt is to solve it with 100 per cent accuracy and the third attempt is to solve it will 100 per cent accuracy and speed.</li>
 	<li>Develop the skill of mental calculation to save time during the CAT exam</li>
</ul>
Also Read:
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-plan-for-quantitative-aptitude-blogId-13075">CAT Preparation Plan For Quantitative Aptitude</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/how-to-prepare-for-quantitative-aptitude-for-the-cat-exam-blogId-19029">How To Prepare For Quantitative Aptitude For CAT Exam</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/master-the-secret-of-acing-in-quantitative-ability-in-cat-blogId-15909">Master The Secret of Acing QA In CAT Exam</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-how-to-approach-quant-section-blogId-11482">How To Approach Quant Section of CAT Exam</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/6-strategies-for-cat-quant-preparation-blogId-11423">Six Strategies of Quant Preparation</a></li>
</ul>
<strong>CAT Preparation 2023: Expert Tips on How to cover CAT syllabus 2023</strong>

Go through the articles listed below for expert tips and topper interviews for  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-blogId-20079">CAT preparation</a>:
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th colspan="2" width="100%"><strong>Tips and Tricks for CAT Preparation</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="45%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/how-to-prepare-for-cat-in-6-months-blogId-21031">How to Prepare for CAT in 6 months</a></td>
<td width="54%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2020-how-to-approach-cat-questions-tips-by-toppers-blogId-25993">How to approach CAT question paper: Tips by toppers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="45%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-in-3-months-blogId-11407">How to Prepare for CAT in 3 months</a></td>
<td width="54%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-how-to-prepare-without-quitting-your-job-blogId-14718">CAT 2023: How to prepare without quitting your job</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="45%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2021-preparation-tips-for-last-30-days-blogId-25047">CAT exam: Last month preparation tips</a></td>
<td width="54%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2016-simple-tips-to-optimize-exam-preparation-blogId-13034">CAT 2023: Simple tips to optimize exam preparation</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="45%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/what-is-the-best-time-to-start-cat-preparation-blogId-10892">What is the best time to start CAT preparation</a></td>
<td width="54%"><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/advantage-of-giving-cat-exam-for-students-pursuing-final-year-of-ug-blogId-19115">Advantages of giving CAT for final year student</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>Practice:</strong>
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/articles/cat-prep-verbal-ability-va-solved-questions-blogId-6625">Verbal Ability (VA) solved questions</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-quantitative-aptitude-qa-solved-questions-blogId-6569">Quantitative Aptitude (QA) solved questions</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-data-interpretation-di-solved-questions-blogId-6472">Data Interpretation (DI) solved questions</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/articles/cat-prep-data-interpretation-di-solved-questions-part-3-blogId-6651">Data Interpretation (DI) solved questions - Part 2</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-prep-logical-reasoning-lr-solved-questions-part-2-blogId-6637">Logical Reasoning (LR) solved questions</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-preparation-logical-reasoning-lr-solved-questions-blogId-6515">Logical Reasoning (LR) solved questions - Part 2</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-last-week-prep-tips-how-to-get-more-marks-in-varc-blogId-11728">Last week preparation tips for CAT VARC</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-last-week-tips-to-score-more-in-dilr-blogId-11747">Last week preparation tips for CAT DILR</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-last-week-prep-tips-for-qa-section-blogId-11731">Last week preparation tips for CAT QA</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_8"> What is the preparation strategy of CAT toppers?</h2>
A: To know the <strong>CAT preparation strategy of toppers</strong>, click on the links given below:
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="50%"><strong>CAT Toppers</strong></th>
<th width="50%"><strong>CAT Topper Interviews</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%"><strong>Risshi Agrawal</strong>

CAT 2022, 99.99 percentile</td>
<td width="50%">Mocks play a crucial role while preparing for CAT. It helps you determine the strategy which suits you the best. Read <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-topper-interview-mocks-play-a-crucial-role-says-risshi-agrawal-99-99-percentiler-blogId-111213">Risshi’s full interview</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%"><strong>Parul Arora</strong>

CAT 2022, 99.93 percentile</td>
<td width="50%">I started preparing for CAT in April. My preparation strategy for CAT was to clear my basic concepts in all topics and then maximum practice. Read <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-topper-interview-know-how-parul-arora-cracked-cat-with-99-93-ile-blogId-111005">Parul’s full interview</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%"><strong>Aditya Singh</strong>

CAT 2022, 99.90 percentile</td>
<td width="50%">For my first attempt I attended offline coaching classes, post which I only took the online test series. This year I took the test series from two of the most renowned coaching institutes. Coaching really helps a lot. Read <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-topper-interview-take-mocks-and-analyse-says-aditya-who-secured-99-9-blogId-111619">Aditya’s full interview</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%"><strong>Atish Naskar</strong>

CAT 2022, 99.81 percentile</td>
<td width="50%">I started my CAT preparation back in January 2022. I set a daily target for all 3 sections that included daily 3-4 RCs daily 3-4 LRDI sets 20-30 QA questions or some QA concept understanding. The last 2-3 Months gave mocks and analyzed them properly. Read <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-topper-interview-cat-mock-test-plays-a-very-important-role-says-atish-naskar-99-81-percentiler-blogId-110969">Atish’s full interview</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%"><strong>Tushar Sarkar</strong>

CAT 2022, 99.80 percentile</td>
<td width="50%">My serious preparation started in the month of June 2022. My overall strategy had three parts: Diagnosing my problems, guiding policy for improving and actions. Read <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-topper-interview-know-3-steps-preparation-strategy-from-tushar-sarkar-99-80-percentiler-blogId-111199">Tushar’s full interview</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_9"><strong>What are the Best Books to cover CAT Syllabus?</strong></h2>
There is a wide range of books for CAT preparation available in the market. Candidates must take due care in selecting the right books to study. Experts recommend that <strong>preparation books for CAT syllabus</strong> must be comprehensive, must have updated exam pattern and must also have question banks. Take a look at the following list of  <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/best-books-for-cat-preparation-blogId-11435">best books for CAT exam</a> which have been carefully curated by Shiksha after looking at all the options in the market and consulting our CAT experts.
<h3>CAT Books for Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR)</h3>
To cover the CAT DILR syllabus, candidates must read from the recommended books only. Given below is the list of best books for CAT DILR section.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="74%"><strong>CAT Books</strong></th>
<th width="25%"><strong>Authors</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="74%">CAT Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning</td>
<td width="25%">Gautam Puri</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="74%">Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT</td>
<td width="25%">Nishit K Sinha</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="74%">Data Interpretation &amp; Data Sufficiency</td>
<td width="25%">Ananta Ashisha</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="74%">How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT</td>
<td width="25%">Arun Sharma</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3><strong>CAT Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)</strong></h3>
To cover the CAT VARC syllabus, candidates must read from the recommended books only. Given below is the list of best books for CAT VARC section.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="59%"><strong>CAT Books</strong></th>
<th width="40%"><strong>Authors</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="59%">How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT</td>
<td width="40%">Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay/Arihant</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="59%">30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary Mass Market Paperback</td>
<td width="40%">Wilfred Funk &amp; Norman Lewis/ Simon &amp; Schuster</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="59%">How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT</td>
<td width="40%">Sharma and Upadhyay</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="59%">High School English Grammar &amp; Composition</td>
<td width="40%">Wren &amp; Martin<strong><em> </em></strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>CAT Books for Quantitative Aptitude (QA)</h3>
To cover the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus, candidates must read from the recommended books only. Given below is the list of best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude section.
<table width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="73%"><strong>CAT Book</strong></th>
<th width="26%"><strong>Authors</strong></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="73%">NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 9 to 10)</td>
<td width="26%">NCERT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="73%">How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT</td>
<td width="26%">Arun Sharma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="73%">Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT</td>
<td width="26%">Sarvesh Sharma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="73%">Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations</td>
<td width="26%">Abhijit Guha</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="73%">Quantitative Aptitude for CAT</td>
<td width="26%">Nishit Sinha</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong>Download:</strong>
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-slot-1-2-and-3-answer-key-pdf-and-question-paper-analysis-blogId-108611">CAT 2022 Slot 1 Question Paper and Answer Key PDF</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-slot-2-answer-key-and-question-paper-analysis-blogId-108737">CAT 2022 Slot 2 Question Paper and Answer Key PDF</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/cat-2022-slot-3-answer-key-and-question-paper-analysis-blogId-108739">CAT 2022 Slot 3 Question Paper and Answer Key PDF</a></li>
</ul>
<div class="embed">
<div>

CAT Percentile predictor prepared by Shiksha.com helps students to get their predicted CAT percentile on the basis of their expected exam score. So, predict your CAT 2023 score by clicking the link below:

<a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-percentile-predictor">Predict CAT Percentile</a></div>
<div class="embed">
<div>

Check Cut offs of top MBA entrance exams and predict calls from IIMs and other Top MBA Colleges. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and eligibility of all MBA Colleges by clicking the link below:

<a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/college-predictor">Predict IIM &amp; Non IIM Calls</a></div>
</div>
Also Read:   <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/mba-preparation-tips-to-prepare-for-mba-entrance-exams-blogId-69543">MBA Preparation 2023-Tips to Prepare for MBA Entrance Exams</a></div>
<div id="faqWrapper_last" class="faqWrapper automatic case2" contenteditable="false">
<h2 id="syllabus_toc_10">FAQs on CAT Syllabus 2023</h2>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="">
<div class="_5bf7">
<div id="ansPostingWrapper_last" class="_6e6a manual">
<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: What is the syllabus for the CAT exam?</strong></p>

<div class="ff6c">
<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">The syllabus of the CAT exam is divided into three sections and is as follows: Section one: This section can be further divided into two parts: the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). The topics included are fill in the blanks, verbal logic, different usages of the same word, sentence completion, syllogisms, analogies, and prepositions, etc. Section Two: This section consists of data interpretation and logical reasoning questions (DILR). It includes topics such as Blood Relations, Data Arrangement, Pie Charts, Coding-Decoding, Bars, Line Graphs, Binary Logic, etc. Section three: This section has questions related to quantitative aptitude from topics such as ratios and proportion, geometry, surds and indices, algebra, geometric progression and probability, etc. If you want to know the detailed syllabus and how to approach it, you may visit this page: <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-syllabus">https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-syllabus</a>.</div>
</div>
<a class="e21b" href="https://ask.shiksha.com/what-is-the-syllabus-for-the-cat-exam-qna-7142941">View Other Answers <i class="_6c18 arrow"></i></a></div>
<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: What are the important topics of CAT syllabus from which maximum questions are asked?</strong></p>

<div class="ff6c">
<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">CAT lays a lot of emphasis on analytical skills so the questions are asked mostly from those topics which require deep learning and practice. The three sections of CAT question paper are designed in such a way that candidates have to use their ability of minute observation and fast calculation. Shared below are the section wise main topics from which questions are asked in CAT. Verbal Ability: Parajumbles, Parasummary, Sentence Completion and Inferences Reading Comprehension: Questions based on passages, Para meaning, Order of sentences Data Interpretation: Tables, Graphs, Pie Charts, Venn Diagram, Data Sufficiency Logical Reasoning: Blood Relation, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, Sets and Caselets, Family Tree, Assumptions Quantitative Aptitude: Geometry, Algebra Number System Modern Math, Arithmetic, Mensuration The difficulty level of CAT questions is usually moderate to high. Only a few questions are easy and quick to solve. To crack the CAT exam, one needs to pay attention to the abovementioned topics.</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Is the CAT syllabus difficult?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Yes, the difficulty level of CAT syllabus is very high as compared to other MBA entrance exams. However, if you prepare well and follow the CAT exam pattern well, you will be able to score well. Besides having an understanding of the CAT syllabus 2023, candidates also need to be well aware of the CAT exam pattern before they start preparing for the exam. The CAT exam pattern was revised in 2021 and the number of questions were reduced from 76 to 66. The structure of CAT 2022 exam was the same. The syllabus is still tougher than other exams. The most important things to keep in mind are: 1. CAT exam mode is online 2. Each question carries three marks 3. There is negative marking of minus one mark for wrong attempts The section-wise distribution of questions and difficulty levels as per the latest CAT exam pattern are tabulated below: Quantitative Ability (QA) - 24 questions, difficulty level - moderate to high Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning DILR 20 questions, difficulty level - moderate Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension VARC - 22 questions, difficulty level - moderate.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: What makes CAT tougher than other MBA entrance exams?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">CAT exam is a national level MBA entrance exam conducted by the IIM. Every year, over 2.3 Lacs candidates apply for it. The CAT score is accepted by the Iims and all top MBA colleges in India. To select the best candidates from over 2.3 Lacs test takers there is a need for tough criteria. That's why, the CAT exam is tougher than other MBA entrance exams. Even though the syllabus of CAT is same as that of other MBA entrance exams, the question paper set by the IIM faculty always has tough questions. Moreover, CAT has sectional time limit for each section which is not there in any other exam expect XAT. Having a time limit for each section adds pressure on candidates to complete solving adequate number of questions in a section within the time limit. If a student is weak in a particular subject, they can't use the time as per their need. CAT's Reading Comprehension passages are long and dense unlike other MBA exams. This is one more reason why most candidates feel CAT is tougher than any other MBA entrance exam.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: When should I start preparing for CAT exam?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Aspirants should start preparing for CAT exam at least nine months in before the test date. CAT preparation requires long-term planning thus one must start early. They can also join coaching institutes for focused preparation. So, the best time to start CAT preparation in March. Starting early will also help you assess that whether you need to join a coaching institute or not. Divide your preparation into two phases - 1. Covering the syllabus 2. Practicing mock tests, sample questions and revision. The CAT syllabus includes the following topics: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension: Parajumbles, Parasummary, Sentence Completion and Inferences, Questions based on passages, para meaning, order of sentences Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning: Tables, Graphs, Pie Charts, Venn Diagram, Blood Relation, Seating Arrangement, Caselets and Syllogism Quantitative Aptitude: Geometry, Algebra Number System Arithmetic, Mensuration You can read the following CAT books for exam preparation: 1. CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri 2. Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha 3. Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha 4. How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT by Arun Sharma 5. How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay 6. 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary Mass Market Paperback by Wilfred Funk and Norman Lewis/ Simon and Schuster 7. How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Sharma and Upadhyay 8. High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren and Martin 9. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma 10. Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha 11. Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Sharma 12. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: What is the marking scheme of CAT?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">CAT has a total of 66 question. Each section carries 3 marks for correct attempt and -1 marks for incorrect attempt. There is no deduction of marks for unanswered questions. Therefore, the total marks of CAT is 198. Till 2019, the CAT exam used to be of 300 marks as the total number of questions were 100. In CAT 2020, the number of questions was reduced to 76 and the total marks was 228. Since, 2021, the total marks of CAT is 198. Section-wise, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section has maximum weightage. Sectional marking scheme for CAT is given below: 1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension: 72 (24x3) 2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning: 60 (20x3) 3. Quantitative Aptitude 66 (22x3) Since CAT has sectional negative marking scheme, candidates must choose the questions to solve very carefully. If they are not sure of the correct answer, they should leave the question instead of taking a chance. Remember that 0 is greater than negative.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: From when should I start solving CAT mock test series?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Ideally, candidates should start solving mock tests after completing the CAT syllabus. CAT exam is held in the last week of November and aspirants usually start exam preparation by March. Even if they start later than March, the syllabus is completed by August end. So, September is the ideal month to start solving CAT mock tests as it gives them over three months to attempt, analyse and assess their preparation level. Those who have appeared for the CAT before can directly start solving mock tests. Their motive should be to SEE if they are doing better than last year or not. If they are not, then they can go back to the topics that are posing challenge. They can study the chapters and practice mock tests simultaneously too as they do not have to start studying from scratch. Solve one CAT mock test in a day and analyse it in details. Check your accuracy level, time taken and knowledge of questions individually. It will help you in understanding which type of questions are easy for you and which are tough.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: From where can I download CAT question papers?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">CAT question papers are released within a week of the exam in the form of a PDF as a response sheet and answer key. Candidates who have appeared for the test are able to access the CAT question paper and answer key. The question paper of every slot is released on the same day along with candidate response sheet and official answer to all question. If any candidate needs previous year CAT question papers for preparation purpose, then they can download them from Shiksha website. We have hosted last five years' CAT question papers for aspirants to download and practice. These official CAT question papers are available for download free. You can download the CAT question paper PDFs at this link: <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-question-papers">https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-question-papers</a> Candidates must check and practice the latest CAT question paper to know the latest exam pattern and difficulty level.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Which CAT slot has the toughest question paper?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">There is no pattern to which CAT question paper can be the toughest. The CAT question paper of every slot has unique questions. The examination body strives to maintain the same difficulty level of the paper across all slots but it may happen that a question can be more difficult from another. It is seen that, to keep the uniqueness of the question paper intact, the examination authority also changes the topic wise weightage a little bit across the exam slots. In most of the previous years, it is seen that the morning slot of the CAT exam is tougher than the rest two. However, candidates must not worry about the difficulty level of the slots as, the scores of all the candidates are normalised on a common scale to root out the possibility of advantage or disadvantage to any student due to difference in difficulty level. To know how the CAT scores are normalised, read this article: <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/understanding-cat-normalization-process-blogId-9386">https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/understanding-cat-normalization-process-blogId-9386</a>.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: What is the structure of CAT question paper?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">The CAT question paper structure has remained unchanged since 2014 when there were only two sections. Quantitative Aptitude was clubbed with Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was clubbed with Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. In 2015, the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning were clubbed together and Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension made two individual sections. Since 2015, the sectional segregation has remained the same but the number of questions have come down from 100 to 66. The exam duration has also been reduced. Until 2019, the CAT exam was of 180 minutes and the total number of questions were 100. However, in 2020, the question paper structure was revised due to COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the total number of questions came down to 76. In 2021 and 2022, the number of questions were further lowered to 66. For the last two years, CAT is conducted for 2 hours, and the number of questions is 66. The latest CAT question paper structure is: Total questions: 66 Number of sections: 3 Order of sections - 1. VARC 2. DILR 3. Quantitative Aptitude Sectional time limit: 40 minutes VARC questions: 24 DILR questions: 20 Quantitative Aptitude questions: 22.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: How many questions should I solve to score 99 percentile in CAT exam?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">It is tough to give an accurate number as an answer to this questions are the number of questions have been changing in CAT in the last three years. Moreover, percentile also depends on the difficulty level of the exams and the number of test takers in a particular year. However, one can say that it is safe to solve at least 2/3rd of the total questions in each section of the CAT. So, if CAT Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section has 24 questions, candidate must attempt 16-18 questions correctly. If the CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning has 20 questions, the candidate must solve about 12-14 questions correctly. If the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section has 22 questions then candidates must solve about 14-15 questions correctly. For further understanding you can check detailed analysis here: <a href="https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/how-many-questions-to-attempt-in-cat-to-score-99-percentile-blogId-19639">https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/how-many-questions-to-attempt-in-cat-to-score-99-percentile-blogId-19639</a>.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Are six months enough to prepare for CAT?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Usually, it is recommended to start CAT preparation about a year or nine months in advance. However, one can prepare for this exam even in six months if they put 8-10 hours daily into it. Candidates who have attempted the CAT before may not face a lot of hurdles in six-month preparation as they have a foundation in CAT preparation from previous year, but candidates who are appearing in the exam for the first time may face obstacles, mostly related to accuracy. The syllabus of CAT is vast and includes a lot of reading. One also has to spend a lot of time in practice sessions and mock tests to be able to master all types of CAT questions - easy, moderate and tough. If you are a student of engineering/technical or commerce background you will need to pay extra attention on VARC . However, you'll be able to manage the syllabus of DILR and Quantitative Aptitude with adequate practice of topics. But if you are a student from Arts background, it is advised to start CAT preparation much earlier because you will have to brush up a lot of Mathematics. Reading Comprehension is one subject that cannot be mastered by student belonging to any academic stream, if their English comprehension is not strong. To develop reading habit all CAT aspirants will have to start much earlier.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Is it beneficial to do MBA after CA and how can I prepare for CAT in my daily routine?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Yes, it can be beneficial to pursue an MBA/PGDM after completing the CA (Chartered Accountancy) programme. An MBA/PGDM can provide you with a broader understanding of business management concepts and practices, which can complement your technical expertise in accounting and finance. Additionally, an MBA/PGDM can help you acquire leadership and management skills, which can open up opportunities for career growth and advancement. To prepare for the CA. (Common Admission Test) in your daily routine, you can start by setting aside a fixed amount of time each day to study and practice. It is important to develop a study plan and schedule that works best for you and stick to it. You can also join coaching classes or online courses to get access to study materials, mock tests, and expert guidance. GIBS Business School, located in Bangalore, India, offers a 2-year full-time PGDM programme that is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various industries. The programme is open to graduates from any discipline, including CA. Admission to the programme is based on a candidate's academic background, entrance exam scores, and performance in group discussions and personal interviews. GIBS also offers various scholarships and financial assistance programs to eligible candidates.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Is CAT exam tough for an average student?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">CAT is a speed based test which is designed to assess a candidate's analytical aptitude, logical reasoning skills, data interpretation and English comprehension. Now, it may sound tough, but these are the skills which we are taught in school so there is nothing new to learn. What is required is to learn these subjects at advanced level. If you are an average student but have studied Science or commerce in Class-12 and graduation, you will find a lot of familiar topics in Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning. All you will need is brush up the basics and practice the concepts on advance level problems. However, since the competition is so high in CAT and less than 95 percentile can break your dream of joining a top college like IIM, the preparation for CAT requires a lot of focus, dedication, discipline and diligence. If you can do that, despite being an average student, you can crack the CAT exam.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: How many hours should I study to prepare for CAT?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">There is no fixed limit to how many hours you need to devote to CAT preparation. This is because every person has a different learning pace. Some may have strong mathematical backgrounds, and the quant section may look like a cakewalk to them, but they may get stuck in comprehension. Therefore, you need to first understand your strong and weak areas to make a proper schedule. You should give more time to practicing and studying those topics which are unknown to you and less time to those which you know very well. On an average, it takes 6 to 8 hours, depending upon how many months are left for the exam. If CAT is six months away, then four hours is sufficient, but if it is next month, then you need to study at least eight hours.</div>
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<p class="_5543 listener _8036"><strong>Q: Is 6.5 CGPA good for CAT preparation?</strong></p>

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<div class="wikkiContents flx-box"><strong class="cmsA">A:</strong>
<div class="cmsAContent">Yes, you should not worry about your CGPA at graduation to prepare for the CAT exam. A CGPA of 6.5 is not bad, but it is average enough to get you an admissions call from IIM. It doesn't matter what your CGPA is if you score highly on the CAT exam and perform well in the personal interview round because you can enroll in the best IIMs. You need not be concerned about your CGPA because most management colleges also consider 6.5 CGPA for admission. You have to create a good study plan so that you do well in the CAT exam. Additionally, you can make up for your undergraduate CGPA by performing well in group discussions and the Personal Interview round. These are conducted by IIMs after the CAT results are released.</div>
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