The CAT 2026 syllabus is not formally prescribed by the IIMs, but it takes a well-defined pattern from past years’ question papers. The syllabus consists of three main sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each of these sections must be understood thoroughly to prepare effectively.
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
This part checks your comprehension and interpretation skills of written text, as well as grammar and sentence structure. VARC typically consists of:
- Reading Comprehension (RC): 4-5 short and long passages on contemporary affairs, science, literature, and abstract concepts. Questions are inferential and factual.
- Para Jumbles: The sentences are in a jumbled order and have to be logically arranged.
- Sentence Correction: Recognize grammatical or structural flaws.
- Para Summary: Select the appropriate summary of a given paragraph.
- Odd Sentence Out: Find out which sentence does not belong in a logical sequence.
Preparation Tips: Work on enhancing vocabulary, reading varied material (newspapers, editorials, business magazines), and solving RC questions under timed circumstances.
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
This section tests your analytical and decision-making abilities through sets of related problems. Topics generally include:
- Data Interpretation: Caselets, tables, bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs.
- Logical Reasoning: Seating arrangements, puzzles, blood relations, Venn diagrams, binary logic, directions, and input-output.
- Mixed Sets: Questions combining data interpretation with logical reasoning elements.
Preparation Tips: Solve sets daily, understand common patterns, and work under time pressure to simulate exam conditions.
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
QA tests your numerical problem-solving ability. It covers topics from basic arithmetic to higher-level mathematics:
- Arithmetic: Percentages, loss & profit, time & work, speed-distance-time, ratio & proportion, mixtures & allegations.
- Algebra: Linear equations & quadratic equations, inequalities, functions.
- Number System: Divisibility, remainders, base systems, factors, HCF & LCM.
- Geometry and Mensuration: Triangles, circles, coordinate geometry, 2D & 3D figures.
- Modern Math: Permutations & combinations, probability, logarithms, set theory.
Preparation Tips: Develop arithmetic concepts, update formulas from time to time, and practice mock tests to enhance accuracy & speed.
Quick CAT 2026 Syllabus Summary Table:
| Section | Key Topics |
| VARC | Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Odd One Out, Sentence Correction, Para Summary |
| DILR | Tables, Graphs, Puzzles, Arrangements, Blood Relations, Directions |
| QA | Arithmetic, Algebra, Number System, Geometry, Mensuration, Modern Math |
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