{"id":17699,"date":"2025-09-26T12:11:18","date_gmt":"2025-09-26T12:11:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/?p=17699"},"modified":"2025-09-26T12:11:18","modified_gmt":"2025-09-26T12:11:18","slug":"cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/","title":{"rendered":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &#038; Marking Scheme"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Admission Test (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/exam\/6\/cat-2024\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CAT<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is India&#8217;s most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Proper knowledge about CAT exam pattern is needed for the aspirants who want to get a seat in IIMs or other top-notch business schools. Here is a complete overview of the CAT 2025 exam pattern, such as its structure, duration, question types, and marking system.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Overview of CAT 2026 Exam Pattern<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CAT 2026 is likely to be structured similarly to past years and will be held as a computer-based test (CBT). The paper will comprise three timed sections:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quantitative Aptitude (QA)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each section has a strict time limit of 40 minutes, and the candidates are not allowed to move from one section to another during the exam. The test aims to test a candidate&#8217;s analytical, logical, and verbal skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Major highlights:<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Number of Sections: 3<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Total Questions: Around 66<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Types of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marking Scheme: +3 for every correct answer; -1 for every incorrect MCQ; No negative marking for TITA<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>CAT 2026 Section-Wise Pattern (Tentative)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below is a detailed section-wise structure of the CAT 2026 paper based on the previous year&#8217;s format:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Section Name<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Number of Questions<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Time Limit<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Question Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Marking Scheme<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40 minutes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MCQs and TITA<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">#ERROR!<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40 minutes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MCQs and TITA<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">#ERROR!<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quantitative Aptitude (QA)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">22<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40 minutes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MCQs and TITA<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">#ERROR!<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Total<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">66 (approximately)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">120 minutes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MCQs and TITA<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No negative marking for TITA questions<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b>Section-Wise Description<\/b><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This section tests the candidate&#8217;s English language command in terms of comprehension and critical thinking. It consists of Reading Comprehension passages, para jumbles, summary-based questions, and sentence rearrangement exercises. Reading habits and vocabulary enrichment are essential for scoring good in this section.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This section assesses logical reasoning and the capacity to analyze data provided in tables, graphs, and caselets. It consists of puzzles, seating arrangements, bar graphs, and pie charts. Efficient practice and time management are critical to tackle this section effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Quantitative Aptitude (QA):<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This section examines mathematical skill in subjects such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, and Modern Math. Clarity of concepts and regular practice in solving problems enable high accuracy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Question Types in CAT<\/b><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Two types of questions are there in CAT 2026:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions): These options are accompanied with questions and consist of negative marking for wrong attempts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TITA (Type In The Answer): Candidates have to type their answer without any given options. There is no negative marking for TITA questions, providing a secure attempt to the candidates.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Marking Scheme<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Correct Answer (All Types): +3 marks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Incorrect Answer (MCQs Only): -1 mark<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Incorrect Answer (TITA): No negative marking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unattempted Questions: No marks awarded or deducted<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Preparation Tips for CAT 2026<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Study the exam pattern in detail prior to beginning your preparation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular mock tests must be taken to mimic actual exam conditions and monitor progress.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work on increasing speed and accuracy for all three sections.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TITA questions must be given special care, as they provide scoring chances with no negative marking attached.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Develop a customized study plan for every topic, and include revision and practice tests.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Q: Would the CAT 2025 examination pattern be revised?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: Until now, no official declaration has been made. It should remain the same as CAT 2025.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Q: What is the average number of TITA questions that are seen in CAT?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: Typically, 6\u20138 TITA questions are posed, spread throughout all sections.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Q: Will I be able to use a calculator in CAT?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: Yes, a simple on-screen calculator is available throughout the exam.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Q: Can I switch between sections during the exam?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A: No, each section has a time limit, and you cannot switch between sections.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The pattern of <a href=\"https:\/\/iimcat.ac.in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CAT<\/a> 2026 exam is designed to test a candidate&#8217;s aptitude in verbal, analytical, and quantitative areas under stringent time constraints. With proper knowledge of the exam pattern, strategic preparation, and systematic practice, candidates can improve their chances of scoring high percentile and getting admission into premier management institutes to a great extent. Prepare early, remain regular, and utilize each mock test to the fullest to sharpen your strategy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Related Articles You Might Like:<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/exam\/6\/cat-2024\/LatestUpdates\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CAT 2026 Syllabus &amp; Pattern: What&#8217;s New?<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/colleges\/MBA\/top-mba-colleges-in-india\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/exam\/6\/cat-2024\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tips to Crack CAT on First Attempt<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common Admission Test (CAT) is India&#8217;s most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Proper knowledge about CAT exam pattern is needed for the aspirants who want to get a seat in IIMs or other top-notch business schools. Here is a complete overview of the CAT 2025 exam pattern, such as its structure, duration, question types, and marking system. Overview of CAT 2026 Exam Pattern CAT 2026 is likely to be structured similarly to past years and will be held as a computer-based test (CBT). The paper will comprise three timed sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Each section has a strict time limit of 40 minutes, and the candidates are not allowed to move from one section to another during the exam. The test aims to test a candidate&#8217;s analytical, logical, and verbal skills. Major highlights: Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes) Number of Sections: 3 Total Questions: Around 66 Types of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) Marking Scheme: +3 for every correct answer; -1 for every incorrect MCQ; No negative marking for TITA CAT 2026 Section-Wise Pattern (Tentative) Below is a detailed section-wise structure of the CAT 2026 paper based on the previous year&#8217;s format: Section Name Number of Questions Time Limit Question Type Marking Scheme Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) 24 40 minutes MCQs and TITA #ERROR! Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) 20 40 minutes MCQs and TITA #ERROR! Quantitative Aptitude (QA) 22 40 minutes MCQs and TITA #ERROR! Total 66 (approximately) 120 minutes MCQs and TITA No negative marking for TITA questions Section-Wise Description Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): This section tests the candidate&#8217;s English language command in terms of comprehension and critical thinking. It consists of Reading Comprehension passages, para jumbles, summary-based questions, and sentence rearrangement exercises. Reading habits and vocabulary enrichment are essential for scoring good in this section. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): This section assesses logical reasoning and the capacity to analyze data provided in tables, graphs, and caselets. It consists of puzzles, seating arrangements, bar graphs, and pie charts. Efficient practice and time management are critical to tackle this section effectively. Quantitative Aptitude (QA): This section examines mathematical skill in subjects such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, and Modern Math. Clarity of concepts and regular practice in solving problems enable high accuracy. Question Types in CAT Two types of questions are there in CAT 2026: MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions): These options are accompanied with questions and consist of negative marking for wrong attempts. TITA (Type In The Answer): Candidates have to type their answer without any given options. There is no negative marking for TITA questions, providing a secure attempt to the candidates. Marking Scheme Correct Answer (All Types): +3 marks Incorrect Answer (MCQs Only): -1 mark Incorrect Answer (TITA): No negative marking Unattempted Questions: No marks awarded or deducted Preparation Tips for CAT 2026 Study the exam pattern in detail prior to beginning your preparation. Regular mock tests must be taken to mimic actual exam conditions and monitor progress. Work on increasing speed and accuracy for all three sections. TITA questions must be given special care, as they provide scoring chances with no negative marking attached. Develop a customized study plan for every topic, and include revision and practice tests.\u00a0 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q: Would the CAT 2025 examination pattern be revised? A: Until now, no official declaration has been made. It should remain the same as CAT 2025. Q: What is the average number of TITA questions that are seen in CAT? A: Typically, 6\u20138 TITA questions are posed, spread throughout all sections. Q: Will I be able to use a calculator in CAT? A: Yes, a simple on-screen calculator is available throughout the exam. Q: Can I switch between sections during the exam? A: No, each section has a time limit, and you cannot switch between sections. Conclusion The pattern of CAT 2026 exam is designed to test a candidate&#8217;s aptitude in verbal, analytical, and quantitative areas under stringent time constraints. With proper knowledge of the exam pattern, strategic preparation, and systematic practice, candidates can improve their chances of scoring high percentile and getting admission into premier management institutes to a great extent. Prepare early, remain regular, and utilize each mock test to the fullest to sharpen your strategy. Related Articles You Might Like: CAT 2026 Syllabus &amp; Pattern: What&#8217;s New? Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores Tips to Crack CAT on First Attempt<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[660],"tags":[662,665,664,663,443,43],"class_list":["post-17699","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-cat-exam","tag-cat","tag-cat-description","tag-cat-fees","tag-cat-pattern","tag-iim","tag-mba"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &amp; Marking Scheme - Career Mantra<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Common Admission Test is India&#039;s most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. 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