{"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<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Overview_of_CAT_2026_Exam_Pattern\" >Overview of CAT 2026 Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Major_highlights\" >Major highlights:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#CAT_2026_Section-Wise_Pattern_Tentative\" >CAT 2026 Section-Wise Pattern (Tentative)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Section-Wise_Description\" >Section-Wise Description<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Verbal_Ability_and_Reading_Comprehension_VARC\" >Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Data_Interpretation_and_Logical_Reasoning_DILR\" >Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Quantitative_Aptitude_QA\" >Quantitative Aptitude (QA):<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Question_Types_in_CAT\" >Question Types in CAT<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Two_types_of_questions_are_there_in_CAT_2026\" >Two types of questions are there in CAT 2026:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Marking_Scheme\" >Marking Scheme<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Preparation_Tips_for_CAT_2026\" >Preparation Tips for CAT 2026<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#Related_Articles_You_Might_Like\" >Related Articles You Might Like:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overview_of_CAT_2026_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><b>Overview of CAT 2026 Exam Pattern<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Major_highlights\"><\/span><b>Major highlights:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_2026_Section-Wise_Pattern_Tentative\"><\/span><b>CAT 2026 Section-Wise Pattern (Tentative)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Section-Wise_Description\"><\/span><b>Section-Wise Description<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Verbal_Ability_and_Reading_Comprehension_VARC\"><\/span><b>Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Data_Interpretation_and_Logical_Reasoning_DILR\"><\/span><b>Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Quantitative_Aptitude_QA\"><\/span><b>Quantitative Aptitude (QA):<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Question_Types_in_CAT\"><\/span><b>Question Types in CAT<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Two_types_of_questions_are_there_in_CAT_2026\"><\/span><b>Two types of questions are there in CAT 2026:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Marking_Scheme\"><\/span><b>Marking Scheme<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preparation_Tips_for_CAT_2026\"><\/span><b>Preparation Tips for CAT 2026<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_Articles_You_Might_Like\"><\/span><b>Related Articles You Might Like:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/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 [&hellip;]<\/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. CAT Exam Pattern.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &amp; Marking Scheme - Career Mantra\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Common Admission Test is India&#039;s most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. CAT Exam Pattern.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Career Mantra\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Career Mantra\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Career Mantra\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Career Mantra\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6\"},\"headline\":\"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &#038; Marking Scheme\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":760,\"commentCount\":0,\"keywords\":[\"CAT\",\"CAT Description\",\"CAT Fees\",\"CAT pattern\",\"IIM\",\"MBA\"],\"articleSection\":[\"CAT Exam\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/\",\"name\":\"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown & Marking Scheme - Career Mantra\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6\"},\"description\":\"Common Admission Test is India's most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. CAT Exam Pattern.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &#038; Marking Scheme\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Career Mantra\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6\",\"name\":\"Career Mantra\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Career Mantra\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/careermantra.net\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/admin\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown & Marking Scheme - Career Mantra","description":"Common Admission Test is India's most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. CAT Exam Pattern.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown & Marking Scheme - Career Mantra","og_description":"Common Admission Test is India's most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. CAT Exam Pattern.","og_url":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/","og_site_name":"Career Mantra","article_published_time":"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00","author":"Career Mantra","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Career Mantra","Est. reading time":"4 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/"},"author":{"name":"Career Mantra","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6"},"headline":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &#038; Marking Scheme","datePublished":"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/"},"wordCount":760,"commentCount":0,"keywords":["CAT","CAT Description","CAT Fees","CAT pattern","IIM","MBA"],"articleSection":["CAT Exam"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/","url":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/","name":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown & Marking Scheme - Career Mantra","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2025-09-26T12:11:18+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6"},"description":"Common Admission Test is India's most coveted entrance test for MBA and PGDM courses, held every year by IIM. CAT Exam Pattern.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/cat-exam-pattern-2026-complete-section-wise-breakdown-marking-scheme\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Section-Wise Breakdown &#038; Marking Scheme"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/","name":"Career Mantra","description":"","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/bc7a9e2721551f0e592e15700a4f2cf6","name":"Career Mantra","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/81504ae68adfe3a5a503e1c942ed26a8bc7f60113b172bf9bfa570dbc29762f7?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Career Mantra"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog"],"url":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/author\/admin\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17699","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17699"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17699\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17705,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17699\/revisions\/17705"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17699"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17699"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careermantra.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17699"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}