CAT Preparation of Quantitative Aptitude: Check Topic Wise Tips, Online Resources, Books, and Study Plan
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Content Writer | Updated On - Jan 9, 2023
CAT Preparation of Quantitative Aptitude should be focused on important topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, Logarithms, Number Systems, Modern Maths, Geometry, Mensuration, etc. Aspirants must note that CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus is not prescribed by the exam conducting body. Hence, candidates must devise CAT preparation plan as the weightage of important topics in CAT question paper. Based on CAT QA Paper Analysis of the previous year, this section is of easy-moderate difficulty with a few lengthy questions. Download CAT QA Question Papers
- CAT books to prepare for CAT QA section is How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma and NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10).
- One of the most common mistakes to avoid while preparing for CAT Quant is that candidates take too long to solve one question. Avoid that and prepare accordingly. Read More CAT Important Books
- CAT Quantitative Aptitude Highlights
- Hourly Time Table for CAT QA Section?
- Division of QA Syllabus for CAT Preparation
- Topic Wise CAT QA Preparation Tips
4.1 How to Prepare for CAT Arithmetic?
4.2 How to Prepare for CAT Number System?
4.3 How to Prepare for CAT Geometry?
4.4 How to Prepare for CAT Algebra? - Best Books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude
5.1 CAT Study Material for QA - Mistakes to avoid in CAT Quant Section
- Topper Tips to Attempt CAT QA Section
- Frequently Asked Questions
Read the article to know more about CAT QA Preparation tips and plans.
CAT Preparation Quantitative Aptitude Highlights
Here are all the necessary details candidates need to know about CAT QA Exam Pattern:| Pattern | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions in CAT Quantitative Aptitude Section | 22 |
| Total Marks in Quantitative Aptitude For CAT Section | 66 |
| Type of Questions in Quantitative Section | MCQs and TITA (non-MCQ) |
| Total MCQs in Quant for CAT Section | 14-15 |
| Total Non-MCQs (TITA) in QA Section | 7-8 |
| Difficulty in Quantitative Aptitude For CAT Section | Moderate |
Quick Links
Hourly Time Table for CAT Preparation of QA
Candidates can check the hourly timetable prepared for the convenience of the students. You can either follow this time or modify it as per your preparation plan.
| Session No. | Topic | Time (Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Session 1 | Averages + Factors and Multiples | 2 + 3 |
| Session 2 | Percentages + Remainders | 2 + 2.5 |
| Session 3 | Profit & Loss + Number Theory - Miscellaneous | 2 + 2.5 |
| Session 4 | Linear & Quadratic Equations + Number Theory - Different | 2 + 2.5 |
| Session 5 | Ratio Proportion + Combinatorics - Basics | 2.5 + 3 |
| Session 6 | Mixtures + Combinatorics - Probability | 1.5 + 2 |
| Session 7 | Speed, Time & Distance + Combinatorics - Tougher Concepts | 2.5 + 2 |
| Session 8 | Races + Set Theory | 1.5 + 2 |
| Session 9 | Pipes & Cisterns + Other Topics | 2 + As per requirement |
| Session 10 | Simple & Compound Interest + Other Topics | 2 + As per requirement |
| Total | 20 + 20.5 | |
Quick Links:
| Tricks to Solve QA Questions in 1 Minute | Best Android Apps to Prepare For CAT | Online Preparation Tips and Resources for CAT |
Division of QA Syllabus for CAT Preparation
Candidates can divide the syllabus based on the number of questions asked from that topic in CAT exam. Based on the questions asked in previous years we have divided CAT syllabus into important topics, sub-topics and the expected number of questions that can be asked from that topic.
| Important Topics | Sub Topics | Expected number of Question In CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Arithmetic + Algebra | Numbers, Simple & Compound Interest, Ratio, Time-Work, Mixtures, Averages, Partnership, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Proportionality, Time-Distance | 10-11 + 5-6 |
| Modern Mathematics | Probability, Set Theory, Progression and Series, Permutation and Combinations, | 2-3 |
| Geometry & Trigonometry | Co-ordinate Geometry, Line, Angles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Height and Distance, Basic Trigonometry, Polygon, Circles, Ares, Volume, | 3-4 |
Topic Wise CAT QA Preparation Tips
As numerous MBA aspirants are registering for CAT every year, so the competition is very high over the years. So, well-focused and dedicated candidates for the exam with sincere preparation, are able to solve the question easily and score good percentile to get admission in the IIMs or any other prestigious B-School. To get more than 95 percentile in this subject, the candidate is advised to answer perfectly more than 15 questions.
How to Prepare for CAT Arithmetic?
- Solving arithmetic questions with 100% will help you to score high marks in CAT.
- Important topics that you need to focus on from this section are mentioned in the table below:
| Important Topic | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|
| Percentages | Do not use a calculator while solving questions on percentages |
| Profit and Loss | Increase your speed to solve PL questions as they are easy and direct questions |
| SI & CI | Always remember that SI is a percentage increase and CI is the successive percentage increase |
| Ratios & Mixtures | Tricky questions |
| Averages, Speed, Time, Distance | Formulas to be revised again and again |
| Races, Pipes Cisterns & Time work | These topics require regular practice |
How to Prepare for CAT Number System?
Number Systems is a vast topic and contributes around 1-3 questions in CAT. There are a range of topics under Number Systems - and Miscellaneous topics.
| Important Topics | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Factors and Multiples | Understand the basics to solve these questions |
| HCF and LCM | Learn the shortcut tips and tricks |
| Factorials, Base Systems, Remainders | Solve maximum number of questions |
How to Prepare for CAT Geometry?
- Trigonometry, Mensuration, and Co-Geometry hold a high weightage of questions in CAT.
- Start from the above-mentioned topics then move towards Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry.
| Important Topics | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Trigonometry, Mensuration, and Co-Geometry | 3-4 questions can be solved if you remember the angles, shapes, theorems, etc. |
| Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry | Can be solved if you know which particular theorem or idea could be applied to these questions |
How to Prepare for CAT Algebra?
- CAT Algebra is a vital topic and in this topic, you need to deal with variables like x’s, y’s, etc.
- Do not get confused and devote 2 hours dails to this topic.
| Important Topics | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Linear & Quadratic Equations | Solve maximum number of questions to get familiar with equations |
| Inequalities | Learn the tricks to solve these questions |
| Functions, Progressions | Understand which method can be used to solve the questions before approaching |
Best Books CAT 2022 Quantitative Aptitude
In fact, the best books for the CAT Quantitative Aptitude Section should be of the latest edition carrying the latest features as per the current CAT exam pattern with Quantitative Aptitude Questions and Answers. Now the question is- which is the best book for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT. Out of 35 odd CAT preparation books on Quant preparation, in the opinion of CAT toppers and experts is Quantitative Aptitude Book by Arun Sharma. Other best books for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT are:
| Name of the Book | Name of the Author |
|---|---|
| NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10) | NCERT |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Sharma |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha |
| Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Nishit Sinha |
CAT Study Material for QA
Common Mistakes to avoid in CAT QA Section
As per CAT experts and Toppers’ statement following common mistakes are done usually made by candidates while attempting CAT aptitude test.
- Do not attach to any question for more than 1.5 minutes – If one cannot understand where and how to start after reading the question for more than once, quickly give it a shot with not spending more than 90 seconds on it. The point is not to get entangled in the question and lose the track of your time.
- Double-check while solving (to reduce errors and use this in formula-based questions) – When one has decided his formula and approach, just before he inserts the numbers from the question statement, verify the substitutions. This will reduce the chances of any silly mistakes that one might commit during the steps. Double check where one can.
- Not able to decide when it is the right time to leave the question? – Identify early when to give up and move on to the next question. This might hurt ONE’s sentiment and ego a bit, but it is definitely not worse than leaving questions un-attempted towards the end. Do not let his emotions play havoc with his question paper. Do not get emotionally invested in a question: there is always another one waiting for him..
- Not able to identify strength and weak areas – During the mock tests, identify one’s key strength topics that contribute the maximum towards one’s score and build a habit of solving those topics first. Do not waste time in the initial half of the hour in testing one’s ability on any untouched topics or weak areas that have not given any marks in the past. The first 40 minutes of the allotted time should be spent on hunting and striking down easy-medium questions to boost one’s score and confidence early in the test.
- Keep the performances of sections independent of each other – If Quant is not the first section that appears on the screen (as has been the case for the past few years) please remain calm and composed and one should not be worried. Start the section with a fresh mind without feeling too nervous about the previous performance.
Quick Links:
| CAT Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Important Topics & Syllabus | CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Important Topics & Syllabus |
Topper Tips to Attempt CAT QA Section
- Aakash Chaudhary who scored 99.86 percentile in QA suggests to focus on Arithmetic and Algebra and slove sectional mocks weekly. Read Full Interview
- CAT 2021 Topper Palash Kashyap recommends making written notes of important formulas and tricks for Quantitative Aptitude preparation. Read Full Interview
Read Full Interview of more CAT Toppers:
- CAT Preparation Tips by 2021 Topper Aman Goel
- CAT Preparation Tips by 2021 Topper Ashna Dawar
- CAT Preparation Tips by 2021 Topper Chetan Bhatt
- CAT Preparation Tips by 2021 Topper Aditya Bansal
- CAT Preparation Tips by 2021 Topper Ritik Gupta
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation FAQs
Ques: How do I prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?
Ans: To prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude, it is essential for you to know the complete syllabus and exam pattern. Choose the best books for preparation like Arun Sharma and NCERT. Dedicate more time to important topics like Arithmetic and Algebra. Solve as many mock tests as you can.
Ques: Why is CAT QA tough?
Ans: CAT QA is considered tough by most candidates because most of the questions do not have a direct application of the formulas. The questions tend to be lengthy and time consuming as well. However, with adequate practice, QA can be the most scoring section in CAT.
Ques: Will NCERT be enough for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?
Ans: No, NCERT will not be sufficient to prepare for CAT Quantitative Aptitude. It is essential that you refer to books like Arun Sharma, Nishit Sinha, and Sarvesh K. Verma for enhanced practice.
Ques: Is Arun Sharma good for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?
Ans: Arun Sharma is great study material for CAT Quantitative Aptitude. The examples given in this book are quite descriptive and easily understandable. The book is categorized into three difficulty levels to help you with structuring your preparation.
Ques: How to score 100 marks in QA?
Ans: To score 100 marks in QA, it is essential to develop a strong study strategy. To do this, you must know the weightage of all topics and focus more on the ones with higher weightage.
Ques: What are the online resources available for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?
Ans: Online resources are gaining great importance during the current times. They are usually more effective when coupled with regular study material. YouTube channels like Career Launcher and 2IIMCAT can be accessed for CAT QA preparation. Websites such as BodheePrep can be referred to for online study content.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.
Ask your question
Answered Questions
If you are aiming for old IIMs such as IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, you will need to score above 99 percentile in CAT. For IIMs and other top-tier B-Schools in India, the CAT cutoff stays above 90 percentile.
If you have a good profile, and 99+ CAT score, you can expect to get calls from old IIMs, XLRI, JBIMS, IIFT, FMS, etc.
Here are some of the things that you will realize after appearing for the CAT examination.
- Spend the first few minutes going over the papers before diving in. Browse through the problems and start with the ones that you know you can solve in one go. CAT prioritizes solving not sequence.
- If you aren’t sure about an answer, leave it. Concentrate on other problems. You shouldn’t spend more than 2-3 minutes on a single problem.
- Don’t use the elimination method, if you can solve the problem in less than 1 minute. Do rough work thoroughly. Don’t answer any questions, just by guessing.
- There will be a few lengthy questions. Try to ignore these. Even CAT toppers don’t score the full marks.
CAT doesn’t test your knowledge. The only thing matters are how much you score. So, try to attempt as many questions as you can correctly.
Take a look at the below table to know what CAT score will fetch what CAT percentile, for 2022.
| Percentile | Score VA-RC | Score DI-LR | Score QA | Overall Score |
| 90% | 29 | 1 | 26 | 72 |
| 95% | 32 | 20 | 29 | 81 |
In 2021, for 90 percentile the required score was 59 and for 95 percentile the required score was 72.
