How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025? Topics-Wise Tips, Exam Pattern

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Souvik

Souvik

Update on Aug 25 2025, 07:35 PM IST

How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025: Preparing for the CAT 2025 exam Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section is an important step for every MBA aspirant. The QA section tests candidates on basic math topics, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems, primarily at the level of Class 9 and 10. Many candidates find this section challenging because it requires both speed and accuracy within a short time frame. With the right plan, regular practice, and a focus on fundamentals, candidates can improve their scores. This article will guide candidates through simple and effective ways to prepare for the CAT QA section, helping them build a strong foundation and confidence for the exam.

 

Table of Contents
  1. CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025
  2. CAT Exam Pattern for Quantitative Aptitude 2025
  3. How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025?
  4. How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025 in One Month?

 

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025

The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT 2025 exam includes various topics. Candidates can refer to the issues listed in the table below. They must review and practice every topic to achieve a better score on the exam.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025

Arithmetic

Algebra

Number System

Geometry & Mensuration

Modern Math

Ratios and proportions

Inequalities

Number Systems

Lines, angles, and triangles

Permutation and Combination

Averages

Quadratic equations

Factors

Circles

Probability

Allegations

Linear equations

Properties of Numbers

Quadrilaterals

Set Theory

Percentages

Logarithm

Type and Classification

Square and rectangles

 

Profit-loss

Functions and Graphs

Of Numbers

Polygons

 

Simple & Compound Interest

Maxima Minima

Divisibility Rules

Cylinder, cones, and spheres

 

Time and work

 

HCF and LCM

Cubes and cuboids

 

Time speed distance

 

Cyclicity and Base

Rhombus

 
  

Theorem

Trapezium

 
  

Remainders and

Parallelogram

 
  

Remainder Theorems

3D figures

 
  

Binomial Theorem

Pythagoras Theorem

 
  

The highest power of a number in a factorial

Base Angle Theorem

 
  

Series and Progressions

Longest Side Theorem

 
   

Trigonometry

 

Check CAT Syllabus 2025

 

CAT QA Topic-Wise Weightage

CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude section is mainly dominated by Arithmetic and Algebra, with Geometry and Number System also having significant weightage. Most papers have shown a consistent pattern, focusing on the following breakdown.

Topic

Number of Questions (2023–2024)

Typical Share

Arithmetic

8–9

36–41%

Algebra

7–8

32–36%

Geometry/Mensuration

3

13–14%

Number System

2–4

9–18%

Modern Math

0–2

0–9%

 

Subtopics in Each Area

  • Arithmetic: Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio, Averages, Time-Speed-Distance, Mixtures, Time & Work, Simple/Compound Interest
  • Algebra: Sequences, Functions, Surds, Indices, Modulus, Linear & Quadratic Equations, Logarithms
  • Geometry: Triangles, Coordinate Geometry, 2D Mensuration
  • Number System: Divisibility, Remainders, Basic Properties
  • Modern Math: Probability, Permutation & Combination, Set Theory (rarely appears).

 

CAT Exam Pattern for Quantitative Aptitude 2025

Candidates must go through CAT Exam Pattern 2025 for the Quantitative Aptitude section in the table below. The question paper will include 22 questions from CAT Quantitative Aptitude section i.e., 14 MCQs, and 8 TITA questions.

Section

Details

Total Questions for QA

22

Total Time Allotted

40 minutes

Multiple-Choice Questions

14

Type in the Answer (TITA)

8

Marking Scheme

+3 for a correct answer

 

-1 for a wrong answer

 

No negative marking for TITA

 

How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025?

Candidates can check the topic-wise preparation tips for the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section here. Focusing on each area will help candidates improve accuracy and confidence for the exam.

 

Arithmetic

 

Arithmetic is one of the most important parts. Topics such as percentages, profit and loss, averages, ratios and proportions, time and work, and time-speed-distance are common.

  • Start with basic formulas and concepts. Practice easy sums before moving to difficult ones.
  • Learn simple tricks to calculate faster.
  • Solve problems from each type daily. This builds speed and comfort.

Algebra

 

Algebra covers equations, inequalities, logarithms, progressions, and functions.

  • Revise basic algebraic identities. Memorise important formulas for quadratic and linear equations.
  • Practice solving simple equations quickly. Slowly increase difficulty.
  • Try to solve questions step by step before referring to the solutions.

Number System

 

The number system includes divisibility, remainders, factors, HCF, and LCM.

  • Learn and revise all rules for divisibility, properties of numbers, and shortcuts.
  • Solve a variety of basic questions to see all types of tricks.
  • Practice different question patterns, especially from previous years.

Geometry and Mensuration

 

Geometry covers triangles, circles, quadrilaterals, and coordinate geometry. Mensuration includes area and volume.

  • Focus on theorems and formulas for each shape. Create a concise formula sheet for easy reference.
  • Solve questions that include diagrams; practice drawing figures.
  • Practice with coordinate geometry by plotting points and understanding the basics first.

Modern Maths (Permutation, Combination, Probability)

 

This part is smaller, but it can sometimes be tricky.

  • Understand the basic concepts clearly, like counting methods and probability rules.
  • Solve standard questions on arrangements and selections, then higher-level ones.
  • Do not memorise; try to use logic and break problems into parts.

General Tips

  • Practice mock tests weekly to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Do not skip easy topics because each question carries equal marks.
  • Analyse your mistakes after each mock test and revise accordingly.
  • Make short notes of formulas, key rules, and shortcuts for final revisions.
  • Solve previous years’ CAT QA questions for question pattern familiarity.

By following these topic-wise strategies, candidates can establish a strong foundation in CAT Quant and boost their confidence for the actual exam.

 

Also Read CAT Preparation Tips 2025

 

How to Prepare for CAT QA 2025 in One Month?

Candidates can check the one-month preparation plan table for the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section. This plan breaks down topics on a weekly basis with a daily focus, helping candidates cover all important areas methodically while allowing time for revision and mock tests.

Week

Days

Topics/Activities

Description

Week 1

Day 1-2

Number System Basics

Divisibility, primes, factors, HCF, LCM

Day 3-4

Arithmetic - Percentages & Averages

Basic concepts and practice

Day 5-6

Arithmetic - Ratio, Proportion & Partnership

Formula practice and problem solving

Day 7

Revision and Practice

Revise week’s topics, solve mixed questions

Week 2

Day 8-9

Arithmetic - Time, Speed & Distance

Concepts and shortcut methods

Day 10-11

Arithmetic - Time & Work

Sums and tricks

Day 12-13

Algebra - Basics (Linear & Quadratic Equations)

Practice solving equations

Day 14

Revision and Mixed Practice

Review algebra and arithmetic with mocks

Week 3

Day 15-16

Algebra - Progressions & Logarithms

Understand concepts and practice

Day 17-18

Geometry - Triangles & Circles

Basic formulas and problem solving

Day 19-20

Mensuration - Area & Volume

Basic shape formulas, practice questions

Day 21

Revision and Practice

Mixed problems and quick revision

Week 4

Day 22-23

Modern Math - Permutation, Combination & Probability

Learn concepts and solve variety of problems

Day 24-25

Mock Test & Analysis

Attempt full QA mock, analyze mistakes

Day 26-27

Revision of Weak Topics

Focus on difficult areas identified in mock

Day 28-30

Final Practice & Quick Formulas Revision

Solve questions, revise important formulas & shortcuts

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