CMAT Syllabus 2026: Topics, Section-wise Weightage, Preparation Tips, Books

CMAT Syllabus 2026 comprises five key sections: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. These sections also include diverse subtopics, such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, graphs, puzzles, reading passages, current affairs, and basic entrepreneurial concepts.

CMAT 2026 Exam will be conducted in CBT format, consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a total duration of 3 hours. Each correct answer carries +4 marks, while a -1 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer. To prepare effectively, candidates must focus on learning the basic concepts of subtopics, select the appropriate study materials, practice mock tests and past year question papers, and read newspaper articles, such as The Hindu.

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Overview & Section-wise Weightage

The CMAT Syllabus 2026 comprises topics such as time, speed, distance, algebra, geometry, analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, grammar, current affairs, and business development. In each section, candidates must answer 20 questions, and each section carries a total of 80 marks. So, the maximum score for CMAT 2026 is 400 marks.

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Exam Pattern

According to the CMAT Exam Pattern 2026, the questions will be asked in a multiple-choice format with four options. Each question will carry +4 marks. There will be a penalty of -1 mark for each incorrect answer. Refer to the table below to check the key highlights of the CMAT Exam Pattern 2026.

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Topics

In the Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation section, topics in Algebra and Geometry typically account for the highest marks distribution. Check below to learn more about the important topics of this section:

• Tabulation
• Mean, Mode, Median
• Geometry
• Pipes and Cisterns
• Simple Interest and Compound Interest
• Time-Speed-Distance
• Probability
• Allegation & Mixtures
• Profit and Loss
• Permutations & Combinations
• Percentages
• Work and Time
• In-equations
• Quadratic and linear equations
• Mensuration
• Algebra
• Line Graph
• Number System
• Ratio and Proportion
• Binomial Theorem
• Pie Chart, Bar Chart

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Logical Reasoning Topics

The Logical Reasoning section usually tests candidates’ ability to understand the relationship between two or more situations or patterns. This part also consists of 20 questions and is subdivided into the topics mentioned below:

• Analytical Reasoning
• Analogy Test
• Direction and Distance Test
• Linear Arrangements
• Blood Relationship Tests
• Ranking Tests
• Statements and Arguments
• Coding and Decoding
• Statements Assumptions
• Sequencing
• Inferences
• Statements and Conclusion
• Matrix Arrangements
• Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Symbol-based Problems
• Number Series
• Cause and Effect
• Venn Diagram

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Language Comprehension Topics

CMAT 2026 Language Comprehension Syllabus is divided into two categories: Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability. Between these two parts, candidates mostly get a higher number of questions from the reading comprehension portion. The topics belonging to this section are as follows:

• Reading Comprehension passages
• English Usage Errors
• Synonyms
• English Grammar
• Paragraph Completion
• Antonyms
• Jumbled Para
• One-Word Substitution
• Verbal Ability
• Sentence Correction
• Idioms
• Phrases

CMAT Syllabus 2026: General Awareness (GK) Topics

There are no specific topics in the General Awareness section. However, based on previous years’ question paper patterns, topics such as sports, politics, geography, personalities, and culture are typically found. The important topics of GK are as follows:

• Literature
• Trade Awareness
• Geography
• Indian Constitution
• Politics
• History
• Current Affairs of National and International Economy
• National and International News
• Government Schemes and Policies
• Economics
• Culture
• Personalities in News
• Sports News
• Science in Everyday Life
• Summits and Conferences

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Innovation and Entrepreneurship Topics

The Innovation and Entrepreneurship section is based on concepts of entrepreneurship. Candidates must understand the role of entrepreneurship in the business economy, as well as its associated models and frameworks. The main topics of this section are listed below:

• Concepts of Entrepreneurship
• Evolution of Entrepreneurship in India
• Creativity and its stimulation
• Role of Entrepreneurship in Economic Development
• Theories and Models of Entrepreneurship
• Framework of Entrepreneurship Theories
• Models of Entrepreneurship
• Emerging Models of Corporate Entrepreneurship
• Dimensions of Entrepreneurship
• Entrepreneurial Society
• Entrepreneurial Culture
• Rural Entrepreneurship
• Women Entrepreneurship
• Emerging Trends in Social Entrepreneurship
• Principles of Business Organisation
• Entrepreneur Vs. Manager
• Entrepreneur Vs. Entrepreneurship
• Three types of idea management systems
• Motivation, Communication, and Leadership

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips

In addition to covering the topics outlined in the CMAT Syllabus 2026, candidates should regularly practice online mock tests and sample question papers to enhance their preparation. Most importantly, the preparation strategy for each section should be designed separately. Here are some helpful tips to achieve a good score in the CMAT 2026 Exam.

• Candidates must learn shortcuts in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry to improve accuracy and speed.
• They must develop analytical and critical thinking by solving puzzles and patterns.
• Students should practice reading passages to enhance their reading comprehension skills.
• Reading newspapers such as The Hindu and Business Today, as well as magazines like The Economist, can also help students improve their reading comprehension and GK awareness.
• To improve general awareness, candidates should follow monthly GK capsules and read static GK books, such as Lucent.
• To strengthen their understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship, candidates should refer to NITI Aayog reports, startup news, and articles on innovation.
• Solving online mock tests and previous years’ questions is mandatory to score well in the first attempt in the CMAT Exam.

CMAT Syllabus 2026: Best Books

Good preparation always starts with picking the right books. Here are some lists of the best books for CMAT candidates to enhance their preparation:

CMAT Syllabus 2026 FAQs