XAT Syllabus 2026: Section-wise Weightage, Important Topics, Books and More

• Updated on 15 Nov, 2025 by Souvik Podder

XAT Syllabus 2026 is issued by XLRI Jamshedpur, comprising four sections: Decision Making, Verbal and Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Each section typically includes around 20 to 28 questions. To perform well in the XAT 2026 Exam, candidates should thoroughly study every topic outlined in the syllabus. Below is the detailed XAT 2026 syllabus, along with recommended books and study materials to support effective exam preparation.

Table of Contents

XAT Syllabus 2026: Highlights
XAT Syllabus 2026: Section-wise Details
XAT Syllabus 2026: Verbal & Logical Ability Topics
XAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation Topics
XAT Syllabus 2026: Decision-Making Topics
XAT Syllabus 2026: General Knowledge Topics
XAT Syllabus 2026: Important Books
XAT Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips
XAT Exam Pattern 2026
XAT Syllabus 2026 FAQs

XAT Syllabus 2026: Highlights

The QA & DI section contains the highest number of questions in XAT Syllabus 2026, and its question type is based on a 10th-grade level mathematics syllabus. Accordingly, the question type of (VALR) section is based on testing basic grammar and reading comprehension skills of candidates. Candidates can refer to the table below to check the question types of each section, along with the marking scheme.

Particulars	Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR)	Decision Making (DM)	Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)	General Knowledge (GK)
Number of questions	26	21	28	20
Question Types	Questions will be based on poems, passages, basic English grammar, para jumbles, and cloze tests.	Questions of DM will be based on professional and personal scenarios to assess the critical thinking and decision-making skills of candidates.	The QA & DI section's topics are typically based on the 10th-grade level maths syllabus.	This section will be divided into two areas: static general knowledge (GK) and current events.
Marking Scheme	1 for Correct -0.25 for Incorrect -0.10 after eight unanswered questions

Also Read: XAT Application Process 2026

Are There Any Changes in XAT 2026 Syllabus?

Some changes are made in XAT 2026 syllabus. The exam will cover four main sections:

Verbal & Logical Ability
Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation
Decision Making
General Awareness

There will be a total of 95 questions in the test, following the revised format. The essay component will be assessed only during the Group Discussion and Personal Interview (GD/PI) phase.

Out of these, 76 questions in the first part will attract a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer, while the 20 General Knowledge questions in the third part will not have any negative marking.

XAT Syllabus 2026: Section-wise Details

Each of the four sections of XAT Syllabus 2026 consists of a range of subtopics. For example, the QA & DI section covers topics such as arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and pie charts. The DM section comprises topics related to Business Situations, Business Issues, and Case Studies. Check below to know more about the areas of key sections of XAT Syllabus 2026.

Section	Key Areas Covered
Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)	Arithmetic Algebra Geometry Bar Diagrams Data Analysis and Comparison Data Charts Pie Charts
Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR)	Reading Comprehension Grammar Critical Reasoning
Decision Making (DM)	Business Situations Business Issues Case Studies
General Knowledge (GK)	Current Affairs Business, Finance, and Economics Geography

Check XAT Marks vs Percentile 2026

XAT Syllabus 2026: Verbal & Logical Ability Topics

The Verbal and Logical Ability section contains subjects such as logical reasoning and reading comprehension. Logical reasoning consists of key topics such as vocabulary-based questions, correct word usage, jumbled Paragraphs, and puzzles. The reading comprehension portion includes inference-based questions and an explanation of words/phrases. Detailed topics are listed below.

Subjects	Key Topics
Logical Reasoning	Vocabulary-Based Questions Contextual Meaning of Words Correct Usage of Words Cloze Test Completion of Sentences/Paragraph Fill in the blanks Jumbled Paragraphs Poem Synonyms/Antonyms Correction of Errors in Sentences Critical Reasoning Grammar Section
Verbal ability or Reading comprehension	RC Passages on various topics Author's View related questions Inference-Based questions Explanation of Words/Phrases Strengthening and weakening arguments

Section-wise Question Types

In the Verbal & Logical Ability section, RC Passages carry the highest weight, as they comprise 15 questions out of 26. Refer below to check the section-wise number of questions.

Areas	Number of Questions
Grammatically correct sentence	2
Fill in the blanks (4 blanks)	1
Jumbled Paragraphs (5 statements)	2
RC Passages – 5 (300-450 words)	15
Poem-based passages	2
Critical Reasoning	3
Main idea/message of the given image	1
Total	26

Check More: XAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

XAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation Topics

The Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation section of the XAT Syllabus is based on 10th-level maths topics, including algebra, geometry, profit and loss statements, simple and compound interest, and ratios. More important topics are listed below.

Subjects	Key Topics
Quantitative Aptitude	Percentages Algebra Number System Geometry Profit and Loss Simple and Compound Interest Speed, Time, and Distance Averages Time and Work Ratio and Proportion Mensuration Linear Equations Logarithm Venn Diagrams Progressions Binomial Theorem Inequalities Trigonometry Probability Functions Permutation and Combination Surds and Indices
Data Interpretation	Bar Diagrams Pie Charts Data Analysis and Comparison Graphs Data Charts Data Tables

Section-wise Question Types

In the Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation section, Geometry carries the highest weight, as it comprises five questions out of 28. Refer below to check the section-wise number of questions.

Areas	Number of Questions
Arithmetic	3
Geometry	5
Modern Math	3
Algebra	3
Numbers	2
Scatter Plot / Line Graph (observation) based set	3
Arithmetic-based set	3
Average-based set	3
Number-matrix-based set	3
Total	28

Know More About: XAT Results 2026

XAT Syllabus 2026: Decision-Making Topics

The decision-making section of the XAT Syllabus 2026 assesses candidates' critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and efficiency in handling ethical dilemmas. In this regard, some problem-based topics are listed below.

Subject	Key Topics
Decision-making	Analytical Reasoning (Decision Making Set) HR related DM Sets Ethical Decision-Making Sets Conclusions Premises Assumptions Situational Decision Making Business Issues Social Dilemma-based scenarios Recruitment and selection dilemmas Performance evaluation and appraisal Promotions and internal conflicts Workplace policy decisions Handling diversity and inclusion

Section-wise Question Types

The decision-making section contains a total of 21 questions. The majority of questions are based on problems with Human Resources, sales and marketing, and safety arrangements for employees. Refer below to check the section-wise number of questions.

Areas	Number of Questions
Problem Based on Human Resources	3
Problem Based on Taxis	3
Problem Based on Business School (any)	3
Problems with sales and marketing	3
Household help-related issues	3
Human Resources at IT Firm Symbolis, in terms of measuring the performance of the best employees	3
Issues related to safety arrangements for employees	3
Total	21

Check: CAT vs XAT vs MAT: Which MBA Entrance Exam Should You Choose?

XAT Syllabus 2026: General Knowledge Topics

There is no specific syllabus for the General Knowledge section. Based on previous year's question papers, important topics are listed, including Business, Finance and Economics, sports, art and culture, entertainment, and famous personalities. Find out the General Knowledge topics for XAT syllabus 2026 India:

Subjects	Key Topics
Static GK	Business, Finance, and Economics The Indian Constitution and Laws History and Geography Famous Personalities Awards and Winners Books and Authors Science and Technology Important Dates & Events Art & Culture
Current Affairs	National Current Affairs International Current Affairs Political Developments Business and Economic News Environmental Issues Updated Government Schemes Awards and Achievements Sports News Science and Tech News

Section-wise Question Types

In the General Knowledge section, the history subject carries the highest weightage as it contains three questions out of 20. Other questions are asked about sports, geography, culture, science, and technology etc. The General Knowledge section-wise question types are tabulated below:

Areas	Number of Questions
Historical capital cities of India, Famous battles, Doctrine of lapse	3
Women's Premier League, Asian Games	2
Match the authors of the books	1
Nobel Peace Prize, Nobel Prize in Economics	2
Culture and Entertainment	2
Science & Technology	2
Personality & Awards	2
Geography	2
Economics & Business	2
Latest National & International	1
Companies, people, work, and action	1
Total	20

Also Read: XAT Admit Card 2026, 80 GD Topics For MBA Admission Through XAT 2026

XAT Syllabus 2026: Important Books

XAT Exam Authority has recommended several books by RS Agarwal, Arihant Publications, Abhijit Guha, and Disha Publications to enhance quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, and decision-making skills. Refer to the table below to check book suggestions for each section of XAT 2026 Exam.

Subjects	Book Title	Author/ Publication
Quantitative Aptitude	Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations	RS Aggarwal
	Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations	Abhijit Guha
	Target XAT (Past papers & mock tests)	Disha Publication
Data Interpretation	How to prepare for Data Interpretation	Arun Sharma
Data Interpretation	Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers)	RK Jha
Verbal and Logical Reasoning	Analytical and Logical Reasoning	Arihant Publications
	Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
	Analytical Reasoning	MK Pandey
	A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning	RS Aggarwal
	High School English Grammar & Composition	Wren & Martin
	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Ajay Singh
General Knowledge	Newspapers and Journals Economic Times Financial Express Business Today Wall Street Journal
Decision-making	Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	Gautam Puri
	Data Interpretation for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha
	Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha

XAT Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips

To ace XAT 2026 Exam, candidates must follow a strict study plan and timetable to cover all the topics within 6 months. Besides, solving past year's question papers, mock tests, and reading newspapers will help candidates prepare well for the exam.

Candidates need to create a study plan for at least six months to cover all the topics of XAT Syllabus 2026.
Students are encouraged to solve mock tests and XAT Previous Year Question Paper to improve time management ability and identify areas of strength and weakness.
Candidates must practice reading newspapers and journals from reputable sources, such as The Economic Times, Financial Express, Business Today, and The Wall Street Journal, to stay updated with current events.

Read: XAT 2026 Preparation Tips for Verbal & Logical Ability, XAT 2026 Preparation Plan for Decision Making

XAT Exam Pattern 2026

As per XAT Exam Pattern 2026, candidates must attempt 95 questions in 180 minutes. Amongst the four sections, QA & DI contains the highest marks, i.e., 28. Following this, the VALR and DM sections contain 26 and 21 marks, respectively. Each question carries +1 mark, and there is a provision of negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer. Candidates can refer to the table below to understand XAT Exam Pattern 2026.

Parts	Sections	Number of Questions	Total Marks	Time (Minutes)
Part 1	Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)	28	28	170
	Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VALR)	26	26
	Decision Making (DM)	21	21
Part 2	General Knowledge (GK)	20	20	10
	Total	95	95	180

Also Read: How To Prepare For The XAT 2026 Exam In 6 Months

XAT Syllabus 2026 FAQs

How to prepare for XAT 2026 Exam?

To prepare well for XAT 2026 Exam, candidates need to cover all the topics across four sections, solve XAT previous years question papers and mock tests to improve time management, precision, and speed.

What is the syllabus for the verbal and logical ability section in XAT 2026?

The verbal and logical ability section in XAT 2026 includes topics such as vocabulary-based questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, jumbled paragraphs, synonyms and antonyms, and sentence and paragraph completion.

What is the exam pattern of XAT 2026?

As per XAT Exam Pattern 2026, candidates have to answer 95 MCQs in 180 minutes. Each correct answer carries +1 mark, and each wrong answer results in a penalty of 0.25 marks. For the first eight unanswered questions, students do not get a penalty, but from the ninth one, 0.10 marks will be deducted.

What are the important topics of the decision-making section in XAT Syllabus 2026?

The topics of the decision-making section are based on problem-based scenarios, including ethical dilemmas, workplace conflicts, employee safety, and sales and marketing.

What topics should I cover in the General Knowledge section of XAT Syllabus?

Candidates need to cover history, geography, sports, culture, arts, entertainment, awards and personality-related questions for the General Knowledge section of the XAT Syllabus.

Suggest a book for strengthening the Quantitative Aptitude portion in XAT Syllabus 2026?

Candidates can refer to Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by RS Aggarwal to strengthen the quantitative Aptitude portion in XAT Syllabus 2026.

How to prepare well for the current affairs portion in XAT Syllabus 2026?

Candidates can read newspapers and journals such as The Economic Times, Financial Express, Business Today, and The Wall Street Journal to prepare well for the current affairs portion in the XAT Syllabus 2026.

Is it necessary to solve past years' question papers to score well in XAT 2026 Exam?

Yes, candidates must solve past years' question papers to understand the exam pattern and important areas of XAT 2026 Exam. This can also improve their accuracy and time management skills.

Is it easy to score well in the GK section in XAT 2026?

The score of the GK section does not incur any negative marking, and it is also not calculated into the total score of the XAT 2026 Exam. Performance in this section is considered during the selection process in institutes. Hence, students must focus on covering the prescribed topics of the GK section to attempt all the questions correctly.

Suggest some books for the decision-making section in XAT 2026?

Candidates can refer to Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha for the decision-making section in XAT 2026.