CAT Syllabus 2024, Topic wise Weightage, Download PDF

CAT Syllabus 2024: To strategically prepare for CAT 2024, candidates need a thorough understanding of the syllabus. While the IIM Colleges do not release an official syllabus, experts have crafted one by analyzing past years’ question papers.

The CAT 2024 syllabus introduces candidates to commonly tested topics, including Reading Comprehension, Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Graphs, and Percentages. These subjects form the core of the CAT exam and are known for being high-yielding areas.

CAT Syllabus 2024 

The CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA is not explicitly defined by the conducting body, IIMs. However, based on previous years' trends, we can outline the CAT important topics that are commonly covered in the exam:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): This section tests the candidate's proficiency in English, including comprehension and verbal reasoning.
• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): This section evaluates the candidate's ability to interpret data and solve logical problems.
• Quantitative Aptitude (QA): This section assesses the candidate's mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities.
  

CAT Syllabus 2024 PDF

For aspirants looking for a detailed breakdown, You can easily find CAT syllabus 2024 PDF download links online, which provide a comprehensive list of topics covered in each section. These PDFs are crucial for organized and efficient preparation. Moreover, you can download CAT 2024 syllabus PDF free download options to get started without any cost. Note that the syllabus of CAT is slightly different from MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus, topics such as Grammar, Trigonometry won't be asked in the CAT.

CAT Section Wise Syllabus 2024

This table provides a clear breakdown of the sections, number of questions, time limits, and marks.

CAT VARC Syllabus

The CAT VARC Syllabus includes a variety of topics that test the candidate's English language skills. Here’s a detailed list of the topics:

• Reading Comprehension: Passages from various genres like literature, science, business, and more.
  Verbal Ability: Sentence correction, para-jumbles, para-summary, and odd sentence out.
  

Preparing for VARC requires consistent reading and practice to enhance comprehension and vocabulary.

Here's a look at the topics for the VARC Section in the table given below:

CAT Reading Comprehension Syllabus

Reading Comprehension is the dominant in the VARC section. As per the last few years' trends, you get to see 4 RCs in various genres. Generally, RCs are of 450-550 words with 4-6 paragraphs. There are no specific grammar-based questions. But you should have good knowledge of grammar to comprehend better.

CAT Verbal Ability Syllabus

Verbal Ability comprises 4 major sets i.e. Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out and Sentence Completion/Placement. These sets usually test the coherent usage of the English language and its correct & appropriate usage. Here, it requires your grammatical, sentence structure, and paraphrasing skills.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Preparation Tips

• Read Regularly: Engage in regular reading to enhance comprehension and vocabulary.
• Practice RC Passages: Regularly practice reading comprehension passages to improve interpretation skills.
• Focus on Grammar and Vocabulary: Brush up on grammar and expand your vocabulary for sentence correction and para-summary.
• Solve Previous Year Papers: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in the VARC section.
• Take Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

CAT DILR Syllabus 2024

The CAT DILR Syllabus is designed to test the logical reasoning and data interpretation skills of candidates. Topics in this section include:

• Data Interpretation: Graphs (bar, line, pie), charts, tables, and caselets.
• Logical Reasoning: Puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, logical sequences, and more.

Practicing a variety of problems will help in mastering this section, as it requires quick thinking and accuracy.

Here's a look at the topics for the DILR Section in the table given below:

CAT Data Interpretation Syllabus

Data Interpretation sets test how good you are with numbers and data. This section has numerical sets and requires strong calculation. You can check the major topics of this section below:

CAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus

Logical Reasoning tests the ability to solve a problem and having the clarity to approach any problem strategically. It tests the logical aptitude of the candidate. You can check the major logical reasoning topics below:

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Preparation Tips

• Practice Various DI Sets: Focus on tables, graphs, charts, and caselets.
• Solve Logical Puzzles: Engage in puzzles like seating arrangements and blood relations to enhance reasoning skills.
• Prioritize Accuracy: Focus on solving questions accurately rather than quickly.
• Manage Time: Practice managing time efficiently, especially with complex DILR problems.
• Regular Mock Tests: Take mock tests to assess your preparation and identify areas needing improvement.

CAT QA Syllabus 2024

The CAT Quant Syllabus focuses on mathematics topics typically covered until the 10th standard, but with a higher difficulty level. The main topics include:

• Arithmetic: Percentages, profit and loss, time and work, ratios, averages.
• Algebra: Linear equations, quadratic equations, inequalities.
• Geometry: Circles, triangles, polygons, coordinate geometry.
• Number System: Divisibility, LCM and HCF, prime numbers, remainder theorem.

A strong foundation in basic math concepts is essential to excel in this section.

Here's a look at the topics for the DILR Section in the table given below:

Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Preparation Tips

1. Strengthen Basics: Ensure a solid understanding of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
2. Daily Practice: Dedicate time daily to practice different types of quantitative problems.
3. Learn Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with mathematical shortcuts for quicker problem-solving.
4. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and focus on weaker topics for improvement.
5. Topic-Wise Tests: After studying a topic, take a test to ensure thorough understanding.

CAT Syllabus and Pattern 2024

Understanding the CAT Syllabus and Pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The CAT exam typically consists of 66 questions, divided into three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA. The time allotted for each section is 40 minutes, making time management a critical skill for success.

Most of the questions are Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), while the remaining questions require typing in the answer (TITA). Negative marks are given for incorrect answers in MCQs, but there are no negative marks for TITA questions.

Important Things to Consider:

• CAT Exam has 3 slots: Morning, Afternoon & Evening
• There is normalization in CAT to match the difficulty in all slots

Latest Changes in CAT Exam Syllabus

Over the past two years (due to covid pandemic), the CAT 2023, 2022, 2021 exam pattern has been changed. Earlier CAT was conducted in a 3-hour pattern with 1 hour for each section.

But, since 2020, the exam moved to a 2-hour format. Check out the CAT exam pattern changes mentioned below in CAT 2022, CAT 2021, CAT 2020, and CAT 2019.

Also, check out the score required for CAT 100%iler, CAT 99%ile & Above.

Exam Year	CAT Syllabus 2023	CAT Syllabus 2022	CAT Syllabus 2021	CAT Syllabus 2020	CAT Syllabus 2019
No. of Questions	66	66	66	76	100
Marks Per  Question	3	3	3	3	3
Total Score	198	198	198	228	300
Exam Duration	120 Min	120 Min	120 Min	120 Min	180 Min
Score to get 100%ile	150.99	145.83	161.36	161.00	242.15
Score to get 99%ile	79	84	98	101	156
Number of Questions in VARC	24	24	24	26	34
Number of Questions in DILR	20	20	20	24	32
Number of Questions in QA	22	22	22	26	34

CAT Study Material 2024

Having the right CAT Study Material 2024 is key to a structured preparation strategy. Some of the best study resources include:

• Books: "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT" by Arun Sharma, "Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT" by Nishit Sinha.
• Mock Tests: Regularly taking mock tests helps in identifying weak areas and improving time management. CAT mock Tests by Cracku is an excellent source of practicing mocks.
• Online Resources: Websites and apps offering CAT syllabus 2024 PDF free download options, video lectures, and practice tests.

CAT Preparation Tips 2024

Here are some tips to effectively prepare for exam with the help of CAT Exam Syllabus 2024. 

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and focus on strengthening weak areas.
• Create a Study Plan: Allocate specific times for each section and stick to a consistent study routine.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice through mock tests and previous year question papers is crucial.
• Review and Revise: Regular revision helps in retaining concepts and strategies.

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