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CAT DILR Important Topics 2025, Expected Questions PDF

Nehal Sharma

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Nov 19, 2025

CAT Exam Syllabus 2026

CAT 2026 syllabus covers three key sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section is designed to test specific skills, and candidates need to focus on building their strengths across all areas to perform well. The syllabus is structured to ensure that candidates are evaluated on a wide range of skills, including language comprehension, analytical reasoning, and mathematical ability. Understanding the detailed syllabus and preparing accordingly will give you a clear edge in the exam.

CAT Exam Syllabus PDF

CAT Exam Syllabus PDF provides a detailed breakdown of the subjects and topics included in the CAT exam, helping aspirants understand what to study in Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning.

CAT Exam Syllabus 2026: Overview

CAT 2026 exam is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section has a 40-minute time limit. Here’s an overview of the CAT Exam Syllabus 2026:

Section

Number of Questions

Time Allotted

Weightage

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

40 minutes

36%

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

22

40 minutes

32%

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

22

40 minutes

32%

Total

68

120 minutes

100%

Also Read, CAT Registration 2026, Important Dates, Eligibility, Form Fees

CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

CAT 2026 exam will be conducted in a computer-based format, and the medium of instruction will be English. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes, with a 40-minute time limit for each of the three sections. The exam consists of 68 questions in total, with a maximum of 204 marks.

The questions are divided into three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam will feature both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) questions. The marking scheme awards +3 marks for correct answers, -1 for incorrect MCQs, and there is no negative marking for TITA questions. The CAT 2026 exam will be held in three slots: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening. The key details of the CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus is as follows:

Feature

Details

Mode of Exam

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Medium of Exam

English

Total Duration

120 minutes (2 hours)

Number of Sections

3

Sectional Time Limit

40 minutes per section

Total Questions

68

Total Marks

204

Sections

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) – 24 questions (72 marks)

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) – 22 questions (66 marks)

Quantitative Ability (QA) – 22 questions (66 marks)

Question Types

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA)

Marking Scheme

+3 for correct answer; -1 for incorrect MCQ; No negative marking for TITA

Exam Slots

3 slots (Morning, Afternoon, Evening)

Also Read, CAT 2026, Important Dates, Application Form, Eligibility Criteria

What is the CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA?

CAT exam syllabus for MBA includes three main sections: Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning. It outlines the key topics candidates need to prepare for admission to top management institutes in India.

Also Read, CAT Marking Scheme 2026, Weightage, Negative Marking

CAT Section Wise Syllabus 2026

CAT Exam Section Wise Syllabus provides a clear outline of the key topics to focus on for each section of the exam. For Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), candidates need to prepare for reading comprehension, para jumbles, sentence correction, and vocabulary-based questions. The Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) section covers topics like data interpretation, logical puzzles, and reasoning through tables and graphs. The Quantitative Ability (QA) section includes areas such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. This section-wise breakdown helps candidates organize their study plan effectively.

Also Read, CAT Notification 2026, Release Date, Download PDF Link

CAT VARC Syllabus 2026

VARC is the first section of the CAT exam and must be attempted first. It is divided into two sub-parts – Verbal Ability (VA) and Reading Comprehension (RC). The sectional time limit for the VARC section is 40 minutes. The detailed CAT 2026 syllabus for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) is outlined below:

Section

Topics

Verbal Ability (VA)

Para Jumble, Para Completion & Inference, Sentence Completion, Fill in the Blanks, Verbal Reasoning, critical reasoning.

Reading Comprehension (RC)

Fact, Inference, Judgment, Reading Comprehension Passages (from varied topics like literature, science, economics, and philosophy)

Also Check, CAT 2025 Syllabus PDF, Download Section-wise Syllabus PDF

CAT DILR Syllabus 2026

DILR is the second section of the CAT exam which has to be solved after the VARC section. This section is divided into two parts – Data Interpretation (DI) and Logical Reasoning (LR). The sectional time limit for this section is 40 minutes. Candidates can find the detailed CAT syllabus 2026 for DI & LR below:

Section

Topics

Data Interpretation

Bar Graph, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Tables, Caselet, Combination of Graphs, Special Charts, Data change over a period etc.

Logical Reasoning

Seating Arrangement, Venn Diagram, Constraint-based Puzzles, Matching Puzzles, Data Arrangement Sets, Games and Tournaments, Truth and Lie, Selection with Conditions, Quant based LR, Scheduling, Table with missing Values etc.

CAT Quant Syllabus 2026

QA is the last section in the CAT question paper and the sectional time limit for this is 40 minutes. Take a look at some of the important topics from the CAT 2026 QA section:

CAT Arithmetic Syllabus

Sub-Topic

Description / Concepts Covered

Ratio & Proportion

Simple, Compound, Continued Ratio

Percentage

Successive Percentage Changes, Profit & Loss, Discounts

Average

Weighted Average, Combined Average

Time & Work

Work Efficiency, Pipes and Cisterns

Time, Speed & Distance

Relative Speed, Trains, Boats and Streams

Simple & Compound Interest

Installments, Effective Rate

Mixtures & Allegations

Mixture of 2 and 3 solutions

CAT Algebra Syllabus

Sub-Topic

Description / Concepts Covered

Linear Equations

Single and Multi-variable equations

Quadratic Equations

Roots, Nature of Roots, Formation of Equation

Polynomials

Remainder Theorem, Factor Theorem

Inequalities

Linear and Quadratic Inequalities, Modulus Inequalities

Logs, Surds and Indiceslogarithm identities, exponents 

Functions

Domain, Range, Graphs, Composition, Inverse

CAT Geometry Syllabus

Sub-Topic

Description / Concepts Covered

Lines and Angles

Parallel Lines, Angles

Triangles

Types, Congruence, Similarity, Pythagoras, Inequality

Quadrilaterals

Parallelogram, Rectangle, Rhombus, Trapezium

Circles

Tangents, Chords, Arcs, Angles in Circle

Polygons

Interior & Exterior Angles

Coordinate Geometry

Distance Formula, Section Formula, Area, Locus

Mensuration

Areas and Volumes of several 2D and 3D figures, such as triangles, rectangles, polygons, circles, and cones.

CAT Modern Maths

Sub-Topic

Description / Concepts Covered

Number System

Remainders, factorial, Euler’s function

LCM and HCFPrime Factorization, Applications in Word Problems

Sequence and Series

AP, GP, HP and AGP concepts

Permutation and Combination

Selection and arrangement concept

Probability

Baye’s Theorem, Coins and Dices

CAT Syllabus 2026: Preparation Strategy

To prepare well for CAT 2026, it's important to understand the exam structure, practice regularly, and follow a clear study plan. A smart preparation strategy helps you use your time wisely, work on your weaker sections, and feel confident when taking the exam. Here's how you can plan your preparation step by step.

What to Know About the CAT 2026 Exam?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is expected to be conducted on the last Sunday of November 2026, as per trends from previous years. The exam is held in a computer-based format and consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section is allotted 40 minutes, and the entire test lasts for two hours. The marking scheme awards +3 for each correct answer and imposes a -1 penalty for wrong answers in MCQs, while there is no negative marking for TITA (Type In The Answer) questions.

Start by Learning the Syllabus and Basics

To begin preparation, aspirants should first understand the exam structure and syllabus by visiting the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in. The first phase of preparation, ideally spanning the first two months, should focus on building conceptual clarity across all three sections. Make sure you use CAT study material efficiently, where you can find alot of free material to build basics.

How to Prepare for Quant Section?

For the Quantitative Ability section, candidates must strengthen their basics in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and modern mathematics. Regular practice and solving a variety of problems from each topic will help improve accuracy and speed. CAT Daily Target is an excellent source to ace this section.

How to Prepare for Verbal and Reading Section?

In the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section, reading newspapers, journals, and books is highly recommended to improve comprehension skills and vocabulary. Practicing different types of verbal questions such as para jumbles and sentence completion will help in mastering this section. To ace this section aspirants need to develop reading habit. Students can read a variety of online articles from CAT Daily Articles.

How to Prepare for the DILR Section?

For the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section, aspirants must focus on interpreting complex data sets and solving logical puzzles. Practising with time-bound sets is crucial, as this section requires quick thinking and accuracy under time pressure. CAT Previous Papers are an excellent source to start your LRDI preparation. You will get a fair understanding of the kind of sets that comes in CAT exam.

Next Step: Take Small Tests and Find Weak Areas

From the third to fourth month, students should begin attempting sectional tests to assess their understanding and identify weak areas. Always remember that consistency is one of the most important factor when it comes preparing effectively for the CAT exam.

Practice Full Mock Tests and Improve Strategy

In the fifth and sixth months, full-length mock tests should be taken regularly, followed by a detailed analysis of performance. This phase is essential to fine-tune strategies and manage time effectively.

Last Month: Focus on Revision and Staying Calm

In the final month, the focus should shift to revision, confidence building, and stress management. Candidates should continue practising mocks but with greater emphasis on minimising errors and maximising scores in their stronger sections.

Keep Checking Updates and Learn from Mock Tests

Additionally, staying updated with any notifications or changes in the exam structure through the official CAT portal is vital. Aiming for 30 to 40 mock tests before the actual exam and analyzing them thoroughly will help refine your approach.

Also Read, Cracku's CAT 2026 Course by 5-time 100%iler

CAT Exam Syllabus 2026: Conclusion

Understanding and preparing for the CAT Exam Syllabus 2026 is the first big step toward getting into a top MBA college. The exam includes three main parts: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). To do well, you need to start by knowing all the topics clearly. Focus on building your basics in each section and solve many practice questions to improve your speed and accuracy. Make sure you read regularly, practice puzzles, and solve math problems every day.

Along with studying, it’s important to take mock tests and analyze your performance. These tests will help you find your weak areas and improve your time management. Don’t forget to stay updated with any changes in the exam structure on the official CAT website. If you stay consistent, follow a daily study plan, and keep revising smartly, you can confidently aim for a top score in CAT 2026. Keep your preparation strong, stay focused, and success will follow.

  • March 06, 2026: Here we have discussed the Cracku CAT 2026 Mastery Batch, including course structure, features, start date, mocks, mentorship, and how to enroll for structured CAT preparation.Read More
  • March 06, 2026: Here we have discussed the inspiring journey of CAT repeaters who achieved 99+ percentile, along with their VARC, DILR, and Quant preparation strategies and mock test insights.Read More
CAT DILR Important Topics 2025, Expected Questions PDF

CAT DILR Important Topics 2025: The CAT exam or the Common Admission Test is a national level test for taking admission in the prestigious MBA colleges in India. Furthermore, The CAT exam consists of 3 sections and these are: verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR) and quantitative ability (QA). Moreover, each section is of 40 minutes making the entire exam lasting for 2 hours.

Although the total number of questions in DILR are the lowest as compared to the VARC and QA section. However, it requires equal preparation time. Furthermore, DILR section possesses 22 questions clubbed into groups of 2 sets of 5 questions each and 3 sets of 4 questions each.  According to the past year trends. Moreover, there are 12 questions relating to data interpretation and 10 questions relating to logical reasoning.

Also Read, CAT 2025 DILR Topic-wise Questions PDF (Most Expected)

CAT DILR Important Topics 2025

CAT DILR section is an important section ofCAT Exam Syllabus. It has 4 sets of 5 questions each. Overall, the section has 22 questions. In the past few years, this section has been pretty tough to handle during CAT exam because it demands strong problem-solving skills. It is ideal if you can solve at least 3 sets out of the 5. This section is future divided into two parts: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning.

Data Interpretation

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 CAT important topics for of this section below:

TablesBar GraphPie Chart
Line GraphVenn DiagramRadar Chart
HistographCaseletsNetworks and Diagrams
Reasoning based DIData ArrangementMathematical Puzzles

Logical Reasoning

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:

Linear ArrangementCircular ArrangementSelection
SequencingBinary LogicCubes
RoutesGames & Tournaments2D/3D Space LRs
Coin PickingConditional LRsCase-based LRs

CAT DILR Topic-Wise Weightage (Past Year Trends)

The CAT DILR topic-wise weightage in the past years is mentioned below. Keep in mind the various topics that have been focused upon. So as to prepare accordingly for the CAT DILR 2024 section. Make sure that you practice all these essential last year CAT DILR sets. The topic weightage is as follows:

CAT DILR Topic-wise Weightage 2024

In CAT 2024 the DILR pattern changed as compared to CAT 2023. The overall questions changed from 20 to 22. Moreover, in CAT 2023 there were 4 sets of 5 questions each but in CAT 2024 there were 2 sets of 5 questions each and 3 sets of 4 questions each. The distribution of the sets is given in the below table.

DILR Section No. of Que’s Slot-1 Slot-2 Slot-3
Set 1 4 DI - Candle Stick DI (Rating) Bar Graph
Set 2 4 DI - Bar Graph Schematic Diagram DI (GDP of Countries)
Set 3 4 Arrangement DI (2 Graphs) Table with Missing Values
Set 4 5 Games and Tournament Puzzle (Rating) Line Graph
Set 5 5 DI (Lengthy Set) Arrangements Network of Roads


CAT DILR Topic-wise Weightage 2023

The following table offers a glimpse about the various CAT DILR topics focused upon in the 2023 CAT Question paper.

SlotTopic NameNo. of questions
Slot 1Puzzle10
Arrangement5
Mathematical Reasoning5
Slot 2Coin based puzzle5
Mathematical Reasoning10
Puzzle (entertainment park)5
Slot 3Selection and Distribution5
Routes and Networks5
Mathematical Reasoning10

CAT DILR Topic-wise Weightage 2022

The following table offers a glimpse about the various CAT DILR topics focused upon in the 2022 CAT Question paper.

SlotTopic NameNo. of questions
Slot 1Games and Tournaments5
Venn Diagram5
Mathematical Reasoning5
Metro Lines5
Slot 2Selection and Distribution5
Routes and Networks5
Tables and Graphs5
Venn Diagram5
Slot 3Tables and Graphs10
Arrangement5
Ranking and Ordering5

CAT DILR Topic-wise Weightage 2021

The following table offers a glimpse about the various CAT DILR topics focused upon in the 2021 CAT Question paper.

SlotTopic NameNo. of questions
Slot 1Selection and Distribution10
Puzzle6
Graph4
Slot 2Graph4
Puzzles6
Games and Tournaments4
Selection and Distribution6
Slot 3Caselet (Mixture)4
Tables and Graph4
Games and Tournaments6
Selection and Distribution6

Tips To Crack DILR Section

Ace the CAT DILR section with these tips and tricks:

Personalized Approach:

After analyzing your performance and going over the papers from the previous year, you ought to be able to see how you may excel in this area. Moreover, play to your strengths and choose the order and approach for performing best at DILR.

Familiarize Yourself with Different Types of Questions:

It can be challenging for test-takers to just be familiar with a small number of set types. Moreover, it is very risky to just have practice of doing some specific types of questions. Thus, practice different types of LR and DI questions. So that, whatever the question is in the exam you are able to solve it confidently.

Time Management:

Work on your areas of weakness and play to your strengths in order to gradually raise your speed and results side by side. Furthermore, make sure you’re managing time effectively.

Take as Many Mocks as Possible:

To become used to the structure, subject matter, and time constraints of the actual exam, mock exams are essential. Moreover, it will give you a decent idea of how well you are performing in this segment.

Some Tips for Taking Mocks:

Attend the mock exam at the same time as that you have your CAT exam. Further. make an effort to reduce distractions. Moreover, maintain the same ambiance as the exam room. In fact, tell your family not to bother you, and carry your water with you. Handle the mocks in the same way as you would handle a real cat. Also, try to raise the accuracy and proceed solving with an aim. Lastly, examine your errors and how you might improve for the next time after the exam.

Study Previous Years Question Papers:

Examine past years' questions to determine the degree of difficulty and trick questions that often make test takers get stuck. Furthermore, make a plan for this part based on the previous papers to ensure you get as many points as you can.

Also Read, 25+ Most Important DILR Sets for CAT 2025 (Most Expected)

Conclusion

The DILR CAT section is equally important to the other sections in the CAT exam. Furthermore, practicing consistently and solving as many questions as possible will help reaching a great percentile. In fact, time management and good planning skills based on personal strengths and performances is necessary. As this will help in creation of a unique personal strategy that will further enhance performance. Lastly, remember to give regular mock test and analyze them thoroughly so as to perform well on the day of the exam.

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