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CAT Quant Syllabus 2026, Important Topics, Preparation Books

REEYA SINGH

195

Jul 29, 2025

Latest Updates:

  • July 29, 2025: Here we have discussed the updated CAT Quant Syllabus 2026 with tips, strategy, and the best resources to improve accuracy and speed in the exam.Read More
  • July 29, 2025: Here we have discussed IPMAT Indore 2026 seat matrix, category-wise reservation, exam dates, and eligibility for General, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS aspirants.Read More
CAT Quant Syllabus 2026, Important Topics, Preparation Books

CAT Quant Syllabus 2026: The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT 2026 tests your mathematical skills, problem-solving ability, and numerical accuracy. Most of the questions are based on high school-level concepts, but with a tricky and application-based approach. A clear understanding of the CAT exam syllabus helps you focus your preparation effectively. Read the blog to have better clarity of the syllabus and also understand how to prepare for the Quant section of CAT.

CAT Quant Syllabus 2026

The Quant section of CAT 2026 focuses on testing your basic mathematical concepts and their practical application. It covers topics from arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems, typically up to Class 10 level. Knowing the full syllabus helps in planning a structured and targeted preparation strategy.

CAT Arithmetic Syllabus

Sub-Topic

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 Indices

logarithm 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, Area

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 HCF

Prime 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 Quant Preparation Strategy 2026

The Quantitative Aptitude section in CAT can be a game-changer if approached with the right mindset and consistency. It tests not just your math knowledge but also how quickly and accurately you can apply it under pressure. Here’s a focused preparation strategy to help you ace CAT Quant in 2026:

  • Start with Concept Clarity: Build strong foundations in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and modern math. Stick to NCERTs or basic quant books before jumping to advanced material.
  • Solve CAT Previous Year Papers: CAT previous year papers are one of the best resources to start preparation for 2026.
  • Make Arithmetic Your Strength: Topics like percentages, ratios, averages, and time-speed-distance form a significant chunk of the exam. Master them early; they're scoring and frequently asked.
  • Create a Formula Sheet: Maintain a notebook with key formulas, tricks, and concepts. Revise it regularly to build speed and reduce silly mistakes.
  • Practice Topic-Wise Questions First: Solve beginner to moderate-level questions from one topic at a time. Use trusted books like Arun Sharma or R.S. Aggarwal to build variety.
  • Track Your Accuracy and Time: Use a timer while solving questions and note your accuracy. This helps in identifying whether you need to work on speed or clarity.
  • Move to Mixed & Higher Difficulty Sets: Once you’re confident with topics, start solving mixed-question sets. CAT rarely asks straightforward problems—it’s about logic plus application.
  • Take Sectional Tests Weekly: Allocate one day a week to take a Quant-only timed test. Analyze your performance and revise weak topics accordingly.
  • Focus on Smart Solving Techniques: Learn to eliminate options, use approximations, and plug in values when needed. These shortcuts can save precious time in the exam.
  • Revise Regularly: Set aside 30 minutes daily or a few hours weekly to revise old topics so you don’t forget what you’ve already covered.
  • Stay Calm and Be Consistent: Quant can feel tough initially, especially if you’re from a non-math background. But with consistent effort, anyone can improve significantly.

CAT Quant Study Material 2026

Choosing the right CAT study material is essential for building a strong foundation in Quant for CAT 2026. The right books and resources help you understand concepts clearly and practice a wide range of questions. Here’s a quick guide to the most recommended study material for CAT Quant preparation.

CAT Quant Important Topics 2026

The Quantitative Aptitude section in CAT 2026 includes a range of topics from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra and geometry. Knowing the most important topics helps you focus your efforts on high-weightage and frequently asked areas. Below is a table of key topics to prioritize in your preparation.

Category

Important Topics

Arithmetic

Percentages, Profit & Loss, Averages, Ratio & Proportion, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work

Algebra

Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Functions, Progressions

Geometry

Lines & Angles, Triangles, Circles, Mensuration

Number System

Divisibility, HCF & LCM, Remainders, Base System

Modern Math

Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory, Logarithms

Miscellaneous

Data Sufficiency, Simple & Compound Interest

CAT Quant Preparation Books 2026

To crack the Quant section in CAT 2026, it’s important to study from books that explain concepts clearly and offer ample practice questions. The right books can help you build accuracy, speed, and confidence. Here are some of the most recommended books for CAT Quant preparation.

Book Title

Author

Cracku Previous Year Solved Papers

Cracku

Cracku CAT Formula Book

Cracku

CAT Quantitative aptitude book

Cracku

How to Prepare for Quant in CAT 2026

To prepare well for Quant in CAT 2026, start by mastering the basics of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Practice regularly to build speed and focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing shortcuts. Take topic-wise tests and analyze your mistakes to improve steadily. You can follow below tips mentioned below to prepare better:

  • Strengthen Basics: Begin with a clear understanding of fundamental concepts from Class 10-level math.
    Focus on Arithmetic First: Prioritize arithmetic—it’s high-weightage and relatively easier to master.
    Practice Daily with Timers: Build speed and accuracy through consistent, timed practice.
    Attempt Sectional Tests Weekly: Take Quant-only tests to assess performance and identify weak areas.
    Maintain a Formula & Mistake Book: Regularly revise key formulas and learn from your past errors.
  • Set Selection & Question Filtering Skills: Learn to quickly identify which questions to attempt and which to skip. Not every question is worth solving—smart selection is key to maximizing your score.
    Regular Revision of Solved Sets: Don’t just keep solving new questions. Revisit previously solved problems to reinforce methods and avoid repeating old mistakes.

CAT Quant Syllabus 2025: Conclusion

The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT 2026 can be a scoring area if approached with the right mix of concept clarity, consistent practice, and smart strategies. It covers a wide range of topics from arithmetic and algebra to geometry and modern math, all rooted in Class 10-level concepts but asked in an application-heavy manner. Understanding the CAT Quant syllabus in depth helps in planning a structured study approach and prioritizing high-weightage topics like percentages, averages, time-speed-distance, and quadratic equations.

To excel in CAT Quant 2026, aspirants should focus on building strong fundamentals, taking regular topic-wise and sectional tests, and analyzing their performance. Using the right study material, maintaining a formula notebook, and developing smart question selection skills are equally important. Whether you're a non-math student or someone aiming for a 99+ percentile, consistent effort and targeted preparation will help you improve accuracy and speed. Start early, stay disciplined, and use trusted platforms like Cracku to support your preparation journey.

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