When you prepare for CAT, the Quantitative Aptitude section becomes a deciding factor in your overall percentile. It checks how well you can apply mathematical concepts to solve real problems, not just how fast you calculate.
To score well, you must clearly understand the quants syllabus for CAT, which includes topics from arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and modern math.
The syllabus for CAT is designed to test logic, accuracy, and problem-solving under time pressure. Below, we have shared every topic, question trend, and preparation strategy to help you strengthen your quant fundamentals and maximize your CAT score.
CAT Quants Syllabus 2025-26: Overview
Below is a clear and concise overview of CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus:
| Particulars | Details |
| Section Name | Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
| Commonly Known As | CAT Quants / CAT Maths Section |
| Total Questions | Around 22 |
| Duration | 40 Minutes |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for each correct answer, –1 for each wrong MCQ, no negative marking for TITA |
| Weightage in Exam | Around 33% of the total CAT marks |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to High |
| Key Areas Covered | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry & Mensuration, Number System, Modern Math |
| Skills Tested | Conceptual understanding, numerical reasoning, speed, and accuracy |
| Sectional Time Limit | 40 minutes (no switching between sections allowed) |
| Importance | High scoring for well-prepared aspirants and crucial for IIM shortlisting |
Quants Syllabus for CAT: All Topics
These are the topics in CAT syllabus for quantitative aptitude section:
| Section | Topic Area | Key Subtopics Covered | Approx. No. of Questions |
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Averages, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work, Mixtures, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Partnerships | Real-life numerical and logical application-based problems | 8–10 |
| Algebra | Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Functions, Logarithms, Surds, Indices, Progressions, Polynomials | Abstract reasoning and variable-based problem solving | 6–8 |
| Geometry & Mensuration | Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, Surface Area, Volume | Visual reasoning, theorems, and measurement-based calculations | 4–5 |
| Number System | Factors, Multiples, Divisibility, Remainders, Base System, Unit Digit, LCM/HCF | Conceptual and logic-based number problems | 2–3 |
| Modern Mathematics | Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory, Sequence & Series, Binomial Theorem | Conceptual, logical, and pattern-based questions | 2–3 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | — | 22 Questions |
Download Complete CAT Syllabus PDF.
Download the detailed CAT syllabus PDF that covers all three sections – VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude – along with topic-wise breakdowns, question distribution, and expert preparation insights.
CAT Quants Syllabus for Arithmetic
Arithmetic is the foundation of the Quantitative Aptitude section and holds the highest weightage in the CAT Quants syllabus. It focuses on everyday mathematical concepts that test logical thinking, calculation accuracy, and data interpretation ability.
The CAT Arithmetic syllabus includes topics like percentages, ratios, averages, time-speed-distance, time and work, mixtures, and simple and compound interest.
| Subtopic | Description | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Percentages | Questions involving percentage change, profit & loss, and successive changes. | 2–3 |
| Ratio & Proportion | Comparisons and relationships between quantities using ratios. | 2–3 |
| Averages | Problems based on mean, weighted averages, and combined averages. | 1–2 |
| Mixtures & Alligations | Combining two or more quantities in different ratios. | 1–2 |
| Time, Speed & Distance | Includes relative speed, trains, boats, and races. | 2–3 |
| Time & Work | Questions on efficiency, work equivalence, and pipes & cisterns. | 2–3 |
| Simple & Compound Interest | Growth-based and comparison-based problems. | 1–2 |
| Profit, Loss & Discount | Price comparison and percentage-based business problems. | 1–2 |
| Partnerships | Investment-based questions testing proportional distribution of profit. | 1 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | 8–10 Questions |
These topics may look simple, but CAT often twists them into application-based problems that require strong conceptual clarity and quick decision-making. For most aspirants, mastering arithmetic becomes the stepping stone to cracking Quant — as it forms nearly half of the entire section and directly influences overall percentile.
CAT Arithmetic Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of Arithmetic Questions | Total Quant Questions | Weightage (%) |
| 2019 | 11 | 26 | 42% |
| 2020 | 10 | 24 | 42% |
| 2021 | 9 | 22 | 41% |
| 2022 | 10 | 22 | 45% |
| 2023 | 11 | 22 | 50% |
| 2024 | 11 | 22 | 50% |
Mentor’s Insights:
Arithmetic is your comfort zone in Quant. Build it early. Focus on concepts first, then speed. Avoid memorizing formulas; understand their logic.
Daily 3–4 word problems and weekly topic tests can help you master arithmetic, setting the right foundation for the rest of CAT Quant preparation.
More important resources for CAT exam:
CAT Quants Syllabus for Algebra
Algebra is one of the most conceptually rich and versatile areas in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus. It forms the bridge between arithmetic logic and abstract reasoning, requiring both analytical and numerical skills.
The CAT Algebra syllabus includes linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions, logarithms, surds, indices, and progressions. CAT often frames algebra questions in real-world scenarios where you must interpret equations, identify patterns, and simplify expressions.
| Subtopic | Description | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Linear & Quadratic Equations | Solving single and multi-variable equations, including roots and relations. | 2–3 |
| Inequalities | Questions involving range of values, modulus, and comparison of expressions. | 2–3 |
| Functions | Understanding mappings, domain, range, and composite functions. | 2–3 |
| Logarithms | Problems on laws of logarithms, simplification, and exponential comparisons. | 1–2 |
| Surds & Indices | Simplifying and comparing exponential or radical expressions. | 1–2 |
| Progressions (AP, GP, HP) | Finding nth terms, sums, and relation between series. | 1–2 |
| Polynomials | Factorization, remainder theorem, and coefficient comparison. | 1 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | 6–8 Questions |
CAT Algebra Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of Algebra Questions | Total Quant Questions | Weightage (%) |
| 2019 | 8 | 26 | 30% |
| 2020 | 7 | 24 | 29% |
| 2021 | 6 | 22 | 27% |
| 2022 | 7 | 22 | 31% |
| 2023 | 8 | 22 | 35% |
| 2024 | 7 | 22 | 32% |
Mentor’s Insights:
Algebra rewards conceptual clarity more than memorization. Learn to interpret questions, visualize equations, and test values quickly. Practice translating word-based problems into algebraic form – it’s a skill that differentiates toppers. Revise formulas weekly, but focus on why they work, not just how to apply them.
CAT Quants Syllabus for Geometry and Mensuration
Geometry and Mensuration form one of the most conceptual and visual parts of the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section. It tests your spatial understanding, visualization skills, and ability to apply theorems logically.
This area covers both 2D and 3D figures, focusing on triangles, circles, quadrilaterals, polygons, and solids like cubes, cones, and cylinders.
| Subtopic | Description | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Triangles | Questions on types, similarity, congruence, medians, and in/out circles. | 2–3 |
| Circles | Tangents, chords, arcs, and angles subtended by chords at the center. | 1–2 |
| Quadrilaterals & Polygons | Properties of parallelograms, rectangles, rhombuses, and regular polygons. | 1–2 |
| Coordinate Geometry | Distance formula, section formula, equations of lines and circles. | 2–3 |
| Mensuration (2D) | Perimeter and area of plane figures like triangles, rectangles, and circles. | 1–2 |
| Mensuration (3D) | Surface area and volume of cubes, cuboids, cylinders, cones, and spheres. | 1–2 |
| Geometry-Based Data Questions | Mix of geometry and arithmetic in visual or DI-based sets. | 1 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | 4–5 Questions |
CAT questions in Geometry often combine logic with calculation, making it essential to understand relationships between angles, lines, and areas rather than just memorizing formulas.
Mensuration, on the other hand, deals with measurement-based problems involving perimeter, area, surface area, and volume. A strong grasp of geometry boosts problem-solving speed and builds accuracy in diagram-based reasoning sets across the paper.
CAT Geometry & Mensuration Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of Questions | Total Quant Questions | Weightage (%) |
| 2019 | 5 | 26 | 19% |
| 2020 | 4 | 24 | 17% |
| 2021 | 4 | 22 | 18% |
| 2022 | 3 | 22 | 14% |
| 2023 | 3 | 22 | 14% |
| 2024 | 3 | 22 | 14% |
Mentor’s Insights:
Geometry rewards visualization. Don’t rush to memorize formulas — understand how shapes connect and derive relationships yourself. Practice by drawing diagrams and labeling given data.
Review coordinate geometry regularly, as it often appears in mixed questions. Remember: conceptual clarity here ensures accuracy even in tricky, unseen problems.
Explore additional free resources for CAT Exam:
CAT Quants Syllabus for Number System
The Number System forms the conceptual backbone of the Quant section, building the foundation for several other topics. It focuses on properties and relationships of numbers, including divisibility, remainders, factors, multiples, and base systems.
| Subtopic | Description | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Divisibility & Remainders | Problems based on divisibility rules, modular arithmetic, and remainder theorem. | 1–2 |
| Factors & Multiples | Finding total factors, HCF, LCM, and prime factorization. | 1–2 |
| Base Systems | Conversion of numbers between different bases. | 1 |
| Unit Digits & Cyclicity | Determining unit digits and last digits in powers. | 1 |
| Prime Numbers | Identifying and applying properties of prime and composite numbers. | 1 |
| Remainder & Factor Theorem | Application-based questions mixing algebra and number theory. | 1 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | 2–3 Questions |
CAT tests your ability to identify patterns and apply logical reasoning rather than pure calculation. Even though the topic carries a smaller weightage, mastering it strengthens accuracy and boosts confidence for tougher sections like Algebra and Modern Math.
CAT Number System Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of Number System Questions | Total Quant Questions | Weightage (%) |
| 2019 | 2 | 26 | 8% |
| 2020 | 3 | 24 | 12% |
| 2021 | 3 | 22 | 13% |
| 2022 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
| 2023 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
| 2024 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
Mentor’s Insights:
Number System is about logic, not lengthy calculation. Focus on understanding patterns, factorization, and remainders — they often form the base for advanced Quant questions. Practice short, conceptual problems daily.
A clear grasp of number properties can save crucial seconds and improve accuracy in the overall Quant section.
CAT Quants Syllabus for Modern Mathematics
Modern Math is one of the most analytical and concept-driven parts of the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section. It goes beyond basic calculations to test your logical reasoning, probability sense, and combinatorial thinking.
| Subtopic | Description | No. of Questions (Approx.) |
| Permutation & Combination | Arrangements, selections, circular permutations, and complex counting problems. | 1–2 |
| Probability | Basic probability, conditional probability, and complementary events. | 1–2 |
| Set Theory & Venn Diagrams | Union, intersection, and number of elements in combined sets. | 1 |
| Sequence & Series | Arithmetic, geometric, and harmonic progressions; sum of series. | 1 |
| Binomial Theorem | Expansion and coefficient-based problems. | 1 |
| Complex Numbers (Occasional) | Problems involving modulus, argument, and conjugate. | 0–1 |
| Total (Approx.) | — | 2–3 Questions |
The section includes topics like Permutation and Combination, Probability, Set Theory, Venn Diagrams, and Sequence & Series. While the number of questions from Modern Math is relatively low, the conceptual clarity it builds often proves useful in both Quant and DILR sections.
Questions in this area require precision and understanding of real-life problem structures. A solid grip on Modern Math strengthens your ability to handle abstract reasoning problems and boosts overall problem-solving confidence.
CAT Modern Math Questions Over the Years
| Year | No. of Modern Math Questions | Total Quant Questions | Weightage (%) |
| 2019 | 2 | 26 | 8% |
| 2020 | 3 | 24 | 12% |
| 2021 | 3 | 22 | 13% |
| 2022 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
| 2023 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
| 2024 | 2 | 22 | 9% |
Mentor’s Insights:
Modern Math is about pattern recognition and logic, not memorization. Spend more time understanding counting principles and how probability applies in different scenarios. Even a single accurate question here can boost your percentile.
Focus on clarity and visualization rather than shortcuts — CAT rewards depth, not speed alone.
Number of Questions in CAT Quant Section
| Year | Arithmetic | Algebra | Geometry & Mensuration | Number System | Modern Math | Total Questions |
| 2019 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 26 |
| 2020 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 24 |
| 2021 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 22 |
| 2022 | 10 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 22 |
| 2023 | 11 | 8 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 22 |
| 2024 | 11 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 22 |
Practice with CAT PYQs:
| CAT Previous Year Papers | CAT 2025 Question Paper |
| CAT 2024 Question Paper | CAT 2023 Question Paper |
| CAT 2022 Question Paper | CAT 2021 Question Paper |
| CAT 2020 Question Paper | CAT 2019 Question Paper |
Importance of Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus For CAT
- Decisive for overall percentile: Quantitative Aptitude often differentiates 95 percentile scorers from 99+ achievers in CAT.
- Equally weighted section: Contributes about one-third of the total CAT score, making it essential for strong overall performance.
- Tests real-world problem-solving: Builds numerical and analytical skills relevant to MBA studies and business decision-making.
- Favors consistent practice: Improvement in Quant directly reflects your preparation effort — it’s the most trainable section.
- Strengthens logical reasoning: Solving math-based problems enhances structured and logical thinking.
- High scoring potential: With conceptual clarity, this section allows maximum accuracy and minimal ambiguity.
- Core to management aptitude: Quantitative ability is valued across all B-school entrance exams, not just CAT.
- Improves data-handling ability: Helps in handling Data Interpretation and business analytics questions confidently.
- Boosts performance in GD-PI stages: Strong analytical thinking from Quant preparation helps in case discussions and interviews.
How to Prepare for CAT Quants Syllabus?
1. Understand Scope of the Syllabus
Before jumping into practice, spend time understanding what the CAT Quants syllabus truly includes. Many aspirants think it’s only about formulas, but it’s much broader. It covers logic, pattern recognition, and quick decision-making.
Learn the structure – Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, and Modern Math — and identify your comfort and weak zones. Clarity on scope always makes preparation purposeful.
2. Approach CAT Quants Syllabus Conceptually
The CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus is designed to test understanding, not memorization. Strengthen your basics from NCERT-level math, but don’t stop there. For every formula you learn, focus on understanding why it works.
Practice applying the same concept in multiple ways. This helps you tackle unfamiliar questions with confidence during the exam.
3. Master the Fundamentals Before Speed
Speed without accuracy is useless. First, focus on building strong foundations in all topics from the syllabus of CAT quantitative aptitude – percentages, ratios, time-work, and geometry must be crystal clear.
Once your accuracy crosses 80%, start timing yourself. Remember, conceptual clarity leads to natural speed; forced speed leads to mistakes.
4. Build Daily Practice Discipline
Set aside at least an hour daily just for Quant. Rotate topics weekly – one day arithmetic, next algebra, then geometry, and so on. Solve 15–20 questions every day. Gradual and consistent exposure trains your brain to recognize question patterns quickly and reduces panic during the exam.
5. Prioritize Topic-Wise Tests and Sectional Mocks
Once your basics are in place, start taking topic-wise tests regularly. For example, spend a week mastering Speed-Distance-Time or Quadratic Equations and test yourself.
Sectional mocks help you simulate real CAT conditions. Analyze your results – look for weak areas, error trends, and time-consuming topics. Improvement comes from analysis, not repetition.
6. Learn Smart Approaches and Mental Calculation Tricks
Focus on estimation, approximation, and ratio reasoning. These small-time savers make a big difference in 40 minutes.
For DI-based quant questions, mental percentage conversion and simplification speed are vital. But remember, shortcuts should complement understanding – not replace it.
7. Don’t Ignore Low-Weightage Topics
Topics like Number System or Probability may have fewer questions, but they are often conceptual and high-reward. A single correct question here can push your percentile significantly higher. Cover the entire syllabus once before attempting mocks so that no topic catches you off-guard.
8. Focus on Set Selection and Time Management
In CAT, every question has an opportunity cost. Learn to identify which questions are worth attempting. If a problem looks lengthy or unfamiliar, skip it immediately. It’s better to solve 15 questions accurately than attempt 22 with low confidence. Train your instincts through timed practice.
9. Analyze Every Mistake Deeply
After every mock, review what went wrong — was it lack of concept clarity, poor calculation, or misinterpretation? Create a personal “error notebook” and revisit it weekly. This habit turns your weaknesses into strengths faster than any extra book or trick.
10. Stay Patient and Consistent
Quant improvement takes time. You might not see big progress weekly, but every practice session compounds over months. Stay disciplined, focus on learning from every attempt, and keep revising regularly.
With the right mindset, even students weak in math can make Quant their strongest section.
Best Books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
The best books for CAT preparation help you understand core mathematical concepts and practice in CAT-level problem-solving and time management
| Book Title | Author(s) |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Kumar Verma |
| Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
| NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 & 10) | NCERT |
| Previous Year CAT Question Papers / Sectional Mocks | Various (EdTech / Coaching Institutes) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid in CAT Quants Preparation
- Skipping the basics: Many aspirants jump straight to advanced-level questions without mastering core concepts like percentages, ratios, or equations.
- Ignoring weak areas: Avoid focusing only on favorite topics; CAT tests all areas, including your least-preferred ones.
- Relying only on shortcuts: Tricks are helpful, but without conceptual understanding, they fail on unconventional questions.
- Not revising formulas regularly: Forgetting key formulas during the exam is common — revise them weekly for retention.
- Neglecting accuracy for speed: Solving fast but incorrectly is worse than solving fewer questions correctly.
- Avoiding geometry or modern math: These areas appear less frequently but often carry moderate-to-high difficulty and can be scoring if practiced.
- Not analyzing mock tests: Improvement comes from analyzing mistakes, not just taking endless mock tests of CAT.
- Ignoring TITA questions: They carry no negative marking – attempt them wisely to boost your score.
- Panicking during tough questions: CAT always includes tricky questions – stay calm, skip smartly, and focus on accuracy.
FAQs About CAT Quants Syllabus
The Quantitative Aptitude section tests your mathematical ability, problem-solving, and logical reasoning skills. It focuses on topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, and Modern Math.
There are usually 22 questions in the Quant section, divided into MCQs and TITA (Type in the Answer) questions.
You get 40 minutes to attempt the Quant section in CAT. Section switching is not allowed during this time.
Quant carries around one-third (33%) of the total CAT marks, making it equally important as VARC and DILR.
The CAT Quants syllabus includes Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry & Mensuration, Number System, and Modern Mathematics.
The difficulty level ranges from moderate to high, depending on the year. Conceptual clarity and practice are essential for success.
India’s Top CAT/MBA Prep Programs:
Best Offline Coaching Programs for CAT: