Books for CAT remain one of the most reliable resources for serious aspirants. Unlike scattered study material, the best CAT books provide clear explanations of core concepts along with structured practice. Many of them also include exam-level problems that help pinpoint weak areas. Candidates should select books that balance theory with application. Opting for trusted titles, whether in print or PDF, across Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning ensures complete coverage. Pairing these books with mock tests and additional resources creates a stronger, well-rounded CAT 2025 preparation strategy.
A low CAT percentile doesn’t end your MBA plans. You can still explore other exams like XAT, NMAT, CMAT, or GMAT, apply to B-schools with lower cutoffs based on your profile and academics, opt for profile-based admissions, or take a gap year to improve your chances.
Best Books for Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Preparation
Best Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Preparation
Best Books for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Preparation
Best Books for CAT Previous Years’ Question Papers
Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing CAT Preparation Books
How to Use CAT Books Along with Online Coaching?
One-Book vs. Multi-Book Strategy: What Works Best for CAT Preparation?
Can You Do CAT Self Study with Books?
Other Important Study Materials for CAT Preparation
Factors to Consider before Selecting the Top Books for CAT Preparation
CAT 2025 Preparation Tips
Leveraging CAT Books for Sectional Time Management Skills
CAT 2025 Preparation Resources by Careers360
Best Books for CAT Preparation 2025
In this article, we will discuss,
Best books for QA, VARC and DILR
Mistakes to avoid while choosing CAT preparation books
CAT 2025 preparation tips
Why Choose the Best Books for CAT Preparation?
The CAT exam needs proper planning with the right top CAT books by toppers, so selecting high-quality preparation materials for the CAT, especially the CAT exam books latest edition is vital for effective preparation. The right resources, recommended best books for cat preparation, significantly impact performance by providing comprehensive coverage. Don’t constrain yourself to only books; try all resources to get a holistic development in all the segments to cover the entire CAT Syllabus 2025.
Best Books for Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Preparation
A few of the best books for cat preparation under the Quantitative Aptitude section are listed below for the reference of the candidates. These CAT preparation books for 2025 were designed after proper research and the current examination requirements. Since QA is generally considered to be one of the most difficult sections of the CAT examination, it demands extensive preparation using the best CAT preparation books 2025. The list of selected Best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude is listed below.
Book Title
Details
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal
The book gives insight into detailed coverage of quantitative topics, with a focus on fundamental principles. The chapters cover topics like Ratios, Percentages, Time and Work, and Mensuration.
"Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT" by Sarvesh Verma
The best part is the structure to build concepts from basic to advanced levels. The topics include Progressions, Permutations and Combinations, and Trigonometry.
NCERT Mathematics books (Class 9-10)
NCERT Mathematics books for Class 9 and 10 cover fundamental topics like algebra, geometry, number systems, and statistics. They are ideal for building strong conceptual clarity, especially for beginners or non-maths background.
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT
This CAT book is specifically designed for CAT and covers all major quantitative topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. It includes theory, solved examples, practice exercises, and previous year CAT questions for thorough preparation.
Best Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Preparation
VARC preparation books for CAT are another great addition to the best books for cat preparation. Preparing for the VARC section of CAT 2025 can be challenging, so candidates should use top CAT VARC books recommended by toppers. You can also practice the CAT VARC sample question to strengthen reading comprehension and verbal ability skills.
Book Title
Details
"How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT" by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
This comprehensive guide to verbal ability and reading comprehension covers RCs from a variety of topics. It also covers topics like Vocabulary, Grammar, and Sentence Correction.
"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis
This book focuses on vocabulary building through structured exercises. The chapters are organised to progressively enhance vocabulary.
PSC for VA for CAT
This book focuses on all key areas of Verbal Ability for CAT, including reading comprehension, para jumbles, sentence correction, and vocabulary. It provides detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice exercises aligned with the CAT pattern.
"High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin
This book gives a detailed grammar and composition guide. It covers important topics like parts of speech, sentence structure, punctuation, and comprehension.
Best Books for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Preparation
The best books for cat preparation for the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section are essential for candidates aiming to boost their scores. Using the top CAT DILR books helps strengthen problem-solving skills, improve speed, and enhance accuracy. Below, we have listed some of the most recommended CAT DILR books 2025 for reference.
Book Title
Details
"How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT" by Arun Sharma
One of the trustworthy books that gives comprehensive coverage of data interpretation topics. It includes Data Analysis, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, and Logical Puzzles.
“Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha
For CAT aspirants, this is one of the best books because of its in-depth analysis of logical reasoning and data interpretation. Topics include Tables, Pie Charts, Caselets, and Logical Games.
"A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning" by R.S. Aggarwal
This book covers a wide range of logical reasoning topics like coding-decoding, blood relations, puzzles, and syllogisms. It’s widely used for various competitive exams and offers a large number of practice questions with explanations.
"Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency" by Ananta Ashisha
Very well structured to build skills from basic to advanced levels. Chapters covered extensively are Graphs, Charts, Tables, and Logical Deductions.
Best Books for CAT Previous Years’ Question Papers
While appearing for any exam, it is imperative to practice its previous years’ question papers. The same holds for CAT as well. During the preparation of the CAT 2025 exam, candidates must practice CAT Previous Years’ Question papers as well, for a better understanding of the difficulty level of questions asked. Given below is a list of dedicated best books for cat preparation, previous years’ question papers and sample questions.
Book Title
Author/Publisher
Past Years’ CAT Questions
GK Publications
OSWAAL CAT (Common Admission Test)
OSWAAL
Arihant Face To Face CAT 25 Years (1999–2023) Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Paper
Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing CAT Preparation Books
Choosing the right books can make or break your CAT preparation. Many aspirants unknowingly waste time on outdated, irrelevant, or poorly structured materials. Avoid these common mistakes to stay on track with the top best books for cat preparation:
Ensure you're referring to the latest editions of the CAT preparation books section-wise. Older books may not align with the current pattern.
Trust only recommended books for the CAT exam written by reputed authors and coaching experts.
Always select CAT books that provide clear, step-by-step solutions to practice questions.
Stick to 1–2 trusted best books for cat preparation per section instead of jumping between multiple guides.
Check topper reviews and expert suggestions before purchasing.
How to Use CAT Books Along with Online Coaching?
Combining best books for cat preparation with the right online platform for CAT preparation gives you the best of both worlds: solid conceptual understanding from books and real-time guidance, doubt-solving, and updated strategies from online classes. This approach helps you manage time efficiently, retain concepts better, and perform confidently in CAT 2025 through live practice sessions and mock tests.
CAT Study Plan
Use books to build concepts chapter-wise and follow the online coaching schedule to stay on track with a daily or weekly CAT 2025 study plan. This structured mix keeps your preparation consistent and organised.
Doubt Clarification
If a concept in a best books for cat preparation confuses you, online classes or doubt forums help clarify it instantly. You don’t stay stuck and can move forward confidently.
CAT Mock Tests and Live Analysis
While books provide practice sets, online platforms offer full-length CAT mock tests with live or recorded analysis. This helps identify weak areas and understand exam strategy better.
Section-wise Focus
Books like Arun Sharma’s QA or Norman Lewis for VARC give deep knowledge, while online courses offer shortcuts, tricks, and time-saving tips. This dual focus enhances section-wise efficiency.
Performance Tracking
Unlike books, online platforms allow performance tracking over time. You can check scores, speed, and accuracy and adjust your preparation accordingly.
One-Book vs. Multi-Book Strategy: What Works Best for CAT Preparation?
CAT aspirants often struggle between sticking to one trusted book or exploring multiple sources. Both methods have distinct benefits and drawbacks. The right choice depends on preparation stage, strengths, and time left. A balanced approach maximises concept clarity while ensuring exposure to diverse problem-solving patterns.
Begin with One Reliable Core Book Per Section
Choose one standard book for each section—Quant, VARC, and DILR. This avoids early confusion and builds strong basics. For example, Arun Sharma’s How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude is enough to understand concepts before diversifying.
Sticking to one source initially ensures you don’t waste time comparing approaches when your fundamentals are still weak.
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Once the basics are solid, bring in a supplementary book for exposure to different problem styles. For example, Nishit Sinha’s books or past coaching material often introduce unique twists not found in standard texts.
This broadens adaptability, an essential skill since CAT questions are rarely repetitive.
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Balance Between Speed and Accuracy Using Multi-Source Practice
One book might help you understand methods, but another might train you on shortcuts or faster approaches.
Multi-book exposure helps you experiment with alternative solving techniques and select the most efficient for the exam hall.
Leverage Previous Year Papers as a Reality Check
After completing a book, test yourself with actual CAT papers. If you still find unfamiliar problem types, that’s the signal to diversify into another source.
Past papers also help you filter out irrelevant practice from books that go beyond CAT’s difficulty level.
Integrate Sectional Tests Alongside Books
Books build knowledge, but only timed tests build exam temperament.
Combine one-book study with sectional tests to measure application under pressure. If your accuracy drops despite knowing concepts, additional sources may provide alternative explanations or better practice patterns.
Can You Do CAT Self Study with Books?
Yes, you can do CAT self-study with books, provided you choose the right resources and build a disciplined plan. Books alone won’t guarantee success unless you approach them strategically—focusing on concepts, practice, timed tests, and analysis. The key is not the number of books but how effectively you use them to bridge gaps and simulate exam conditions.
Avoid multiple books; it creates confusion. For QA, use Arun Sharma or Nishit Sinha. For VARC, Norman Lewis + RC practice books. For DILR, Arun Sharma DILR. Stick to one trusted source.
First clear basics from books, then directly attempt sectional tests to apply. Reading passively is useless.
Solve CAT-level or higher difficulty questions. Avoid outdated or too-easy exercises.
Books can’t replicate adaptive exam stress. Take mocks after 2–3 months of book study, and link weak areas back to book chapters.
Revisit only those chapters where mock errors repeat. This ensures targeted book usage instead of random reading.
Supplement with previous year CAT papers, AIMCATs, and online practice sets.
Other Important Study Materials for CAT Preparation
While the recommended books for the CAT exam form the foundation, aspirants must also use mock tests, sample papers, and previous year papers. These CAT preparation books section wise are great, but additional resource improve time management, accuracy, and exam temperament.
CAT Mock Test
Practising CAT mock tests replicates the real exam scenario. These are crucial for understanding paper patterns and refining strategies. Combine these with the top books for CAT preparation to simulate actual testing environments. Mock tests also highlight weak areas, helping you revise specific topics using the CAT preparation books section wise.
CAT Question Paper
Solving previous year CAT question papers helps you track trends, difficulty levels, and frequently asked topics. These papers, when paired with best books for cat preparation, give aspirants insight into what to expect and how to prepare accordingly. Many CAT preparation books section wise include solved question papers, making practice convenient and contextual. Toppers often solve the last 5–10 years’ papers to strengthen their preparation.
CAT Exam Analysis
Going through the CAT exam analysis after each year’s test helps you align your preparation strategy with current trends. Analysis reveals sectional difficulty, expected cutoffs, and topic weightage. Use this data to update your study plan and focus more on high-weightage areas. Combine such insights with recommended books for the CAT exam to close preparation gaps. Many best books for cat preparation section wise revise their content based on this analysis, so always check for the latest editions that incorporate real-exam insights from past years.
CAT Sample Papers
CAT sample papers offer structured practice for all three sections, QA, VARC, and DILR. These mimic actual exam patterns and include a mix of easy, moderate, and tough questions. Pairing sample papers with top books for CAT preparation gives you clarity on how to apply concepts.
These resources bridge the gap between theory and application. Many publishers of CAT preparation books section wise include topic-wise and full-length sample tests, making them ideal for revision. Sample papers also reduce anxiety by familiarising you with the test format.
Factors to Consider before Selecting the Top Books for CAT Preparation
Preparation for the CAT examination completely depends on choosing the right CAT preparation books for 2025. So, it's important to consider various factors to ensure that your best books for cat preparation are effective and comprehensive. Here are the detailed considerations to keep in mind:
1. Author's Credibility
Be dependent on books authored by individuals with a strong track record in CAT preparation. Look for authors who have expertise in a particular subject and have been teaching and mentoring students for the CAT.
2. Comprehensive Coverage of Syllabus
Make sure that the book covers all major sections of the CAT exam: Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning. The best books for cat preparation should provide an in-depth analysis of each topic, including foundational concepts. It should also include advanced techniques and guidance on when and how to start CAT preparation to tackle complex problems effectively.
3. Quality of Practice Questions
The CAT preparation books 2025 should offer a wide range of practice questions, from basic to advanced levels. The CAT 2025 books must comprise quality practice questions that are crucial for better understanding and application of concepts. Additionally, the questions should resemble the style and difficulty level of the actual CAT exam to give you a realistic practice experience.
4. Availability of Mock Tests
The best books for cat preparation are the ones with a CAT mock test 2025 that help prepare you for the actual exam environment. The mock tests should be such that is similar to the actual interface and difficulty level of the CAT exam.
5. Detailed Solutions and Explanations
The detailed solution in best books for cat preparation which help in understanding each wrong option with clarity. It help in understanding the rationale behind each answer, along with step-by-step explanations, are crucial for learning the correct approach to solving different types of problems.
CAT 2025 Preparation Tips
Preparing for CAT 2025 requires a clear understanding of the exam’s demands. The candidates must have ample time to build conceptual clarity with the best books for cat preparation. They must also adhere to proper CAT preparation tips to ace the exam with high marks.
1. Know the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern Thoroughly
CAT consists of three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section has a fixed time limit. Familiarity with the pattern helps you understand what’s expected and build a focused preparation plan accordingly.
2. Strengthen Core Concepts Early On
CAT questions often test your grasp of basic concepts through tricky applications. Focus on clearing fundamentals in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning. A strong foundation helps in both accuracy and speed, two crucial elements for cracking the CAT with a high percentile.
3. Make a Section-Wise Study Plan
Divide your CAT preparation by sections and assign realistic time blocks each week. For example, dedicate alternate days to QA and DILR, and set daily reading time for VARC. Include topic-wise goals and ensure balance across all three sections, keeping in mind the sectional timing in the exam.
4. Take Regular Mocks & Analyse Performance
Mock tests simulate the real CAT experience and are essential to building speed and time management. Start taking mocks at least 3–4 months before the exam. Focus on detailed analysis, track accuracy, time per question, and weak topics, and refine your strategy accordingly.
5. Revise Smart & Focus on Exam Strategy
In the final months, switch to revision mode. Revisit frequently asked question types and practice solving them under timed conditions. Develop strategies for question selection and time allocation. Stay calm, avoid panic, and trust your preparation to perform your best on exam day.
Leveraging CAT Books for Sectional Time Management Skills
Using best books for cat preparation strategically helps aspirants manage time effectively in each section. By practising sectional exercises, timed mocks, and topic-wise question sets from trusted study material for CAT, candidates can enhance speed, accuracy, and prioritisation. Books provide structured approaches to allocate time efficiently and attempt maximum questions.
Solve sectional exercises in best books for cat preparation to simulate real exam timing.
Use topic-wise questions from top CAT preparation books to prioritise high-yield areas.
Track time spent per question using quantitative, DILR, and VARC books.
Analyse mistakes in practice sets from recommended CAT books to adjust pacing.
Alternate between easy and challenging questions in books to optimise sectional scoring.
CAT 2025 Preparation Resources by Careers360
Careers360 offers a wide range of preparation resources for CAT 2025. These resources include topic-wise study material, mock tests, and expert tips. Candidates can use the best books for cat preparation along with the ebooks for conceptual clarity. Get the download links for the CAT ebooks 2025 in the section below.
The best CAT preparation combines top books for CAT preparation, regular mock tests, and online coaching or self-study plans. Focus on all three sections—QA, VARC, and DILR—with section-wise CAT preparation books.
Q: Which book should I use for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning?
A:
“How to Prepare for DILR” by Arun Sharma is a trusted resource, offering topic-wise practice aligned with CAT difficulty levels.
Q: Are Arun Sharma books good for CAT?
A:
Yes, Arun Sharma books are considered excellent for CAT. They offer comprehensive theory, graded difficulty levels, and ample practice questions, making them ideal for both beginners and advanced learners.
Q: Can I rely only on books for CAT 2025 preparation?
A:
Books are important, but combine them with mocks, analysis, and online resources to build exam temperament and speed
Q: Which is the best book for Quantitative Aptitude in CAT?
A:
Arun Sharma’s “How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT” is one of the most recommended books. It covers basics to advanced levels with practice questions. Nishit Sinha’s Quant book is also a good alternative for varied problem styles.
Q: What is the best book for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)?
A:
“How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT” by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay is widely used. For vocabulary, “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis is a classic resource.
Q: Which book is best for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)?
A:
Nishit K. Sinha’s “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT” is very effective. Arun Sharma’s DILR book is also popular for its structured progression from easy to tough problems.
Q: Should I rely on one book or multiple books for CAT preparation?
A:
Start with one standard book for concept clarity, then add one more for extra practice and exposure. Too many books create confusion, so stick to 1–2 good ones per section.
Q: Are previous year CAT question papers better than books?
A:
Yes, with the best books for CAT preparation and regular practice, the CAT exam can be cracked through self-study only. You can refer to the CAT books recommended by experts, newspapers, and other online and offline sources.
Q: Which book is best for the CAT exam in 2025?
A:
For the CAT exam in 2025, "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT" by Arun Sharma is highly recommended. It's comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics in detail. Additionally, "CAT 2025: Preparation Guide" by Gautam Puri is also a good choice for a well-rounded approach.
The results for the CAT 2025 entrance, which is conducted on November 30, 2025, were declared on December 22, 2025. Candidates can download and see their results on the official IIM CAT website. On the website, click on the "CAT 2025 Result/Scorecard" link to download the result by entering the required details.
The link to the website where you can check the published result is attached herewith. The result will be out soon. You can also check the cutoffs on the website of Careers360.
CAT does not restrict eligibility based on stream. Candidates from commerce, arts, science, engineering or any other background can appear for CAT and apply to MBA programmes offered by IIMs and other top B-schools.
The basic eligibility criteria for CAT are:
You must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university with at least 50 percent marks (45 percent for SC, ST and PwD categories). Final-year graduation students are also eligible to apply.
Being a commerce graduate can actually be an advantage in areas such as accounting, finance, economics and business studies, especially during MBA coursework in finance, marketing and operations.
After qualifying CAT, admission depends on multiple factors including CAT percentile, academic background, work experience (if any), performance in GD, WAT and personal interview rounds. Many IIMs and B-schools follow a diverse academic background policy, which means non-engineering candidates, including commerce graduates, often receive additional weightage.
Apart from IIMs, several reputed institutes such as FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, and many state and private universities also accept CAT scores for MBA admissions.
So, as a commerce graduate, you are fully eligible to appear for CAT and pursue an MBA, provided you meet the minimum academic requirements and perform well in the selection process.
If you want, I can also help you with realistic CAT percentile targets based on your academic profile or suggest suitable MBA colleges.
With a CAT 2025 raw score of 84 and strong sectionals, your expected percentile may fail in the high 98 range , depending on scaling. Your excellent academics and 2 years of work experience strengthen your profile .IIM Lucknow calls are possible but competitive for EWS engineers , while FMS Delhi looks mainly at CAT score and VARC , so you have a reasonable chance there . Final calls depend on cutoffs and composite score.
For a raw score of 56 in CAT 2025 Slot 3, your expected overall percentile is likely to be in the range of the 90th-95th percentile. The exact percentile can vary slightly on the final normalization process and the process and performance of all test-takers. In this
article
you'll find more about the CAT result.
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