Best Books for MAT Preparation 2024: Reasoning, Mathematical & Data Analysis

Are you studying for the MAT test but not sure which books to study from? Do not worry! We're here to help you locate the finest books for MAT 2024 prep. In the following article, we will suggest the best books on logic, mathematics, and data analysis.

Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a national exam in India for people pursuing MBA and associated degrees. The All India Management Association (AIMA) organises the test, which examines reasoning, math, language, and data analysis abilities. The examination is held four times a year—in February, May, September, and December—and over 600 business schools recognise its results. The MAT is a series of multiple-choice questions that assist students in getting admission to different management schools.

Latest: MAT 2024 Preparation Tips, Study Material

Don't Miss: MAT 2024 Sample Papers

This Story also Contains

1. Best Books for MAT Preparation 2024
2. MAT Exam 2024 Pattern
3. Best Books for MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Preparation
4. Best Books for MAT Mathematical Skills Preparation
5. Best Books for Data Analysis and Sufficiency Preparation
6. Importance of MAT Books
7. Factors to Consider When Choosing MAT Books
8. How to Use MAT Exam Preparation Books Effectively?
9. Conclusion

Best Books for MAT Preparation 2024

The best books for MAT preparation 2024 will help students score well in the exam and get admission to a good B-school. Some books are:

• General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT/ CMAT/MAHCET/NMAT Exams - Disha

• Mathematics for MBA Entrance Examinations - R S Aggarwal

• Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency - Arihant

Read the article to learn in detail about these books and some others.

MAT Exam 2024 Pattern

The five sections/subjects and some of the other details of MAT 2024 are mentioned below -

All sections of MAT 2024 have equal weightage though some of the MAT participating institutes do not consider Indian and Global environment marks.

A well-crafted strategy of preparation for the MAT exam is important which, when diligently followed, will effectively pave the way for admission to numerous prestigious MBA colleges and universities across India. Which books and study material you use can make or break your preparation therefore it can be daunting to select the best book for MAT exam preparation for each subject. Read ahead to find the best books for mat preparation.

Best Books for MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Preparation

Best books for MAT preparation include the following -

Book 1: How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT - Arun Sharma

1. Overview of Content and Structure

The 7th edition of How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT covers the comprehensive syllabus of MAT. This book is a one-stop solution for the reasoning section of MAT. Along with the theory, all types of questions are covered which can be asked in management competitive examinations. On buying this book you get access to mock tests, previous year's questions, and sectional tests on McGraw Hill Edge, an online platform designed to enhance your performance.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

Part 1: Reasoning for CAT

Section 1: Logical Reasoning

• Important Concepts in Logical Reasoning

• Logical Reasoning based on Seating Arrangement

• Logical Reasoning based on Order and Ranking

• Team Formations

• Quantitative Reasoning

• Generic Puzzle

• Routes and Network Diagrams

• Set Theory and Venn Diagram

• Cube

• Games and Tournaments

Section 2: Logical Reasoning Questions based on the Latest CAT Pattern

LOD – I

Mock Test Paper 1- 12

LOD – 2

Mock Test Paper 1- 10

LOD – 3

Mock Test Paper 1- 8

Part 2: Reasoning Question Types from Other MBA Exams

• Sequences and Series

• Blood Relation

• Direction Test

• Statement and Conclusions

• Critical Reasoning : Decision making conclusion derivation and theme detection

• Assertion and Reason

• Statement—Courses of Action

• Mathematical Operations

• Coding-Decoding

• Input Output

• Syllogism

• Logical Deductions and Connections Reasoning

• Binary Logic

Part 3: Reasoning Archives

Previous Years’ Solved Question Papers from CAT

CAT 2022 Slot 1- 3

Answer Key

Solutions

CAT 2021 Slot 1- 3

Answer Key

Solutions

CAT 2020 Slot 1- 3

Answer Key

Solutions

CAT 2019 Slot 1- 2

Answer Key

Solutions

CAT 2018 Slot 1- 2

Answer Key

Solutions

CAT 2017 Slot 1- 2

Answer Key

Solutions

3. Highlighted Features

• Comprehensive coverage of Logical Reasoning as per the latest pattern
• 30 Mock Test Papers with new questions (split in levels of difficulty 1-3) for practice
• Coverage of each and every type of question that comes under the category of Reasoning
• Detailed solutions to questions in all levels of difficulties (LODs)
• Mock tests available online on McGraw Hill Edge

• Previous Year Solved CAT Papers (2020-2022) available on McGraw Hill Edge with detailed analyses

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

• Lay a strong foundation. Work on your basics.

• Study the concepts of one chapter with the help of numerous examples. Then solve the questions given after each topic.

• Move on to the next topic after you have completed one.

• Make use of the mock tests and previous years’ questions for assessment and improvement.

Book 2: General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT/ CMAT/ MHCET/ NMAT Exams - Disha

1. Overview of Content and Structure

This book contains chapter-wise theory of the entire syllabus by a team of the most renowned and prolific content writers. The book is student-friendly and easy-to-understand even for beginners.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

• Analogy

• Classification

• Coding-Decoding

• Blood Relation

• Direction-Sense

• Ranking Test

• Series

• Input - Output

• Word Formation

• Logical Venn Diagrams

• Syllogism

• Cube

• Dice

• Inserting the Missing Character

• Mathematical Operations

• Arithmetical Reasoning

• Analytical Reasoning

• Assertion and Reason

• Statement and Assumptions

• Statement and Arguments

• Statement and Courses of Action

• Statement and Conclusions

• Logical Deduction

• Critical Reasoning

• Cause & Effect

3. Highlighted Features

• Chapter-wise theory of the entire syllabus

• Topic-wise questions after each topic along with the answer key and detailed solution

• MAT questions asked in the previous years

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

• Go through the MAT questions from the previous years in order to check the level and pattern.

• Start studying from the first chapter, in the order given in the book.

• Study the concepts of one chapter with the help of numerous examples. Then solve the topic-wise questions given after each topic.

• If you get stuck or get a wrong answer, take the help of the solution given along with it.

• Move on to the next topic only after you have completed one. Don’t jump between topics.

• Once you complete the chapter-wise study, practice the previous years’ questions.

Best Books for MAT Mathematical Skills Preparation

Best books for MAT preparation include the following -

Book 1: Mathematics for MBA Entrance Examinations - R S Aggarwal

1. Overview of Content and Structure

This book contains a huge collection of objective type questions with detailed solutions. It also has several short-cut methods to solve questions quickly which come in handy in exams. This is a revised edition with a set of additional memory based questions and their solutions from examinations like SNAP, CMAT, XAT, IIFT, MAT etc.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

UNIT-1 ALGEBRA

• Basic Operations and Factorization • HCF and LCM of Polynomials • Linear Equations • Quadratic Equations • Rational Expressions • Surds and Indices • Set Theory

UNIT-2 ARITHMETIC

• Numbers • HCF and LCM of Numbers • Decimal Fractions • Square Roots • Percentage • Average • Ratio and Proportion • Partnership • Profit and Loss • Unitary Method • Time and Work • Time and Distance • Problems on Ages • Simple Interest • Compound Interest • Logarithms • Alligation or Mixture • Stock and Shares • True Discount • Banker's Discount

UNIT-3 MENSURATION, PROGRESSION AND PROBABILITY

• Area • Volume and Surface Areas • Progressions • Probability

UNIT-4 TRIGONOMETRY

• Identities and T-Ratios • Heights and Distances

UNIT-5 GEOMETRY

• Lines and Angles • Polygons • Triangles • Quadrilaterals and Parallelograms • Circles • Loci

UNIT-6 COORDINATE GEOMETRY

• Coordinate Geometry

UNIT-7 STATISTICS

• Statistical Data • Data Interpretation (Pie Charts and Bar Diagrams)

Additional Memory Based Questions with Answers

3. Highlighted Features

• Strictly as per the syllabus prescribed by various universities for MBA entrance examinations.

• A huge collection of objective type questions, fully solved by short-cut methods.

• Additional previous years' questions at the end.

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

• Make it a point to understand the basics clearly and get a thorough practice of the basic concepts which lay the foundation for learning more complex chapters.

• Start studying from the first chapter, in the order given in the book. Study all the different types of questions that can be asked from each chapter. Then solve the topic-wise questions given after each topic.

• If you get stuck or get a wrong answer, take the help of the solution given along with it.

• Move on to the next topic only after you have completed one. Don’t jump between topics.

• Once you complete the chapter-wise study, practice the previous years’ questions.

• Keep noting down the short tricks given in the different chapters. Keep revising these. They will also help in the last minute revision.

Book 2 : How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude - Arun Sharma

1. Overview of Content and Structure

The emphasis of the book is on how to tackle the quantitative aptitude section of various management entrance examinations with ease. You will find a lot of helpful and time-saving tips and tricks in this book. It includes numerous questions for better preparation for the students. On buying this book you get access to mock tests, previous year's questions, and sectional tests on McGraw Hill Edge, an online platform designed to enhance your performance.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

Number System, Basic Arithmetic

• Arithmetic Progression

• Average

• Mixture and Alligation

• Percentage

• HCF and LCM

• Quadratic Equations

• Exponent and Surds

• Relative Speed and Average Speed

• Proportions and Variations

• Permutation and Combination

• Geometry & Mensuration

• Set theory

• Coordinate geometry

• Mock test papers

• Model test paper

3. Highlighted Features

1. New chapter-end questions segregated into different levels of difficulty

2. New additional exercises on relevant concepts for comprehensive practice

3. Comprehensive and complete training on the way to approach a question and how to think during the examination with solution hints

4. Topic-wise previous years’ questions of CAT

5. CAT Scans cover 7 question tests to be solved in 12 minutes to simulate 1.7 minutes available per question

6. Questions without options in relevant chapters keeping with the latest trends in CAT examination

7. Access to solved Previous Year CAT Papers, 2 Mock Tests and 3 Sectional Tests on McGraw Hill Edge, an online platform.

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

• Work on your basic concepts. Understand the various concepts and practice them. Do not skip any type of question. If it is given in the book, it has to be done for your exam.

• The questions are divided into different levels of difficulty. Start with the easiest level and work your way up.

• After studying the concept of each chapter, make it a point to practice all the types of questions given along with it.

• Move on to the next topic only after you have completed one. Don’t jump between topics.

• Once you complete the chapter-wise study, practice the previous years’ questions.

Best Books for Data Analysis and Sufficiency Preparation

Book 1 : Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency - Arihant

1. Overview of Content and Structure

This book will help students in knowing the basic concepts behind DI/DS problems. The book has been divided into 8 chapters each containing detailed theory along with practice.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

• Introduction

• Data table

• Bar chart

• Cartesian (line) graph or x-y charts

• Pie charts or circle graph

• Mixed graph

• Case studies

• Data sufficiency

3. Highlighted Features

• Chapterwise explanatory text (theory) to make the students completely understand different concepts.

• Clear indication of the types of questions along with proper guidelines to solve them.

• Each type of question has a separate theory and solved examples.

• The exercises of each chapter have been graded as per difficulty levels.

• Exercises with detailed solutions.

• Questions of different competitive examinations like MAT, XAT, IIFT, FMS, MHT-CET, Bank PO, etc.

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

• Make your fundamentals strong as they are the basic building blocks that will help you build a solid foundation.

• Study all the different types of questions that can be asked from each chapter. Then solve the topic-wise questions given after each topic.

• If you get stuck or get a wrong answer, take the help of the solution given along with it.

• Do one chapter at a time. Move on to the next one after doing one in its entirety.

• The questions are divided into different levels of difficulty. Start with the easiest level and work your way up.

• Once you complete the chapter-wise study, practice the previous years’ questions.

Book 2 : How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT - Arun Sharma

1. Overview of Content and Structure

This is a very good MAT exam preparation book for Data Interpretation. It is a one-stop solution for aspirants of CAT and other MBA examinations. It also contains the best advisory for each type of question asked in the competitive examinations. On buying this book you can access mock tests, previous year's questions and sectional tests on McGraw Hill Edge – a digital platform.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Chapters/Topics Covered

Developing your Calculations

Chapter 1: Additions and Subtractions (As an Extension of Additions)

Chapter 2: Divisions, Percentage Calculations and Ratio Comparisons

Section I Traditional Data Interpretation

Part 1: Basic Modes of Data Representation

• Data Interpretation

• Tables

• Bar Graphs

• Line Graphs and X-Y Charts

• Pie Charts

• Data Caselets

• Multiple and Miscellaneous Charts

Part 2: How to think in Traditional Data Interpretation

• Introduction to Traditional Data Interpretation & Mathematical

• How to Think in Traditional Data Interpretation

• Mock Test Papers

• LOD 1

• LOD 2

Section II Logical Data Interpretation

Part 1: How to Think in Logical Data Interpretation

• Introduction to Logical Data Interpretation

• How to Think in Logical Data Interpretation

Part 2: Twelve-Minute Tests

Part 3: Mock Tests on Logical Data Interpretation

• LOD 2

• LOD 3

Section III Data Interpretation from Archives

Part 1: CAT Examination Paper

CAT 2022 Slot 1

CAT 2022 Slot 2

CAT 2022 Slot 3

CAT 2021 Slot 1

3. Highlighted Features

• Comprehensive coverage of Data Interpretation in three Sections – Traditional Data Interpretation, Logical Data Interpretation and Solved CAT Papers (2021 and 2022)

• Traditional Data Interpretation provides exhaustive view and study resources including

I. Basic Modes of Data Interpretation

Ii. How to think in Data Interpretation

iii. 26 Mock Test Papers

• Logical Data Interpretation comprehensively follows latest CAT pattern including

I. How to think in Logical Data Interpretation

Ii. 30 Twelve-Minute Test Papers

Iii. 28 Mock Test Papers

• Solved CAT Papers containing in-depth analysis and solutions
• Detailed solutions to questions in all levels of difficulties (LODs)
• Time-bound practice questions to strengthen speed and accuracy
• Mock tests available online for the aspirant’s benefit
• Additional Solved CAT Papers (2017-2022) available online on McGraw Hill Edge with detailed analyses

4. How to Use This Book Effectively

Start studying in the order given in the book.

• Study all the different types of questions that can be asked from each chapter. Then solve the topic-wise questions given after each topic.

• The detailed solutions given along with each question will help you clear your doubts.

• Move on to the next one after completing one. Do not jump between topics.

• The questions are divided into different levels of difficulty. This helps in practicing according to your current level.

• Once you complete the chapter-wise study, practice the previous years’ questions.

• This book has time-bound tests. Once you gain accuracy, these tests will help you gain speed as well.

MAT preparation books on Indian and Global Environment

MAT books on Indian and Global Environment are important because these MAT exam preparation books gives deeper insights into the topic. Moreover, Indian and Global Environment is an important topic as far as the MAT exam is concerned,

Some of the important Indian and Global Environment are given below:

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• GD Topics for MBA
• Which B-schools will you get based on your percentile?

Importance of MAT Books

MAT exam books are essential for effective exam preparation. Here’s how they help:

• Organized Study Plan: MAT books provide a well-organized study plan, covering all parts of the exam in a clear, structured way, ensuring thorough preparation.

• Understanding Concepts: These books help you build a solid foundation by explaining key concepts, principles, and problem-solving methods needed to handle different types of questions effectively.

• Practice Exercises: MAT books offer a wide range of practice questions, giving you the chance to apply what you've learned, spot weak areas, and improve through repeated practice.

• Familiarity with the Exam: By including mock tests and sample papers, MAT books help you get used to the exam format, pacing, and question types you'll face during the test.

• Boosting Confidence: With thorough preparation using MAT books, you'll gain the knowledge, strategies, and practice needed to approach the exam confidently and perform your best.

Factors to Consider When Choosing MAT Books

When selecting books to prepare for the MAT exam, keep these points in mind:

• Complete Content: Make sure the book covers all parts of the MAT exam, including quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, logical reasoning, and data interpretation.

• Author’s Expertise: Choose books written or recommended by experts who have a solid background in test preparation and aptitude testing.

• Practice Questions: Pick books that offer plenty of practice questions, both exercises and full-length mock tests, to help you understand concepts and practice under exam conditions.

• Clear Explanations: Look for books that provide clear explanations, good examples, and easy-to-understand instructions, especially for difficult topics.

Recent Editions: Choose the latest editions or publications that match the current exam pattern, question trends, and syllabus to stay up-to-date with the test.

Also, check;

• MAT Exam Analysis
• MAT Preparation Tips for Mathematical Skills

How to Use MAT Exam Preparation Books Effectively?

No book is of any use if your overall study plan is not good. Study the right way and the best books for mat preparation will do wonders for you.

Develop a Study Plan

• Make a comprehensive study schedule and follow it diligently.

• Make a workable plan keeping in mind all the topics that you need to cover with a special focus on the topics that are important and have been repeatedly asked in previous years.

• Start with the basics. It is crucial to set a solid foundation.

• Set short-term as well as long-term goals. Break down the larger objectives into smaller, manageable goals.

• Set individual chapters and sub-topics as your goals. This will save you from distraction and help you stay motivated.

• Make concise notes of the important formulas. For instance,

Pie chart :

If distribution given in percent,

1. Actual Value = (this value x total amount of data) ÷ 100

2. Percentage of data = (given data/total of all data) x 100

3. Central angle of a data = (given data/total of all data) x 360 degrees

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• MBA Admission Without Entrance Exam

Regular Revision

If you are not regular with your revision, you are bound to forget things. Revision helps you refresh your memory and solidify the concepts that you study. If you keep piling information upon the information without checking through it every now and then, it is bound to lay buried on the day of the exam. You can’t let that happen. Revision will give you confidence and reduce anxiety.

Solve MAT Previous Years’ Question Papers

• Practice the previous years’ questions of MAT. Make it a point to do each and every previous year question that you can get hold of.

• Target the previous years’ questions of at least 6-7 years. This will help you understand the difficulty level of the exam and the types of questions asked and also the ones which are repeatedly asked.

• Without regular practice you do not stand a chance of getting selected.

Take Topic-wise Tests and MAT Mock Tests

• Start with topic-wise practice. After studying the concept of one chapter, practice all the different types of questions related to that topic that you can get hold of.

• After gaining confidence in each topic, move on to miscellaneous practice.

• Mock tests are essential to your preparation because they give you a reality check and a feel of the actual exam.

• Such full-length mock tests will give you a comprehensive approach to the exam and help you identify the sections where you need to improve.

Seek Clarifications for Doubts

• During the course of your preparation, there will be numerous occasions when you will be stuck somewhere and will need help. Seek clarifications of your doubts and difficulties from teachers and peers.

• Collaborative studying with peers is advisable for this purpose.

• You may also join online study groups where you may find other aspirants and teachers who can guide you and solve your doubts.

Stay Updated with Latest Editions of MAT Books

• If you are going to buy a new book for your preparation, it is advisable to buy the latest edition.

• Latest editions have the updated previous years’ questions.

• If there is a change in the MAT Exam pattern, however minute it is, the latest edition will cover that.

• If there were any mistakes or discrepancies in the previous editions, the newer ones are likely to correct them.

Use Online Resources for Supplemental Learning

You can get a plethora of resources online to help you in your preparation along with the best books for MAT preparation already discussed. Some of these are free. Besides, some publications offer online assistance when you buy any one of their books. For instance, McGraw Hill Edge is an online platform which offers mock tests, previous year's questions, and sectional tests designed to enhance your performance.

Conclusion

The importance of good books when you are preparing for MAT can never be exaggerated. Even if you are a beginner but get hold of the book that you are able to understand well, you can ace the exam and even enjoy the journey. The best books for MAT preparation, as we have discussed here, will certainly help you understand the subject and score well in order to ultimately fulfill your dream of a successful career in MBA.Good luck for your exam!

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