Top-Rated CAT Study Material 2025: Must-Have Books and Resources

Top-Rated CAT Study Material 2025: Must-Have Books and Resources

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Team Careers360Updated on 29 Sep 2025, 11:40 AM IST

Choosing the right CAT 2025 study material is one of the most important steps in your preparation journey. With countless books, online resources, and coaching notes available, it can get overwhelming to decide what’s truly effective. The best approach is to rely on top-rated CAT books, updated practice material, and trusted online resources that cover the syllabus comprehensively and match the latest exam pattern. In this article, we list the must-have CAT 2025 Study Material – including books, mock test series, and resources – to help you prepare strategically and boost your CAT 2025 percentile.

This Story also Contains

  1. Best Study Materials for CAT
  2. Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation
  3. CAT 2 Month Study Plan 2025 Using Study Material
  4. Other Study Materials for CAT Preparation 2025
  5. How to Choose Study Materials for CAT 2025?
  6. CAT 2025 Preparation e-books
Top-Rated CAT Study Material 2025: Must-Have Books and Resources
CAT Study Material 2025

Best Study Materials for CAT

Best Study Materials for CAT are carefully selected resources designed to help aspirants learn efficiently and focus on high-priority topics. They provide guidance, clarify concepts, and offer resources for targeted practice. It enables candidates to plan their preparation smartly and cover all sections effectively using the right study material for CAT.

CAT 2025 Mock Test

CAT Mock Tests are a crucial part of the study material for CAT, allowing aspirants to practise full-length exams in real-time conditions. They cover all sections, Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and Logical Reasoning, resembling the actual CAT 2025 Exam Pattern and difficulty. Attempting CAT mock tests improves time management, accuracy, and exam strategy. Candidates should attempt them regularly, analyse errors carefully, and focus on weak areas. Consistent

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CAT Previous Year Papers

CAT Previous Year Papers are a valuable component of study material for CAT, offering real questions from past exams for Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and Logical Reasoning. They help aspirants understand question patterns, difficulty levels, and topic-wise weightage. Practising CAT past 10 previous year papers improves speed, accuracy, and problem-solving strategy.

CAT Past 10 Previous Year Papers

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CAT 2025 Sample Paper

CAT 2025 Sample Papers are an essential part of the study material for CAT, helping aspirants simulate the actual exam experience. They contain section-wise questions for Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and Logical Reasoning, reflecting the latest CAT 2025 syllabus and difficulty level. Using sample papers improves time management, accuracy, and exam strategy.

CAT 2025 Ebooks

CAT 2025 Ebooks are a flexible and convenient part of study material for CAT, allowing aspirants to study anytime, anywhere. They contain topic-wise theory, solved examples, practice questions, and tips for Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and Logical Reasoning. Ebooks help strengthen concepts, and provide quick revisions.

CAT 2025 Formula Sheets PDF

A CAT 2025 Formula Sheet comes in handy, which helps aspirants revise key concepts quickly. It contains all important formulas from Quantitative Aptitude, shortcuts, algebraic identities, geometry rules, and arithmetic tricks. Using a formula sheet saves time during last-minute revision and strengthens problem-solving speed. Candidates should regularly study this study material for CAT. One should also apply formulas in questions, and update it with new shortcuts to ensure effective and focused CAT preparation.

CAT 2025 Formula Sheet PDF

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Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation

Selecting the right study material for CAT is essential for effective preparation. The best books for CAT 2025 provide clear explanations, topic-wise learning, and a variety of practice questions. They help aspirants build strong fundamentals, develop problem-solving speed, improve accuracy, and practice consistently. Refer to the section below to know about the best books for CAT 2025 preparation.

CAT Books for VARC

VARC Study Material for CAT

Book Title

Author / Publisher

How to Prepare for the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT

Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay (Tata McGraw-Hill)

Word Power Made Easy

Norman Lewis

GMAT Official Guide

GMAC

Manhattan Verbal

Manhattan Prep

Barron’s Pocket Guide to Vocabulary

Barron’s

The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning

Nishit Sinha (Pearson)

CAT Books for DILR

DILR Study Material for CAT

Book Title

Author / Publisher

How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT

Arun Sharma (Tata McGraw-Hill)

How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT

Arun Sharma (Tata McGraw-Hill)

How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for CAT

Arun Sharma

The Pearson Guide to Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

Nishit Sinha

The Great Book of Puzzles & Teasers

George J Summers

Puzzles to Puzzle You

Shakuntala Devi

CAT Books for Quantitative Aptitude

Quantitative Aptitude Study Material for CAT

Book Name

Author

Why It’s Recommended

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT

Arun Sharma

Comprehensive coverage with graded difficulty levels

Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT

Sarvesh Kumar Verma

Detailed theory + 4,000+ questions

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

R.S. Aggarwal

Basic concepts with lots of solved examples

Quantitative Aptitude for CAT

Nishit Sinha

Concept clarity + shortcut techniques

Fast Track Objective Arithmetic

Rajesh Verma

Shortcuts, tricks, and time-saving methods

NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 & 10)

NCERT

Strengthens basics and clears concepts

Online Resources for CAT 2025 Preparation

Online resources are an essential part of study material for CAT 2025, offering structured, topic-wise guidance for aspirants. Candidates can go through the topic wise pages for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT and Logical Reasoning for CA. Using these topic-wise CAT preparation resources helps build accuracy and strengthen fundamentals for better performance in the CAT exam. Refer to the section below to get the topic wise online resources for CAT 2025.

CAT 2 Month Study Plan 2025 Using Study Material

Preparing for CAT in just two months is tough, but the right study material for CAT makes it possible. With a structured plan, aspirants can cover high-weightage topics, practise with authentic resources, and attempt mocks to strengthen exam temperament. Smart use of books, coaching notes, and online study resources ensures maximum results.

Week 1–2: Building a Strong Base

  • Quantitative Aptitude: Use NCERT basics and Arun Sharma’s How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT. This study material for CAT Quant helps build arithmetic foundations like ratios, percentages, and averages.

  • VARC: Rely on editorials and How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & RC for strengthening comprehension.

  • DILR: Begin with simple CAT Data Interpretation sets from Sarvesh Verma.

  • Take 1 CAT mock at the end of Week 2 and analyse mistakes.

CAT 2025: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages
Comprehensive CAT prep guide with focused practice on Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
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Week 3–4: Strengthening Concepts

  • Quant: Use Nishit Sinha and Arun Sharma for Algebra and Number Systems.

  • VARC: Practise para jumbles and summaries with section-wise study material for CAT VARC.

  • DILR: Work on caselets and puzzles using coaching notes.

  • Attempt 2 CAT mock test weekly; analyse to identify weak areas.

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Week 5–6: Advanced Practice

  • Quant: Cover Geometry and Modern Math with advanced study material for CAT, like Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Verma.

  • VARC: Daily practice of 4 RCs from past papers and mock sources.

  • DILR: Focus on challenging sets from previous CAT papers.

  • Take 2–3 CAT mock tests each week; refine attempt strategy.

Week 7–8: Revision & Mock Tests

  • Revise all study material for CAT used so far, formula notebooks, RC notes, and mock error logs.

  • Practise only strong areas in Quant, regular RCs in VARC, and mixed DILR sets.

  • Take 3–4 mocks in exam conditions and finalise time allocation.

Other Study Materials for CAT Preparation 2025

Topic-wise notes, and shortcuts are key elements of the best study material for CAT 2025. They simplify complex concepts, support quick revision, and boost speed. Whether you're solving Quant, DILR, or VARC, these resources form the core of CAT preparation material for self study.

CAT 2025 Topic-Wise Notes

Topic-wise notes break down the CAT 2025 syllabus into smaller, manageable parts for each subject. They allow aspirants to study concepts in depth one at a time, ensuring clarity and retention. Whether it’s Arithmetic in Quantitative Aptitude, RC strategies in VARC, or puzzle types in DILR, structured notes are considered the best study material for CAT 2025. These notes help you track progress, revise quickly, and build mastery over time, making them an essential part of the best study material for CAT.

CAT 2025 Shortcuts

CAT is all about time management and accuracy, this is where shortcuts become crucial. Math tricks, logic patterns, and RC scanning techniques can save valuable time during the test. These shortcuts are built through regular practice and are often included in the best study material for CAT 2025. They’re not a substitute for concepts but a complement to smart strategy. If you want to improve your speed and score, mastering shortcuts is a must and part of the best study material for CAT.

How to Choose Study Materials for CAT 2025?

Choosing the right CAT study material is crucial for smart preparation. With so many resources available, it’s important to pick those that match the latest CAT exam pattern 2025, cover core topics, and suit your learning style. Using the best study material for CAT 2025 ensures that every hour of preparation counts.

1. Align with the Latest CAT Syllabus

Start by checking whether the study material covers the complete CAT 2025 syllabus. It should include all the major topics from Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC). Updated resources reflect changes in exam trends, such as question formats and difficulty levels. Using outdated books or resources can lead to wasted effort on irrelevant topics. Selecting the best study material for CAT helps avoid this pitfall.

2. Prefer Concept-Building Books for Beginners

If you're new to CAT prep, choose books that focus on strengthening your basics. For Quant, Arun Sharma’s Quantitative Aptitude is widely recommended for its gradual approach from basic to advanced problems. For Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, Nishit Sinha’s book explains logic-based problems step-by-step. In VARC, look for resources that improve grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension through a structured method. These form the foundation of cat preparation material for self study and help you build strong fundamentals.

3. Include Practice Sets and Mock Tests

It’s not just about theory; practice is equally important. Look for study material that includes topic-wise practice sets, CAT sample papers, and full-length mock tests. Solving different types of questions under timed conditions helps you develop speed and accuracy. Books or eBooks that come with answer explanations and strategy tips give you an added advantage. This is a key part of the best study material for CAT 2025.

4. Use Verified Online Platforms

Online study material can be extremely helpful if chosen wisely. These resources include CAT preparation PDFs, video lectures, and sectional quizzes. Many also feature performance tracking to measure progress. Using verified platforms ensures content is created by experts and stays aligned with the evolving CAT exam format, forming another essential piece of the best study material for CAT 2025.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for Peer Recommendations

Before purchasing any study material, take time to read reviews on platforms like Quora and MBA forums. Ask peers or mentors which books or resources worked best for them. Trusted recommendations often lead you to hidden gems that aren’t popular but highly effective. Incorporating these insights completes your best study material for CAT 2025 kit.

CAT 2025 Preparation e-books

Go through this, candidates should use them alongside regular practice, highlight key points, and revise frequently to strengthen understanding and enhance speed and accuracy in CAT preparation.

eBook Title

CAT Ebooks Download Links

3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder

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500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases

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300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs

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Mastering CAT Exam: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages

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CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Study Material

Download Now

CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics

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CAT Mock Test Series - 20 Sets, Questions with Solutions By Experts

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Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions

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Boost your CAT preparation with a comprehensive 60-day study material by Experts

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Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions

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CAT 2025 Mastery: Chapter-wise MCQs for Success for VARC, DILR, Quant

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CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers

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CAT DILR Questions with Solution, Download LRDI Questions for CAT

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best study material for CAT 2025?
A:

The best study material for CAT includes books, online resources, formula sheets, and practice papers. Using all of these helps cover every section well.

Q: Are coaching notes better than self-study books?
A:

CAT Coaching notes give tips and a clear plan, while self-study books explain concepts in detail. 

Q: How can online resources help for CAT?
A:

CAT Online resources give topic-wise lessons and examples. They help you learn faster and revise important points easily.

Q: Should I practice CAT previous year papers?
A:

Yes, the CAT previous year papers show the type of questions and difficulty. Practising them improves speed and accuracy.

Q: Are mock tests important for CAT?
A:

CAT Mock tests help you get used to the exam pattern and timing. They also show which areas need more practice.

Q: Do I need coaching material for CAT?
A:

You can succeed using the best study material for CAT exam through self-study, but coaching material can provide structured guidance, shortcuts, and mock tests for faster preparation.

Q: How important are mock tests in a 1-year CAT study plan?
A:

Regular CAT mock tests help track progress, improve time management, identify weak areas, and boost confidence for the actual exam.

Q: Is taking mock tests important during 4-month CAT prep?
A:

Mock tests help you improve speed, accuracy, and time management. They also show your strengths and weaknesses.

Q: Is it enough to prepare using just one book per section?
A:

Not always. One book is a good starting point, but combining it with sectional tests, mock papers, and CAT eBooks or PDFs from platforms like Careers360 gives you a more rounded preparation.

Q: Can I rely on online CAT study material instead of books?
A:

Yes, if it’s from trusted sources like Careers360. These platforms offer updated CAT PDFs, video lessons, and topic-wise tests that are often as good or better than printed books.

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Questions related to CAT

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to CAT ?

With a 70 percent in CAT Examination, you can go for various B-Schools or private collages. The S. K. Patel Institute of Management in Gandhinagar is an option for those who score 70-80 percent in their CAT examination or The Gujarat Institute of Management (GIM) in Goa with a cutoff of 60-80 percentage. These are the collages you can look for in Gujarat or nearby.

Collage in other regions: BA Colleges Accepting 70-80 Percentile in CAT 2025

Thank You.

Hello dear candidate,

NO. your application for CAT will not rejected for wrong gender small mistake in the OBC NCL certificate. You will be considered as an OBC candidate.

you just need to get your OBC certificate corrected and need to inform the CAT helpdesk about this error.


Hello,

Here are some top MBA colleges in India with fees under Rs. 2 lakh and their exam/cutoff details:

  • SIMSREE, Mumbai – Fee around Rs. 1.3–1.4 lakh for 2 years. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, MAT, ATMA. Cutoff is very high, usually 99+ percentile in CAT/CMAT.

  • PUMBA (Dept. of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University) – Fee around Rs. 1.2–1.3 lakh. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, ATMA. Cutoff approx. 75+ percentile in CAT, 90–95+ percentile in CMAT, high scores in MAH-CET.

  • TISS, Mumbai (MA HRM & other management-related programmes) – Fee around Rs. 1.7–1.9 lakh. Accepts CAT for some courses. Qualifying cutoff is around 60–70 percentile, but final selection cutoffs are higher.

These are the main government institutes where the full MBA/PG programme fee is within Rs. 2 lakh. Cutoffs vary slightly each year and by category, but SIMSREE and PUMBA generally need high scores, while TISS has its own process along with CAT shortlisting.

Hope it helps !

Hey! With a NEET score of 344 in the ST category, it is highly unlikely to get admission in any government BDS college in Delhi through the All India Quota. The cutoff for government BDS seats in Delhi usually falls around 400–450 for ST category, so your score is below that range.

You can consider private dental colleges, state quota seats in other states, or reattempt NEET next year to improve your chances.

Hello dear candidate,

YES, with NEET score 344in the ST category you have high chances of getting admission in a BDS College in J&K through JKBOPEE counselling.

check the seat availability and next participate in JKBOPEE Counselling with all the necessary documents.

Thank you.