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The CAT 2025 exam is expected to take place in November 2025, and with the exam date drawing closer, candidates should focus on maximising their preparation efforts. One of the most effective ways to improve performance is by identifying the high-weightage topics in the CAT syllabus and prioritising them during revision. Analysing previous year papers and recent exam trends helps aspirants understand which areas are most important and why they demand extra attention for a high good CAT score. By practising a wide range of questions from these crucial topics, candidates can significantly enhance their percentile in the CAT 2025 exam.
A comprehensive understanding of the CAT 2025 exam pattern is one of the primary steps in CAT success, according to CAT toppers. Without a concrete understanding of the CAT exam pattern, the candidates might face a lot of challenges on the CAT exam day. Recently, the CAT exam pattern has also undergone a few changes, which the candidates must note. This year, IIM Kozhikode will be conducting the CAT exam. The expected CAT exam pattern 2025 is provided below for the reference of the candidates.
Particulars | CAT 2025 Exam Pattern and Syllabus |
CAT exam time duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) & (160 Minutes for PwD) |
Name of the Section | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
Section-wise CAT exam time duration | 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA) 53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section |
Number of Questions | 68 |
Total Marks | 204 |
Mode of the CAT 2025 exam | Computer-Based Mode (CBT) |
There is no official syllabus for the CAT 2025 examination. But by analysing the CAT previous year questions, the candidates can shortlist the topics from which the maximum number of questions may be asked in the CAT examination. The comprehensive CAT 2025 syllabus is provided below for the reference of the candidates.
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Reading Comprehension |
Para Summary | |
Odd one out | |
Para Completion | |
Para jumbles |
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation | Line & Bar Graphs |
Circular Arrangements | |
Linear Arrangements | |
Pie Charts | |
Binary Logics | |
DI Tables | |
Distribution | |
Selection | |
Network Flow Diagrams | |
QUANT Based DI | |
QUANT Based LR | |
Caselets |
Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic | Averages, Ratios & Proportions, Percentages, Mixtures and Alligations, Profit & Loss, Time, Speed & Distance, Time & Work, SI and CI, Pipes & Cisterns, Races, Trains & Boats |
Algebra | Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Logarithms, Surds & Indices, Modulus Functions & Graphs, Sequence & Series, and Polynomials. | |
Geometry | Lines & Angles, Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Quadrilaterals, Coordinate Geometry, and Mensuration (2D & 3D) | |
Number System | Properties of Integers, Divisibility, Factors, HCF & LCM, Remainders, Trailing Zeroes and Base System Conversions. | |
Modern Maths | Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Set Theory, and Venn Diagrams. |
Effective time management in CAT 2025 is crucial for maximising your score across Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). By allocating time wisely, attempting high-weightage questions first, and practising sectional tests, aspirants can improve accuracy, boost speed, and ensure optimal performance on exam day.
Begin each section with familiar, high-weightage topics to secure quick marks and build confidence.
Allocate fixed time blocks (e.g., VARC: 40 min, DILR: 40 min, QA: 40 min) and strictly follow them during mocks and the actual exam.
Skip overly lengthy or tricky questions initially; mark them for review and return only if time permits.
First pass for easy questions, second for moderate ones, third for challenging problems, ensuring maximum attempts without panic.
Take full-length timed mocks regularly to simulate CAT 2025 pressure and refine your pacing strategy for each section.
Many aspirants lose valuable marks in CAT 2025 due to avoidable mistakes such as poor time management, ignoring high-weightage topics, and inadequate mock test analysis. By identifying these errors early and following structured preparation, candidates can boost accuracy, optimise speed, and improve their chances of securing a top CAT percentile.
Neglecting High-Weightage Topics – Avoid spending excessive time on low-yield areas; prioritise topics that frequently appear in CAT Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and DILR.
Skipping Mock Test Analysis – Simply taking mocks is not enough; review solutions, error patterns, and time spent on each section to refine your strategy.
Poor Time Management – Failing to allocate fixed time blocks per section can lead to rushed answers and missed easy questions.
Over-Reliance on Shortcuts – While tricks save time, skipping conceptual clarity reduces accuracy in tougher questions.
Ignoring Sectional Balance – Over-preparing one section while neglecting others can harm your overall CAT 2025 percentile.
Maximising your CAT 2025 score requires a focused mock test strategy that targets high-weightage topics in Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and DILR. Attempting mocks with a clear plan helps identify weak areas, improve accuracy, and enhance time management. Regularly revisiting these topics ensures consistency and better performance on exam day.
Start mocks with questions from frequently asked topics such as Arithmetic in QA, Reading Comprehension in VARC, and Data Interpretation sets in DILR.
Dedicate fixed minutes per section to ensure balanced performance without rushing through or over-investing time in one area.
Post-mock analysis is crucial; track mistakes, note recurring question patterns, and focus on concept revision.
Attempt mocks in a distraction-free environment at the same time slot as your CAT exam for better adaptation.
Maintain a performance log for each high-weightage topic to measure improvement and adjust preparation plans accordingly.
Studying the CAT high-weightage topics is necessary for candidates to score well in the CAT examination. By analysing the previous year's question papers, the candidates will be able to shortlist the topics from which the maximum number of questions can be potentially asked on the CAT exam day. Careers360 has performed a comprehensive analysis of the previous year's CAT question papers, and the section-wise high-weightage topics are listed below for the reference of the candidates. The candidates are strongly advised to consider these topics as the most important CAT topics and structure their CAT 2025 preparation accordingly.
Section | Topic | Total Questions | Weightage |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Reading Comprehension | 16 | 66.67 |
Para Summary | 3 | 12.5 | |
Odd One Out | 2 | 8.33 | |
Fill in the Blanks | 1 | 4.17 | |
Missing Sentence | 2 | 8.33 |
As far as the CAT VARC section is concerned, the high weightage topic under this section is the CAT reading comprehension section. Approximately 66% of the CAT VARC questions are asked directly from this section, making it one of the most important CAT topics. In the CAT 2025 examination, the candidates can expect at least 16 questions out of the 24 CAT VARC questions from the reading comprehension section.
According to the CAT 2024 analysis, the next two important CAT VARC topics are para summary and odd one out. In all three slots of the CAT 2024 examination, these two topics were given almost the same weightage.
Section | Topic | Weightage (%) |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Routes and Networks | 20.45 |
DI Tables | 18.18 | |
Bar Graph (Line & Bar Graphs) | 18.18 | |
Linear Arrangements | 11.36 | |
Games and Tournaments | 11.36 | |
Caselets | 11.36 | |
Quant-Based DI | 9.09 |
The high-weightage topics of the CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning topics include routes and networks from the CAT logical reasoning and graphs topics from the CAT Data Interpretation topic.
The questions on routes and networks were commonly asked in slot 1 and slot 3 of the CAT 2024 examination, and following the previous year's trends, the routes and networks questions are expected to be repeated in the CAT 2025 exam as well.
Analysing the CAT 2024 question paper revealed that the candidates were asked a few questions from the games and tournaments topics as well. This also makes it a high-weightage topic in the CAT 2025 examination.
The other highly probable topics under the CAT DILR section include caselets, Quant-Based DI and Linear Arrangements. The candidates should ensure to prioritise these topics in their CAT DILR preparation.
CAT Section | Topic | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) |
Quantitative Aptitude | Averages, Percentages, Ratios and Proportions | 9 | 13.64% |
Geometry (Triangles, Circles, Mensuration) | 9 | 13.64% | |
Functions and Graphs (Modulus, Sets, etc.) | 8 | 12.12% | |
Surds, Indices and Logarithms | 7 | 10.61% | |
Time, Work and Distance (TSD, Time & Work) | 6 | 9.09% | |
Profit, Loss and Interest (SI, CI, P&L) | 6 | 9.09% | |
Number System (Remainders, etc.) | 6 | 9.09% | |
Inequalities and Linear Equations | 3 | 4.55% | |
PnC and Probability (Counting, P&C) | 4 | 6.06% | |
3 | 4.55% | ||
4 | 6.06% | ||
Progressions and Series (AP, Sequences) | 2 | 3.03% |
The candidates are often seen to be facing the most difficulty under the CAT quantitative aptitude section due to the presence of complex questions which can only be solved in a very limited time frame. Hence, it is important for the candidates to shortlist the high-weightage CAT topics to cover the CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus in a short period of time.
While analysing the previous year's question papers, it was found that the CAT question paper’s quantitative aptitude section tends to be more arithmetic-focused. Hence, the candidates should focus on this topic first.
Another high-weightage CAT topic 2025 is the algebra section. The candidates can also expect a minimum of 6 questions to be answered from this section alone.
The list of the most important CAT quantitative aptitude topics that the candidates should prioritize during their CAT quantitative aptitude preparation is listed below.
QA (Quantitative Aptitude) | - Mixtures and Alligations - Time, Speed and Distance - Ratio and Proportion - Time and Work - Percentages - Surds and Indices - Logarithms - Linear & Quadratic Equations - Sequence and Series - Triangles - Coordinate Geometry - Permutations and Combinations - Remainders - Factors and Exponents |
Focusing on the CAT high-weightage topics is one of the most important CAT preparation strategies that can bring positive changes in the CAT preparation of the candidates. But some CAT aspirants might be slightly sceptical of focusing on the CAT high-weightage topics during their CAT preparation timetable. A few of the reasons why the candidates should focus on the CAT high weightage topics are:
Focusing on the CAT high-weightage topics enables the candidates to go through the important CAT topics in a limited period of time. This will help them answer the CAT questions that are asked from the most important CAT topics. Thai will help them to secure a good CAT score. Instead of spending time on the other CAT topics from which the questions are rarely asked, the candidates should instead focus on the high-weightage CAT topics from each section of the VAT examination.
Confidence and consistency are key to CAT success. Without these traits, mastering the CAT examination might be slightly challenging for the candidates. Confidence can only be acquired through practice. When the candidate solves the important CAT questions from the CAT high-weightage topics, the candidate will be able to garner confidence to solve the CAT questions which they can expect on the CAT question paper. This will help them to secure a good CAT percentile.
CAT preparation resources, such as the CAT mock tests and CAT sample papers play an important role in deciding the CAT success of the candidates. When the candidates consistently solve a lot of questions from the high-weighting topics of the CAT examination, it will help the candidates to master those sections, which are regularly tested in both the CAT exam and CAT mock tests, because they closely mirror the real CAT exam.
Candidates seeking additional CAT practice can download the various CAT preparation resources designed by Careers360 to enhance their CAT preparation. Each ebook is written by experts and includes a vast amount of information that will help the candidates counter all the challenges that they face in the CAT examination.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions | |
CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics | |
Mastering CAT Exam: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages | |
CAT 2025 Mastery: Chapter-wise MCQs for Success for VARC, DILR, Quant | |
CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers | |
CAT DILR Questions with Solution, Download LRDI Questions for CAT | |
CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Study Material |
Based on analysis of past papers, Reading Comprehension dominates VARC, while Routes & Networks and DI Tables are critical in DILR. In Quant, Arithmetic topics like Averages, Percentages, and Time-Speed-Distance hold the highest weightage, so mastering these areas should be a priority.
Focusing on high-weightage topics allows candidates to optimize their preparation time by concentrating on areas that are most likely to appear in the exam. It boosts accuracy, confidence, and performance in both mock tests and the actual exam.
Reading Comprehension is expected to contribute around 16 out of 24 questions in the VARC section, making up roughly 66% of the total. Given its dominance, it’s crucial for aspirants to invest serious practice time here.
In QA, Averages, Percentages, Ratios, and Geometry have the highest question count, followed by Algebra and Number Systems. These topics not only appear frequently but are often simpler to solve with good practice.
The VARC section is largely driven by Reading Comprehension, which usually contributes around 70% of the marks. Alongside RC, important topics include Para Jumbles, Odd Sentence Out, and Para Summary, all of which test reading and logical connection skills.
The DILR section is best prepared by mastering Caselets and Data Interpretation sets involving tables, graphs, and charts. Logical Reasoning puzzles such as arrangements, Venn diagrams, and games are also frequently seen and carry high weightage.
In QA, Arithmetic forms the backbone with topics like Percentages, Ratios, Time-Speed-Distance, and Time-Work. Algebra (Equations, Inequalities), Geometry, and Number Systems are also considered must-practice areas as they consistently feature in past CAT papers.
Focusing on high-weightage topics gives candidates the best return on their effort, as these areas repeatedly appear in the exam. Strong command over them helps secure accuracy, saves time, and pushes up the overall percentile significantly.
A smart approach is to first build clear conceptual understanding, then move to solving topic-wise exercises. After that, aspirants should attempt sectional tests, and finally strengthen speed and accuracy with full-length mocks.
Important topics for NIFT CAT are mostly based on your creativity, observation, design thinking, and visual communication skills. So here's list of important topics you should focus on:
- Observation and drawing skills: Human figures & gestures, nature & Scene drawing are important
- Creative Visualisation: In this you'll have to convert 2d shapes into 3d, making imaginary scenes from a theme, and story illustration from given situations.
- Design & Concept Development: You'll be making logo, posters with creative slogans, book cover design and many more designs.
- Color theory, creative use of texture & patterns.
- Imagination & Innovation: merging two object to make new thing, designing eco friendly or festive based products
Hello Aspirant,
On the CAT form, you should put your name exactly as it is on your class 10 marksheet, as that will be the official educational record. Then during document verification, you can bring a Gazette notification or affidavit for name change so that documents can match your Aadhaar.
Hello aspirant,
The CUSAT CAT 2025 inaugural real-time spot admission will take place at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) from August 4–6. For admission to a variety of undergraduate (B.Tech) and graduate (MSc) programs, the Common Admission Test, or CUSAT CAT, is an entrance exam. Every year, it features sections in mathematics/biology, chemistry, and physics.
For complete information, you can visit our site through following link:
https://www.careers360.com/exams/cusat-cat
Thank you
Hello Aspirant,
Yes, if your caste is listed under Central OBC and you come under the category of Non-Creamy Layer, then you shall be eligible for the OBC-NCL reservation in the CAT exam and IIM admissions, irrespective of its being categorized as OEC in Kerala. Remember to get a valid OBC-NCL certificate obtained as per the format prescribed by the Government of India.
Hey Vijay:)
Thanks for reaching out!
OEC,(Other Eligible Communities) is a state-specific reservation category used in Kerala,and it is not recognised as a separate category in central-level exams like the CAT.
For Central govt exams candidates must choose from the recognised categories: General,SC,ST,OBC-NCL,EWS or PwD.If your community is listed under OEC-SC or OEC-ST in Kerala,you should check whether it falls under SC or ST in the central list and apply accordingly.
Similarly,If your OEC community is in the central OBC list and you meet the non-creamy layer(NCL)rules,you can apply as OBC-NCL, otherwise you need to apply under the general category.
You can verify caste's status in the central list on the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) website.
Hope this clears your doubt!
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