CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage: Important Topics, Pattern & Syllabus

CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage: Important Topics, Pattern & Syllabus

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Komal MiglaniUpdated on 09 Sep 2025, 03:49 PM IST

For students preparing for CAT 2025, understanding the weightage of each topic in the Quantitative Aptitude section is crucial for effective preparation. Knowing which areas carry more marks helps you focus on the important topics, exam pattern, and syllabus to plan your study time wisely. In this article, we break down the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude topic-wise weightage, so you can prioritise topics that are frequently tested and build a strong foundation for the exam. In this article, we have provided detailed insights into important topics, pattern, previous year question paper analysis to help you prepare strategically for CAT 2025.

This Story also Contains

  1. Why Quantitative Aptitude Can Be a Game-Changer in CAT 2025
  2. CAT 2024 Quantitative Aptitude Slot Wise Analysis
  3. CAT 2025 Quant Topic-Wise Weightage with Trend Insights
  4. CAT Quantitative Aptitude Expected Questions in 2025
  5. CAT 2025 QA Preparation Strategy
  6. 3 CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Roadmaps for Different Student Profiles
  7. CAT QA Topic Weightage vs Other MBA Exams (XAT, SNAP, NMAT)
  8. Recommended Books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation 2025
  9. CAT Preparation Materials Designed by Careers360
CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage: Important Topics, Pattern & Syllabus
CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage: Important Topics, Pattern & Syllabus

Why Quantitative Aptitude Can Be a Game-Changer in CAT 2025

Quantitative Aptitude is often the section that can make or break a candidate's overall CAT percentile. A balanced performance across all three sections, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA), is crucial.

The primary reason QA has such a significant impact is the disproportionate score-to-percentile ratio it often exhibits, particularly at the higher end. This is a recurring trend in past CAT results.

QA's Unique Scoring Curve

A high score in QA can take a candidate into the top percentiles. Conversely, a poor performance can severely harm their overall standing, as the margin for error is smaller. Unlike VARC or DILR, where a few extra marks might only slightly boost your percentile, in QA, even a few more correct questions can have a dramatic effect, especially for candidates aiming for a 99+ percentile.

The Problem of "Doable" Questions

The QA section, while often challenging, typically has a handful of "doable" questions that are relatively straightforward for well-prepared candidates. These questions are essential for building a solid foundation score. However, many aspirants, especially those from non-engineering backgrounds, struggle to even solve these easy questions, which creates a huge gap.

A Broader Range of Scores

The top performers in QA often have a much wider score range compared to their peers in VARC or DILR. For example, a candidate might score 45-50 marks in QA to hit the 99th percentile, while the same percentile in DILR or VARC might be achieved with a narrower score range of 30-40 marks. This wide score gap means a single-digit difference in the number of correct questions in QA can lead to a multi-percentile difference in rank.

Data on CAT Score vs. Percentile

To understand this better, let's look at the data from previous years. The exact scores vary by slot due to normalisation, but the trend remains consistent.

CAT Percentile

Approximate QA Scaled Score (CAT 2024)

Approximate QA Scaled Score (CAT 2023)

99%

33-35

28-30

95%

22-24

19-21

90%

17-19

14-16

80%

11-13

10-11

CAT 2024 Quantitative Aptitude Slot Wise Analysis

A detailed CAT 2024 Quantitative Aptitude analysis by Careers360 highlights the exact division of questions across different topics. This CAT previous year topic weightage offers candidates a clear picture of which areas were most frequently tested and therefore demand higher focus. For aspirants preparing for Quant, reviewing this slot wise is one of the smartest CAT 2025 preparation strategies.

CAT 2024 Quant Slot Wise Analysis

Topic

Slot-1

Slot-2

Slot-3

Number System (Remainders, Floor Function, Integers, Factors and Exponents)

2

2

2

Surds, Indices and Logarithms

3

2

2

Inequalities and Linear Equations

0

2

1

PnC and Probability (Counting, P&C)

1

1

2

Quadratic Equations

2

1

0

Averages, Percentages, Ratios and Proportions

3

3

3

Time, Work and Distance (TSD, Time & Work)

2

2

2

Profit, Loss and Interest (SI, CI, P&L)

2

2

2

Geometry (Triangles, Circles, Mensuration)

3

3

3

Progressions and Series (AP, Sequences)

1

0

1

Functions and Graphs (Modulus, Sets, Functional Eq.)

1

3

3

Mixture and Alligation

2

1

1

CAT 2025 Quant Topic-Wise Weightage with Trend Insights

The CAT Quant topic-wise weightage for the CAT question paper 2024 has been analysed across all three slots. By breaking down the number of CAT quantitative aptitude questions asked from each topic, candidates can clearly see which areas carried the most significance in the exam. This CAT Quant chapter-wise weightage serves as a practical guide for identifying high-yield topics and planning preparation more effectively.

CAT 2024 Slot 1 Quantitative Aptitude Topicwise Weightage

Topic

Number of Questions

Weightage (%)

Arithmetic

9

40.91%

Algebra

6

27.27%

Geometry

3

13.64%

Modern Maths

2

9.09%

Number System

2

9.09%

CAT 2024 Slot 2 Quantitative Aptitude Topicwise Weightage

Topic

Number of Questions

Weightage (%)

Arithmetic

8

36.36%

Algebra

7

31.82%

Geometry

3

13.64%

Modern Maths

2

9.09%

Number System

2

9.09%

CAT 2024 Slot 3 Quantitative Aptitude Topicwise Weightage

Topic

Number of Questions

Weightage (%)

Arithmetic

8

36.36%

Algebra

6

27.27%

Geometry

3

13.64%

Modern Maths

2

9.09%

Number System

3

13.64%

CAT 2023 Slot 1 CAT Quantitative Aptitude Topic-wise Weightage

CAT QA Topics

Number of Questions

Weightage (%)

Algebra

8

36.36%

Arithmetical Problems

8

36.36%

Geometry and Mensuration

3

13.64%

Modern Maths

2

9.09%

Number Systems

1

4.55%

CAT 2023 Slot 2 and Slot 3 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-wise Weightage

CAT QA Topics

Number of Questions

Weightage (%)

Arithmetical Problems

9

40.91%

Algebra

7

31.82%

Geometry and Mensuration

4

18.18%

Number Systems

1

4.55%

Modern Maths

1

4.55%

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Expected Questions in 2025

Based on the CAT's previous year topic weightage and the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude analysis, candidates can predict the areas likely to dominate the exam. The CAT Quant topic-wise question distribution from 2024 shows a clear preference for Arithmetic and Algebra, with Geometry and Number Systems contributing moderately. Advanced topics like PnC and Probability continue to appear, but in lower proportions.

CAT Quant Topic

Subtopics

Expected Number of Questions (CAT 2025)

Arithmetic

TSD, Percentages, Profit & Loss, SI-CI, Averages, Ratio

8–10

Algebra

Quadratics, Inequalities, Logarithms, Progressions

6–8

Geometry & Mensuration

Triangles, Circles, Coordinate Geometry, 3D Figures

3–5

Number Systems

Divisibility, HCF & LCM, Factors, Base Systems

2–3

Modern Math

Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory

2–3

CAT Syllabus: Subjects & Chapters
Select your preferred subject to view the chapters

CAT 2025 QA Preparation Strategy

Every aspirant has limited time, which means preparation should focus on areas that give the highest payoff in the exam hall. By studying the detailed CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude analysis, we can clearly see which topics deserve maximum attention, which ones can be revised lightly, and which ones are safe to skip.

Time Investment ROI

If you look at the CAT Quant topic-wise question distribution from the last few years, Arithmetic and Algebra together consistently account for more than 60–65% of the section. According to the CAT Quant chapter-wise weightage, topics such as percentages, ratios, averages, time–speed–distance, and simple equations not only appear frequently but are also easier to master compared to advanced concepts like Probability or Logarithms.

  • High ROI topics - Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, TSD, Averages, Profit & Loss). A few weeks of consistent practice here can help you attempt at least 8–10 questions in the actual exam.

  • Moderate ROI topics - Algebra and Geometry. They require a deeper conceptual base but regularly contribute 6–8 questions.

  • Low ROI topics - Probability, Permutation & Combination, and Logarithms. These take much longer to prepare, but appear in very limited numbers according to CAT's previous year topic weightage.

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Accuracy Rate Insights - Why Some Topics Are Safer Bets

Another important finding from the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude analysis is that not all topics have the same accuracy rate among aspirants. For example:

  • High Accuracy Topics - Time–Speed–Distance, Percentages, and Averages usually have straightforward solutions and higher accuracy levels. These are considered “safe bet” questions.

  • Medium Accuracy Topics - Geometry and Algebra often require strong fundamentals and quick visualisation. Accuracy depends on clarity and practice.

  • Low Accuracy Topics - Probability, Permutation & Combination, and Logarithms tend to confuse students. The overall accuracy in these areas, even for high percentiles, is significantly lower.

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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This means that even if you are strong in Mathematics, your attempt strategy should prioritise topics where accuracy is statistically higher. Chasing low-accuracy areas may waste time and hurt your overall percentile.

Smart Skip Strategy

One of the secrets of CAT toppers is not solving every question, but knowing what to skip. Based on the CAT Quant topic-wise question distribution from the past 5 years:

  • Skip or De-prioritise - Probability, PnC, Logarithms, and advanced Number Theory. These rarely contribute more than 1–2 questions and are time-consuming.

  • Attempt Later - Geometry (especially tricky circle or mensuration problems) if they appear lengthy. They can be solved, but not at the cost of missing easier Arithmetic problems.

  • Always Attempt First - Ratios, Percentages, Time–Work, and Linear Equations. They are quick to solve and directly tied to chapter-wise weightage.

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3 CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Roadmaps for Different Student Profiles

Every CAT aspirant approaches Quant from a different starting point. Some come with a strong mathematical background, others may have left maths behind after school, and many juggle preparation with a full-time job. A single study plan does not work for all. That’s why understanding personalised roadmaps aligned with the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage is essential.

Engineering Background (Math-Strong)

Most engineering students are comfortable with Algebra, Numbers, and Geometry because of their academic training. However, many fall into the trap of overconfidence, attempting to master advanced concepts while ignoring Arithmetic basics.

  • Revise Arithmetic topics such as percentages, ratios, time–speed–distance, and work-time. These carry the highest weightage in the CAT 2025 Quant Syllabus and are part of the CAT Quant Important Topics 2025 list.

  • Practice shortcut methods and mental math for quick calculations, since accuracy is not enough, speed is the differentiator.

  • Strengthen weak areas in Geometry and Modern Math, which may not seem heavy in weightage but often include tricky, low-attempt questions that boost percentile.

  • Take multiple sectional tests to simulate the CAT Quant experience. Engineers often struggle with time management because they try to solve every problem. The key is to select the right questions.

  • Analyse mock tests deeply. Instead of celebrating 99%ile in mocks, check if you are wasting time on low-ROI topics.

Non-Math Background (Commerce/Arts)

Students from non-mathematics backgrounds often carry anxiety about Quant. But the good news is that CAT is not about memorising formulas, it is about applying logic. And most of the exam is Arithmetic-driven, which can be mastered with consistent practice.

  • Begin with Arithmetic, since it accounts for the largest portion of the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage. Start with ratios, percentages, averages, and profit & loss.

  • Once Arithmetic is comfortable, move to basic Algebra, linear equations, quadratic equations, and progressions.

  • Leave advanced topics like Probability, PnC, and Logarithms for later or selective study, as they have minimal representation in the CAT 2025 Quant Syllabus.

  • Dedicate the first three months to concept clarity through NCERTs or beginner-friendly resources before moving to CAT-level material.

  • Use video lectures or guided courses if concepts feel overwhelming. Visual learning often helps non-math students more than heavy theory.

  • In mocks, aim for accuracy over attempts. Even 8–10 correct answers in Quant can fetch a 90+ percentile.

Working Professionals with Less Time → 80/20 Rule (Arithmetic + Geometry Only)

For working professionals, time is the scarcest resource. Preparing after office hours or during weekends requires smart planning. The 80/20 rule works best here; focus on 20% of the syllabus that gives 80% of the results.

  • Prioritise Arithmetic, which forms the backbone of the CAT 2025 Quant Syllabus. Cover ratios, percentages, averages, TSD, and work-time thoroughly.

  • Add Geometry basics, triangles, circles, mensuration, since this area has a medium but consistent weightage.

  • Skip or lightly cover Numbers and Modern Math, as they demand more time with less predictable returns.

  • Allocate 1 hour daily on weekdays for topic practice and 3–4 hours on weekends for mocks and revision.

  • Rely on curated question banks that match the CAT Quant Important Topics 2025, instead of wasting time on exhaustive material.

  • Focus on developing a mock-taking strategy: attempt only high-probability questions first, then revisit difficult ones if time permits.

CAT QA Topic Weightage vs Other MBA Exams (XAT, SNAP, NMAT)

The CAT 2025 Quant Syllabus is broad but still focused on testing conceptual clarity through problem-solving. Arithmetic and Algebra dominate the exam every year, while Geometry and Numbers vary in weightage. On the other hand, XAT and NMAT approach Quant in slightly different ways:

XAT Quantitative Ability & DI

  • Heavier emphasis on Geometry, Algebra, and Numbers compared to CAT.

  • Questions are often lengthier and test multi-concept applications.

  • Fewer but more complex problems; accuracy and patience are key.

NMAT Quantitative Skills

  • Covers a wide range, but the difficulty is generally lower than CAT.

  • Includes Modern Math and Data Sufficiency prominently.

  • Speed is crucial, as NMAT has a strict sectional time limit.

CAT Quant (by comparison)

  • High weightage to Arithmetic and Algebra, making them part of the CAT Quant Important Topics 2025 list for almost every aspirant.

  • Problem statements are concise but concept-heavy, requiring logical shortcuts rather than lengthy calculations.

  • CAT avoids Data Sufficiency (unlike NMAT) but demands strong fundamentals in Arithmetic, especially percentages, ratios, time–work, and time–speed–distance.

Thus, while the core mathematics is the same, the style of testing sets CAT apart from exams like XAT and NMAT.

Recommended Books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude Preparation 2025

Now that the candidate is aware of the sectional weightage of the CAT quantitative aptitude topics, it is time for the CAT aspirants to refer to the best CAT quantitative aptitude books written by subject matter experts with abundant knowledge in the CAT quantitative aptitude topic. Careers360 have shortlisted a few of the necessary CAT quantitative aptitude books for the efficient preparation of the candidates.

Book Title

Author

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

R.S. Aggarwal

Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT

Sarvesh Verma

NCERT Mathematics books (Class 9–10)

NCERT

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT

Arun Sharma

CAT Preparation Materials Designed by Careers360

Careers360 provides a variety of CAT 2025 preparation resources such as comprehensive syllabus guides, topic-wise study materials, CAT mock tests, and expert strategy articles. Candidates can access these resources through the links provided below.

eBook Title

Download Links

3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder

Download Now

500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases

Download Now

300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs

Download Now

Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions

Download Now

Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions

Download Now

CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics

Download Now

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

Download Now

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

Download Now

CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers

Download Now

CAT DILR Questions with Solution, Download LRDI Questions for CAT

Download Now

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

Download Now


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage?
A:

The CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage shows how many questions are expected from each topic, helping candidates prioritise high-yield areas like Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry for better exam preparation.

Q: Are all topics equally important for CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude?
A:

While all topics are part of the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude syllabus, high-weightage topics like TSD, Percentages, Averages, and Quadratics are crucial for scoring, whereas low-weightage topics like PnC and Probability can be attempted selectively.

Q: Which topics carry the most weight in CAT 2025 Quant?
A:

Based on CAT previous year topic weightage, Arithmetic and Algebra usually contribute the highest number of questions. Geometry and Number Systems appear moderately, while Probability, PnC, and Logs have lower weightage.

Q: How can I use the topic-wise weightage for better CAT Quant preparation?
A:

Focus on high-weightage chapters like Arithmetic and Algebra first. Allocate more time to them during practice. Use CAT 2025 Quant topic-wise mock tests and formula sheets to strengthen weak areas and ensure balanced preparation.

Q: Has the CAT Quant weightage changed from CAT 2023 to CAT 2025?
A:

Based on recent trends, Arithmetic and Algebra continue to dominate, but there's a slight resurgence in Geometry and Mensuration in some slots. Candidates should follow chapter-wise analysis and revise all major areas accordingly.

Q: What is the topic-wise weightage in CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude?
A:

While the exact weightage may vary, typically Arithmetic dominates with around 35-40% of the questions. Algebra and Geometry follow, each contributing 20-25%, and Number System and Modern Math usually account for 10-15% each.

Q: How should I use the topic-wise weightage to plan my preparation?
A:

 Focus your energy first on high-weightage topics like Arithmetic, but don't neglect moderate-weightage areas like Algebra and Geometry. Even lower-weightage topics like Modern Maths should be reviewed since they often appear in TITA questions.

Q: Which topics in Algebra are most likely to appear in CAT 2025?
A:

Algebra topics such as Surds and Indices, Logarithms, and Linear/Quadratic Equations showed a consistent presence in previous exams. These subtopics are moderately weighted but vital for a balanced score.

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Hello

The CAT 2025 exam is a national-level MBA entrance test for IIMs and top B-schools in India. It will be held on 30th November 2025 in computer-based mode across ~170 cities.
The registration is open from 1st August to 13th September 2025 on iimcat.ac.in .
Admit cards will be available from 5th November 2025 onward.
Graduates with at least 50 marks (45 for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible to apply.
The exam tests English, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude in three timed sections.

Yes, you can pursue an MBA at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, through the CAT exam.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: A bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognized university.

  • Entrance Exam: A valid CAT score is required for admission.

Admission Process:

  1. Application: Register online through the BBAU admission portal.

  2. Entrance Exam: Appear for the CAT exam and obtain a valid score.

  3. Counseling: Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling based on their CAT scores.

  4. Document Verification: Submit necessary documents for verification.

  5. Fee Payment: Complete the fee payment to confirm admission.

Course Details:

  • Duration: 2 years (full-time).

  • Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, among others.

Placement Opportunities:
BBAU has a strong placement record, with top companies recruiting MBA graduates.

For more details and to apply, visit the  official BBAU MBA admission page