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The Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT exam is often the most challenging and score-defining. It includes key areas like Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, and Modern Maths. Understanding the CAT quant chapter-wise weightage, along with the CAT quant syllabus with weightage, helps candidates focus on high-weightage quant topics for the exam. Candidates who prepare according to the CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus with weightage find themselves in a better position during the exam. This article offers a complete CAT quant topic-wise analysis based on the previous year paper to help aspirants plan their CAT 2025 preparation strategically.
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According to the CAT exam pattern, the candidates can expect 22 questions in the CAT question paper. The candidates must answer all these questions within a time limit of 40 minutes. The complete overview of the quantitative aptitude weightage cat section is provided below for the reference of the aspirants.
Section Details | Information |
Total Questions | 22 |
Types | MCQs and TITA (Type In The Answer) |
Sectional time limit | 40 minutes |
Marking Scheme | +3 for the correct answer No mark awarded or deducted for unattempted questions. |
Sub-sectional question arrangements | Jumbled. |
The CAT 2025 conducting body, IIM Kozhikode, has not released any official CAT 2025 syllabus. But after analysing the CAT's previous year questions, we can shortlist the set of important CAT topics from which the questions are frequently asked. Studying the concepts of these CAT quantitative aptitude topics forms an important part of the candidate’s CAT 2025 quantitative aptitude preparation. The complete CAT 2025 syllabus for the quantitative aptitude section is provided below.
CAT Quantitative Aptitude Topics | Subtopics |
Arithmetic | Percentages, Profit, Loss & Discount, Averages, Weighted Average, Speed, Time & Distance, Relative Speed, Time & Work, Mixtures & Alligations, Applications of Averages, Boats and Streams, Escalator Questions |
Algebra | Algebra, Linear and Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Algebraic Identities, Simplification, Surds and Indices, Logarithms, Functions, Constant Product Rule |
Geometry | Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, Mensuration, Circles, Triangles, Polygons, Quadrilaterals, Angles, Points, Lines and Planes, Similar Triangles, Graphical Division Geometry |
Modern Math | Permutation and Combination, Probability, Conditional Probability, Set Theory & Function, Laws in Set Theory, Progressions & Series (AP, GP, HP), Derangement, Application of Power Cycle |
Number System | Number System, LCM & HCF, Remainder Concepts, Power Cycle, Factorials, Number System Shortcut Techniques |
Careers360 has performed a comprehensive analysis of the CAT 2024 question paper and the division of the questions based on topics. This will be helpful for the candidates to choose the various topics that they must prioritise during their CAT 2025 preparation. This will be one of the most important CAT preparation strategies for the candidates. The detailed CAT Quant chapter-wise weightage can be checked below.
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 |
Candidates can know about the major pointers that we got post-CAT Quant topic-wise analysis in the section below.
The CAT 2024 quantitative aptitude section was arithmetic-focused.
The CAT quantitative aptitude topic-wise weightage revealed that topics such as Mixtures and Alligations, Time, Speed and Distance, Ratio and Proportion, and so on were the topics from which the maximum questions were asked in the CAT quantitative aptitude section.
In all three slots of the CAT 2024 examination, the second maximum number of questions was asked for the algebra topics, such as Surds and Indices, Logarithms and Linear and Quadratic Equations, and so on.
To score well in the CAT 2025 quantitative aptitude section, the candidates are advised to prioritise the algebra and arithmetic quantitative aptitude topics.
This year as well, the candidates should expect a CAT question paper which has a good focus on the arithmetic topic.
The topic-wise weightage of the Quantitative Aptitude section for the CAT question paper 2024 is provided below. The questions are divided into the CAT quantitative aptitude topics and the number of CAT quantitative aptitude questions that were asked in all three slots of the CAT 2024 examination. This CAT Quan topic-wise weightage will enable the candidates to understand the most important CAT quantitative aptitude sections and topics that the candidates should prioritise. The topic-wise division is provided below for the reference of the candidates.
Number | Topic | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) | Difficulty Level |
1 | Arithmetic | 9 | 40.91% | Moderate |
2 | Algebra | 6 | 27.27% | |
3 | Geometry | 3 | 13.64% | |
4 | Modern Maths | 2 | 9.09% | |
5 | Number System | 2 | 9.09% |
Number | Topic | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) | Difficulty Level |
1 | Arithmetic | 8 | 36.36% | Moderate |
2 | Algebra | 7 | 31.82% | |
3 | Geometry | 3 | 13.64% | |
4 | Modern Maths | 2 | 9.09% | |
5 | Number System | 2 | 9.09% |
Number | Topic | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) | Difficulty Level |
1 | Arithmetic | 8 | 36.36% | Moderate |
2 | Algebra | 6 | 27.27% | |
3 | Geometry | 3 | 13.64% | |
4 | Modern Maths | 2 | 9.09% | |
5 | Number System | 3 | 13.64% |
Number | CAT QA Topics | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) |
1 | Algebra | 8 | 36.36% |
2 | Arithmetical Problems | 8 | 36.36% |
3 | Geometry and Mensuration | 3 | 13.64% |
4 | Modern Maths | 2 | 9.09% |
5 | Number Systems | 1 | 4.55% |
Number | CAT QA Topics | Number of Questions | Weightage (%) |
1 | Arithmetical Problems | 9 | 40.91% |
2 | Algebra | 7 | 31.82% |
3 | Geometry and Mensuration | 4 | 18.18% |
4 | Number Systems | 1 | 4.55% |
5 | Modern Maths | 1 | 4.55% |
Mastering key formulas and shortcuts is essential to boost speed and accuracy in the CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude section. By focusing on the CAT 2025 quant topic wise weightage and identifying high-frequency areas, aspirants can streamline preparation. Understanding quantitative aptitude weightage CAT helps prioritise important chapters effectively.
Topic | Formula / Shortcut |
Percentages | % Change = (Difference / Original) × 100 |
Successive % = A + B + (AB / 100) | |
Profit & Loss | Profit% = (Profit / CP) × 100 |
SP = CP × (100 + Profit%) / 100 | |
Simple Interest | SI = (P × R × T) / 100 |
Compound Interest | CI = P(1 + R/100)^T - P |
Averages | Average = Total Sum / Number of Items |
Average changes by the same amount when all items increase/decrease equally | |
Time, Speed & Distance | Speed = Distance / Time |
Avg Speed = 2xy / (x + y) (equal distance) | |
Time & Work | Work = Rate × Time |
Total Work = LCM of individual times | |
Ratio & Proportion | If a:b = m:n → total = m+n parts |
Efficiency Ratio = Inverse of Time Ratio | |
Number System | HCF × LCM = Product of two numbers |
Units digit: Use cyclicity rules | |
Algebra | (a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b² |
(a - b)² = a² - 2ab + b² | |
a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b) | |
Geometry | Triangle Area = ½ × base × height |
Circle Area = πr² | |
Pythagoras Theorem = a² + b² = c² | |
Mensuration | Cube Volume = a³; Surface Area = 6a² |
Cylinder Volume = πr²h; Surface Area = 2πr(h + r) | |
Sphere Volume = (4/3)πr³; Surface Area = 4πr² | |
Logarithms | log(ab) = log a + log b |
log(a/b) = log a - log b | |
log(aⁿ) = n log a |
The CAT Quant section tests a mix of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and modern math. Aspirants must pay close attention to the CAT Quant chapter-wise weightage to plan their preparation. Understanding the CAT Quant syllabus with weightage helps prioritise high-yield topics like arithmetic and algebra. A proper CAT Quant topic-wise analysis reveals how question patterns evolve, enabling smart practice and sharper focus on frequently tested concepts across different slots.
Two pipes A and B can fill a tank in 20 minutes and 30 minutes respectively. A third pipe C can empty the tank in 15 minutes. All three pipes are opened together. After how much time will the tank be one-third full?
Solution:
A's rate = 1/20, B's = 1/30, C's = -1/15
Net rate = 120+130−115=3+2−460=160\frac{1}{20} + \frac{1}{30} - \frac{1}{15} = \frac{3 + 2 - 4}{60} = \frac{1}{60}201+301−151=603+2−4=601 tank per minute
Time to fill 1/3 = 1/31/60=20\frac{1/3}{1/60} = 201/601/3=20 minutes
Correct Answer: 20 minutes
If log3(x)+log9(x)=10\log_{3}(x) + \log_{9}(x) = 10log3(x)+log9(x)=10, then find the value of x.
Solution:
Convert all to base 3:
log3(x)+log3(x)log3(9)=10\log_3(x) + \frac{\log_3(x)}{\log_3(9)} = 10log3(x)+log3(9)log3(x)=10
log3(x)+log3(x)2=10\log_3(x) + \frac{\log_3(x)}{2} = 10log3(x)+2log3(x)=10
Let y=log3(x)y = \log_3(x)y=log3(x):
y+y/2=10⇒(3y)/2=10⇒y=20/3y + y/2 = 10 \Rightarrow (3y)/2 = 10 \Rightarrow y = 20/3y+y/2=10⇒(3y)/2=10⇒y=20/3
So, x=320/3x = 3^{20/3}x=320/3
Correct Answer: x=320/3x = 3^{20/3}x=320/3
A triangle has sides 13, 14, and 15. Find the radius of the incircle.
Solution:
Use Heron’s formula:
s = (13 + 14 + 15)/2 = 21
Area = √[21(21-13)(21-14)(21-15)] = √[21×8×7×6] = √7056 = 84
Inradius (r) = Area / s = 84 / 21 = 4
Correct Answer: 4 units
In a certain number system, the number 222 is equal to 86 in decimal. What is the base of that number system?
Solution:
Let base = b
2b2+2b+2=862b^2 + 2b + 2 = 862b2+2b+2=86
Try b = 6: 2×36+2×6+2=72+12+2=862×36 + 2×6 + 2 = 72 + 12 + 2 = 862×36+2×6+2=72+12+2=86
Correct Answer: Base = 6
Let a,b∈Ra, b \in \mathbb{R}a,b∈R. Given that both roots of the equation x2+ax+b=0x^2 + ax + b = 0x2+ax+b=0 lie between 1 and 3. What are the possible values of a and b?
Solution:
Let roots = p and q ∈ (1, 3)
From Vieta’s:
p + q = -a
pq = b
Since 1 < p, q < 3 →
2 < p+q < 6 ⇒ -6 < a < -2
1 < pq < 9 ⇒ 1 < b < 9
Correct Answer: a∈(−6,−2), b∈(1,9)a \in (-6, -2),\ b \in (1, 9)a∈(−6,−2), b∈(1,9)
The Quantitative Aptitude section in CAT saw some shifts from 2023 to 2024. As per the CAT Quant chapter-wise weightage, Arithmetic continued to dominate both years, but Algebra gained slightly in 2024. The CAT Quant syllabus with weightage also reflected a dip in Geometry questions. A detailed CAT Quant topic-wise analysis shows that accuracy and question selection became even more crucial due to tighter time constraints in 2024.
Topic | CAT 2023 | CAT 2024 |
Arithmetic | 8–9 questions | 6–7 questions |
Algebra | 4–5 questions | 6–7 questions |
Geometry & Mensuration | 3–4 questions | 2–3 questions |
Number System | 2–3 questions | 1–2 questions |
Modern Math (P&C, Probability) | 1–2 questions | 2–3 questions |
Difficulty Level | Moderate | Moderate to slightly higher |
After analysing the topic-wise quantitative aptitude subject division, Careers360 has shortlisted a set of topics that the candidates should focus on for the CAT quantitative aptitude preparation 2025. The candidates are strongly advised to prioritise these important CAT quantitative aptitude topics, as this will help the candidates to guarantee good marks within a minimal time for the CAT quantitative aptitude preparation. More than 60% of the CAT quantitative aptitude questions are expected to be asked from these topics alone.
Section | Important Topics | Subtopics/Details |
Arithmetic | Mixtures and Alligations | Mixing items with different properties, rule of alligation, average value calculation |
Time, Speed and Distance | Boats and streams, trains, relative speed, direct formula-based problems | |
Ratio and Proportion | Applications in DI, various forms of ratios, and proportional reasoning | |
Time and Work | Work and efficiency, Pipes and Cisterns, shared workload problems | |
Percentages | Per cent change, successive percentages, applications in profit/loss, DI | |
Algebra | Surds and Indices | Simplification, properties of surds, laws of indices |
Logarithms | Log rules, change of base, applications in equations and simplification | |
Linear and Quadratic Equations | Solving equations, factorisation, roots, word problems | |
Sequence and Series | AP, GP, HP problems, sum of series, pattern recognition | |
Geometry | Triangles | Types of triangles, Pythagoras theorem, congruence/similarity, area and perimeter |
Coordinate Geometry | Points, distance formula, section formula, slope, line equations, coordinate-based geometry | |
Modern Maths | Permutations and Combinations | Arrangements, selections, restrictions, distributions |
Number Systems | Remainders | Division-based problems, cyclicity, Fermat's theorem, modular arithmetic |
Factors and Exponents | HCF, LCM, factor counting, prime factorisation, exponent laws |
While having a sound understanding of the CAT quant topic-wise weightage is essential for the candidates, it is also important that the candidates also know how to apply this knowledge to score well in the CAT quantitative aptitude section, which greatly influences the candidate’s chances of admission to top B schools of the country.
Prioritise high-weightage and high-accuracy topics like Arithmetic: As we have seen above, the topics such as arithmetic are highly essential from the CAT Point of View. Preparing well for the CAT quantitative section will help candidates stand a chance of scoring well in the CAT quantitative section. Due to the fact that this year as well, a lot of questions are expected to be asked from the various arithmetic topics, it is important for the candidates to align their preparation accordingly.
Strengthen the basics of moderate-weightage topics: Topics such as algebra and geometry are of moderate weightage in the CAT quantitative section. But it is not right for the candidates to neglect these topics altogether by focusing just on the high-weightage topics of arithmetic. The candidates should also put focus on studying algebra and geometry topics to enhance their CAT quantitative aptitude score.
Don’t skip low-weightage topics: Low-weightage topics, such as modern maths, are also not to be skipped during the candidate’s quantitative preparation. This is because a few CAT TITA questions may be asked on these topics.
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 |
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 | |
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 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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.
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.
Arithmetic is the most crucial topic. Subtopics like Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, and Averages frequently appear across all slots. Prioritising Arithmetic boosts both accuracy and confidence in the Quant section.
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.
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.
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.
You’ll face 22 questions in this section, which must be solved in 40 minutes. Each correct answer earns 3 marks, while a wrong one costs you 1 mark, and there's no penalty for unattempted questions.
Arithmetic holds the highest weightage across all slots, making it the most critical area to focus on. Subtopics like Mixtures & Alligations, Time-Speed-Distance, and Percentages frequently appear, so mastering them is key to scoring well.
On Question asked by student community
Hello
As you said you by mistakenly done that, you don't need to get worry regarding that ,
Just inform the help desk and carry the correct certifications , the state certificate will not disqualify you .
The steps you can follow is -
1. You can check if the correction window is available or not
2. Contact the CAT desk immediately.
Hope this helps
In CAT registration, you cannot create a new user ID with the same mobile number, even if you use a different email ID. Each mobile number and email can be linked to only one account. If you already registered once, the system will not accept a duplicate with that number. To register again, you must use a new mobile number and new email ID. If you lost your old login, you can recover it through the forgot password/user ID option on the CAT portal.
Yes, you can fill the CAT form even if you currently have a backlog. CAT eligibility requires you to be in your final year of graduation or already graduated backlogs don’t stop you from applying.
While filling the form:
Enter the aggregate percentage/CGPA of marks you have obtained up to the latest semester for which results are declared (in your case till 4th semester).
There will be an option to mention that you have a backlog.
If you clear the backlog later, you’ll just need to show the updated marks during admission.
Hello Aspirant,
Yes, you can apply for the CAT exam as a final-year student. You must declare your backlog on the online application form. You do not write about it on the final-year student certificate; that document is to certify your enrollment status. You must clear all backlogs before the final admission process to any MBA college.
Hello,
Thank you for your question!
KL- MAT syllabus: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English/Verbal Ability, and General Awareness (similar to MAT/CMAT pattern).
CAT scores are valid in many private universities including KL University, but always check the year’s admission notification.
CAT vs other exams: CAT is toughest (IIMs + top B-schools), while MAT/CMAT/ATMA are relatively easier and accepted by many mid-level private universities.
Hello it will clear your doubt!
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