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To be successful in an entrance examination such as CAT depends greatly on the extent to which a candidate practices for the examination. The candidates are advised to create their own personalised CAT preparation timetable conducive for them to secure a good score in the CAT examination. Now, with the CAT examination approaching fast, the need for creating a personalised CAT 2025 study plan is the need of the hour. But a candidate cannot simply create a CAT study plan. There are a lot of factors that determine how the candidate should structure their CAT 2025 study plan to make the most out of it. But the candidates are often not very aware of these factors and end up devising an improbable or less effective study plan for themselves, which is one of the common mistakes made by the candidates in their CAT preparation. This article from Careers360 will help candidates guide them on how they create the best CAT preparation study plan, which will help the candidates to bring the most out of the remaining time for CAT preparation.
For the PGP 2026-28 batch, IIM Ahmedabad has increased the qualifying CAT cut-off 2025 and now general category candidates will need 95 percentile overall and 85 percentile in each section.
Read More: IIM Ahmedabad raises CAT cut-off 2025, tightens selection criteria for MBA, PGP admissions 2026
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When it comes to designing a personalised CAT study plan, the candidates should take care of a lot of factors. Only by keeping these points in mind, the candidates will be able to secure a good CAT score and perform well on the CAT exam day. There are six key steps involved in designing an effective CAT preparation timetable for ensuring the success of the candidates. All the necessary factors are provided below.
The very first step, even before the candidate sets a plan for preparing for any entrance examination, is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus of the particular examination. This is a very vital component, and without a solid understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus, it is very difficult to master the preparation for any examination. The same applies to the CAT examination as well. Understanding the CAT exam pattern and CAT syllabus is the first step in creating a personalised CAT 2025 study plan. This will help the candidates understand how they must structure their CAT preparation plan.
The CAT exam pattern is dynamic. In 2024, 2 extra questions were asked under the CAT DILR section, making the total number of questions asked in the CAT exam 68 instead of 66. There has been no official update about any change in the CAT exam pattern by IIM Kozhikode, the institute which will be taking care of conducting the exam for this year. According to the previous year's CAT exam question paper, the expected CAT 2025 exam pattern is provided below for the reference of the candidates.
Particulars | CAT 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) |
CAT Marking Scheme | - For every right answer, +3 will be awarded - For every wrong answer in MCQs, -1 will be deducted - No negative marks for Non-MCQs |
As usual, the IIMs have not released any standalone CAT syllabus. It is by close inspection of the previous year's question papers that the candidates can identify the CAT syllabus. Analysing the previous year's question papers has become highly necessary for the candidates as this helps them to identify the most important CAT topics as well. The comprehensive CAT syllabus for 2025 is provided below for the reference of the candidates.
CAT Section | Topics |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Para-jumbles, Sentence Completion, Inferences, Odd One Out, Syllogism and Analogies, One-word Substitution, Sentence Correction, Para Summary, Para Completion |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Games & Tournaments, Linear Arrangements, Circular Arrangements, Scheduling, Sequencing, Venn Diagrams, Binary Logic, Blood Relations, Selection, Distribution, Team Assignments (Matrix Grids), Routes, Directions, Networks, Decision Making, Logical Deductions, Analytical Reasoning Puzzles, Syllogisms, Cubes and Dice, Visual Puzzles, Tables, Bar Charts, Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Mixed Graphs, Spider/Radar Charts, Scatter Plots, Reasoning-based DI, Caselet-based DI |
Quantitative Aptitude | 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, Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Algebraic Identities, Simplification, Surds and Indices, Logarithms, Functions, Constant Product Rule, Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, Mensuration, Circles, Triangles, Polygons, Quadrilaterals, Angles, Points, Lines and Planes, Similar Triangles, Graphical Division Geometry, 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, LCM & HCF, Remainder Concepts, Power Cycle, Factorials, Number System Shortcut Techniques |
While preparing for the CAT 2025 examination, it is important that the candidates are aware of the most important CAT topics from which they can expect the most number of questions to be asked. This will help them learn a lot of topics within a limited time. The most effective method to identify the high-weightage CAT topics is by performing a comprehensive analysis of the previous year's CAT question papers and solving a lot of CAT mock tests and CAT sample papers. The section-wise CAT important topics that the candidates should prioritise throughout their CAT 2025 preparation are provided below for the reference of the candidates.
CAT Section | Important Topics |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Para Completion, Odd One Out |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | Games and Tournaments, Routes and Networks, Logical Arrangement and Ordering, Quant-Based Logical Reasoning, Graphs, Table-Based DI, Quant-Based DI |
Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 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 |
The preparation levels of all the CAT aspirants will not be uniform. The CAT exam will be taken by candidates of varying preparation levels. Some candidates might have started their CAT preparation as early as a year before, while some others may not have started it yet. A few candidates, such as a lot of engineering students, might already have a good grasp of Quantitative Aptitude topics, while arts students might be good at the CAT VARC questions. Hence, it is necessary for the candidates to understand their current preparation levels to move ahead with planning how to structure their CAT preparation. The candidates can take a CAT mock test to analyse their current CAT preparation level to know where they stand in terms of CAT preparation. This will help the candidates to understand their strengths, weakness and all their problem areas. The candidates should make a note of the areas which they feel are lagging and put a lot of effort into those sections. Over time, this will help them to master that particular section. The candidates are also advised to segment topics based on comfort level to make the preparation easier.
Once the candidates have gained a complete understanding of the CAT exam pattern and syllabus, as well as their current preparation level, they must move towards defining their goal. This includes both their CAT percentile target as well as the best B schools that the candidates are hoping for. It is important that the decision is taken based on the potential of the candidates and their current preparation levels. Once the goal is set, there is no looking back, only consistent efforts and dedicated practice. Normally, a CAT percentile of 95+ is considered very good and helps the candidates in getting shortlisted for the CAT GDPI rounds.
Creating the section-wise time allocation is a very important part of the candidate’s CAT preparation. It begins with identifying the topics that the candidates find difficult and prioritising these topics during the CAT exam preparation. Usually, difficult CAT quantitative aptitude questions and complex and lengthy CAT DILR questions consume the most time out of the candidate’s CAT preparation. Based on the results of the first mock test that the candidate had taken, time allotment must be done per topic to ensure that the candidate does not miss out on any topic. While the weaker areas are given importance, the candidates should not completely neglect the strong areas either. The division of time must be consistent and flexible throughout.
Choosing the right CAT study resources is very important for candidates. A wide selection of CAT preparation books is available in the market for all the CAT sections. But not all the books are conducive to every candidate. After analysing the preparation level of the candidates, they must make a decision on selecting the books which will specifically cater to their needs. The most important aspect to keep in mind is that the difficulty level of each book varies, and the candidates should carefully review each book before making a decision on buying it. A few of the best CAT preparation books that the candidates can choose from are provided below.
CAT Section | Book Name | Author Name | Difficulty Level |
Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | Beginner-Friendly |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Verma | Advanced | |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 9–10) | NCERT | Beginner-Friendly | |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Intermediate to Advanced | |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma | Intermediate |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Intermediate to Advanced | |
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Beginner-Friendly | |
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha | Intermediate | |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | Intermediate |
Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Beginner-Friendly | |
PSC for VA for CAT | Nishit Sinha | Intermediate to Advanced | |
High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | Beginner-Friendly |
Properly planning the CAT preparation in phases is essential to ensure a smooth flow in the CAT preparation of the candidates. It is a good practice to divide the candidate’s CAT preparation into phases, in which an important aspect of the candidate’s CAT preparation is taken care of during a particular phase. CAT toppers have suggested dividing the candidate’s CAT preparation into three phases: namely, foundation phase, practice. It can be inferred as:
Phase | Duration | Focus Area |
Foundation Phase | Months 1–2 | Concept building and complete topic coverage |
Practice Phase | Months 3–4 | Timed practice and weekly mock tests |
Mock Phase | Last 2 Months | Intensive mock test practice and in-depth performance analysis |
Some of the tools that can help the candidates stay on track and monitor their progress throughout their CAT 2025 study plan are provided below. The candidates should always keep in mind that consistency is the key to success in the CAT examination.
Candidates should devise their own CAT preparation timetable, which will help them to stay focused throughout their CAT 2025 preparation. This will help them to cover the important CAT topics in a consistent manner. It is important for the candidates to ensure that they do not miss any important CAT topics while creating the CAT preparation timetable.
To plan their CAT preparation timetable, candidates can seek help from tools like Google Calendar, Notion, Excel planners, etc.
To track the performance of the candidates, they can use various charts, such as the Section-wise improvement chart. Also, all the questions that the candidates find issues in solving must be written and kept separately in an error log book. This must be used from time to time during the candidate’s CAT revision. Error log and accuracy tracker must be used periodically to track the progress of the candidates.
To keep the candidates motivated, they can also use a Weekly goals vs achievements sheet where the accomplishments of the candidates can be noted down and can be used whenever they are in need of motivation.
Now, with the candidates having around four months left for the CAT examination, which is most likely to be conducted towards the end of November 2024, it is important for the candidates to follow a timetable which will help them to cover all the necessary topics in case they have missed out on any. If a candidate is yet to start their CAT preparation, they can refer to this four-month CAT preparation timetable designed by Careers360 to focus better.
4-Month CAT Preparation Timetable (Aug–Nov) | ||||
Week | VARC Focus | DILR Focus | QA Focus | Mock/Test Focus |
Month 1: Foundation Phase – Basics & Concepts | ||||
Week 1 | RC + Para Jumbles | Linear & Circular Arrangements | Percentages, Averages, Ratios & Proportions | 1 RC + 1 QA Sectional |
Week 2 | Sentence Correction, Para Summary | Venn Diagrams, Selection, Distribution | TSD, Mixtures & Alligation | 1 Full VARC Sectional |
Week 3 | Odd-One-Out, Sentence Completion | Tables, Line Graphs, Bar Graphs | Time & Work, Profit & Loss, SI | 1 DILR Practice Set |
Week 4 | Para Completion, Inferences | Binary Logic, Syllogisms, Reasoning DI | Algebra Basics (Linear & Quadratic) | 1 Full-Length Mock |
Month 2: Foundation Phase – Continued | ||||
Week 5 | Summary Writing, One-word Substitution | Scheduling, Directions, Routes | Logs, Indices, Surds, Simplification | 1 VARC + 1 DILR Sectional |
Week 6 | RC Practice (Aeon, Economist) | Matrix Grids, Blood Relations | Inequalities, Functions, Coordinate Geometry | Full-Length Mock |
Week 7 | Dense RCs, Grammar Practice | Decision Making, Puzzles | Geometry (Triangles, Circles, Quads) | 2 Sectional Tests |
Week 8 | Para Completion, RC Revision | Mixed Graphs, Caselet DI | Mensuration, Set Theory, Progressions | Full-Length Mock |
Month 3: Practice Phase – Timed Sets + Mocks | ||||
Week 9 | Timed RC + VA Practice | Radar Charts, Visual Puzzles, Mixed DI | Probability, Permutation & Combination, Number Basics | 2 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 10 | Inference-based RCs, Tough Passages | Cubes, Games & Tournaments | Number Theory, Remainders, LCM & HCF | 2 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 11 | VA Revision (Para Types + Grammar) | Puzzle Sets, Networks | Series (AP, GP, HP), Algebra Recap | 2 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 12 | Vocabulary + RC Sets | DI Mix Practice + Logical Deductions | Geometry + Algebra Revision | 2 Mocks + Full Review |
Month 4: Mock Phase – Strategy & Revision | ||||
Week 13 | Section-Wise Full Revision | Accuracy Boost + Puzzle Practice | Formula Sheet + Error Analysis | 3 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 14 | Targeted Weak Area Practice | Reattempt Past DI Sets | Timed QA Recap | 3 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 15 | Final RC + VA Push | Visual & Reasoning Sets | Final Touch to Geometry, Algebra, TSD | 3 Full-Length Mocks |
Week 16 | Quick Revision of All Topics | Adaptive Strategy Practice | Mental Conditioning | 3 Mocks + Strategy Finalisation |
Candidates can download the various important CAT preparation resources designed by Careers360 using the links provided below for improving their CAT practice and ensuring a good CAT score. The eBooks can be accessed using the links provided in the table 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)
Use recommended books by Arun Sharma, Nishit Sinha, and Norman Lewis for section-wise prep, and track your progress using planners, error logs, and performance charts. Digital tools like Google Calendar and Excel help maintain consistency and motivation.
Divide your prep into foundation, practice, and mock phases—starting with concept building, moving to timed practice, and ending with intensive mocks and strategy refinement. A phased plan ensures full coverage and avoids last-minute burnout.
Time should be divided based on difficulty and familiarity—typically, QA and DILR require more hours due to complexity, while VARC needs daily practice. Prioritise weak areas while maintaining fluency in your stronger sections.
A mock test early on is essential to gauge your strengths and weaknesses across the three sections. This baseline allows you to build a realistic and focused preparation plan tailored to your current level.
Start by understanding the CAT exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly—VARC, DILR, and QA each have dedicated 40-minute sections with varying question types. Knowing high-weightage topics helps you allocate your preparation time effectively right from the beginning.
On Question asked by student community
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:
Application: Register online through the BBAU admission portal.
Entrance Exam: Appear for the CAT exam and obtain a valid score.
Counseling: Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling based on their CAT scores.
Document Verification: Submit necessary documents for verification.
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
Hello Amgothu
With 305 marks in ICAR PG and being from ST category, your chances of getting an AIEEA (CAT) seat is good, especially in plant sciences and less competitive subjects
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.
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