XAT- Xavier Aptitude Test 2026
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Selecting the best books for CAT preparation 2025 is the first crucial step toward a strong performance in the exam. With numerous CAT preparation books available, choosing the right section-wise resources for Quantitative Aptitude (QA), VARC, and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning can be challenging. This expert-curated list features top-rated books that cover fundamentals, offer ample practice questions from the CAT sample paper, and align well with the latest CAT exam pattern, helping aspirants effectively prepare for every section of the CAT 2025.
The CAT exam needs proper planning with the right top CAT books by toppers, so selecting high-quality preparation materials for the CAT, especially the CAT exam books latest edition is vital for effective preparation. The right resources, recommended CAT books 2025, can significantly impact performance by providing comprehensive coverage, extensive practice questions, and realistic CATmock tests. Don’t constrain yourself to only books; try all resources to get a holistic development in all the segments to cover the entire CAT Syllabus 2025.
The target is to test the student's communication, logical reasoning, comprehension skills, and their ability to work with numbers. The CAT exam consists of three major sections:
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
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A few of the Best books for CAT 2025 under the Quantitative Aptitude section are listed below for the reference of the candidates. These CAT preparation books for 2025 were designed after proper research and the current examination requirements. Since QA is generally considered to be one of the most difficult sections of the CAT examination, it demands extensive preparation using the best CAT preparation books 2025. The list of selected Best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude is listed below.
Book Title | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal | The book gives insight into detailed coverage of quantitative topics, with a focus on fundamental principles. The chapters cover topics like Ratios, Percentages, Time and Work, and Mensuration. | Most interesting and helpful is the large number of practice questions, detailed solutions, and varied difficulty levels. Try to focus on understanding concepts, regular practice, and timed quizzes. |
"Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT" by Sarvesh Verma | The best part is the structure to build concepts from basic to advanced levels. The topics include Progressions, Permutations and Combinations, and Trigonometry. | One can get a clear understanding from its step-by-step explanations, practice sets, and model papers. One must use in-depth practice, follow the progression from basic to advanced, and take regular mock tests. |
NCERT Mathematics books (Class 9-10) | NCERT Mathematics books for Class 9 and 10 cover fundamental topics like algebra, geometry, number systems, and statistics. They are ideal for building strong conceptual clarity, especially for beginners or non-maths background. | Start by reading each chapter thoroughly and solving all examples and exercises to strengthen your basics. Focus on understanding concepts clearly before moving on to CAT-level questions from other advanced preparation books. |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | This book is specifically designed for CAT and covers all major quantitative topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. It includes theory, solved examples, practice exercises, and previous year CAT questions for thorough preparation. | Begin with the theory to understand concepts, then solve the level-wise practice questions to build speed and accuracy. Regularly revise chapters and take topic-wise tests to track your improvement and identify weak areas. |
VARC preparation books for CAT are another great addition to the best books for CAT 2025. Since at times, the VARC section can be quite confusing and challenging, getting ready for the CAT VARC section of the CAT 2025 examination with the help of top CAT books by toppers is necessary for the candidates. A set of the best books for CAT 2025 under the VARC section is given below.
Book Title | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT" by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | This comprehensive guide to verbal ability and reading comprehension covers RCs from a variety of topics. It also covers topics like Vocabulary, Grammar, and Sentence Correction. | It gives valuable, extensive practice questions, mock tests, and strategies for each section. Try to set clear goals with an integrated study schedule, and don’t forget to practice reading comprehension daily. |
"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis | This book focuses on vocabulary building through structured exercises. The chapters are organised to progressively enhance vocabulary. | The most interesting facts are the practical exercises, etymology-based learning, and progress tracking. So, remember to practice your daily vocabulary and incorporate exercises into your study routine. |
PSC for VA for CAT | This book focuses on all key areas of Verbal Ability for CAT, including reading comprehension, para jumbles, sentence correction, and vocabulary. It provides detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice exercises aligned with the CAT pattern. | Start with one section at a time, understanding the concepts and solving practice sets regularly. Focus on reading comprehension daily and use the book’s strategies to improve accuracy and time management in verbal sections. |
"High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin | This book gives a detailed grammar and composition guide. It covers important topics like parts of speech, sentence structure, punctuation, and comprehension. | The wonderful part is the exercises for practice, clear explanations, and usage tips. Remember to practice grammar regularly, use it to clarify any doubts, and integrate it with other VARC study materials. |
The CAT preparation books 2025 under the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning domain are also important for the candidates. Top DILR CAT books would help to enhance the preparation of the candidates and help them to gain good CAT 2025 scores. A few of the recommended CAT books 2025 under the CAT DILR section are listed below for the reference of the candidates.
Book Title | Details | How to Use Effectively |
"How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT" by Arun Sharma | One of the trustworthy books that gives comprehensive coverage of data interpretation topics. It includes Data Analysis, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, and Logical Puzzles. | The highlighted features are the practice sets, mock tests, and detailed solutions. The strategy should be to focus on different types of data sets, along with regular practice, and simulate test conditions. |
“Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT" by Nishit K. Sinha | For CAT aspirants, this is one of the best books because of its in-depth analysis of logical reasoning and data interpretation. Topics include Tables, Pie Charts, Caselets, and Logical Games. | The book comprises varied practice questions, mock tests, and strategy tips. Try to set specific goals, follow the structured approach, and practice extensively. |
"A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning" by R.S. Aggarwal | This book covers a wide range of logical reasoning topics like coding-decoding, blood relations, puzzles, and syllogisms. It’s widely used for various competitive exams and offers a large number of practice questions with explanations. | Use it to build reasoning basics and improve problem-solving speed by practicing different question types. Focus on solving a few topics daily and revisiting tougher ones regularly to strengthen your logical thinking for CAT. |
"Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency" by Ananta Ashisha | Very well structured to build skills from basic to advanced levels. Chapters covered extensively are Graphs, Charts, Tables, and Logical Deductions. | Elaborated, detailed explanations, ample practice questions, and model papers. So, use progressively, focus on time management, and regular assessments. |
While appearing for any exam, it is imperative to practice its previous years’ question papers. The same holds for CAT as well. During the preparation of the CAT 2025 exam, candidates must practice CAT Previous Years’ Question papers as well, for a better understanding of the difficulty level of questions asked. Given below is a list of dedicated books for CAT previous years’ question papers and sample questions.
Book Title | Author/Publisher |
Past Years’ CAT Questions | GK Publications |
OSWAAL CAT (Common Admission Test) | OSWAAL |
Arihant Face To Face CAT 25 Years (1999–2023) Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Paper | BS Sijwalii and Indu Sijwalii |
Disha 40 Topic-wise CAT QA, DILR & VARC Previous Year Solved Papers (2024–1994) (18th Edition) | Shipra Agarwal and Deepak Agarwal |
As the countdown to the CAT exam begins, it's time to devise a strategy and start preparing earnestly to stay ahead of the curve. One of the important points to keep in mind is that, in addition to top CAT books by toppers, other valuable sources have to be included. Some students receive ample study material from coaching institutes, but those who opt for CAT self-study must read online and offline materials. The most helpful resources are Newspapers, blogs, and Articles. Reading newspapers like The Hindu and Economic Times, and articles from various journals, enhances reading comprehension and keeps you updated with current affairs.
Preparation for the CAT examination completely depends on choosing the right CAT preparation books for 2025. So, it's important to consider various factors to ensure that your section-wise books for CAT are effective and comprehensive. Here are the detailed considerations to keep in mind:
Always look for Renowned Experts- Be dependent on books authored by individuals with a strong track record in CAT preparation. Especially the authors who are known for their expertise in the field often have years of experience in coaching and mentoring students for the CAT.
Complete and In-depth Coverage should be there- Make sure that the book covers all major sections of the CAT exam: Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning. The book should provide an in-depth analysis of each topic, including foundational concepts, advanced techniques, and CAT preparation strategies for tackling complex problems.
Wide variety with High-quality matters- The CAT preparation books 2025 should offer a wide range of practice questions, from basic to advanced levels. Must comprise quality practice questions that are crucial for better understanding and application of concepts. And most importantly, the questions should mimic the style and difficulty level of the actual CAT exam to give you a realistic practice experience.
Actual and Realistic Mock Tests- The Best books for CAT 2025 are the ones with realistic CAT mock tests that help prepare you for the actual exam environment. The Mock tests should be designed to simulate the timing, format, and difficulty level of the CAT exam.
Comprehensive Solutions are a must. The detailed solutions, which help in understanding each wrong option with clarity, help in understanding the rationale behind each answer, along with step-by-step explanations, are crucial for learning the correct approach to solving different types of problems. Every Solution should highlight common pitfalls and provide tips to avoid them.
Up-to-date Content: The CAT exam always comes with minute and surprising changes every time so it is always better to opt for the latest edition of the book to ensure that the content is up-to-date with the current CAT exam pattern and syllabus, which typically includes updated practice questions, new strategies, and recent changes in the exam format.
Best books for CAT recommended by toppers - Revise the concepts and practice different sets from some books recommended by successful CAT candidates and coaching experts often prove more beneficial. All these recommendations indicate that the book has been tested and found effective by those who have succeeded in the exam.
Interactive and Additional Practice: Interactive study always makes the process interesting and connects with our memory, so always practice from additional online resources to provide interactive learning and additional practice, which include video lectures, practice quizzes, e-books, and doubt-clearing forums. This easy access to these resources can enhance and diversify your learning experience and provide extra support where needed.
Preparing for CAT 2025 requires a clear understanding of the exam’s demands. With limited time per question and sectional cutoffs, your approach must be strategic. From mastering basics to taking timed mocks, every step should push you closer to exam-day readiness.
1. Know the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern Thoroughly
CAT consists of three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section has a fixed time limit. Familiarity with the pattern helps you understand what’s expected and build a focused preparation plan accordingly.
2. Strengthen Core Concepts Early On
CAT questions often test your grasp on basic concepts through tricky applications. Focus on clearing fundamentals in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning. A strong foundation helps in both accuracy and speed—two crucial elements for cracking CAT with a high percentile.
3. Make a Section-Wise Study Plan
Divide your preparation by sections and assign realistic time blocks each week. For example, dedicate alternate days to QA and DILR, and set daily reading time for VARC. Include topic-wise goals and ensure balance across all three sections, keeping in mind the sectional timing in the exam.
4. Take Regular Mocks & Analyze Performance
Mock tests simulate the real CAT experience and are essential to build stamina and time management. Start taking mocks at least 3–4 months before the exam. Focus on detailed analysis—track accuracy, time per question, and weak topics—and refine your strategy accordingly.
5. Revise Smart & Focus on Exam Strategy
In the final months, switch to revision mode. Revisit frequently asked question types and practice solving them under timed conditions. Develop strategies for question selection and time allocation. Stay calm, avoid panic, and trust your preparation to perform your best on exam day.
Some of the other best books for CAT 2025, other than the section-wise books for CAT, which are mentioned already in the article, are given below.
Book Title | Description |
The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT by Nishit K. Sinha | A very well-known expert in CAT preparation. In-depth analysis of Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning. Varied practice questions with detailed explanations. Up-to-date content and strategies. |
CAT 2025: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri | Detailed coverage of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Realistic mock tests and practice questions. Comprehensive solutions and explanations. Recommendations from successful candidates. |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha | Covers all major quantitative topics clearly with easy language and step-by-step solutions. Ideal for building strong basics with varied practice for CAT and other exams. |
Careers360 offers a wide range of preparation resources for CAT 2025, including topic-wise study material, mock tests, and expert tips. Candidates can access detailed guides covering the CAT syllabus, exam pattern, and time management strategies. These resources are designed to help aspirants improve their performance and boost their overall preparation.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Study Material | |
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 |
For comprehensive preparation of CAT 2025, a combination of study material and books should be referred to for different sections, like RS Aggarwal for QA, Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay for VARC, Arun Sharma for DILR, along with sample question papers and other online and offline resources.
Arun Sharma's books are highly useful and recommended for CAT preparation for beginners because of their step-by-step, easy-to-understand approach. However, other expert-recommended books can also be referred to for a more holistic development of conceptual clarity and understanding.
For the preparation of CAT 2025, you can refer to The Hindu, The Times of India, and Economic Times to read top-quality articles and stay updated.
For DILR, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, "How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT" by Arun Sharma, “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT” by Nishit K Sinha, and “A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning” by RS Aggarwal are the most popular books which you can refer to.
Yes, with the best books for CAT preparation and regular practice, the CAT exam can be cracked through self-study only. You can refer to the CAT books recommended by experts, newspapers, and other online and offline sources.
“Quantitative Aptitude for CAT” by Arun Sharma is widely recommended for its clear concepts and a large variety of practice questions.
“How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension” by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay is a popular choice.
“How to Prepare for DILR” by Arun Sharma is a trusted resource, offering topic-wise practice aligned with CAT difficulty levels.
Yes, NCERT Maths (Class 6–10) helps build strong basic concepts, especially useful for beginners starting CAT Quant preparation.
Books are important, but combine them with mocks, analysis, and online resources to build exam temperament and speed
Hello Sahitya
For FMS Delhi, your percentile should be 99%+ and it should be 99.5%+ to be on the safer side.
Now coming to the academics:
1. 10th marks: 75%+ are given 10 out of 10
2. 12th marks: 75%+ are given 10 out of 10
3. Graduation marks: FMS doesn't considers graduation marks for screening.
So if you have 75%+ in both 10th and 12th, you will get full marks in academic score.
To know more about FMS: FMS
Hope this answer helps! Thank You!!!
Hello Ayush
This is definitely a myth that with 0 work-ex you can't get IIM ABC because freshers still get into them although the competition is brutal but if you have good academics (9/9/9) and a good CAT (99.5%+), you have a chance.
These are some other good colleges except IIM ABC which you can aim for:
TIER 1:
Tier 2:
To know more about CAT: CAT by Careers360
Hope this answer helps! Thank You!!!
Hello Aspirant,
With an AIR (All India Rank) of 1,60,000 in NEET and in the OC (Open Category) there is a very slim chance of getting an MBBS seat in a government medical college, especially in General Category seats through All India Quota (AIQ), but here are some options:
You can also participate in state counselling rounds, as sometimes, seats remain vacant/unfilled, including mop-up rounds.
Hello aspirant,
The question papers for CAT MGU University can be found on their official website, or you can also visit careers360 website for the same.
The link of which, I am attaching here,
https://university.careers360.com/articles/mgu-cat-2025
Regards
Hello Anshuman!!!
You have gotten 86% in 10th, which is a good score. 70% in graduation is not the best but decent. But the main problem is your 12th score which is 62%.
You would be already aware that the Top IIMs (BLACKI) give a big emphasis on your academic score. Let me tell you one example of IIM Ahmedabad,
According to a research i read a few days ago, in IIM Ahmedabad,
70.8%
of students has 90+ percent in 12th,
25.8%
has 80-90 percent and around
3.8%
has less than 80% with the bracket of 60-69 having only
0.26%
students of the total batch. Nearly same is the case of the other top IIMs like IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode and IIM Indore.
Statistically, getting into these TOP IIMs is possible with 62% in 12th is possible (0.26% has done it) but practically you cannot get into these TOP IIMs unless you top the CAT exam.
See, I don't wish to dishearten or demotivate you but I wish to tell you the truth. Although the probability of you getting into these TOP IIMs is very less, but trying is better than doing nothing. You have a good score in 10th which will certainly help you. The least you could do is try your best.
My advice would be that you should not focus on these things like "Will I get top IIM" or negative talk like " I got low marks I won't qualify" etc.
The main focus should be on your preparation.
Give 100% in your preparation because that's the only thing in your hand. You can't change your 10th/12th/Graduation scores but you can put some more effort in your preparation which would certainly help to get better percentile.
Keep working hard and give your best. You might surprise yourself!!! And if not BLACKI, there are many other good colleges like FMS, MDI, newer IIMs etc.
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