CAT Topic-Wise Weightage 2025: Section-Wise & Chapter-Wise Analysis for VARC, DILR, QA

CAT Topic-Wise Weightage 2025: Section-Wise & Chapter-Wise Analysis for VARC, DILR, QA

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Team Careers360Updated on 09 Oct 2025, 12:18 PM IST

Preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 can feel overwhelming due to the vast syllabus covering Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). The key to smart preparation lies in understanding the CAT exam topic-wise weightage 2025. By focusing on high-impact topics and allocating time according to past trends, aspirants can boost accuracy, manage time efficiently, and enhance their overall score.

This Story also Contains

  1. Why Analyse CAT Topic Wise Weightage?
  2. Section-Wise CAT Topic Wise Weightage for CAT 2025
  3. CAT 2024 Topic-Wise Weightage: Slot-Wise Analysis
  4. Historical CAT Topic Wise Weightage (2020–2023)
  5. CAT 2025 Ebooks by Careers360
CAT Topic-Wise Weightage 2025: Section-Wise & Chapter-Wise Analysis for VARC, DILR, QA
cat topic wise weightage

This guide provides a detailed CAT topic-wise weightage analysis, along with historical data from 2020 to 2024. With this, students can prioritise their study plan, identify recurring questions, and optimise performance in each section.

Why Analyse CAT Topic Wise Weightage?

Understanding the CAT topic-wise weightage is essential for:

  • Identifying high-yield topics in Quant, VARC, and DILR.

  • Allocating preparation time efficiently.

  • Practising recurring questions from previous years.

  • Creating a section-wise strategy for the CAT mock test and the actual exam day.

Analysing CAT past year papers from 2020–2024 helps aspirants predict trends and focus on topics that consistently carry higher marks.

Section-Wise CAT Topic Wise Weightage for CAT 2025

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Quantitative Aptitude is a scoring section for candidates who practise consistently. Based on past trends in CAT, the topics that are most weighted are Arithmetic and Algebra.

Topic

Approx. Weightage

Key Areas

Arithmetic

35–50%

Percentages

Ratios

Profit & Loss

Averages

Time-Speed-Distance

Time & Work

Simple Interest

Compound Interest

Mixtures & Alligation

Algebra

25–35%

Linear Equation

Quadratic Equations

Functions

Sequences & Series

Inequalities

Logarithms

Geometry & Mensuration

10–15%

Triangles

Circles, 2D/3D Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry

Number Systems

5–10%

HCF and LCM, Divisibility, Remainders, Floor Functions

Modern Maths

5–10%

Permutations & Combinations

Probability, Sets, Functions


High-frequency QA topics: Arithmetic and Algebra consistently appear in CAT 2020–2024, making them must-practice areas. Geometry and Modern Maths appear less frequently but often involve high-difficulty questions, making them valuable scoring topics.

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

VARC accounts for 24 questions per CAT slot and is dominated by Reading Comprehension passages. Understanding CAT verbal topic-wise weightage ensures focused preparation.

Topic

Approx. Weightage

Key Areas

Reading Comprehension (RC)

60–70%

Business, Economics, Social Sciences, Technology passages

Para Jumbles

10–15%

Logical ordering of sentences

Para Summary

10–15%

Thematic inference and summarisation

Odd Sentence Out / Para Completion

5–10%

Identifying irrelevant sentences, completing logical sequences

Vocabulary & Critical Reasoning

5–10%

Contextual meaning, assumptions, conclusions


Tip: RC passages dominate each slot, so practising comprehension, speed reading, and inference is key.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

DILR includes puzzles, seating arrangements, and charts. It requires a mix of speed, logic, and analytical skills.

Topic

Approx. Weightage

Key Areas

Puzzles and

Seating Arrangements

50–60%

Linear, Circular, Grid-based, Complex arrangements

Tables & Charts

40–50%

Tabular data, Bar/Line/Pie charts, Mixed sets

Games & Tournaments

10–20%

Round-robin, knockout, scoring systems

Venn Diagrams & Hybrid Sets

5–10%

Set theory, logical deduction

Scheduling & Blood Relations

5–10%

Task allocation, family trees, directional reasoning


High-yield DILR topics like Tables, Puzzles, and Seating Arrangements appear every year, making them essential for focused CAT preparation.

CAT 2024 Topic-Wise Weightage: Slot-Wise Analysis

The CAT 2024 slot-wise analysis reveals slight variations in question distribution, with DILR maintaining an equal focus on the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning components, making historical trend analysis crucial for strategic CAT 2025 preparation.

CAT 2024 Slot 1 Analysis

Section

Dominant Category

Weightage

QA

Arithmetic

40.91%

DILR

Games & Tournaments, QUANT-based LR

22.73%

VARC

Reading Comprehension

66.67%

CAT 2024 Topic-wise Weightage - Slot 1

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Category

Topics Covered

No. of Qs

% Weightage

Reading Comprehension

4 RC Passages × 4 Qs each (Bandicoots, Economics, Craftsmanship, Media)

16

66.67%

Para Summary

Thematic inference-based summaries

3

12.5%

Para Completion

Logical sentence continuation

3

12.5%

Odd One Out

Sentence exclusion from thematic group

2

8.33%

Total


24

100%


Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Category

Topics Covered

No. of Qs

% Weightage

Games & Tournaments

Linear Arrangement with Score/Match Logic

5

22.73%

Distribution

Distribution-based Logical Reasoning

4

18.18%

Venn Diagrams

Set-based logic involving country visits

4

18.18%

Line & Bar Graphs

DI set on Candlestick Chart (Bar + Line hybrid)

4

18.18%

QUANT Based LR

Voter logic and campaign-based quantitative reasoning

5

22.73%

Total


22

100%

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Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Category

Topics Covered

No. of Qs

% Weightage

Arithmetic

Averages, Ratios & Proportions, Percentages, Mixtures & Alligations, Profit & Loss, Time, Speed & Distance, Time & Work, SI

9

40.91%

Algebra

Linear & Quadratic Equations, Sequence & Series, Logarithms, Surds & Indices

5

22.73%

Geometry

Triangles, 3D Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry + Inequalities

3

13.64%

Number System

Remainders, Floor Function

2

9.09%

Modern Maths

Permutations & Combinations, Set Theory & Functions

2

9.09%

Total


22

100%

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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CAT 2024 Slot 2 & Slot 3 Question Paper Analysis

The distribution is largely similar with minor variations:

  • VARC: 34.29% weightage per slot

  • DILR: 31.43% weightage per slot

  • QA: 31.43% weightage per slot

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Students are advised to go through the following articles for a detailed analysis of the CAT 2024 Slot 2 and Slot 3 question papers.

Key Takeaway: Reading Comprehension (VARC), Arithmetic & Algebra (QA), and Puzzles/Seating (DILR) are consistently high-yield areas.

Historical CAT Topic Wise Weightage (2020–2023)

Year

VARC

DILR

QA

2023

RC 68%, Para Jumbles 12%, Para Summary 12%, Para Completion 4%

Tables/Graphs/Arrangements 100%

Arithmetic 41%, Algebra 32%, Geometry 18%, Number System 5%, Modern Maths 5%

2022

RC 67%, Para Jumbles 14%, Para Summary 13%, Para Completion 8%

Reasoning-based DI 47%, Tables/Graphs 53%

Arithmetic/Algebra 35–40%, Geometry 11%, Number Systems 18%, Modern Maths 8%

2021

RC 65%, Para Jumbles 15%, Para Summary 13%, Odd One Out 7%

DI 32%, Tables 35%, Games/Tournaments 7%, Ordering/Ranking 10%, Bar Graphs 13%

Arithmetic/Algebra 35–40%, Geometry 6–8%, Number Systems 14%, Modern Maths 5%

2020

RC 79%, Para Jumbles 11%, Para Summary 11%, Odd One Out 10%

Tables 47%, Reasoning DI 22%, Games/Tournaments 10%, Bar Graphs 8%, Venn 7%

Arithmetic 15%, Number Systems 26%, Geometry/Mensuration 9%, Modern Maths 8%, Algebra 12%, Time & Work 15%


Also Read:

CAT 2025 Ebooks by Careers360

The CAT ebooks are a helpful resource that helps candidates prepare for the examination. These ebooks cover different sections of the subjects relevant to the examination. Candidates must use these ebooks and prepare for the examination accordingly. Refer to the table below to get the download links for the CAT 2025.

eBook Title

Download Links

3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder

Download Now

Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions

Download Now

CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics

Download Now

CAT Mock Test Series - 20 Sets, Questions with Solutions By Experts

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


Understanding the CAT topic-wise weightage is crucial for a focused, high-scoring preparation strategy. By analysing trends from 2020–2024, students can prioritise high-frequency topics, track performance through mock tests, and allocate study time effectively.

A balanced preparation covering Quant, VARC, and DILR, reinforced by previous year papers and targeted practice, will enhance accuracy, speed, and confidence for CAT 2025. Use this guide, past year analyses, and mock tests to craft a strategic study plan and maximise your CAT percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which quant topic has the highest weightage in CAT?
A:

 In CAT Quant, Arithmetic holds the highest weightage, followed by Algebra and Geometry. It consistently dominates the section with the most questions across past papers.

Q: What is the weightage for CAT verbal topic wise?
A:

In VARC, Reading Comprehension carries around 70% weightage, while Para Jumbles, Para Summary, and Odd Sentence Out make up the remaining share.

Q: Which topic is most difficult in the CAT exam?
A:

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) is often considered the most difficult section. Within it, complex puzzle-based and arrangement sets trouble most aspirants.

Q: What is the most scoring section in CAT?
A:

Quantitative Aptitude (QA) and Reading Comprehension (RC) are generally the most scoring. With consistent practice, these sections can yield high accuracy and boost overall percentile.

Q: Which topics carry the highest weightage in CAT 2025 DILR?
A:

High-yield topics include Tables, Bar & Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Seating Arrangements, Puzzles, Scheduling, Blood Relations, and Direction Sense. Focusing on these sets ensures better scoring potential and efficient use of the 40-minute section time.

Q: What are the main sections in the CAT exam?
A:

It identifies high-frequency topics where mistakes occur, allowing aspirants to focus on critical scoring areas for maximum impact.

Q: Which QA topics appear most frequently in recent CAT exams?
A:

Arithmetic (Profit & Loss, Percentages, Time-Speed-Distance) consistently forms 35–40% of QA, while Algebra appears in 25–30% of questions.

Q: Are there DILR question types that repeat every year?
A:

Yes, Seating Arrangements, Puzzles, and Tables/Graphs appeared in almost every CAT from 2021–2024, contributing 8–10 high-yield questions.

Q: Which VARC RC themes have the highest recurrence?
A:

The total duration of the CAT 2025 is 2 hours (120 minutes). Each section has an individual time limit of 40 minutes. For the PwD category, the sectional time limit is 53 minutes and 20 seconds.

Q: Can we choose which section to attempt first in CAT?
A:

No, CAT does not offer candidates the flexibility to choose the order of CAT sections as per their choice. Students should start with the VARC section followed by DILR and QA respectively.

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Questions related to CAT

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to CAT ?

The three key formulas that can solve almost all Profit & Loss problems are:

  1. Profit/Loss % = (Profit or Loss / Cost Price) × 100%, where CP is the cost price.

  2. Discount % = (Discount / Marked Price) × 100%, where MP is the marked price.

  3. Mark up % = (Mark up Value / Cost Price) × 100%, where CP is the cost price.


These formulas can be adapted for problems involving discounts, marked price, or successive gains/losses.

For detailed examples and variations, you can from the article

https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/profit-and-loss-for-cat-2025-only-3-formulas-needed-for-all-variations

With a 70 percent in CAT Examination, you can go for various B-Schools or private collages. The S. K. Patel Institute of Management in Gandhinagar is an option for those who score 70-80 percent in their CAT examination or The Gujarat Institute of Management (GIM) in Goa with a cutoff of 60-80 percentage. These are the collages you can look for in Gujarat or nearby.

Collage in other regions: BA Colleges Accepting 70-80 Percentile in CAT 2025

Thank You.

Hello dear candidate,

NO. your application for CAT will not rejected for wrong gender small mistake in the OBC NCL certificate. You will be considered as an OBC candidate.

you just need to get your OBC certificate corrected and need to inform the CAT helpdesk about this error.


Hello,

Here are some top MBA colleges in India with fees under Rs. 2 lakh and their exam/cutoff details:

  • SIMSREE, Mumbai – Fee around Rs. 1.3–1.4 lakh for 2 years. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, MAT, ATMA. Cutoff is very high, usually 99+ percentile in CAT/CMAT.

  • PUMBA (Dept. of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University) – Fee around Rs. 1.2–1.3 lakh. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, ATMA. Cutoff approx. 75+ percentile in CAT, 90–95+ percentile in CMAT, high scores in MAH-CET.

  • TISS, Mumbai (MA HRM & other management-related programmes) – Fee around Rs. 1.7–1.9 lakh. Accepts CAT for some courses. Qualifying cutoff is around 60–70 percentile, but final selection cutoffs are higher.

These are the main government institutes where the full MBA/PG programme fee is within Rs. 2 lakh. Cutoffs vary slightly each year and by category, but SIMSREE and PUMBA generally need high scores, while TISS has its own process along with CAT shortlisting.

Hope it helps !

Hey! With a NEET score of 344 in the ST category, it is highly unlikely to get admission in any government BDS college in Delhi through the All India Quota. The cutoff for government BDS seats in Delhi usually falls around 400–450 for ST category, so your score is below that range.

You can consider private dental colleges, state quota seats in other states, or reattempt NEET next year to improve your chances.