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The CAT 2025 topic-wise weightage gives aspirants a clear picture of which areas dominate the exam and deserve maximum focus. Over the past few years, Arithmetic and Algebra have led the Quant section, Reading Comprehension has ruled VARC, and Logic-based Data Sets have defined DILR. Candidates must analyse these consistent trends to create a strategic preparation plan that helps them maximise their score in the CAT 2025 exam.
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In this article, we have discussed 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.
Analysing CAT topic-wise weightage is a crucial strategy for aspirants aiming to maximise efficiency and score higher in CAT Exam 2025. Historical data shows that certain topics consistently appear, helping candidates prioritise their preparation. Understanding which areas carry more marks allows focused practice, better time allocation, and improved accuracy, forming a key part of a smart CAT preparation strategy.
Analysis of CAT 2021–2024 reveals that topics like arithmetic, algebra, and geometry in Quant, RC and para jumbles in VARC, and seating arrangement and puzzles in DILR appear repeatedly. Concentrating on these high-frequency topics ensures aspirants cover 60–70% of questions with targeted preparation. CAT Topic-wise analysis highlights patterns that can reduce wasted study hours.
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Understanding CAT topic wise weightage 2025 allows aspirants to prioritise topics based on marks contribution. For example, in Quant, arithmetic historically accounts for 35–40% of questions. Allocating more time to high-weightage topics while not neglecting moderate-weightage areas ensures a balanced approach, improving both speed and accuracy.
CAT 2025 requires solving 66 questions in 120 minutes. Data shows that aspirants who follow topic-wise preparation spend less time on familiar high-weightage topics and avoid time traps in low-frequency areas. This strategic allocation can improve attempts by 10–15% in mocks and exams.
Analysing CAT topic-wise weightage helps track performance per topic. Mock data indicates that top 1% scorers consistently evaluate strengths and weaknesses in each topic weekly, allowing targeted revisions. This ensures no high-weightage area is left weak, directly contributing to a higher percentile.
Being aware of topic patterns reduces uncertainty during the CAT Exam 2025. When aspirants know which areas are likely to appear and have practiced them, stress levels drop. Historical data shows that confident topic coverage correlates with a 5–8 percentile boost among top scorers.
While CAT topics generally follow trends, difficulty levels and question types can vary. CAT 2023 DILR, for instance, had fewer but tougher sets. Analysing topic-wise weightage trends equips aspirants to adapt quickly, ensuring they don’t miss scoring opportunities due to unexpected pattern shifts.
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% | Ratios Averages Time & Work Compound Interest |
Algebra | 25–35% | Functions Inequalities Logarithms |
Geometry & Mensuration | 10–15% | Circles, 2D/3D Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry |
Number Systems | 5–10% | HCF and LCM, Divisibility, Remainders, Floor Functions |
Modern Maths | 5–10% | 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.
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.
DILR includes puzzles, seating arrangements, and charts. It requires a mix of speed, logic, and analytical skills.
Topic | Approx. Weightage | Key Areas |
Puzzles and | 50–60% | Linear, Circular, Grid-based, Complex arrangements |
Tables & Charts | 40–50% | Tabular data, Bar/Line/Pie charts, Mixed sets |
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.
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.
Section | Dominant Category | Weightage |
QA | Arithmetic | 40.91% |
DILR | Games & Tournaments, QUANT-based LR | 22.73% |
VARC | Reading Comprehension | 66.67% |
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% |
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% |
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
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.
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% |
Analysing previous years’ CAT topic-wise weightage is one of the smartest ways to plan your preparation. It helps you identify which topics consistently carry more marks, which areas fluctuate, and where your time investment will yield maximum returns. But to make this data truly useful, you must apply it strategically, not mechanically.
When you study past papers from CAT 2020 to CAT 2024, you’ll notice that certain areas appear every year, like Arithmetic and Algebra in Quant, Reading Comprehension in VARC, and Caselets in DILR. These are your high-consistency topics. Focus on mastering their concepts and question variations before anything else. If you can score well in these predictable zones, your overall percentile will remain stable even in tougher papers.
CAT isn’t rigid; its topic weightage evolves slightly every year. For example, in some years, Logical Reasoning dominates DILR, while in others, Data Interpretation sets are trickier. Similarly, VARC may shift focus from Vocabulary-based questions to Parajumbles and Summary questions.
By reviewing year-wise section analysis, you can forecast possible trends and allocate your revision time wisely. This habit ensures you’re prepared even if the paper’s pattern shifts in CAT 2025.
Once you’ve analysed topic weightage, divide your practice time based on three categories, high-weightage, moderate, and low-weightage topics.
For example:
Spend 40% of your study time on high-weightage areas like Arithmetic, Algebra, and RC.
Spend 35% on moderate topics like Geometry and Logical Arrangements.
Spend 25% on low-weightage but easy-scoring topics like Grammar or Modern Math. This balance helps you improve accuracy and avoid over-reliance on any single section.
Don’t just practice randomly, design mock tests that mirror real CAT distribution. For instance, if Arithmetic contributes around 30% of QA marks, make sure 3 out of 10 Quant questions in your mock come from it.
Analysing your mock test performance against actual weightage gives a clear picture of where you stand and which areas need more focus before the exam.
In the final 30 days before CAT, topic weightage helps you prioritise revision. Go back to chapters that appear most often or have given you low accuracy in mocks. For instance, if DI Tables or Reading Comprehension summaries are frequent trouble zones, target them specifically.
Analysing CAT topic-wise weightage trends from 2019 to 2024 reveals clear patterns that can guide 2025 aspirants toward high-scoring areas. The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section continues to favour Arithmetic-based questions, VARC remains dominated by Reading Comprehension, and DILR prioritises logical grouping and puzzle-based sets. Understanding these recurring themes is essential for strategic preparation and percentile maximisation.
Over the past few years, Arithmetic has contributed around 40–45% of the QA section, making it the most crucial area. Topics such as Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Ratio-Proportion, and Averages frequently appear. Algebra (20–25%) follows closely, focusing on Equations, Inequalities, and Functions. Geometry and Modern Math topics like Permutations & Combinations and Probability appear less frequently but are moderate in difficulty. Mastery of basic arithmetic concepts gives a strong edge in CAT 2025 QA.
The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is heavily RC-centric, with 70–80% weightage coming from Reading Comprehension passages. Questions test inference, tone, central idea, and vocabulary in context. Verbal Ability contributes the remaining marks through para-jumbles, summary-based questions, and odd-sentence out. The trend shows increasing focus on logical reading and contextual reasoning rather than direct grammar, making consistent RC practice vital for CAT 2025.
The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section has evolved into one of the most unpredictable yet scoring parts of CAT. Each year, aspirants face four complex sets, often blending data tables, Venn diagrams, arrangements, and games-based logic. Recent trends indicate an emphasis on multi-layered logical reasoning rather than pure calculation-based sets. Candidates must practice diverse puzzle types under time constraints to excel in this section.
The CAT exam differs significantly from other MBA entrance tests like XAT, NMAT, and SNAP in terms of sectional structure, topic distribution, and question difficulty level. While CAT emphasizes logical reasoning and data interpretation, XAT includes decision-making, and NMAT focuses on speed and accuracy. Understanding these topic weightage variations helps optimise cross-exam preparation strategy.
In CAT, Quantitative Aptitude (QA) holds around 34%–36% weightage, heavily emphasising Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) questions are often set-based and reasoning-intensive, testing analytical depth. In contrast, XAT balances Quant and DI with moderate-level questions, while NMAT and SNAP prioritise speed-based arithmetic and number series, requiring quick mental calculations. Thus, CAT demands conceptual clarity, while NMAT and SNAP reward accuracy under time pressure.
CAT VARC primarily tests reading comprehension (RC), which forms nearly 70% of the section, along with para-jumbles and odd-sentence questions. XAT’s verbal section is more language-intensive, covering grammar, vocabulary, and critical reasoning. NMAT includes short RCs, grammar, and fill-in-the-blanks, focusing on speed and contextual accuracy, while SNAP offers direct grammar and vocabulary-based questions. This makes CAT the most comprehension-heavy, while NMAT and SNAP are vocabulary-oriented.
Many aspirants study only the high-weightage areas, thinking that’s the fastest route to a top percentile. But this approach often backfires. Understanding weightage is useful only when balanced with accuracy, conceptual clarity, and time management. Let’s look at the most common mistakes students make and how to avoid them during CAT 2025 preparation.
A common error is skipping topics that seem less important based on past trends, like Grammar in VARC or Geometry in QA. However, CAT is known for surprises. Even low-weightage areas can contribute a few easy questions that boost your score. A balanced approach ensures you don’t lose marks in areas others neglect.
Many students assume the CAT topic-wise weightage remains constant. In reality, it changes slightly every year. For example, DILR sets may shift from logical arrangements to graph-based problems. Reviewing the last 3–4 years’ CAT papers helps you see patterns rather than relying on one year’s data. Adaptability is key to consistent performance.
Weightage data often leads students to over-practice certain sections, like Arithmetic or Reading Comprehension, without improving accuracy. But CAT scores depend on percentile, not attempts. It’s better to attempt fewer questions with high accuracy than to attempt more with guesswork. Regular mock tests and analysis help you identify your weak areas early.
Some aspirants memorise shortcuts just to score in high-weightage topics. This method may work in easy mocks but fails in actual CAT exams, where questions are application-based. Strengthen your basics, ratios, percentages, logical reasoning, and comprehension before applying tricks. Clear fundamentals help you handle unexpected question twists confidently.
CAT doesn’t reward sectional imbalance. Even if Quant has more high-weightage chapters, neglecting VARC or DILR can lower your overall percentile. Each section has a cutoff, so distribute your preparation time fairly. Weekly rotation among sections and periodic mixed mock tests can help maintain balance and boost your overall score.
Scoring 99 percentile in CAT is not just about practising topics based on weightage. While topic-wise preparation helps in smart planning, the 99 percentile mark demands speed, accuracy, and consistency across all sections. Analysis of the past five CAT exams shows the approximate question distribution: Quantitative Ability (QA), 22–26 questions, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), 20–24 questions, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), 24–26 questions.
Topic-wise preparation helps aspirants cover 70–75% of high-frequency concepts, increasing efficiency. For example, in Quant, algebra, arithmetic, and geometry form over 60% of questions historically.
Scoring 99 percentile in CAT Exam 2025 requires both accuracy and strategic question selection. For instance:
Quant: 14–16 correct attempts with minimal negative marking
VARC: 18–20 accurate answers across RC and VA
DILR: 10–12 correct sets with logical precision
Simply practising popular CAT topics is not enough; top scorers focus on both high-frequency and moderately weighted topics to maximise total score.
CAT 2023 data reveals that even if a candidate scores exceptionally in Quant, failing to meet sectional cut-offs in VARC or DILR can prevent a 99 percentile. Around 30% of aspirants with high Quant scores lost top ranks due to underperformance in one section. This shows that topic-wise preparation must be balanced across all sections.
Analysing full-length CAT mock test 2025 is very important. Data indicates aspirants who review mocks thoroughly improve their percentile by 15–18 points over those relying solely on weightage practice. CAT 2025 Mock analysis highlights weak areas, including low-weightage but high-risk questions, helping aspirants fine-tune time management and accuracy, which are key for achieving 99 percentile in CAT 2025.
CAT exam pattern 2025 evolve every year. For example, CAT 2023 DILR had fewer sets but higher difficulty, reducing average correct attempts per set to 8–10. Candidates relying only on historical weightage trends struggled, proving that flexible strategy and adaptability are essential. Aspirants must adjust their focus dynamically during CAT Exam 2025 to ensure a high percentile despite pattern shifts.
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 | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions | |
CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics | |
CAT Mock Test Series - 20 Sets, Questions with Solutions By Experts | |
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)
Arithmetic (Profit & Loss, Percentages, Time-Speed-Distance) consistently forms 35–40% of QA, while Algebra appears in 25–30% of questions.
The VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) section usually has the highest weightage, contributing around one-third of the total marks. Reading Comprehension alone often covers nearly 70% of this section. However, all sections, VARC, DILR, and Quant, have equal marks in CAT, so maintaining sectional balance is equally important.
CAT topic-wise weightage shows how many questions appear from each topic in sections like VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude. It helps you identify high-scoring areas so you can plan your preparation smartly. Understanding topic trends saves time, increases accuracy, and boosts your overall percentile in CAT 2025.
Review the past 3–4 years of CAT papers to see which topics appear most frequently. Prioritise high-consistency topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, and Reading Comprehension. Then create a study plan that gives more practice time to these areas while keeping room for moderate and low-weightage topics to ensure balanced preparation.
No, practising only high-weightage topics helps cover most questions but doesn’t ensure top percentile. Accuracy, speed, and sectional balance are also crucial. Low-frequency but tricky questions can impact overall scores if ignored.
Yes, there are minor changes every year. For example, DILR may focus more on data sets one year and logical puzzles the next. Quant may shift between Arithmetic and Geometry. Analysing yearly patterns helps you adapt to such shifts and stay prepared for any variation in CAT 2025.
It identifies high-frequency topics where mistakes occur, allowing aspirants to focus on critical scoring areas for maximum impact.
While the final pattern is released by IIMs each year, the general trend shows around 68 questions divided into three sections, VARC (24), DILR (22), and Quant (22). The exact topic distribution varies, but knowing past weightage helps you predict where to focus for the best results.
In VARC, Reading Comprehension carries around 70% weightage, while Para Jumbles, Para Summary, and Odd Sentence Out make up the remaining share.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) is often considered the most difficult section. Within it, complex puzzle-based and arrangement sets trouble most aspirants.
On Question asked by student community
You can get the previous year's CUSAT CAT papers in pdf format sample papers from careers360 article. Follow the link given below from careers360 to get the the CUSAT CAT previous years question papers.
Link- https://engineering.careers360.com/articles/cusat-cat-sample-papers
Hello,
Since the CAT application form correction window is closed, you must contact the CAT help desk immediately to explain the situation, as you can't edit a wrong date of birth after submission. If it's a major error like date of birth, you may need to go to the exam center with proof and the correct admit card, although getting it corrected before the exam date is the most important first step.
I hope it will clear your query!!
Hi there,
You have to apply separately for each symbiosis college, like SIBM Pune, as they as not automatically included. The CAT form automatically includes many IIMs, but the SNAP exam is a separate test that is given for admission to Symbiosis Institute, which requires its own separate application and fee.
Hope it helps!!!
Toppers usually study 3–6 focused hours a day, but it’s not just about time — it’s about smart preparation and consistency. Focus on quality practice, regular mocks, and targeted revision.
Check this complete guide to learn how toppers plan their day and reach 99 percentile: Read Now
Hello,
To get admitted to the Institute of Management Studies (IMS), BHU, for an MBA in 2026, you must clear the CAT entrance exam. For that you need to fill out the application form of the CAT in August 2026, which you can get on the Official CAT website
I hope it will clear your query!!
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