How to Start XAT 2025 Preparation, XAT Exam Preparation Strategy & Tips

How to Start XAT 2025 Preparation, XAT Exam Preparation Strategy & Tips

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Nov 13, 2024 02:44 PM IST | #XAT

How to start XAT 2025 Preparation: XLRI stands at the top of the list of management institutes, admitting students based on their standardized XAT scores. It is seen as one of the toughest entrance examinations in India. Success in the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is achieved through the establishment of an effective plan along with some solid hard work and well-formulated strategies. If you have been thinking about how you can start your preparation for XAT 2025, read on. This article will give you a clear idea of what to do, and what not to do for preparation, and also suggest some of the best resources for studying.
Direct link to fill XAT 2025 registration form

How to Start XAT 2025 Preparation?

Besides XLRI, candidates with XAT score can also apply for SPJIMR, IMT, XIMB, TAPMI, XIME, BIMTECH, and other top B-schools. The first step towards preparing for XAT is getting acquaintance with XAT exam pattern and syllabus. This will help you draw a perfect plan, strategy and ace in XAT 2025 with a good percentile. So before knowing “How to start XAT 2025 preparation”, it is essential to know the exam pattern and sectional composition of XAT 2025.

XAT Preparation Process – Get Familiar with the XAT Exam Pattern

XAT 2025 is conducted for those aspirants who want to take admission in MBA/ PGDM programs offered at XLRI institutions. Here you can scan over to know about the exam pattern of XAT such as the medium of the exam, the no. of questions, marking scheme, topics, and duration of the exam.

XAT Exam Pattern 2025

Exam StructureXAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Number of sections

5 Sections along with Mock Keyboard Testing

  • Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR)
  • Decision-making (DM)
  • Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
  • General Knowledge (GK)

XAT exam time duration

180 minutes

Number of questions

95

XAT total marks

95

Language of paper

English

Number of answer choices

Five

Mode of examination

Online

XAT marking scheme

  • +1 mark for a correct answer
  • - 0.25 marks for incorrect answer
  • - 0.10 marks for more than 8 un-attempted consecutive questions
  • No XAT negative marking scheme in the GK section
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XAT 2025 Sectional Composition

There is a variable distribution of questions in XAT entrance exam, i.e. one section has more than another section. All questions will be asked in MCQs format. Check out the sectional break-up of XAT question paper.

SectionsNumber of QuestionsDuration

XAT Part-I

Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA&LR)

26175

Decision-making (DM)

21

Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)

28

XAT Part-II

General Knowledge (GK)

20 (12 questions from current affairs and 8 from static GK)20
XAT Sample Paper, Topic wise Questions & Solution
Download latest XAT sample papers with detailed solution designed by MBA hitbullseye for the XAT 2025 examination preparation based on latest exam pattern, Topics and their weightage, difficulty level
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XAT 2025 Preparation: Points to Remember

XAT, also known as the Xavier Aptitude Test, is one of the most highly sought-after entrance exams for management aspirants in India. Conducted annually by Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI), the exam is designed to evaluate the aptitude of candidates seeking admission into some of the top management institutes across the country. As the XAT 2025 exam date approaches, aspirants need to gear up their preparation strategy and keep some important points in mind to maximize their chances of success. In this article, we will highlight some crucial points that every XAT 2025 aspirant should remember to ace the exam.

In view of the past XAT toppers, XAT preparation requires a well-planned approach to time management. Here are some of the key features of the exam that you need to keep in mind before preparation:

How to Start Preparing for XAT Verbal and Logical Ability Section?

The Verbal Ability/Verbal Reasoning and Logical Ability questions are a fair mix of grammar, vocabulary, and reasoning-based questions (Critical Reasoning and Jumbled Paragraphs). Critical Reasoning & Reading Comprehension areas have historically dominated this section.

Having a good hold of grammar basics is your asset here. Some top-notch strategies are:

  • Keep a fine balance between quick reading and your comprehension skills.
  • Practice at least 4 RC’s in a day. Start with short RC’s so that you do not get bored in the initial phase of your preparation. Try to read a single line of one passage in one go. This will require practice if you start solving different formats of RC’s a lot.
  • Get to know all the tones of passages as the author’s tone is the most commonly asked question in the exams. The tones can be acerbic, humorous, sarcastic, incendiary, dogmatic, ironical, nostalgic, etc.
  • Build your vocabulary and grammar by subscribing to daily alerts of one word of vocabulary online. Learn its synonyms and antonyms. In this way, you get to know all the usages of the word.
  • Learn prefixes and suffixes meaning methods, they will help you a lot in answering various vocabulary-based questions.

XAT 2025 Preparation Tips for Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation

Time management is so critical in the exam, so you need to solve the easiest questions first. Here are some of the preparation tips you can refer to for this section.

  • Remember there is no on-time screen calculator in XAT like in CAT. So if the calculation is intensive you can only master the section if you have practiced a lot on your calculation.
  • The questions are usually asked from Arithmetic, algebra, permutation and combinations, number system, probability, functions, time and work, data interpretations, and geometry.
  • Expertise requires a lot of time and practice. Improving your calculation skills and approximation skills is very crucial for this section.
  • Practice line graphs, pie charts, tabular graphs, and bar graphs.
  • Learn the concept of successive percentages and also the fraction values up to 30 as these concepts are used in most of the questions.
  • Do mental calculations while practicing questions and also learn the shortcut tricks.
  • The sets of DI can be of medium to difficulty level and calculation intensive. So in your daily routine solve as many DI sets as you can.

How to Start XAT Preparation for Decision Making section?

Candidates need to focus on their aptitude and management skills as this section can be quite tricky. Here you will face the questions based on different scenarios. The questions are basically for authorities to comprehend your judging capability. The various types of questions probed in these areas include financial issues involving the revenues of a company, ethical dilemmas, employee management issues, and general management scenarios.

As far as what decisions you should make, try to be selective in the questions regarding giving unbiased answers. Do not let your emotions form your own biases and then you cloud your judgment based on it.

How to Start XAT 2025 Preparation for General Awareness?

  • More emphasis here will be on economic and business awareness news. So read on daily basis newspapers like - The Financial Express, The Statesman, etc.
  • Read the newspaper daily so that you get updated on national and global current affairs.
  • In the static GK section, focus on awards, books & authors, and geography. Start brushing up your GK at an early phase.

Last Month XAT Preparation Plan 2025

The candidates are advised to follow the given below XAT last month preparation plans to enhance their XAT 2025 preparation.

Review the Syllabus: Start by revisiting the entire XAT exam syllabus. Focus on key topics in each section: Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability, and General Knowledge. Make sure you understand the important concepts and formulas.

Practice with Mock Tests: Take as many full-length mock tests as possible. This will help you get used to the XAT exam format, improve your time management skills, and identify areas where you need more practice.

Analyze Your Performance: After each XAT mock test, spend time analyzing your performance. Look at the types of mistakes you’re making and work on improving those areas. Pay attention to both accuracy and speed.

Revise Key Concepts: Focus on revising key formulas, important concepts, and common question types. Create quick XAT reference notes or flashcards to help with last-minute revisions.

Work on Weak Areas: Dedicate extra time to the sections or topics where you feel less confident. Use study materials or online resources to address these weak spots.

Improve Speed and Accuracy: Practice solving questions quickly and accurately. Work on shortcuts and strategies to tackle different types of questions efficiently.

Stay Updated on Current Affairs: For the General Knowledge section, ensure you’re up-to-date with recent events, especially in politics, sports, and business. Read newspapers or use current affairs apps for the latest information.

Focus on Health and Well-being: Maintain a healthy routine with adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. This will help you stay focused and perform better on exam day.

Relax and Stay Positive: In the final week, reduce the intensity of your study sessions. Focus on revising key points and stay positive. Avoid stress and ensure you’re mentally prepared for the exam.

XAT 2025 Preparation with Mock Tests

XAT mock tests must form an essential part of your preparation. Toppers suggest that you attempt at least two to three mock tests in a day. You must also do the analysis of the mock tests so that you can gauge your strengths and weaknesses. This will help in improving your speed in addition to accuracy when you solve the questions on the exam day and thus will make you more adept.

XAT Previous Year Question Papers

Previous Year question paper of XAT

Download XAT question paper free

XAT Question Paper 2024Click here
XAT Question Paper 2023Click here
XAT Question Paper 2022Click here
XAT Question Paper 2021Click here

XAT Question Paper 2020

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XAT Question Paper 2019

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XAT Question Paper 2018

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XAT Question Paper 2017

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XAT Question Paper 2016

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XAT Question Paper 2015

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XAT Question Paper 2014

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XAT Question Paper 2013

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XAT Question Paper 2012

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XAT Question Paper 2011

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XAT Question Paper 2010

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XAT Time Management

Last but not the least, the most important aspect for you to crack XAT 2025 is to master the art of overall time management. Here are some key tips that can help you in managing your time:

  • Start practicing mental calculations rather than using pen and paper-based methods.
  • Practice mock tests and sample papers as much as you can as these will help you in identifying your weak areas and help you in not wasting much time on them.
  • Mark faster but with accuracy. This can only be achieved by daily practice from the initial phase period and not just before the one month of commencement of the exam.
  • Do not get stuck on a question you cannot solve. Leave the confusing puzzles in reasoning and move on to the next question.
  • From the time you start preparing for the exam day, practice in a way that you have set a particular time for each section. Remember there is no sectional timing. So don't get overwhelmed by your favorite section and end up wasting too much time in it.

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What Is the Best Way to Prepare for XAT at Home?

The best way to prepare for XAT at home is to create a structured study plan that covers all sections of the exam, including Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, then gather quality study materials and resources, such as standard textbooks, online courses, and practice tests. Dedicate specific time slots each day to different subjects, ensuring regular practice and revision. Take full-length XAT mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve time management. Additionally, stay updated with current affairs for the GK section by reading newspapers and following reliable news sources. Consistently analyze your performance, focus on weak areas, and maintain a balanced routine with proper breaks and healthy habits to ensure effective preparation.

Best books for XAT preparation

The best books for XAT preparation are essential as they provide comprehensive coverage of the exam syllabus, including sections on decision-making, verbal and logical ability, quantitative ability, and general knowledge. These books often include a variety of practice questions and papers from previous years, helping candidates to familiarise themselves with the exam pattern and difficulty level. Detailed explanations and solutions enhance understanding and clarify concepts, making it easier to tackle complex problems. Additionally, they offer strategic insights and tips on time management and effective problem-solving techniques, which are crucial for performing well in the competitive XAT exam.

Category

Book Title

Author/Publisher

Best Books for XAT Preparation for Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning

A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning

R.S. Aggarwal

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

Ajay Singh

Word Power Made Easy Book

Norman Lewis

Analytical Reasoning

MK Pandey

High School English Grammar & Composition

Wren & Martin

Best XAT Decision Making Books

Target XAT 2025 (Past papers & mock tests)

Disha Experts

Analytical and Logical Reasoning

Arihant Publications

Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers)

R.K. Jha

Best Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation Books For XAT 2025 Preparation

How to Prepare for Data Interpretation

Arun Sharma

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

R.S. Aggarwal

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

Abhijit Guha

Data Interpretation for the CAT

Nishit K. Sinha


XAT Preparation Materials

Preparing for the XAT exam requires focused planning and time management. With less time to go, it's important to have a clear strategy that covers all the sections—Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and General Knowledge. It is necessary for Fthe candidates to give their best during their XAT preparation for ensuring success. Given below are set of XAT preparation materials designed by Careers360 to ensure an enhanced XAT exam preparation of the candidates.

TITLE

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XAT Sample Paper, Section wise Questions with Expert's Solution

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XAT Section Wise Preparation Tips

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XAT 2024 Question Paper

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XAT Past 10 Year's Question Paper with Answers

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Know all about XAT 2024

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How to prepare for XAT in 6 months?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the sections from which questions will be asked in XAT?

The questions will be asked from sections namely-

  • Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
  • Verbal and Logical Ability
  • Decision Making
  • General Knowledge

2. What is the duration of XAT 2025?

The duration of XAT exam will be 180 minutes (3 hours).

3. Is XAT tougher than CAT?

If you are well prepared for CAT, then you easily clear XAT too. However students term it difficult due to the additional Decision Making section. 

4. How many questions will be there in XAT 2025?

Total number of questions will be asked in XAT exam is 95

5. What is the advantage of solving XAT 2025 mock test?

Mock tests help in improving your speed in addition to accuracy when you solve the questions on the exam day and thus will make you more adept.

6. Can I clear XAT in 1 month?

It is possible to prepare for XAT in one month if candidates follow a focused study approach covering all the important chapters. They must analyse and evaluate their strength and weakness in relation to the XAT syllabus and pattern. Take detailed notes on all the important formulas and key topics, and regularly revise the topics thoroughly.

7. How should I begin preparing for the XAT in 2025?

   Start by understanding the syllabus and exam format. Create a study schedule, gather good study materials, and take practice tests to improve time management and identify weaknesses.

8. What are the tips and tricks for the main XAT exam sections?
  • Improve calculation skills for Quantitative Ability

  • Stay updated on current events for General Knowledge

  • Work on grammar and comprehension for Verbal Ability.

9. How to prepare for the Verbal Ability section?

For the preparation of the Verbal Ability section, one should practice reading comprehension regularly, build your vocabulary, and review grammar basics.

10. How can I use my time wisely when taking the XAT exam?

Begin with easier questions, set time limits for each section, and practice mental calculations to manage your time effectively. Avoid spending too much time on tough questions, and start practicing regularly to enhance accuracy.

11. What should I focus on in the last month before XAT 2025?

In the last month, review the syllabus, practice with mock tests, analyze performance, revise key concepts, and stay updated on current affairs.

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Questions related to XAT

Have a question related to XAT ?

Hello,

Yes, you can also join IIMs two years after graduation, depending upon the justification in interviews and your performance in entrance exams. If you are not sure about CAT, try those other management exams less hard:

Common Management Admission Test: Easier than CAT; 4-5 months of continuous preparation will suffice.

MAT : Much easier and takes place thrice a year.

SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test): A bit easier than CAT, apt for Symbiosis Institutes.

Xavier Aptitude Test or XAT : Hence, easier than CAT but the unique decision-making section.

Use exams like CMAT and MAT as a challenge to be competitively prepared. This can be given about 4-5 months, along with a few rounds of mock tests and smart studying.

XAT scores are valid for 2 years hence you can easily download it again Visit the official website of XAT 2025 i.e xatonline.in. and then Click on 'scorecard' tab.login with your credentials XAT ID and password type the security text shown on screen. Click on candidate scorecard and download a PDF copy of the same hope it helps.

Hello

Here is the list of colleges you can get with 68%ile

JIMS Rohini Delhi
IMT Hyderabad
SOIL Institute of Management
Jaipuria Institute of Management Jaipur
Jaypee Business School
Dayananda Sagar Business School Bangalore
NSB Academy Bangalore
NDIM New Delhi

Hello Aspirant

Seeing your marks, it is evident you are good in academics. Thus, you can get into a good MBA college but mind you, it won't be easy because there are thousands of students who are as good as you, if not better. MBA colleges do not choose candidates solely based on academic performance, although it has a big weightage in their selection process. They test your presence of mind, intellect, and communication skills through Group Discussions and Interviews.

The safest way to get into a good MBA college is to score 96-97+ percentile and do really well in GD and  PI. Top MBA colleges in India are IIMs, XISS (Ranchi), TISS, Delhi School of Business, and Symbiosis.

Hope this helps

Hello Aspirant

Congratulations on your score, There are many good B schools at 80-85%ile in CAT and XAT
1)Great Lakes, Chennai
2)IRMA
3) Goa Institute of Management
4) NIBM
5) TAPMI
Do your research about these colleges as to what is their average package, the roles offered.

Colleges like NIBM specialize in Finance, and IRMA has a lot of sales marketing Roles. So ultimately the choice is yours which specialization you want to pursue.

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