XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude & DI Sample Questions with Solutions and Expert Preparation Tips

Overview of XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation Section

Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation Section is known for its moderate to high difficulty level. The time pressure in XAT makes these sections particularly challenging because you need to solve complex problems quickly and accurately. The questions are designed to test your speed, accuracy, and logical reasoning abilities. Success in these sections requires thorough preparation, regular practice, and good time management skills.

Key Topics Covered in XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude

Essential topics in the Quantitative aptitude section are given below. The candidates are advised to thoroughly prepare for these topics to crack the XAT 2026 in their first attempt.

• Arithmetic: Important topics are profit & loss, time & work, percentages, ratios, mixtures & alligations

• Number system: Divisibility rules, factorisation, HCF & LCM

• Geometry: Mensuration, circles, triangles, polygons

• Algebra: Inequalities, algebraic identities, linear and quadratic equations, maxima-minima, progressions

• Probability and permutations & combinations

• Data sufficiency questions

Important Areas in XAT 2026 Data Interpretation

Key concepts in the XAT 2026 Data Interpretation section are:

• Pie charts

• Graphs: Line graphs and scatter plots

• Bar diagrams

• Tabular Data

• Data analysis and comparison

• Data charts: A combination of charts, like bar graphs and line graphs

• Caselets

Question Distribution and Weightage for XAT 2026 Quant and DI

QA and DI sections hold significant weightage in your overall percentage. Almost 1/3 of the questions come from these two sections. The QA section has 15-16 questions, and the DI section has 12-13 questions.

So these sections required our exceptional attention to secure good marks in the overall XAT 2026 exam.

Best Approach to Solve XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude Questions

XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude questions test conceptual clarity, logical application, and calculation efficiency rather than speed alone. The section includes arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and modern math, often framed to check depth of understanding. To score well, candidates must combine strong fundamentals with smart selection and structured problem-solving methods.

Build Strong Conceptual Foundations Before Practice

Quantitative Aptitude in XAT rewards clarity of concepts over rote formula use. Candidates should first ensure they understand why formulas work, especially in core areas like percentages, ratios, algebraic identities, and coordinate geometry. For example, understanding the logic behind profit–loss or quadratic equations helps handle twisted or case-based questions. Strong fundamentals reduce confusion and improve accuracy in medium-to-difficult questions that test application rather than memory.

Select Questions Smartly Based on Strengths

Attempting all Quant questions blindly can lower scores due to negative marking. XAT papers usually have a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult questions. Candidates should quickly scan the section and identify familiar question types. For instance, if arithmetic or algebra is a strength, prioritise those first. Smart selection ensures better accuracy and optimal time utilisation, which is crucial for achieving a higher sectional score.

Apply Logical Methods Instead of Lengthy Calculations

XAT Quant often allows logical shortcuts such as option elimination, value substitution, or back-solving. For example, in equation-based questions, substituting options into the equation may be faster than solving it fully. Logical elimination of impossible options saves time and avoids unnecessary calculations, making this a powerful technique for handling tough questions efficiently.

Use Approximation and Estimation Where Possible

Precise calculations are not always required in XAT Quant. Candidates should use approximation in questions involving large numbers, percentages, or averages. For instance, approximating 19.8% as 20% can quickly lead to the correct option when differences are large. Estimation helps in reaching answers faster while maintaining sufficient accuracy under time pressure.

Maintain Step-Wise Accuracy to Avoid Silly Errors

Accuracy is more important than attempts in XAT Quant. Many candidates lose marks due to small calculation mistakes. Writing steps clearly, rechecking signs, and avoiding mental shortcuts in tricky calculations help reduce errors. A methodical approach, especially in geometry and algebra, ensures consistency and builds confidence across the section.

Practice Sectional Tests and Analyse Mistakes

Regular practice through sectional tests builds familiarity with XAT-level Quant questions. However, improvement comes from post-test analysis. Candidates should review incorrect questions, identify concept gaps, and note recurring mistakes. Creating a mistake log helps refine strategies and strengthens weaker areas, leading to steady improvement in Quantitative Aptitude performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude

Some of the common mistakes students make while answering the quantitative aptitude questions are:

• Students often do not read the full questions and start calculating after reading one or two lines. This leads to a misinterpretation of the question, and incorrect answers result from the calculation.

• After administering mock tests, some students overlook the negative points and fail to rectify them. One of the primary purposes of administering mock tests is to identify areas of weakness. If you neglect them, then weak points stay weak, and the same mistakes will happen in the main exam.

• Some students overcomplicate a simple solution and get confused. This often leads to incorrect answers and a waste of valuable time.

• Time management is a crucial aspect of the XAT exam. Students often do not strategise the time management part before the exam. During the exam, they invest too much time on one question and relatively more straightforward questions at the end remain unanswered.

Proven Short Tricks for XAT 2026 DI Questions

XAT 2026 Data Interpretation questions demand strong data-reading skills combined with smart calculation techniques. Since DI sets are usually time-consuming, candidates must rely on technical shortcuts rather than lengthy computations. These proven tricks focus on approximation, ratio analysis, smart comparisons, and option-based solving. When applied correctly, they help candidates save crucial time, reduce calculation errors, and attempt more questions accurately under exam pressure.

Read the Question First to Define the Data Scope

A common technical mistake in DI is analysing the entire table or chart before understanding the question. In XAT, questions are usually selective and require only specific data points. Reading the question first helps define what not to calculate. For example, if the question asks for year-on-year growth for one product, ignore other products and years. This targeted approach reduces cognitive load and calculation time, allowing faster and more accurate decision-making across multiple questions in the same set.

Apply Approximation Instead of Exact Calculation

XAT DI is designed to test interpretation, not arithmetic perfection. Most options are spaced far enough to allow approximation. Candidates should round numbers strategically (e.g., 497 → 500, 102 → 100) to simplify divisions and percentages. For instance, calculating 498/1002 is quicker when approximated to 500/1000 = 50%. This technique drastically cuts calculation time and is especially useful in percentage change and average-based questions.

Convert Values into Ratios for Faster Comparison

When comparing quantities across categories or years, using ratios is more efficient than finding absolute values. For example, instead of calculating total sales individually for two years, compare their ratios like 320:480 and 400:600, which both reduce to 2:3. Ratio simplification helps identify trends instantly and avoids unnecessary multiplication or division, making it a highly technical yet effective DI shortcut.

Use Option-Based Solving to Minimise Calculations

Before diving into calculations, scan the answer options carefully. Often, XAT provides options that allow reverse reasoning. For example, if options are widely spaced percentages like 12%, 18%, 35%, and 60%, quick estimation can eliminate extreme values immediately. Option-based solving narrows the scope of computation and is particularly effective in weighted average and growth comparison questions.

Break Large Tables and Graphs into Logical Units

Large DI sets appear intimidating but become manageable when divided into smaller, logical units such as rows, columns, or specific segments. Instead of processing the full table, focus only on the relevant slice linked to the question. For instance, a 6-year × 5-product table can be treated as a 2-year × 1-product problem if the question demands it. This structured breakdown improves clarity and execution speed.

Avoid Over-Calculation by Stopping at the Right Step

One of the most important technical tricks in XAT DI is knowing when to stop calculating. Once the derived value is sufficient to confidently match an option, further precision is unnecessary. For example, if partial calculation already shows the answer exceeds 25%, and only one option fits, stop there. This habit prevents time wastage and helps candidates attempt more DI questions effectively within the exam time limit.

Key Data Interpretation Formulas to Remember for XAT

Knowledge of basic mathematical operations, such as percentages, averages, and ratios, is very helpful in solving these questions.

Some of the key formulae are:

XAT 2026 Quant and DI Solved Papers: Importance in Preparation

Analysing XAT Quant and DI solved papers 2026 is one of the critical areas during preparation. You can get familiar with the XAT question paper settings and understand the types of questions, like algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and complex DI sets, that often appear in the exam. You can also analyse solutions and learn shortcut methods to solve questions. These solved papers give you a clear picture of how to prepare yourself.

Constant practice of the solved papers will also increase your speed and accuracy. You can also get the exam simulation environment. Seeing improvements in the results will also boost your confidence and make you more comfortable with the exam setting.

Where to Find XAT Quant and DI Solved Papers for 2026

The official XAT site releases answer keys along with the question paper. Additionally, some of the top coaching institutes and ed-tech sites release solved XAT exam papers along with expert tips. These tips will also help you to learn new concepts and techniques. Some sites also provide PDFs, which can be downloaded. Additionally, you will find books such as "Previous 10 Years Solved XAT Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation papers" and those by Arun Sharma, which provide detailed solutions in the market.

How to Effectively Analyse Solved Papers for XAT 2026

During the analysis of the solved papers for XAT 2026, focus on the recurring topics, solving techniques, and shortcuts. You will gain insight into the types of questions most likely to appear in the XAT 2026 exam and prepare accordingly. Also, note down which questions will take more time and which can be solved relatively quickly. Try solving those papers, setting a time,r and reviewing your performance. Focus on the areas in which you are repeating mistakes and taking a long time to solve. Add them to your revision plan. Having a well-planned XAT timetable is also very beneficial.

XAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude Sample Questions with Solutions

Q1. Directions: Solve the following question and mark the best possible option.

When a number is divided by 36, it leaves a remainder of 19. What will be the remainder when the number is divided by 12?

1. 10

2. 7

3. 19

4. 11

5. None of these

Answer:

We know that Dividend = Divisor × Quotient + Remainder

Let the quotient be x.

So the dividend becomes 36x + 19.

When the dividend is divided by 12, we get,

(36x + 19) / 12

= 36x / 12 + 19 / 12

As 36 is perfectly divisible by 12, 36x will also be perfectly divisible by 12.

When we divide 19 by 12, we get the remainder 7.

Hence, the correct answer is 7.

Q2. Mr Jose buys some eggs. After bringing the eggs home, he finds two to be rotten and throws them away. Of the remaining eggs, he puts five-ninths in his fridge and brings the rest to his mother’s house. She cooks two eggs and puts the rest in her fridge. If her fridge cannot hold more than five eggs, what is the maximum possible number of eggs, Mr Jose? [XAT 2021]

1. 9

2. 11

3. 20

4. 17

5. 29

Answer:

Let the total number of eggs bought be (9x + 2).

So after throwing away 2 eggs, the remaining eggs = 9x

He kept 5/9th of the remaining in the fridge.

So, the number of eggs kept in the fridge = 5x

The rest of the eggs, he took to his mother's house.

Number of eggs brought to his mother's house = 4x

After cooking 2 eggs, the eggs kept in the fridge of his mother’s house = 4x - 2

According to the question,

4x - 2 ≤ 5
⇒ x ≤ 7/4

So the maximum value of x can be 1.

∴ Maximum number of eggs can be brought = 9 × 1 + 2 = 11

Hence, the correct answer is 11.

XAT Data Interpretation 2026 Sample Questions with Solutions

Q1. Analyse the graph/s given below and answer the question that follows.

Sodium carbonate, also called soda ash, is an essential ingredient for glass, soaps, detergents, and many other products. There were two ways of producing soda ash. The first is producing soda ash from naturally occurring trona. The second method was producing soda ash from common salt through the Solvent process. The soda ash produced in this manner was called synthetic soda ash. Tata Chemicals was one of the largest producers of soda ash. The following two charts are provided. The first chart shows the production of two varieties of soda ash at Tata Chemicals. The second chart illustrates the global production of various soda ash varieties.

Suppose the total global production increased (year on year) from 2005 to 2008 by the amount that Tata Chemicals' synthetic production (year on year) increased in the same period. By what percentage did the global production increase from 2007 to 2008?

1. It cannot be calculated at all from the tables above

2. Increased by 10.16%

3. Increased by 9.48%

4. Did not increase at all

5. Increased by 8.64%

Answer:

As synthetic soda ash production for Tata Chemicals remained unchanged from 2007 to 2008, global production also did not show any increase.

Hence, the correct answer is option D.

Q2. Directions: Solve the following question and mark the best possible option.

Company BELIANCE hosted a party for 8 members of Company AXIAL. In the party, no member of AXIAL interacted with more than three members of BELIANCE. Out of all the members of BELIANCE, three members – each interacted with four members of AXIAL and the remaining members – each interacted with two members of AXIAL. The greatest possible number of members of company BELIANCE in the party is: [XAT 2009]

1. 9

2. 10

3. 11

4. 12

5. None of the above

Answer:

Let the maximum number of members in the company BELIANCE be n.

Of all the members of BELIANCE, 3 members each interacted with 4 members of AXIAL.
Whereas the remaining (n − 3) members each interacted with 2 members of AXIAL.
Total number of interactions = 3 × 4 + (n – 3) × 2
Since n members of AXIAL interacted with not more than 3 members of BELIANCE, the maximum number of interactions for AXIAL members will be: 8 × 3 = 24

According to the question,

3 × 4 + (n – 3) × 2 = 24
⇒ (n – 3) × 2 = 12
⇒ (n – 3) = 6
∴ n = 9

Hence, the correct answer is 9.

Tips and Tricks for Tackling Complex Data Sets in XAT 2026 DI

Handling complex Data Interpretation (DI) sets in XAT 2026 requires clarity, patience, and the right problem-solving approach. Instead of rushing through calculations, candidates must focus on understanding data structures, identifying relevant information, and choosing smart calculation paths. A strategic approach to DI helps reduce time pressure, improve accuracy, and ensure better score conversion even when the data appears lengthy or confusing.

Read the Data Set Before Reading the Questions

Begin by carefully studying the entire data set rather than jumping straight to the questions. This helps you understand the context, variables, and relationships within the data. When you read questions later, you already know where to look, reducing re-reading time and unnecessary confusion.

Identify the Simplest Data Points First

Not all values in a DI set are equally important. Spot direct figures, totals, or fixed values that require minimal calculation. Solving these easier parts first builds confidence and helps you unlock additional information that may simplify tougher questions linked to the same set.

Avoid Lengthy Calculations Through Smart Estimation

XAT DI is designed to test decision-making under pressure, not advanced mathematics. Use approximation and comparison wherever possible instead of exact calculations. Eliminating unlikely answer choices through logical estimation saves valuable time and reduces the risk of calculation errors.

Create Quick Notes and Mini Tables

Condense complex charts, tables, or graphs into small notes on your rough sheet. Writing ratios, differences, or trends visually makes the data easier to manage. These mini summaries allow quicker cross-checking and prevent repeatedly scanning large data blocks.

Know When to Skip and Return

If a data set seems calculation-heavy or confusing after initial reading, move on without hesitation. Time management is crucial in XAT. Returning later with a fresh perspective often makes complex sets feel more approachable and prevents wasting time early in the section.

XAT 2026 E-Books

XAT 2026 e-books are a convenient and effective resource for candidates preparing for the exam now. These digital books cover all sections, including Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and Verbal Ability, with exam-focused explanations and practice questions. Easy to access on mobile or laptop, e-books allow flexible study anytime. They also offer quick revisions, solved examples, and updated content, making preparation more organised, time-saving, and consistent for aspirants targeting high XAT scores.