CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024: Download PDF, Important Topics, Weightage

Updated By Shivangi Ahirwar on 22 Aug, 2024 16:55

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The CAT syllabus covers topics from three sections- VARC, QA, and DILR. IIMs don't have any fixed syllabus, so the test-takers must prepare for the exam based on the topics asked in past years. The questions covered in the exam test a candidate's mathematical, aptitude, reasoning, and basic English skills.

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CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024

CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2024 includes all the Math topics of Class 9th and 10th, such as Arithmetic, Number Systems, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Mensuration. The analytical reasoning, logical thinking, mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities of a candidate will be assessed in this section. The quant section in CAT syllabus 2024 assesses if a candidate can analyze and solve complex mathematical problems under time constraints.

CAT exam will be conducted most likely on November 24, 2024, in 150 test cities in India. MBA aspirants can have a look at the detailed CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2024 to gain a better understanding of the questions they will come across in the exam.

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CAT QA Syllabus PDF Download

Since the IIMs do not release an official syllabus PDF for CAT, candidates may find it difficult to ascertain the important topics for each CAT section. Check out the CAT Qunatitative Aptitutde Syllabus PDF mentioned below:

CAT QA Syllabus PDF Download Link - Click Here

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024 Highlights

Given below are the primary highlights of the aptitude syllabus for CAT 2024.

CAT QA Syllabus Particulars

CAT QA Syllabus Details

Number of questions

22

Type of questions asked

MCQ and TITA (Non-MCQs)

Total marks

78

Number of MCQs

14-16

Number of TITA questions

6-8

Sectional time limit for QA

40 minutes (53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates)

Difficulty level

Moderate to high

Marking scheme

  • +3 for every correct answer
  • -1 for every wrong/incorrect answer

CAT Quant 2024 Important Topics

The QA section comprises the final part of the CAT exam. Candidates are required to complete the QA section in the final 40 minutes of the exam. Arithmetic is a fundamental part of the CAT QA syllabus. This section evaluates a candidate’s mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities through the following sections:

  • Arithmetic: It covers topics such as percentages, ratio and proportion, time and work, profit and loss, time, speed and distance, simple and compound interest, etc.
  • Algebra: It covers topics like linear equations, quadratic equations, progressions (arithmetic, geometric, harmonic), inequalities, functions, etc.
  • Geometry: Lines and angles, polygons, circles, triangles, coordinate geometry, mensuration (area, volume), etc. are important topics in this section.
  • Number Systems: It includes topics like Properties of numbers, remainders, factorization, divisibility rules, HCF, LCM, etc.
  • Modern Math: Important topics in this section are probability, set theory, permutations and combinations, logarithms, etc.

Here are some important topics from the Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT 2024 syllabus:

Coordinate Geometry

LCM & HCF

Mensuration

Partnership (Accounts)

Logarithm

Simple and Compound Interest

Time and Work

Percentages

Surds and Indices

Sequences and Series

Inequalities

Square Root and Cube Root

Binomial Theorem

Mean, Mode, Median

Properties of Ratio

Set Theory & Function

Quadratic and Linear Equations

Probability

Number System

Complex Numbers

Averages

Ratio, Proportion & Variation

Geometry

Speed, Time and Distance

Compound Interest

Algebra

Profit, Loss and Discount

Trigonometry

Progressions and Series

Permutation and Combination

Mixtures and Alligations

Number System Shortcut for CAT

Quantitative Aptitude Shortcut Techniques for CAT

Shortcuts in Averages

Circles

Remainder Concepts

Factorials

Relatives Speed

Power Cycle

Arithmetic Progression

Harmonic Progression

Polygons

Quadrilaterals

Triangles

Points, Lines and Planes

Angles

Weighted Average

Geometric Progression

Graphical Division Geometry

Derangement

Similar Triangles

Applications of Averages

Application of Power Cycle

Conditional Probability

Constant Product Rule

Escalator Questions for CAT

Boats and Streams for CAT

Also Read:

Importance of Vedic Math in CAT 2024CAT 2024 Preparation Tips for Working Professionals
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Topic-wise CAT Exam Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024

The crucial topics included under the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2024 have been provided below. The following syllabus must be used as the foundation for the quant preparation of the CAT 2024 aspirants.

Important Number System Topics for CAT 2024

The topics that must be covered under Number System are as follows:

  • Basics of Numbers
  • Properties of Numbers
  • Divisibility Rules
  • Divisibility and Factors
  • Finding Out the Last Digit
  • Finding Out Last Two Digits
  • Number of trailing zeroes
  • Highest Common Factor and Lowest Common Multiple
  • Finding out Remainders based on:
    • Wilson’s Theorem
    • Binomial Theorem
    • Fermat’s Theorem
    • Euler’s Theorem
    • Basic divisibility rules
    • Pattern Recognition and cyclicity of remainders
    • Simplifying the Dividend (Single and/or Multiple Divisors)
  • Base Systems
    • Conversion of Bases
    • Addition/subtraction/multiplication in different bases

Important Arithmetic Topics for CAT 2024

The topics that must be covered in Arithmetic are as follows:

  • Averages
  • Mean Median Mode
  • Percentages
  • Ratio and Proportion
  • Simple and Compound Interest
  • Profit and Loss
  • Mixtures and Allegations
  • Time and Work
  • Time Speed and Distance

Important Algebra Topics for CAT 2024

The topics that must be covered in Algebra are as follows:

  • Basics Algebraic Formulae
  • Linear Equations:
    • Problems on ages
    • Number of integer solutions
  • Quadratic Equations:
    • Finding out roots
    • Maxima and Minima
  • Higher Degree Equations- Descartes Rule of Signs
  • Inequalities
  • Logarithm
  • Arithmetic progression and Geometric progression
  • Functions:
    • Modifications of graphs
    • The smallest value in a maximum function

Important Geometry Topics for CAT 2024

The topics that must be covered in Geometry are as follows:

  • Lines and Angles
  • Triangles – Basic Concepts:
    • Area, Angles
    • Similar Triangles
  • Polygons
  • Circles
  • Trigonometry
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Solids / Mensuration – 3D Geometry

Important Modern Maths Topics for CAT 2024

The topics that must be covered in Modern Maths are as follows:

  • Probability
  • Set Theory
  • Sequence and Series
  • Binomial Theorem
  • Permutation and Combination

Topic-wise Weightage in CAT QA Syllabus 2024

A total of 26 questions will be asked in the QA section, among which 8 questions will be TITA (Non-MCQs) and 18 questions will be MCQs. 

CAT QA Syllabus Weightage

The expected topics and the number of questions asked from each topic have been provided below.

Topics

Topics Mostly Covered

Expected Number of Questions

Expected Weightage

Geometry & Mensuration

  • Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals
  • Mensuration
  • Trigonometry
  • Coordinate Geometry

6-8

24%

Arithmetic

  • Time
  • Mixtures
  • Averages
  • Percentages
  • Profit and Loss
  • Simple Interest Compound Interest
  • Pipe Cisterns, Work 
  • Time Speed Distance
  • Ratios and Proportion

10-11

29%

Algebra

  • Functions
  • Logarithms
  • Polynomials
  • Inequalities
  • Arithmetic and Geometric Progressions
  • Linear and Quadratic Equations

6-8

24%

Number System

  • Inequalities
  • Logarithm
  • Functions
  • Problems on ages
  • Number of integer solutions

4-5

15%

Modern Math

  • Set Theory
  • Probability
  • Permutation and Combination
  • Sequence and Series
  • Binomial Theorem

2-3

8%

Expected Weightage of CAT Quant Topics in 2024

Find the expected number of questions from each topic in the CAT quant syllabus in the table below.

CAT Quant Topics

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

Number System (Factors, Surds, Indices, Integral Values)

1

3

4

Algebra (Log, Surds, Sequence & Series, Equations)      

8

7

7

Arithmetic (Ratio, SI & CI, TSD, T&W, PLD, Mixture, Clock)

9

9

8

Modern Math (P&C)

1

-

-

Geometry & Mensuration (Quadrilateral, Triangle, Coordinate Geo Circle)

3

3

3

ERPV

2

-

-

Percentages

2

1

1

Simple Interest & Compound Interest

1

1

1

Time & Distance

1

1

2

Time & Work

-

1

2

Numbers

3

1

1

Geometry

2

2

4

Progressions/Series

2

2

1

ILS

-

2

-

Sets

1

-

-

Quadratic Equations

1

2

4

Inequalities & Modulus

2

4

2

Averages Mixtures & Allegations

3

4

3

Coordinate Geometry

1

-

4

Permutations & Combinations

1

1

1

Trigonometry

-

1

1

Geometry

3

3

3

Quadrilateral, Polynomial Equations

1

1

2

Progression & Series

1

3

1

Linear Equation & Inequalities

2

2

3

Average, Ration & Proportion

5

5

5

Profit, Loss & Interest

3

1

1

Time, Work & Distance

1

2

5

Logarithm, Surds & Indices

0

1

1

Probability

1

1

1

Venn Diagram

1

0

0

Functions & Graphs

3

2

1

Best Books for CAT Exam Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024

Due to its heavy emphasis on calculations and the use of mathematics, the QA component of the CAT exam is regarded as the most difficult. The best books for CAT 2024 for Quantitative Aptitude that explain the fundamentals in a simple and understandable manner are listed here:

  1. Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal
  2. NCERT Mathematics books (Class 9-10)
  3. Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha
  4. Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Verma
  5. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha
  6. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma

These books also contain more than 4000 practice questions with varying levels of difficulty for each topic.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2024 Important Points

The most important points related to the Quantitative Aptitude section of the CAT 2024 syllabus have been provided below:

  • Since the CAT QA section carries a substantial weightage in the overall CAT score, it is mandatory for the candidates to score well in this section for achieving a competitive percentile.
  • A candidate's analytical reasoning skills, logical thinking skills, and problem-solving skills will be evaluated in this section.
  • There will be 22 questions in the CAT QA section.
  • Questions will be of both MCQ and non-MCQ type. There will be approximately 14 to 16 MCQs and 8 non-MCQs.
  • 3 marks will be awarded for each correct answer. If candidates answer an MCQ incorrectly, there is a negative marking of 1 mark. However, no marks will be deducted for non-MCQ questions.

CAT 2024 Preparation Tips for Quantitative Aptitude

Mathematics covers a significant part of the CAT QA syllabus. Questions of the 10th and 12th-grade levels are typically covered in this section and hence a very fundamental and simple understanding of arithmetic enables the candidates to answer questions accurately. 

  • The first step is to build a strong conceptual understanding of mathematical topics. Do not overlook fundamental concepts that speed up calculations and hence save time. The most crucial of these concepts, which you shouldn't overlook, include the unitary method, cube, and square root, percentage conversion ratios, tables up to 25, cubes up to 20, and squares up to 35. Also, practise basic math fundamentals like number systems, geometry, and arithmetic problems (profit and loss, percentage, etc.).
  • The key to mastering quantitative aptitude is daily practice. Solving a variety of problems from different topics and difficulty levels enables one to answer the maximum number of questions within the allotted time with high accuracy. The ideal strategy is to start with basic problems and gradually move on to more complex ones. Candidates should allocate specific time for practising each topic from this section every day.
  • Candidates must become well-versed with important geometric principles to deal with QA problems as rapidly as possible. 
  • Trigonometry may be practiced in combination with other subjects.
  • The problems on Sequence & Series and Alligations & Mixture can be simply solved with regular practice.
  • Practice previous year's question papers and take mock exams to simulate the exam environment and analyze your performance. Identify your strengths and weaknesses and focus on improving your weak areas.
  • Regular practice, revision of formulae, shortcut learning, and development of quick calculation speed are all recommended.

Related Links:

How to Prepare for CAT Quantitative Ability (QA)

How to Use Calculator in CAT 2024

CAT 2024 Study Plan for Students in Final Year of Graduation

CAT Predicted Question Paper 2024

CAT 2024 Syllabus for Other Sections

Candidates preparing for CAT 2024 must also check out the syllabus for Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning provided below.

CAT VARC Syllabus 2024

CAT DILR Syllabus 2024

Want to know more about CAT

FAQs about CAT Syllabus

Which are the best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude?

The best books for CAT Quantitative Aptitude are How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma, Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal, Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha, Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Verma, Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha among many others, that will help the candidates to improve their mathematical aptitude. Strengthening the basic foundational mathematical concepts, sound knowledge of the mathematical formulas and equations, constant practice, and revision are crucial to improve the speed at which mathematical problems are solved.

How should I cover all the topics in the CAT Quant syllabus?

Candidates must devote a significant amount of time to cover all the topics in the CAT Quant syllabus since it includes a huge number of topics. Therefore, it is important to divide the section into smaller manageable sections, focusing only on the more important, intricate and scoring topics. Some subdivisions you can use include Arithmetics, Geometry, Trigonometry, Sequences and Series, Allegations and Mixture and Commercial Mathematics.

Does the CAT Quant syllabus also include Modern Math topics?

Yes, the CAT Quant syllabus also includes Modern Math topics. Some of the modern mathematics topics in the section include Probability, Permutation and Combination, Set Theory, Binomial Theorem and Sequence and Series. Approximately 2-3 questions will be asked from Modern Maths.

Is the CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus 2024 difficult?

Yes, the CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus 2024 is difficult to prepare compared to other sections. When it comes to solving CAT QA problems, candidates with engineering backgrounds typically find this section easier, since they are well-versed with the equations, theorems, and techniques involved in attempting different types of questions with varying levels of difficulty. It can be difficult for students from backgrounds or streams where math was not a major subject or whose courses did not require basic math and calculations. Candidates need to devote a great deal of time and practice on the CAT quant section.

Is there any negative marking in the CAT QA section?

Yes, there is a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong/incorrect answer in the CAT QA section. However, no marks are deducted for non-MCQ questions. Hence, practice previous year's question papers, take mock exams, and focus on improving your weak areas. No marks will be deducted for unattempted questions and 3 marks will be awarded for every correct answer.

Will only MCQs be asked in the CAT QA section?

No, both MCQ and non-MCQ questions will be asked in the CAT QA section. There will be 14 to 16 MCQs and 8 non-MCQs. Candidates must solve a variety of problems from different topics and difficulty levels to be able to answer the maximum number of questions within the allotted time with high accuracy.

Is there any sectional time limit in the CAT QA section?

Yes, there is a sectional time limit of 40 minutes in the CAT QA section. However, the sectional time limit is 53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates.

How many questions will be asked from Geometry in the CAT QA section?

Around 6-8 questions will be asked from Geometry in the CAT QA section. The weightage of Arithmetic can be estimated to be 24%. The important topics from Geometry are Lines and Angles, Area, Triangles, Similar Triangles, Polygons, Circles, Solids / Mensuration – 3D Geometry, Trigonometry, and Coordinate Geometry. Finding the most important geometric principles will enable the candidates to deal with these problems as rapidly as possible.

How many questions will be asked from Algebra in the CAT QA section?

Around 6-8 questions will be asked from Algebra in the CAT QA section. The weightage of Arithmetic can be estimated to be 24%. The important topics from Algebra are Linear and Quadratic Equations, Functions, Polynomials, Inequalities, Arithmetic and Geometric Progressions, and Logarithms.

How many questions will be asked from Arithmetic in the CAT QA section?

Around 10-11 questions will be asked from Arithmetic in the CAT QA section. The weightage of Arithmetic can be estimated to be 29%. The important topics from Arithmetic are Percentages, Time Speed Distance, Pipe Cisterns, Work & Time, Profit and Loss, Mixtures, Averages, Ratios and Proportion, and Simple Interest Compound Interest.

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