CAT 2024 Syllabus: Download Latest Subject-Wise Detailed PDF, Important Topics

Updated By Subhashri Roy on 17 Oct, 2024 13:34

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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 Syllabus 2024

The CAT syllabus 2024 includes Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The VARC section covers English Grammar, Verbal Reasoning, and Critical Reading topics, while the QA segment has basic Mathematical concepts like Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, and Mensuration. The DILR syllabus for the CAT exam 2024 includes topics such as Pie Charts, Puzzles, Tables, and Bar Graphs that necessitate quantitative analysis of the data.

The CAT syllabus is designed to assess your aptitude and preparedness for pursuing management education. It encompasses various topics and concepts that are relevant to business and management studies. The IIMs do not have a fixed syllabus; thus, there is no official syllabus released during the CAT 2024 notification. The questions are mostly based on basic English and Maths topics. The CAT 2024 syllabus can be considered similar to that of last year since no major changes have been announced. If you are appearing for the exam, find below the detailed CAT exam syllabus PDF and weightage of the topics from each section.

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CAT 2024 Syllabus Download PDF

You must have all the necessary and correct information when preparing for the exam. The CAT 2024 syllabus is expansive and any mistake in the preparation can lead to disastrous results in their CAT score and overall performance. You must conduct thorough research and cross-reference the information to ensure the accuracy of the syllabus topics you are studying. Here's the direct link to download CAT 2024 syllabus PDF prepared by MBA experts at CollegeDekho.

CAT 2024 Syllabus PDF Download

CAT Syllabus 2024 Highlights

Check out the major highlights of the syllabus for the CAT exam 2024 provided below.

Particulars

Details

No. of Sections

Three;

  • Quantitative Ability
  • Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

No. of Questions

  • Quantitative Ability: 22
  • Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation: 20
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension: 24
  • Total: 66

QA Important Topics

Arithmetic, Algebra, Modern Maths, Number System, Geometry & Mensuration, etc.

DILR Important Topics

Seating Arrangement, Blood Relation, Syllogism, Tables, Graphs, Data Caselets, etc.

VARC Important Topics

Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, etc.

Time Allotted for Each Section

40 Minutes (53 Minutes & 20 Seconds for PwD Candidates)

Total Marks

198

Related Questions

Ques: Can CAT syllabus be completed in 30 days?

Ans: Completing the CAT syllabus in 30 days can be challenging, depending on your level of preparation and familiarity with the topics. If you are taking the test for the second or third time and are well-versed in the concepts, you can cover it in 30 days. But being a beginner, dedicating only 30 days to CAT preparation is a bad idea.

Ques: What should be the ideal pace of covering CAT syllabus?

Ans: There is no defined ideal pace for covering the CAT syllabus; it depends from person to person. If you have a good understanding of the syllabus and clarity in the basics, studying for 4-5 hours daily for 3 months and 7-8 hours in the last month is ideal. However, if you are just beginning your preparation, you should at least spend 3 hours daily in the first 6 months, 5 hours daily in the next 3 months, and 10 hours daily in the last month.

Ques: Does the CAT syllabus change every year?

Ans: Since the CAT syllabus is not fixed, it can be said that it changes every year. The sections in the CAT exam are fixed and if any changes are made, IIMs notify the candidates beforehand. Students can prepare for the topics covered in each section

CAT VARC Syllabus 2024

The CAT VARC section tests your command of the English language and reading skills. The detailed topics in the CAT VARC syllabus 2024 can be checked below.

CAT VARC Topics

Fact Inference Judgement

Grammar

Types of Clauses

Fill in the blanks

Para Completion and Inference

Foreign Language Words Used in English

Para Jumble

Sentence Completion

One-word Substitution

Verbal Reasoning

Word Usage (Vocabulary)

Antonyms

Idioms

Analogies

Different Usage of the Same Word

Syllogisms

Reading Comprehension

Verbal Logic

Sentence Correction

Contextual Usage

-

CAT Reading Comprehension Passage Topics of Previous Years

You must practice Reading Comprehension passages from the previous year's exams, even though these passages are generally not repeated. The following are the topics of the RC passages from the past few years of the CAT exam:

CAT Exam Slot

CAT 2022

CAT 2021

CAT 2020

CAT 2019

CAT Slot 1

  • STOICS
  • Ghosts & their mysteries how we can’t find their history
  • Two levels of emotional thinking
  • Chinese Copy of articles
  • Mayan Civilization
  • Evolution of Tea as a Drink
  • Marshmallow Experiment
  • Utopia and Dystopia
  • Migration of Northern Seals
  • Grammar/Vocabulary
  • Anarchism
  • Currency of Tang Dynasty
  • Origin of Story of Alladin
  • Topophilia
  • Internet Shopping and Choice Anxiety
  • British Folk Music
  • Emperor Penguins

CAT Slot 2

  • Philosophy
  • Octopus
  • Engineering Technology
  • Music
  • Language/ Indigenous People
  • Knowledge and Problems of Knowledge is a Scandal to Philosophy
  • Why Fiction Trumps Truth
  • Colonialism/Nationalism
  • Investing in Renewable Energy Technologies
  • A Study of Visualisation
  • Piracy in International Trade
  • Freudian Models of Aggression
  • Distributing Bureaucracy
  • British Colonial Policy
  • Google and Archaeology
  • Language & Culture
  • Dense Cities

CAT Slot 3

  • Indian history
  • American migration/urbanization increasing
  • Social reorganization increasing crime rate
  • Time Accuracy Entropy
  • Nanotechnology
  • Unconscious and Psychoanalysis
  • Language Instinct
  • The Need for Economic Literacy in the General Population
  • Travel Writing and Feminism During Colonial Times
  • Screen Time and Undercurrents of Social Class
  • An Analysis of Human Nature

-

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CAT QA Syllabus 2024

The CAT QA section tests a your ability to comprehend numerical problems and solve them accurately. Take a look at some of the important topics in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2024.

Topics 

Sub Topics

Arithmetic

Number System, HCF, LCM, Ratio & Proportion, Simplification, Percentage, Average, Age Calculation, Time & Work, Distances

Algebra

Theory of Equations, Quadratic Equation, Permutation & Combination, Sequence & Series

Geometry

Angles, Lines, Triangles, Circles

Mensuration

Areas and Volumes – Rectangles, Squares, Triangles, Circles, Cubes, Cones, Spheres, Pipes and Cistern

Calculus

Maxima and Minima, Function

Trigonometry

Trigonometric Ratios, Heights, and Distances

Also Read:

15+ CAT 2024 Percentage Questions

CAT 2024 Geometry Formula PDF

CAT 2024 Quant Formula PDF Download

Shortcut Tricks for CAT Quant 2024

CAT DILR Syllabus 2024

CAT DILR syllabus tests your ability to analyze and interpret data, as well as your logical reasoning skills. Find the important topics in CAT DILR syllabus 2024 below:

Section

Important Topics

Data Interpretation

Bar Graph, Combination of Graphs, Caselet, Data Sufficiency, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Tables, etc.

Logical Reasoning 

Assumptions, Blood Relations, Binary Logic, Clocks and Calendars, Constraint-based puzzles, Data Arrangement, Family Tree, Matching Puzzles, Propositions, Statements, Seating Arrangement, Sets, Syllogism, Venn Diagram

CAT 2024 Section-wise Weightage

CAT syllabus comprises three major sections, namely Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. The number of questions asked from each section and sub-section is different every year. However, as per the previous year trends, the weightage of each topic in the CAT 2024 syllabus can be estimated. Check the table below for the CAT weightage chart 2024.

QA Topics Weightage

In the QA section, there are a few topics like Arithmetic and Algebra which are extremely important and asked every year. A total of 22 questions are asked out of which 7 are non-MCQs. Take a look at the most important topics in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude along with their weightage and difficulty level.

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage

Difficulty Level

Number System

2

9%

Moderate

Algebra

6

28%

Moderate to Difficult

Arithmetic

8

36%

Easy to Moderate

Modern Mathematics

2

9%

Moderate

Geometry & Mensuration

4

18%

Moderate to Difficult

DILR Topics Weightage

The CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation is about Graphs, Tables, Charts, and Series, which require good calculation skills. The section comprises 20 questions out of which 6 are TITA-based questions. Check the topic-wise distribution of the DILR section based on data from the past few years:

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage

Difficulty Level

Bar Graphs

4

20%

Moderate

Pie Charts

2

10%

Moderate

Table Based

10

50%

Easy to Moderate

Combination of Graphs

4

20%

Easy to Moderate

Data Arrangement

6

30%

Moderate to Difficult

Games and Tournaments

4

20%

Easy to Moderate

Logic-Based

6

30%

Easy to Moderate

VARC Topics Weightage

The CAT VARC section assesses your English Grammar skills. A total of 24 questions are asked out of which 5 are non-MCQs. 66% of the total questions are from the Reading Comprehension part. Some of the important topics for the VARC section along with their weightage and difficulty level are given below:

Topics of CAT Syllabus

No. of Questions

Weightage

Difficulty Level

Reading Comprehension

16

68%

Moderate to Difficult

Odd Sentences

1

4%

Easy to Moderate

Para Jumbles

3

12%

Moderate

Para Completion/Para Summary

3

12%

Moderate

Others: Sentence Correction, Word Usage, Fill in the Blanks, etc.)

1

4%

Moderate

Note: The number of questions mentioned against each topic is tentative.

Related Questions

Ques: How do I divide the CAT syllabus so that I can complete it in 3 months?

Ans: To divide the CAT syllabus into a 3-month study plan, start by allocating time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Dedicate more time to challenging areas while revising easier topics regularly. Take regular mock tests to gauge your progress.

Ques: How many revisions of CAT syllabus would get me 99+ percentile?

Ans: If you have a strong command of the basics, then 1-2 revisions of the CAT syllabus would be enough to get the 99+ percentile. It is recommended to take as many mock tests as possible as it is the best way to revise what you have studied so far

How to Cover CAT 2024 Syllabus for MBA

If you adhere to the strategies provided below, you may be able to cover the most important segments of the CAT syllabus 2024 for MBA:

  • First of all, become acquainted with the CAT syllabus 2024. QA, VARC, and DILR are the three main sections of the CAT syllabus that should be divided into separate segments for the effective preparation of the candidates. Prepare for each section by making a list of the topics that will be covered and begin your preparation.
  • Depending on the time available for the CAT 2024 exam, develop a detailed study plan that allocates specific time slots for each section and topic.
  • Begin your preparation by making the basic concepts clear and building a strong foundation. Understanding the fundamental principles of quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning is essential to perform efficiently in the CAT 2024 exam. The best CAT 2024 books, online platforms, and coaching materials will help you cover the CAT syllabus 2024 effectively. 
  • Make the CAT 2024 mock test a significant part of your preparation strategy. Take a mock test to gauge your level of preparation at the beginning of your preparation. Try to take a mock exam every two weeks to develop the habit of solving questions; don't wait until the CAT syllabus 2024 is finished. Appear for full-length mock tests or practise more and more questions from each CAT section to assess your strengths and weaknesses. In this way, you will be able to evaluate which areas require additional attention.
  • Focus on improving your speed and accuracy by solving more questions under time constraints and developing effective time management skills. 

Also Read:

Important Topics for CAT 2024

How to Approach CAT 2024 Question Paper?

Importance of CAT 2024 Mock Test

What is a Good CAT Percentile 2024?

How to Prepare for Different Sections of CAT Syllabus?

CAT is an exam that is taken by over 2.5 lakh candidates every year. You must ensure to know how to prepare for the CAT exam effectively if you wish to achieve a high score. The CAT 2024 syllabus is divided into three broad categories, each requiring different approaches during exam preparation. Check out the CAT 2024 preparation tips for all three sections of the CAT syllabus below.

CAT VARC Preparation Tips

The VARC section can be an easy and high-scoring section of the exam if you prepare for it well. However, many aspirants often neglect this section and consider it easier than it is, leading to a lack of performance. That being said, here's how to prepare for CAT VARC section:

  • While answering questions and passages, you must select the ones you are most familiar with. Avoid questions requiring critical thinking if you are competent in dealing with factual information.
  • Since the Reading Comprehension section makes up most of the VARC component, you must practice reading rapidly. You should read fact-rich books, novels, journals, and reports to improve your understanding of what you are reading.
  • The most effective resource for verbal ability preparation is CAT sample papers. Practice answering a wide range of questions to become competent in verbal ability.

QA Preparation Tips

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning is the toughest CAT section for the last two years. Since there is no defined syllabus for CAT DILR, it is challenging to prepare for this portion of the exam. Nevertheless, take a look at the pointers below to understand how to prepare for CAT DILR section:

  • Numerous calculations are carried out in the DILR section. You must increase your calculation speed, accuracy, and ability to decode patterns and spot small details. Sometimes, the calculations become confusing, and you must know the right method. Practise more and more tables, graphs, charts, and series.
  • Regular practice is the key to preparing for the DILR section. You should treat mock tests with the same seriousness as the CAT. You can learn how to approach a paper, what to solve, what to skip, and what strategies to implement by taking mock tests. It is ideal for you to take one mock test per week while you are getting prepared.
  • Your ability to read charts quickly can help you do better on the DILR section of the CAT. Reading through the topics in this section several times is advised because it's common to misunderstand complex reasoning questions.

DILR Preparation Tips

Quantitative Aptitude can be a scoring component of the CAT exam if you are well-versed in the topics and concepts included in this section. Since QA mostly focuses on mathematical concepts taught at the school level, you should not find it difficult to prepare for this section. Check out below how to prepare for CAT QA section:

  • It is critical to boost problem-solving skills and increase calculation speed. At this point, it is possible to examine the various tips and techniques to determine which ones are effective for the candidate and should be avoided.
  • Once the fundamentals have been clear, utilize the NCERT books for Classes 10 and 12 to practice the level of questions asked in the CAT exam to advance your preparation to the next level. The candidate should appear for as many mocks as possible in the final phase. 
  • Understanding the equivalents of fractions up to 25%, cubes up to 20, and tables up to 40 can help speed up complex calculations. Additionally, memorising as many significant formulas as possible is crucial to solving many questions in CAT 2024.

Related Questions

Ques: Is CAT syllabus similar to MAH MBA CET?

Ans: The sections covered in CAT syllabus and MAH MBA CET syllabus are somewhat similar; however, the questions asked in them are quite different. MAH MBA CET covers Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Logical & Abstract Reasoning. CAT syllabus includes Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning.

Ques: I am done with the CAT syllabus. How do I revise it?

Ans: If you are done with the CAT syllabus, start solving as many mock tests and previous years’ question papers as possible. This way you will be able to revise all the concepts. Moreover, you will be able to identify your strong and weak areas and work accordingly.

Latest Changes in CAT Syllabus and Exam Pattern

The CAT syllabus has witnessed modifications over time. However, the CAT 2024 syllabus remains unaltered, offering consistency and familiarity to aspirants. This unchanging syllabus assures candidates that their preparation efforts align seamlessly with the anticipated paper pattern. Check the table below to learn about changes in the CAT exam syllabus and exam pattern:

Particulars

Changes in 2014 - 2019

Changes in 2020

Changes in 2021 - Present

Total Number of Questions

Increased to 100 from 60

Reduced to 76 from 100

Reduced to 66 from 76

Raw Score

Increased to 300 from 180

Reduced to 228 from 300

Reduced to 198 from 228

Exam Structure

DI merged with LR instead of QA

No Major Change

No Major Change

Total Number of VARC Questions

Increased to 34

Reduced to 26 from 34

Reduced to 24 from 26

Total Number of DILR Questions

Increased to 32

Reduced to 24 from 32

Reduced to 20 from 24

Total Number of QA Questions

Increased to 34

Reduced to 26 from 34

Reduced to 22 from 26

Exam Duration

  • Increased to 170 Minutes from 140 Minutes in 2014
  • Increased to 180 Minutes from 170 Minutes in 2015

Reduced to 120 Minutes from 180 Minutes

No Major Change

Want to know more about CAT

FAQs about CAT Syllabus

What is CAT 2024 VARC syllabus?

The CAT 2024 VARC section focuses on topics of English such as grammar, reading comprehension, inferences, and verbal reasoning. The CAT VARC syllabus includes topics like Reading Comprehension (Economics, Philosophy, History, Sociology, Politics, Literature, Science, Arts, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Psychology, or other fields), Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, Fill in the Blanks, Verbal Logic. The questions based on Reading Comprehension are generally fact-based and inferential.

What is the CAT DILR syllabus for 2024?

The following is the CAT DILR syllabus for 2024:

  • Data Interpretation: Bar Graph, Combination of Graphs, Caselet, Data Sufficiency, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Tables, etc.
  • Logical Reasoning: Assumptions, Blood Relations, Binary Logic, Clocks and Calendars, Constraint-based puzzles, Data Arrangement, Family Tree, Matching Puzzles, Propositions, Statements, Seating Arrangement, Sets, Syllogism, Venn Diagram

What is the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus for 2024?

The CAT Quant syllabus 2024 covers all about mathematics that one learns in school. The following are some of the important subjects covered in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude:

  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
  • Numbers
  • Geometry
  • Trigonometry
  • Sequences and Series

What are tips for preparing for CAT syllabus 2024?

It is crucial to create a well-structured study plan that allocates time to each section. Candidates must also focus on building a strong foundation in basic concepts, especially in the quantitative and logical reasoning sections. In order to improve speed and accuracy, practising time-bound mock tests is essential. Here are some other tips to help CAT candidates prepare for the CAT syllabus 2024:

  • Understand the CAT syllabus and exam pattern
  • Acquire the habit of reading
  • Familiarise yourself with equations and Maths calculations
  • Practice mocks and previous year papers

Is the CAT 2024 syllabus difficult?

Overall, the CAT exam has a moderate difficulty level. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is expected to be moderate to difficult, the Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) section will be difficult, and the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section will be easy to moderate. However, covering the CAT 2024 syllabus can become easy for those who begin their study early and practice all three sections. You can easily pass the CAT 2024 if you plan ahead of time. 

Which CAT section has the highest weightage?

Quantitative Aptitude, abbreviated as QA, has the highest weightage in the CAT exam. The section has a 34% weightage and is frequently time-consuming. The QA section has TITA (Type in the Answer) type questions, which can cause additional difficulties for CAT candidates. 

Can I complete the CAT syllabus in 6 months without coaching?

Yes, one can complete the CAT syllabus in 6 months without coaching. It is possible to prepare for and complete the official CAT syllabus without any form of tutoring. If you study diligently, you will easily complete the CAT syllabus on time. Strengthen the foundational concepts, appear for more and more mock tests, analyze your performance, and try to improve your areas of weakness.

Can I cover CAT syllabus in 3 months?

Yes, even though it appears to be a difficult task, it is possible to cover the CAT syllabus in 90 days. Whether or not you pass the CAT is determined not by the amount of time you have available, but by how effectively and strategically you use that time. Start with a mock test to evaluate where you stand in terms of preparation. Take a target of 2 weeks and cover all the basics of Quantitative Aptitude.

Is one year enough for completing the CAT syllabus 2024?

There is no specified time limit for completing the CAT syllabus 2024. Each applicant has a different threshold and can complete the syllabus at their own pace. However, if you work hard and study regularly for the CAT exam in 2024, one year is sufficient time.

When should I start preparing for the CAT 2024?

Since CAT 2024 will be held on November 24, 2024, the recommended time to begin CAT preparation is from February or March onwards. The CAT exam 2024 is the doorway to India's top B-Schools, the IIMs, and over 1000 other MBA colleges.

Is the CAT syllabus same every year?

CAT syllabus has almost been the same for almost 10 years. The only change in the CAT exam syllabus for IIM is the decrease in the number of questions, which has decreased from 100 to 66 in the last 2 years.

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Do college dekho gives specialisation on hr and marketing in mba

-Chahak AgarwalUpdated on October 04, 2024 04:52 PM
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Jayita Ekka, Content Team

Dear student,

Certainly. Collegedekho can help you get admission in a college that offers specialisation on MBA in HR and Marketing in MBA. You can connect with us at hello@collegedekho.com or call us at 18005729877 for admission. 

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Dear Student,

The extracurricular achievements (sports, organizational, and social) at school, college, state, national, and international levels are considered in the IIM Personal Interview Form. However, the criteria and weightage vary as per the IIM. While some IIMs consider the best of 5, some only consider the best of 3 achievements. When filling out the personal interview form for the IIMs you are interested in, make sure to check all the details and requirements as specified.

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Dear Aspirant,

Writing your full name instead of your first name in the 'First Name' field on the CAT 2024 application form is unlikely to cause a significant problem unless there are spelling errors. IIMs don't allow candidates to make changes to their names once the application form is submitted. During the CAT application form correction, you can only edit your test city preferences, photograph, and signature. It's always recommended to follow the specific instructions provided by the exam authority. As per the CAT 2024 registration guidelines, the candidate's name should be the same as mentioned on the 10th/SSC …

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