CAT 2024 : Syllabus

Each section of the CAT exam has a different weightage, making it crucial to prioritize based on your strengths and areas for improvement. The syllabus is aligned with the exam pattern introduced by IIM Ahmedabad.

Section-wise Syllabus Breakdown

1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

This section includes two parts: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. The focus here is on language skills, comprehension, and verbal reasoning. The key topics include:

Verbal Ability:

• Para jumbles
• Sentence correction
• Subject-verb agreement
• Grammar basics
• Idioms and phrases
• Verbal reasoning

Reading Comprehension:

• Reading comprehension passages
• Inference-based questions
• Summary-based questions

Overall, expect around 8–10 questions on verbal ability and around 16 questions on reading comprehension passages.

2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The second section, DILR, is divided into Data Interpretation (DI) and Logical Reasoning (LR), testing analytical and logical skills. Key topics in this section include:

Data Interpretation:

• Graphs (Pie Charts, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs)
• Tables and Data Caselets
• Grid-Based DI
• Data Sufficiency

Logical Reasoning:

• Seating Arrangement
• Blood Relations
• Venn Diagrams
• Series and Pattern Analysis
• Binary Logic
• Puzzles and Sets

You can expect an equal number of questions from both DI and LR, making it essential to be well-versed in both areas.

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

The QA section is generally the largest, covering a wide range of mathematical topics typically from a Class 9–10 level. It is advisable to spend significant preparation time on this section. Key topics include:

Arithmetic:

• Ratios and Proportion
• Percentages
• Time-Speed-Distance
• Profit and Loss
• Simple Interest and Compound Interest

Algebra:

• Quadratic Equations
• Surds and Indices
• Logarithms
• Inequalities

Geometry and Mensuration:

• Geometry basics (Circles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals)
• Mensuration formulas for area and volume

Advanced Topics:

• Probability
• Permutations and Combinations
• Trigonometry basics
• Sequences and Series (Arithmetic and Geometric Progressions)

For the QA section, the weightage is often focused on Arithmetic and Algebra, making up a substantial part of the questions.

Key Highlights of the CAT 2024 Syllabus

• VARC: Expect 8–10 verbal ability questions and 16 reading comprehension questions.
• DILR: A balanced mix between DI and LR with a focus on data interpretation sets, puzzles, and logical pattern analysis.
• QA: Heavily weighted towards Arithmetic and Algebra. Familiarize yourself with core mathematical concepts for an edge.

Knowing the weightage and format of each section helps in devising an effective study plan. Be sure to prioritize sections based on personal strengths and areas of improvement.