CAT Syllabus 2026: Complete Section-Wise Topics

The CAT syllabus covers three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).

• VARC: Reading comprehension, para summary, para jumbles and other verbal reasoning questions.
• DILR: Tables, charts, caselets, arrangements, games, tournaments and logical puzzles.
• QA: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, number systems and modern mathematics.

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) do not generally publish a definitive chapter-by-chapter CAT syllabus. The topics in this guide represent common CAT preparation areas based on previous papers and preparation references. Candidates should check the official CAT notification for the latest examination instructions.

This guide covers the section-wise CAT syllabus, important topic areas, preparation priorities and practical strategies for using previous-year papers.

CAT Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Overview

The CAT examination assesses verbal reasoning, data interpretation, logical reasoning and quantitative problem-solving through three sections.

The syllabus provides a framework for deciding what to study. The actual mix of questions may vary from one CAT paper to another, so candidates should avoid relying on fixed topic-wise weightage predictions.

For information about question formats, examination duration and marking rules, read our CAT exam pattern and marking scheme guide.

CAT VARC Syllabus: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

The VARC section evaluates your ability to understand written passages, interpret arguments, identify relationships between ideas and organise information logically.

The two broad preparation areas are Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability.

1. Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension (RC) involves reading passages and answering questions based on their meaning, structure, arguments and implications. Passages may cover subjects such as economics, philosophy, science, technology, history, literature and social sciences.

Common question types include:

• Identifying the central idea or main argument
• Understanding the author's purpose and tone
• Drawing inferences from a passage
• Identifying supporting evidence
• Distinguishing facts from opinions
• Understanding words or phrases in context
• Evaluating arguments and conclusions
• Identifying the most appropriate title for a passage

Candidates should practise reading unfamiliar subjects and identifying the main argument before attempting the questions. The aim is to understand the passage accurately rather than simply read it quickly.

2. Verbal Ability

Verbal Ability questions focus on understanding the structure and logical flow of written information.

Common preparation topics include:

• Para jumbles: Arranging sentences in a logical sequence to form a coherent paragraph.
• Para summary: Selecting the option that best captures the main idea of a passage.
• Odd sentence out: Identifying a sentence that does not fit logically with the others.
• Paragraph completion: Selecting a sentence that appropriately completes a paragraph.
• Sentence arrangement: Understanding the logical relationships between statements.

The exact question types can vary. Focus on the meaning and connections between ideas rather than depending only on memorised rules.

For a more detailed topic-wise breakdown and preparation guidance, read our dedicated CAT VARC syllabus guide.

CAT DILR Syllabus: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

The DILR section assesses your ability to interpret data, identify patterns, organise information and draw conclusions from given conditions. Questions may involve calculations, logical deductions or a combination of both.

1. Data Interpretation Topics

Data Interpretation requires candidates to analyse numerical or categorical information presented in different formats.

Strong calculation skills, careful reading and the ability to organise data can improve accuracy in this section.

2. Logical Reasoning Topics

Logical Reasoning questions test your ability to arrange information, apply constraints and reach conclusions.

Common preparation areas include:

• Seating arrangements and ordering
• Grouping and team formation
• Scheduling and assignments
• Games and tournaments
• Routes, networks and connections
• Selection and distribution problems
• Venn diagrams and set-based reasoning
• Binary logic and conditional statements
• Constraint-based puzzles
• Ranking and sequencing

These are representative preparation topics rather than a guaranteed list of questions for the next CAT examination.

How to Prepare for DILR

Begin with manageable sets and learn how to translate the given information into tables, diagrams or structured notes. Gradually move towards more complex sets with multiple variables and linked conditions.

During practice, record the time taken, accuracy and reasons for mistakes. Also learn to recognise when a set is consuming too much time. Selecting an approachable set and solving it accurately can be more useful than attempting every difficult set.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus: Important Topics

Quantitative Aptitude evaluates mathematical understanding and the ability to apply concepts to numerical problems.

For preparation, QA is commonly organised into five broad topic groups: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Mensuration, Number Systems, and Modern Mathematics.

1. Arithmetic

Arithmetic is a major area of CAT preparation and involves numerical relationships and everyday mathematical applications.

Topics include:

• Percentages
• Ratio and proportion
• Averages and weighted averages
• Profit, loss and discount
• Simple and compound interest
• Mixtures and alligation
• Time, speed and distance
• Time and work
• Pipes and cisterns
• Problems involving ages

Candidates should learn the concepts behind each topic and practise applying them to unfamiliar question formats.

2. Algebra

Algebra involves equations, expressions, functions and mathematical relationships.

Topics include:

• Linear equations
• Quadratic equations
• Inequalities
• Algebraic expressions and identities
• Functions
• Logarithms and indices
• Sequences and series
• Progressions
• Modulus and absolute value

Build a strong understanding of the underlying concepts before moving to advanced questions or shortcut methods.

3. Geometry and Mensuration

This area focuses on the properties of shapes, figures, measurements and spatial relationships.

Topics include:

• Lines and angles
• Triangles and their properties
• Circles and chords
• Quadrilaterals and polygons
• Coordinate geometry
• Perimeter and area
• Surface area and volume
• Three-dimensional figures

Practise drawing diagrams, identifying geometric relationships and applying formulae correctly.

4. Number Systems

Number Systems questions test the properties of numbers and their relationships.

Topics include:

• Divisibility rules
• Factors and multiples
• Highest Common Factor (HCF) and Lowest Common Multiple (LCM)
• Prime numbers
• Remainders
• Factors and powers
• Integers and their properties
• Units digits and cyclicity

Understanding number properties can help candidates solve questions more efficiently and reduce calculation errors.

5. Modern Mathematics

Modern Mathematics covers selected topics involving counting, probability and sets.

Topics commonly practised include:

• Permutations and combinations
• Probability
• Set theory
• Venn diagrams
• Basic counting principles

Candidates should prioritise conceptual understanding and use practice questions to identify which areas require further revision.

For detailed chapter-wise coverage and additional QA preparation guidance, read our CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus .

Which CAT Syllabus Topics Should You Prioritise?

There is no guaranteed topic-wise weightage that candidates can rely on for every CAT paper. Topic distribution can change, so preparation priorities should be based on conceptual gaps, previous-year papers and mock-test performance.

This is a starting framework, not a prediction of the next CAT paper. Adjust your priorities as you identify strengths and weaknesses during preparation.

How to Prepare for the CAT Syllabus

A structured preparation plan helps candidates cover the main topic areas while leaving enough time for revision and mock tests.

Step 1: Assess Your Current Level

Start with a diagnostic test or a selection of previous-year questions. Identify which topics you understand and where you need more practice. This helps you plan your study time more effectively.

Step 2: Build Conceptual Clarity

Study one topic at a time. Learn the concepts, review worked examples and solve basic questions before attempting more difficult problems.

For VARC, focus on comprehension and reasoning. For DILR, practise organising information and applying constraints. For QA, strengthen mathematical fundamentals and calculation accuracy.

Step 3: Practise Questions Regularly

Maintain a consistent practice schedule across all three sections. Review incorrect answers and identify whether the issue was a conceptual gap, misreading the question, calculation error or poor time management.

Step 4: Solve Previous-Year CAT Papers

Previous-year papers help you understand the style and complexity of questions that have appeared in the examination. They are valuable practice resources, but they do not guarantee the same topic distribution in a future paper.

Step 5: Take Mock Tests and Review Your Performance

Use sectional tests to assess individual skills and full-length mocks to practise exam conditions. After each test, review your accuracy, time spent, skipped questions and recurring mistakes.

Use this analysis to revise weak areas and update your preparation plan. For a more detailed approach, read our guide to CAT exam preparation strategies .

CAT Syllabus vs CAT Exam Pattern

The CAT syllabus and exam pattern serve different purposes.

• CAT syllabus: The topics and skills you should prepare for across VARC, DILR and QA.
• CAT exam pattern: The structure of the examination, including sections, duration, question formats and marking rules.

The syllabus helps you decide what to study, while the exam pattern helps you understand how the test is conducted. Examination-specific details can change, so candidates should consult the latest official CAT notification before relying on particular question counts or marking rules.

Read our CAT exam pattern and marking scheme guide for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the CAT syllabus?

The CAT syllabus generally covers three sections: VARC, DILR and QA. Preparation includes reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, data interpretation, logical reasoning, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems and selected modern mathematics topics.

2. Is there an official CAT syllabus PDF?

The IIMs do not generally publish a definitive chapter-by-chapter syllabus PDF. Candidates can use section-wise topic guides and previous-year papers for preparation, but should consult the official CAT website for the latest examination notification and instructions.

3. What are the three sections of the CAT exam?

The three sections are Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).

4. Which topics are included in the CAT VARC syllabus?

Common preparation areas include reading comprehension, para summary, para jumbles, odd sentence out and paragraph completion. The emphasis is on understanding passages, interpreting arguments and recognising logical relationships between ideas.

For more detail, read the CAT VARC syllabus guide .

5. Which topics are included in the CAT DILR syllabus?

Common preparation areas include tables, charts, caselets, seating arrangements, grouping, scheduling, games and tournaments, networks and constraint-based puzzles. The exact question mix can vary from one paper to another.

6. Which topics are included in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus?

QA preparation commonly covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Mensuration, Number Systems, and Modern Mathematics. Candidates should practise the concepts within each area and use previous-year papers to understand how they are applied.

For more detail, read the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus guide .

7. Does the CAT syllabus change every year?

The examination authority may change the examination structure or instructions between years, and the topics appearing in the paper can vary. Candidates should check the current official notification and avoid assuming that the number or distribution of questions will remain fixed.

8. Which CAT syllabus topics should beginners study first?

Beginners can start with reading comprehension and basic verbal reasoning for VARC, straightforward tables and logical sets for DILR, and fundamental Arithmetic for QA. They should expand their coverage based on their strengths, weaknesses and mock-test results.

9. How should I use previous-year papers to prepare for the CAT syllabus?

Solve previous-year papers under timed conditions, review each incorrect answer and identify recurring conceptual gaps. Use the results to prioritise revision, but do not assume that a topic appearing frequently in past papers is guaranteed to appear in the next exam.

Conclusion

Understanding the CAT syllabus is the first step towards building an effective preparation plan. Cover the main topic areas in VARC, DILR and QA, practise regularly, solve previous-year papers and use mock-test analysis to improve accuracy and time management.

Combine this broad syllabus overview with detailed section-wise preparation. Start with the topics you need to strengthen, revise consistently and consult the latest official CAT notification for examination-specific updates.