CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025: CAT QA Important Topics, Weightage & Preparation Tips

The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section in CAT exam syllabus is often seen as a “make-or-break” part of the exam. It tests your ability to solve mathematical problems, but not just through formulas. The CAT Quantitative aptitude section is more about logic, application, and time-efficient problem-solving.

In this blog, we’ll take a simple and detailed look at the CAT QA syllabus 2025, exam pattern, important topics, and how you can prepare smartly—even if you’re not from a math background.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025 – Overview

QA is the third section of the CAT exam, and it focuses on:

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Geometry & Mensuration
• Number system
• Modern math
  

You don’t need to be a math genius. What matters is clarity of concepts, practice, and accuracy under time pressure.

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CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Exam Pattern (Expected)

Note: Typically, around 7–9 questions are TITA (Type in the Answer), which have no negative marking.

Also Check: CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2025: Topic-Wise Breakdown

The CAT exam does not release an official CAT syllabus, but based on trends from past years, the following topics are considered essential.

CAT QA Arithmetic Syllabus (Highest Weightage)

This is the most important and most frequently asked area in CAT QA. Topics covered under the Arithmetic part of CAT Quant syllabus include:

• Percentages
• Profit & Loss
• Simple & Compound Interest
• Time, Speed & Distance
• Time & Work
• Ratio, Proportion & Variation
• Averages, Mixtures & Alligations
  

Arithmetic questions are usually easier and highly scoring if your basics are clear.

CAT QA Syllabus For Algebra

Algebra is concept-heavy and usually comes with 5–7 questions in the paper. Topics covered under the Algebra part of CAT QA syllabus include:

• Linear & Quadratic Equations
• Inequalities
• Functions
• Modulus, Graphs
• Logarithms
• Surds and Indices

Algebra often combines with arithmetic in integrated questions.

CAT Number System Syllabus

This topic builds your base for CAT Quant. Many TITA questions are from this area. Topics covered under the Number System part of CAT Quant syllabus include:

• Divisibility Rules
• Factors & Multiples
• HCF & LCM
• Remainders & Cyclicity
• Base Systems
• Last Digit/Units Digit
  

These are logic-based questions and often appear as short, standalone TITA problems.

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CAT Quant Geometry Syllabus

This topic includes both 2D and 3D shapes and concepts of lines and angles. Topics covered under the Geometry part of the CAT Quant syllabus include:

• Triangles (properties, similarity)
• Circles
• Quadrilaterals and Polygons
• Coordinate Geometry (basics)
• Mensuration (Area, Volume, Surface Area)
  

While not always high in number, these can be tricky and often tested through visuals.

CAT Modern Math Syllabus

Modern Math is less frequent but still worth covering, especially for strong candidates. Topics covered under the Modern Math part of CAT QA syllabus include:

• Permutation & Combination
• Probability
• Set Theory & Venn Diagrams
• Progressions (AP, GP, HP)
  

These questions are typically seen in slightly tougher slots or as high-difficulty TITA questions.

CAT QA Syllabus 2025 -Topic-Wise Weightage

Brownie point: Arithmetic and Algebra combined make up nearly 60% of the QA section.

How To Prepare For CAT Quantitative Aptitude?

• Clear Your Basics: Begin with NCERT-level concepts or any CAT foundation book. Focus on concept clarity rather than speed in the beginning.
• Practice by Topic: Solve at least 20–30 questions per topic before moving to the next one. Build topic-wise accuracy first.
• Mix in TITA Practice: Since many QA questions are TITA, practice solving without options. This builds conceptual strength.
• Take Sectional & Full-Length Mock Tests: Start with untimed CAT QA previous year papers. Move to 40-minute QA tests as you gain confidence.
• Revise Smartly: Create a QA formula sheet and a notebook for commonly made mistakes. Revisit them weekly.

Also Read: CAT QA Preparation Guide 

Toppers’ Secret Tips To Score 99+%ile in CAT QA Section

• Focus on accuracy first, then improve speed.
• Identify your strongest 2–3 topics and master them.
• Don’t chase every topic—leave low-weightage ones for the end.
• In mocks, don’t over-attempt. Aim for 12–15 high-accuracy questions.
• Always review solved mocks—learn from your mistakes.

CAT QA Syllabus: Difficulty Level

The overall difficulty of the CAT Quant section remains from moderate to difficult. However, it depends on the slot that you might get. There are chances that:

• Slot 1 might have tough algebra sets.
• Slot 2 may lean toward arithmetic-heavy.
• Slot 3 might include a few unusual questions from P&C or logs.
  

Hence, the key is practice, balance, and adaptability.

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Conclusion

The CAT quantitative aptitude syllabus 2025 may look vast, but it’s highly logical and repetitive. Focus on mastering core arithmetic and algebra, and build your speed with timed practice. Even if you fear math today, you can turn QA into your strongest section with the right guidance. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is CAT QA very tough for non-engineers?

A: Not at all. With smart topic selection and regular practice, QA can be the most scoring section for anyone.

Q: Can I skip Modern Math?

A: Yes, if you are short on time, prioritize Arithmetic and Algebra. But try to cover the basics of P&C and Set Theory.

Q: How many questions should I attempt in QA?

A: Aim for 12–15 questions with 90% accuracy. This is enough for a 99%ile+ score.