CAT 2023 Revision: Key Topics and Weightage

Published on 19th September 2023, 3:41 pm

With only 2 months left before the exam day, it is necessary for aspirants to recognize the importance of revisions. They should begin brushing up on topics that are frequently asked in the exam and have the maximum weightage. Here is a breakdown of the CAT 2023 exam.

CAT 2023 Syllabus

CAT 2023 exam syllabus comprises three subjects which are Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). 

> The VARC section comprises topics such as vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, and verbal reasoning

> The DILR section of the CAT includes topics like tables, bar graphs, puzzles, and reasoning-based data.

> The QA section covers mathematics topics up to class 10/12 like arithmetic, numbers, geometry, algebra, and mensuration.

No changes are expected in the CAT 2023 exam pattern and syllabus. In 2 hours (40 minutes for each section), a total of 66 questions must be attempted. The paper is split into three sections:

> VARC- 24 questions

> Quant- 22 questions

> DILR- 20 questions 

CAT Key Topics and Weightage

CAT key topics-wise weightage for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) is mentioned here:

Section-wise Focus

Based on the weightage of the sections and topics covered in each, the following conclusions can be made:

> VARC

Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability are split into a 2:1 ratio. Candidates must focus on improving their reading speed, vocabulary, and comprehension to do well in the RC section.

> DILR

The DI & LR sections have almost equal questions in CAT. In the DI section, the primary skill required is not the ability to calculate an answer but to estimate it. LR requires an understanding of the given data and finding a good starting point in the puzzle. 

> QA

In the last 5 years, 35% of the QA section was from arithmetic covered in grades 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. On the other hand, 35% was from Algebra, half of which has been done till class 10th.

Aspirants should note that while the overall CAT cutoff is important, B-schools also require you to clear the sectional cut-offs to be considered for a call from the institute. Thus, equal emphasis should be given to all 3 sections. Based on your strengths and weaknesses, you can prioritize the weakest section and work on it more.

To help in your preparation journey, grab the CAT 2023 study plan. Click here!

Best of luck!