What is the syllabus of XAT?

The XAT syllabus is designed to assess a candidate's verbal ability, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, decision-making skills, and general awareness. Since XLRI does not release an official, fixed syllabus, candidates should refer to previous years' XAT question papers and the detailed section-wise XAT syllabus for 2026 to understand the scope of the exam.

Is CAT harder or XAT?

CAT and XAT differ in terms of exam structure and difficulty. CAT is generally more competitive due to a larger number of test-takers, while XAT is considered challenging because of its unique Decision Making section, abstract RC passages, and logic-driven Quantitative Ability questions. The perceived difficulty depends largely on a candidate's strengths and preparation style.

Is 40 a good score in XAT?

Yes, a score of around 40 in XAT is generally considered a good score. Based on past trends, it may correspond to a percentile in the range of 95 to 98, although the exact percentile can vary depending on the overall difficulty level of the exam in a particular year.

Is GK counted in the XAT exam?

The General Knowledge (GK) section is scored but is not included in the calculation of the overall XAT percentile. However, GK scores may still be considered by institutes like XLRI during the final selection and interview stages.

How do I prepare effectively for XAT 2026?

If you are preparing for CAT along with XAT, a significant part of your preparation can overlap. However, XAT requires special focus on sections like Decision Making and its reasoning-intensive Quantitative Ability. An effective XAT preparation strategy includes building strong conceptual fundamentals, practising mock tests regularly and analysing performance, solving previous years' XAT question papers, and staying updated with current affairs for the GK section.

XAT Syllabus 2026 - Section-wise Topics, Strategy & Best Books

XAT Syllabus 2026: Key Highlights

The XAT syllabus is extensive and requires a clear understanding to plan an effective preparation strategy. Like CAT, there is no official XAT syllabus, so it is advisable for candidates to be familiar with the XAT Exam Pattern 2026 and review it carefully.

XAT Exam Syllabus 2026 comprises four main sections that are to be looked at thoroughly:

Sections	Relevant Topics	Details
XAT Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR):	Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Analogy, Parajumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Fill in the Blanks	This section tests your skills in understanding and analysing written content. You will encounter various exercises that include reading passages (which may include poems), vocabulary questions, grammar, and tasks like rearranging sentences or filling in the blanks. This section generally comprises 24-26 questions in the XAT exam, which is the second highest after quant and DI.
XAT Decision Making (DM):	Data Arrangement, Logical Reasoning Decision-Making Ethical dilemmas Grouping, Conditioning, Complex Arrangement, Caselets, Assumptions, Premises, Conclusions	In this part, you will face real-life scenarios from both personal and work environments. Your job will be to think critically, solve problems, and prioritise options to make good decisions. There are 21 questions of decision-making. These questions are usually presented in the form of caselets, with multiple questions based on each situation.
XAT Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)	Arithmetic Geometry Mensuration Percentage Surds and Indices Algebra Bar Diagrams Pie Charts Tables Data Interpretation	Here, the focus is on your basic math skills. You'll need to solve questions related to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and other math topics. Additionally, for data interpretation, you will analyse and summarise the given data. The section generally comprises around 27-28 questions and is considered the most weight-intensive section.
XAT General Knowledge (GK):	Current Affairs and Static GK (Science, Economy, Business, Politics, Static GK, Sports, Prize and Award, World, Government, Constitution of India, etc.)	This section has a total of 20 questions. Eight will test your knowledge of general facts (static GK), while the other twelve will focus on what’s happening in the world currently (current affairs).

As mentioned above, the XAT Syllabus has not been explicitly released by XLRI Jamshedpur, which convenes the XAT. However, the previous XAT papers can be used as a guideline for the types of questions asked as well as the topics that are generally tested in the XAT Exam.

XAT Exam Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics and Detailed Syllabus

Having a deep understanding of the XAT exam syllabus would help the candidate in strategising the exam. This allows for effective practice and identifying strong topics during preparation. Here is the section-wise analysis of the XAT syllabus 2026 given below:

Verbal & Logical Ability
Decision Making
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
General Knowledge

XAT Syllabus For Verbal & Logical Ability 2026

This section is a combination of multiple sub-sections, making it one of the most challenging yet scoring sections of the XAT exam. It consists of three distinct areas for preparation purposes:

Verbal ability
Reading Comprehension
Logical Reasoning

XAT 2026 Verbal Ability Syllabus

This part of the Verbal & Logical Ability Section is similar to the VA section in CAT Exam. Thus, the topics that are generally tested in the XAT Exam and hence are considered part of the XAT 2026 syllabus are:

XAT Syllabus For Verbal Ability
Vocabulary-Based Questions	Fill in the blanks	Synonyms/ Antonyms
Contextual Meaning of Words	Para-Jumbles	Correction of Errors in Sentences
Correct Usage of Words	Completion of Sentences	Completion of Paragraph
Cloze Test	Poem-based Reading Comprehension passages

XAT Syllabus 2026 For Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension holds less weight in the XAT exam than in the VARC section of the CAT exam, but it remains significant. As with CAT, passages in XAT can be drawn from a wide range of themes and are relatively shorter in length. However, this brevity doesn't necessarily make the passages easier to read.

XAT Reading Comprehension Syllabus
Information-Based Question	Author's View type of question
Inference-based Question	Main Idea and Purpose of the Passage
True/False Statements based on the Passage	Explanation of Words/Phrases in the Passage

XAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus 2026

The Logical Reasoning section in the XAT syllabus overlaps partially with the CAT syllabus but has its own distinct focus. This section usually has a relatively smaller number of questions compared to other sections. It also includes some Critical Reasoning-type questions, which are more prominently featured in XAT.

The topics generally tested in the Logical Reasoning part, according to the XAT Syllabus 2026, are:

XAT Syllabus For Logical Reasoning
Clocks & Calendars	Analogy	Fact, Inference and Judgment
Binary Logic	Seating Arrangement	Blood Relations
Logical Sequences	Assumption, Premise and Conclusion

Note: Logical Reasoning questions in the XAT exam may appear as individual questions or as part of short sets.

XAT Preparation Tips For Verbal and Logical Ability

The verbal and logical ability section of XAT can be effectively tackled with the right approach and preparation tips. Read below some XAT prep tips by our top MBA experts to prepare better.

Strengthen Reading Comprehension:
RC passages in XAT are different from CAT in the sense that they are denser and often more abstract, and hence require more practice and careful reading. Build the habit of reading editorials and journals for better comprehension.
Time management:
Questions on logical ability and reasoning sometimes takes a lot of time which needs to be used effectively, so, allocate time from the start to avoid getting stuck.
Mock Test strategy:
Solving mocks is the best way to identify the strengths and weaknesses. Solve the XAT mock tests and analyse your strong topics.
Grammar and Vocabulary:
Expect error identification, sentence correction, and vocabulary-in-context. So, use apps like vocabulary.com or Word Power Made Easy to strengthen your vocabulary.

Q1. What topics are covered in the XAT Verbal and Logical Ability syllabus?

A: The XAT Verbal & Logical Ability section includes Reading Comprehension, Para-jumbles, Critical Reasoning, Vocabulary-based questions, Grammar & Sentence Correction, Logical deductions, and paragraph-based inference questions.

Q2. Does the XAT Verbal section focus more on Reading Comprehension or grammar?

A: Reading Comprehension carries the highest weightage in XAT, followed by Critical Reasoning. Grammar-based questions appear but in smaller numbers compared to RC and reasoning-based verbal questions.

Q3. Is the difficulty level of XAT Verbal and Logical Ability higher than CAT?

A: Yes, XAT Verbal is generally considered tougher than CAT due to longer RC passages, denser language, and complex reasoning-based verbal questions that test deep comprehension and analytical thinking.

XAT Syllabus 2026 Decision Making

The Decision Making section is unique to the XAT Exam in comparison to all other MBA Entrance Exams. It tests the candidate on their presence of mind and ability to read the situation so that the candidate's problem-solving/case-solving skills can be tested. The number of questions in this section varies from paper to paper.

The topics which are generally tested in this section, according to the XAT Syllabus 2026, are:

Ethical dilemmas in workplace situations
Managerial Caselets
Business decision scenarios
Situations Involving fairness, distribution & prioritisation

To prepare for the Decision Making Section of the XAT Exam Syllabus, the candidates are encouraged to solve as many XAT previous year questions as they can. This will ensure that the candidates are familiar with not only the topics of the section but also the language of the XAT Exam.

XAT Preparation Tips 2026 For Decision Making

Since Decision Making is unique to the XAT exam, it requires a focused and exam-specific preparation strategy. Below are some expert-recommended tips to help you perform better in this section.

Focus on Trade-off Questions:
DM often tests situations where profits vs ethics or short-term vs long-term are in conflict, so train yourself to prefer solutions that ensure long-term sustainability over short-term gains.
Use elimination smartly:
Among the given options, some choices are usually extreme or impractical. Eliminate these first to narrow down to the most balanced and realistic answer.
Improve Reading Speed:
DM caselets are long and wordy, sometimes like mini-RCs. If your reading is slow, you’ll run out of time. Practice summarising each case in 2–3 sentences before looking at options.
Solve previous year DM caselets:
XAT reuses the previous year’s themes repeatedly; hence, it becomes significant to solve as many XAT previous year’s papers as possible to get the idea of the questions and their answers.

Q1. Is the decision-making section difficult, and how should I prepare for it?

A: Yes, decision-making is considered one of the trickiest sections because answers are often subjective and require careful evaluation of consequences. Preparation involves solving past XAT DM cases, understanding ethical reasoning, and practising scenario-based judgement questions.

Q2. Does XAT Decision Making include mathematics or calculations?

A: No, the XAT Decision Making section does not involve mathematical calculations. It is entirely based on logical judgment, ethical reasoning, and evaluating real-life business scenarios.

Q3. How many Decision Making questions are asked in the XAT exam?

A: Typically, XAT includes around 20-22 decision-making questions, all presented as caselets. The exact number may vary slightly each year based on the exam pattern.

Did You Know?

In XAT 2023 and 2024, students who scored high in DM reported that the "most logical-sounding" answer wasn't always correct. Instead, the best option was the one that showed empathy while still protecting organisational interests. Keep this balance in mind, it's XLRI's trademark expectation.

Also read: How to approach decision-making section of the XAT 2026 to increase your chances of cracking the exam.

XAT 2026 Syllabus - Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation

This section broadly combines elements of Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation, similar to those tested in CAT. This is basically to check your analytical and problem-solving skills and is considered the heaviest section.

XAT Syllabus For Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation: Key Highlights

We have curated XAT QA and DI syllabus highlights, including the sectional composition for the exam, to help you strategise during preparation.

Candidates are advised to attempt 14-16 solid questions, maintaining 70% accuracy to cross the cut-off safely.
Ideal time allocation recommended by our experts is 55-60 minutes in this section.
Unlike CAT, the XAT quantitative aptitude syllabus gives heavier emphasis on geometry and arithmetic, and DI is logic-based.

XAT Quantitative Ability Syllabus 2026

The XAT Syllabus for the Quantitative Ability section is similar to that of the CAT Syllabus. According to the previous XAT Papers, which determine the XAT Syllabus, the topics generally tested are:

XAT Syllabus For Quantitative Ability
LCM and HCF	Percentages	Profit and Loss
SI & CI	Time, Speed & Distance	Time and Work
Averages	Ratio and Proportion	Number System
Algebra	Geometry	Mensuration
Venn diagrams	Modern Maths	Complex Numbers
Logarithm	Progressions	Binomial Theorem
Surds and Indices	Inequalities	Permutation and Combination
Probability Functions	Set Theory	Mixtures & Allegations
Linear Equations	Quadratic Equations	Trigonometry

Given the extensive nature of the XAT Exam Syllabus in the Quantitative section, it is important to start the preparation as soon as possible. The XAT Quantitative Ability section is generally considered more application-oriented and reasoning-driven than CAT, which is why knowing the basics is not enough.

It is suggested that candidates adopt an exam-specific practice approach for the Quantitative Ability section in XAT to get accustomed to the logic-intensive and concept-application-based difficulty level of the exam.

XAT Syllabus For Data Interpretation

The Data Interpretation section of the XAT syllabus is an essential part of the exam. This assesses the candidate's ability to understand, analyse, and interpret data presented in various forms. Below mentioned is the XAT Syllabus for the Data Interpretation section, which generally consists of the following:

XAT Data Interpretation Syllabus
Data Tables	Data Charts	Bar Diagrams
Pie Charts	Graphs	Data Analysis and Comparison

The Questions are generally in the form of sets, like in CAT; however, individual questions may also be asked on occasion.

XAT Preparation Tips For Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation

Since Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation together form the most weight-intensive section of XAT, having a clear preparation strategy is crucial.

Prioritise High-weighted Topics:
Create a formula cheat sheet and revise it regularly to strengthen concepts in high-weighted QA topics.
Target Attempts and Accuracy:
Maintaining accuracy is the first step to clear the section, so attempt the question you are confident in to reach the right answer.
Practice with XAT-level material
Many aspirants prepare only with CAT-level material, which can be limiting. XAT QA questions are generally more reasoning-oriented and time-consuming, requiring exam-specific practice.
Master DI caselets with Elimination:
XAT DI is logic + calculation-heavy, not just number crunching. Many caselets are designed to waste time. Practice spotting “unsolvable till the end” type sets and skip fast, so eliminate the options wisely.

Q1. What topics are included in the XAT Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation syllabus?

A: The XAT QA syllabus covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, Modern Math, and Data Interpretation sets. Key topics include Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Quadratic Equations, Progressions, Coordinate Geometry, and caselet-based DI.

Q2. Is the Quantitative Ability section in XAT tougher than CAT?

A: Yes, XAT QA is generally considered more challenging than CAT due to lengthier questions, DI caselets with heavier calculations, and a broader syllabus. However, with strong fundamentals and regular practice, students can score well.

Q3. What type of DI questions are asked in XAT?

A: XAT includes DI sets based on tables, bar graphs, line charts, and multi-layered caselets. The questions usually involve deeper analysis, multi-step calculations, and careful interpretation of data.

XAT Syllabus For General Knowledge (GK)

This is another section that CAT does not test. However, despite the presence of the section, XAT percentiles and cut-offs are calculated based on the first three sections only. The XAT syllabus in this section is extremely vast, including current affairs and conventional GK (trivia). The topics which are regularly asked in this section include:

XAT General Knowledge Syllabus
Economics and Finance	National and International Current Affairs	Constitution of India and Laws
Capitals and Currencies	Famous Personalities	Science and Technology
Awards, Sports, and World Events	Business and Corporate Affairs

Q1. What topics are included in the XAT General Knowledge syllabus?

A: The XAT GK syllabus includes Static GK (History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science), and Current Affairs covering national and international news, business & economy, sports, awards, government schemes, and important reports.

Q2. Does the XAT GK section include both static and current affairs?

A: Yes, the XAT GK section is a mix of Static GK and Current Affairs. Recent events from the last 6-12 months carry higher weightage, but foundational GK topics like economy, world organizations, and geography also appear regularly.

Q3. Does the GK score affect the XAT percentile?

A: No, GK marks do not affect the XAT percentile. However, GK scores are considered during the PI shortlisting and final admission process for B-schools like XLRI and other top institutes.

Best Books For XAT Preparation 2026

Books can indeed be invaluable companions, especially when preparing for an entrance test with no specific syllabus. Finding the right books is crucial for effective preparation in such cases.

Therefore, here are some of the books that you can refer to for your XAT 2026 preparation:

Best Books For XAT Preparation 2026
XAT Preparation Books	Author
High School English Grammar	Wren and Martin
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning	R.S. Aggarwal
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension	Ajay Singh
9th and 10th Grammar Books
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning	R.S. Aggarwal
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	Gautam Puri
Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations	RS Aggarwal
Quantitative Aptitude for All Competitive Examinations	Abhijit Guha

Also read: Last 20 days preparation tips for XAT 2026

XAT 2026 Marking Scheme

The marking scheme for XAT 2026 follows the same structure as recent XAT exams and is outlined below.

Feature	Details
Marks for a correct answer	+1 for every correct option
Deduction for wrong answers	−0.25 marks for each incorrect answer (in Verbal & Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative & DI sections)
Deduction for unattempted question	For every unattempted question after 8 unattempted questions, 0.10 marks are reduced.
GK section	No negative marking in the General Knowledge (GK) section

** GK is scored but does not count towards percentile or cutoff calculations used for ranking.

To stay updated on all the latest information on XAT 2026, visit XAT 2026 Notifications

Conclusion

XAT is considered one of the toughest MBA entrance exams, not because the syllabus is very different, but because it tests how you think, not just what you know. The presence of unique sections like Decision Making, along with abstract RCs and logic-driven QA-DI, makes XAT a different challenge altogether. With a clear understanding of the XAT syllabus and a focused, practice-oriented approach, candidates can not only clear the XAT cut-off but also build a strong foundation for other MBA entrance exams.

XAT Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics, Exam Pattern & Preparation Tips

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