What is the best way to start preparing for Quantitative Aptitude?

Begin by identifying and strengthening your basic concepts from topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. Use NCERT books (Classes 6–10) to brush up on fundamentals before moving on to advanced-level CAT problems.

Which topics are most important in the Quant section of CAT?

Key topics include Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, time and work, time-speed-distance), Algebra (equations, inequalities), Number Systems, Geometry, and Modern Math (permutations, probability). Arithmetic and Algebra usually dominate the section.

How much time should I devote daily to QA preparation?

Ideally, spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours daily on Quant. In the early months, focus on concept-building, and gradually shift to practicing tougher problems and mock test questions as the exam nears.

Should I focus on accuracy or attempt more questions?

Accuracy matters more than the number of attempts, especially with negative marking. Work on improving speed through practice, but don’t sacrifice accuracy — quality attempts yield better scores than quantity.

How can I improve my calculation speed?

Practice mental math, memorize squares, cubes, tables, percentages, and use Vedic math techniques. Avoid calculators and try doing basic calculations manually to build speed and confidence.

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025?

The candidates wondering how to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025 can begin by including a practical timetable for their preparation schedule. It is advised to begin with the basic concept and have clarity on them.

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Tips on How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025
Major Topics Covered Under Quantitative Ability (QA) CAT 2025

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025? By including a smart preparation plan in the study routine to score well in the quantitative aptitude section, it is definitely possible to score well in the CAT quantitative aptitude section.

There are a lot of resources and study materials available for candidates online, even though the QA section of the CAT is considered one of the most unpredictable and time-consuming sections of the CAT exam.

By including a smart preparation plan in the study routine to score well in the quantitative aptitude section, it is definitely possible to score well in the CAT quantitative aptitude section.

Tips on How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025

According to the opinion of the CAT 2021 topper, Palli Dolananda Saivardhan, on how to prepare Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2025, focusing on the basic arithmetic questions like percentage,
profit, and loss was very beneficial for scoring better in the exam besides geometry and number system.

The following tips are suggested by the experts and toppers on how to prepare for quantitative aptitude for CAT.

Plan Preparation Schedule
Begin with the Basics
Work on Shortcut Techniques
Focus on weak areas
Practice with sectional time
Solve mock papers and previous years' question papers

1. Plan Preparation Schedule

A clear-cut timetable is the foundation of solid preparation. Spend at least three hours for the QA section, and start with the basics.

Go through the previous year's question papers to know about the recurring questions and the topics covered under the section.
Go for a weekly planner rather than a monthly planner, as it will be challenging to follow from the beginning.
Collect all the CAT quantitative aptitude preparation online materials and cut the weekly planner into a daily planner.

Also Check: How to Start Preparing For CAT 2025?

2. Begin with the basics

Always start the preparations from the basic concepts rather than delving into the complex ones. It is better to clearly understand the basic concepts instead of wasting time on complex topics.

Consider preparing for CAT quantitative aptitude online.
Make online study groups with like-minded people.
More practice, the better the chances of success.

3. Work on Shortcut Techniques

Working on the shortcut techniques can help the candidates to have better and practical time management skills. The candidates should focus on learning speed tricks.

Learn the formula to solve QA questions fast with accuracy.
Don't guesswork too many questions due to negative marking.

Also Check: CAT VARC Questions

4. Focus on weak areas

During the initial months of preparation, focus on the areas of improvement and overcome the mistakes with more practice.

A candidate can obtain a reasonably good score even if half of the QA questions are answered.
If the preparations are started 3 months before the exam, it is better to focus on the main areas rather than the weak areas.

5. Practice with sectional time

Out of the 40 minutes of the allotted time for the CAT Quantitative Aptitude, practice with a sectional time for each question.

Move ahead of time so that the candidates can have a buffer time of a minimum of 5 to 10 minutes for the last revision.
Mark essential questions and concepts to have a quick revision.

6. Solve mock tests and previous year’s papers

Solve the maximum number of mock tests and previous year's question papers to encounter variations in the question papers.

Analyze the paper pattern and difficulty level of questions from the previous year's question papers.
IIMs provide official mock tests for the candidates.

Also Check: CAT Geometry Questions

Major Topics Covered Under Quantitative Ability (QA) CAT 2025

The Quantitative Ability section of CAT mainly focuses on testing the candidates' numerical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.

The questions in the quantitative ability section of the CAT exam are related to elementary mathematics, which the candidates should be thoroughly acquainted with.

The list below shows the topics covered under CAT Quantitative Ability (QA) test the candidates can refer to score good marks and clear the CAT cutoff.