CAT 2026 will be conducted by IIM Indore, and it is tentatively scheduled on November 29, 2026. To prepare for CAT, practice VA questions on Para Jumbles, summary and cohesion for VARC. You must also practice DI and LR set daily. The CAT Quant section requires answering mathematical problems quickly. So, if you are weak in maths, you can also join a coaching institute.
- CAT 2025 introduced abstract themes (including AI/ChatGPT-based passages). These questions require practise of dense, inference-heavy prose. For this, read editorials daily.
- DILR was the toughest section in 2025 (featuring tricky, multi-variable sets like the viral "singing competition" Venn diagram puzzle). Learn to identify “solvable” sets in 1–2 minutes. Attempt 12–16 questions for a strong percentile.
- In Quant, prioritise Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, TSD, Time & Work) and Algebra (Linear/Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Logarithms). These two areas alone accounted for nearly 60% of the CAT 2025 math section.
The CAT is a 120-minute computer-based test divided into three 40-minute sections. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
Related Links:
- CAT Question Paper (Available): Download CAT Previous Year Question Paper with Solutions PDF
- CAT QA Mock Test: Free Mock Test Series
- CAT Study Material 2026
CAT Preparation 2026: 6 Month Strategy
CAT Preparation 2026: Month 1-2 (Fundamentals Conceptual Depth)
CAT exam mentors believe that strong CAT performers are usually the strongest conceptual thinkers. This trend became visible in CAT 2025, where several Quant questions required multiple logical steps despite appearing easy initially.
Arithmetic and algebra were two domains which nearly was 60% of the CAT 2025 math section
- CAT 2025 QA questions appeared simple. But needed 5 to 6 lines of heavy algebraic equations or logical steps just to get the actual question.
| Section | Core Focus Areas | Strategy & Execution Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | • Arithmetic: Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance (TSD), Time & Work. • Algebra: Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Logarithms. | • Avoid relying on quick shortcuts • Action: Solve every single problem using first principles and core concepts before exploring shortcuts. |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | • Foundational Structures: Linear & Circular Seating Arrangements, Matrix Grids. • Basics: Syllogisms, standard Data Tables, and Bar Graphs. | • Move away from a speed-first mindset. • Action: Solve exactly 2 sets daily from scratch. • Focus on data organisation, clean mapping, and clutter-free representation rather than the timer. |
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CAT Preparation 2026: Month 3-4 Advanced Practice & Selection Strategy
| Section | New Topics to Cover | Daily Practice & Test Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Quant | • Number Systems • Geometry • Permutations & Combinations | • Stop practising single topics. • Take mixed sectional tests to adapt to changes between different math concepts. |
| DILR | • Hybrid Sets (e.g., Venn Diagrams + Maxima/Minima) • Missing Data Tables | • Take 3 minutes before every practice block just to rank sets from easiest to hardest. |
| VARC | • Paragraph Jumbles • Paragraph Summaries • Paragraph Completion | • Master elimination of questions • Focus on finding solid reasons why three options are wrong, instead of guessing what feels right. |
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CAT Preparation 2026: Month 5-6 (Mock Test and Consistency)
| Category | Key Target | Action & Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Mock Frequency | 1–2 Mocks/week | Take full-length mocks under strict 2-hour exam conditions. |
| Mock Analysis | 4 Hours/mock | Spend double the exam time reviewing every single question. |
| Conceptual Error | Fix Basics | Stop and re-study your core theory notes immediately. |
| Selection Error | Fix Choices | Find out why you picked a hard or time-consuming question. |
| Silly Mistake | Fix Accuracy | Slow down your solving speed by 10% in the next mock. |
| The Final Month | Past Papers | Solve real CAT papers (2021–2025) in timed 40-minute blocks. |
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Ques. How to improve accuracy in CAT VARC?
Ans. To improve your accuracy, stop skimming and start mapping the main idea of each paragraph. Analyze why your wrong options were incorrect during mock analysis usually, options are wrong because they are "too broad," "out of context," or "add external data" not mentioned in the passage.
Ques. How many questions to attempt in VARC for 99 percentile?
Ans. To score a 99 percentile, you generally need raw score of around 35–40 marks out of 72. This means you should aim to correctly solve 12 to 14 questions with over 85% accuracy out of the 24 questions presented.
Ques. What are TITA questions in CAT VARC?
Ans. Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions do not have multiple-choice options. You must type your answer directly using the on-screen keyboard. In VARC, these typically appear as Para Jumbles and Odd One Out questions and do not carry negative markings.
CAT Preparation 2026: Mock Tests
Mock tests help tremendously to leverage overall performance. These platforms simulate the actual IIM software interface, complete with a functional sectional timer and an on-screen basic calculator.
According to toppers like Rahul Jain (2014), assessing mock tests is utmost important.
Steps for effective assessment of your mock tests
| Step | What to Do | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Re-Try Questions | Redo wrong or skipped questions without a timer. | Tells you if you made a mistake due to rush or a lack of knowledge. |
| 2. Compare Solutions | Check the official answers for all questions, even your correct ones. | Helps you find faster methods and better logic shortcuts. |
| 3. Update Cheat Sheets | Track your mistakes and write down forgotten formulas. | Fixes your weak spots and keeps important shortcuts ready for quick review. |
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Ques. How many mock tests should I take for CAT?
Ans. A safe number is between 25 and 30 full-length mock tests over the last 5 months of your preparation. Taking too many mocks without thoroughly analyzing them is counterproductive. The analysis of each test is what actually improves your score.
Ques. What is a good score in CAT mock tests?
Ans. Score above 60 is considered good (approx. 95+ percentile), while a score crossing 80 to 85 generally places you in the 99+ percentile bracket.
CAT 2026 Preparation Books
Buying experts’ recommended books can help you in CAT 2026 preparation. These books are designed to help aspirants improve their scores. Arun Sharma remains the most recommended amongst all.
- VARC preparation can get easier through the books by Arun Sharma, Wren & Martin.
- DILR preparation centers on logical reasoning, puzzles, and data interpretation using books by Arun Sharma and M.K. Pandey.
- For QA, candidates should strengthen arithmetic, algebra,aptitude. They can practice through books by Sarvesh Verma, and R.S. Aggarwal.
| Section | Book Title | Author |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay |
| VARC | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
| VARC | High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren and Martin |
| DILR | How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| DILR | How to Prepare for Logical Deduction for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| DILR | Analytical Reasoning | M.K. Pandey |
| QA | How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| QA | Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Verma |
| QA | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
Source: Best Books for CAT
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Ques. Which book is best for CAT preparation?
Ans. For self-study, the most popular and highly recommended books are "How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude/DILR/VARC" by Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill) or the study modules authored by Nishit K. Sinha (Pearson).
CAT 2026 Preparation: Online Coachings
Online coaching can provide extra help for those preparing by themselves. They have the extra benefit of being able to access them while sitting at home.
- Elites Grid is said to be a good choice. They offer great personal guidance and help you plan your studies effectively. But the study schedule is very intense and demanding.
- Rodha is an excellent choice if you want to build a really strong foundation in mathematics. It lacks individual, personalised attention.
| Platform | Pricing (Approx) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Elites Grid | ₹28,000 | Live classes, doubt solving, test series |
| Rodha | ₹35,499 | QA/DILR focused conceptual teaching |
| CATKing | Premium modules | Strategy, benchmarking, GDPI prep |
| IMS | ₹35,950 | Structured syllabus and mocks |
| iQuanta | ₹35,170 | Community learning and fast analytics |
| TIME | ₹56,000 | Rigorous courses and AIMCATs |
| PW / Unacademy | Budget-friendly | Flexible self-paced learning |
Source: CAT Coaching
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Ques. Is online coaching better than offline coaching for CAT?
Ans. Online coaching offers greater flexibility, access to recorded sessions for revision, and is often more affordable. Offline coaching is preferable only if you require strict classroom discipline and prefer face-to-face peer interaction to stay motivated.
CAT 2026 Preparation: Previous Year Analysis
Experts estimated that a raw score of 80–90 marks (out of 198) was enough to secure a 99th percentile in CAT 2025
IIM Indore will set the paper for 2026.
- In 2020 IIM Indore excluded calculation-heavy, formula-dependent questions. Instead, they focused heavily on Arithmetic and Algebra (consistently totaling 60-65% of the section).
- CAT 2020 DILR had deceptive questions, hidden conditions, lengthy deductions.
Because of this trend of IIM Indore, mentors believe CAT 2026 aspirants should prioritize:
- Mock-based adaptability
- Reading comprehension stamina
- Decision-making accuracy under time pressure
CAT Past Years’ Paper Analysis
| Section | Question Split | Question Themes | Difficulty | Good Attempts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VARC | 24 Total • 16 RC • 8 VA | • Abstract RCs (AI, Philosophy, Tech). • TITA Parajumbles returned. • Very close, tricky options. | Moderate | 13 – 16 Qs |
| DILR | 22 Total • 5 Sets • ~11 TITA | • No basic charts. • Heavy on Number Logic and puzzles. • Viral "Singing Competition" Venn set. | High / Tough | 10 – 14 Qs (~2 sets) |
| QA | 22 Total • 14 MCQ • 8 TITA | • Dominated by Arithmetic & Algebra. • Minimal Geometry. • Lengthy, multi-step calculations. | Moderate to Tough | 10 – 12 Qs |
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Ques. Is the CAT exam getting tougher every year?
Ans. The overall difficulty level of the CAT exam has remained moderately high. The DILR and VARC sections have seen an increase in abstract and logical complexity over the last three years. The Quant section has shifted to test core conceptual depth rather than direct formula application.
Ques. Can an average student crack CAT with 99 percentile?
Ans. Yes, absolute past academic brilliance is not a prerequisite to cracking the test. Consistency in taking mocks, practicing a diverse variety of sets daily, and maintaining emotional calm on the exam day are what determine a 99 percentile.
CAT Preparation 2026: Topper Tips
Most common question asked by CAT aspirants is- “ How to achieve a near-perfect percentile like 99.96 or even 100.”
While answering this query on Quroa 2014 Rohan Jain, an IIT Kanpur graduate and IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, shared his tips.
- Rohan began his serious preparation well in advance (more than a year before the exam)
- Even after coaching ended, he continued solving previous years’ CAT papers regularly
- He attempted every mock test with full dedication, analyzed his performance thoroughly
- His only moto was “Practice, practice, and practice.”
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FAQ’s
Ques. A reddit user asked -” I have to manage college + cat prep so how many hrs should i give for cat knowing i am a non eng and might face trouble in quants ?”
Ans- As a non-engineer, one should not rush through Quant formulas. Focus heavily on Arithmetic Revise 3–4 hours on Saturdays and Sundays. Don't memorize 100 different formulas. Instead, learn the core concepts.
Ques. Is 70 marks a good score in CAT?
Ans. Yes, a raw score of 70 marks is considered a good score. It typically sets you into the highly competitive 95+ percentile bracket nationally. While it might fall slightly short of the top-three IIMs. A 70-mark score opens immediate doors to several top-tier management institutions
Ques. Can I crack CAT in 20 days?
Ans. No, it is impossible to crack the CAT from scratch in just 20 days if you are a beginner. A 20-day window does not give your brain enough time to build the deep muscle memory. It is required to decode complex DILR matrices or adapt to abstract reading passages under severe time pressure.
Ques. Is CAT tougher than IIT?
Ans. Comparing these two exams is challenging. They evaluate completely different skill sets. Many experts consider the CAT structurally tougher due to its unpredictable nature and massive applicant pool. The IIT entrance exam (JEE Advanced) relies on a highly defined, subject-specific science syllabus.
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