The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive MBA entrance exams in India. Understanding how the question paper pattern has evolved over recent years, especially in the Quantitative Ability (QA) section, helps aspirants align their preparation with realistic trends rather than speculation.
This blog analyses CAT paper patterns from past exams including CAT 2024 and CAT 2025, discusses whether Quant questions are changing, and highlights what to expect in CAT 2026. It’s updated with recent information and exam trends to help you prepare smartly.
CAT Exam Pattern at a Glance (Recent Years)
The CAT pattern has remained stable since 2024, with three sections and a fixed 120-minute duration, divided into 40 minutes per section.
| Year | Total Questions | Sections | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAT 2026 (Expected) | ~68 | VARC, DILR, QA | 120 minutes |
| CAT 2025 | 68 | VARC, DILR, QA | 120 minutes |
| CAT 2024 | 68 | VARC, DILR, QA | 120 minutes |
| CAT 2023 | 66 | VARC, DILR, QA | 120 minutes |
Key highlights:
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Number of questions increased to 68 in 2024 and 2025 after years of 66.
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Each section has a fixed time limit (40 minutes).
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Questions include both MCQs (with negative marking) and non-MCQs (TITA without negative marking).
Sections
CAT usually consists of three sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
Number of Questions and Duration
- Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
- Each section is timed separately with 40 minutes allotted per section.
- Total Questions: Around 66 questions in recent years, distributed approximately as follows:
- VARC: 24 questions
- DILR: 20 questions
- QA: 22 questions
Question Types
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): These questions have four options, and candidates must select the correct one.
- Non-MCQs (TITA: Type In The Answer): These questions do not have options. Candidates must type the answer.
Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +3 marks
- Incorrect Answer (MCQs): -1 mark (negative marking)
- Incorrect Answer (Non-MCQs): No negative marking
Sectional Time Limit
- Each section has a specific time limit of 40 minutes. Candidates cannot switch between sections during this time.
Exam Mode
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): Conducted online in test centers across various cities.
Detailed Section-Wise Breakdown
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Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Reading Comprehension (RC): Typically 4-5 passages with 3-5 questions each.
- Verbal Ability (VA): Includes questions on para-jumbles, para-summary, and odd sentence out.
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Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Data Interpretation (DI): Involves analyzing data from charts, graphs, tables, etc.
- Logical Reasoning (LR): Includes puzzles, seating arrangements, logical sequences, etc.
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Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Covers a range of topics including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number system, and modern mathematics.
Preparation Tips
- Practice Past Papers: Solving previous year papers helps understand the question pattern and difficulty level.
- Mock Tests: Regularly taking mock tests helps in time management and identifying weak areas.
- Sectional Preparation: Focus on improving speed and accuracy in each section through targeted practice.
Resources
- Official CAT website provides previous year question papers and sample tests.
Are Questions in Quants Going to Change?
The pattern and types of questions in the Quantitative Ability (QA) section of the CAT exam can vary slightly from year to year, but the core topics and the nature of the questions generally remain consistent. Here are some key points regarding the Quantitative Ability section: Join Our Courses
Core Topics in Quantitative Ability
- Arithmetic: Percentages, Profit and Loss, Interest (Simple and Compound), Ratio and Proportion, Time and Work, Time, Speed and Distance, Mixtures and Alligations.
- Algebra: Equations (Linear and Quadratic), Inequalities, Functions, Progressions (Arithmetic and Geometric), Logarithms.
- Geometry and Mensuration: Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, Solids.
- Number System: Divisibility, Factors, Multiples, Prime Numbers, Remainders, LCM and HCF.
- Modern Mathematics: Permutations and Combinations, Probability, Set Theory.
Possible Changes in Question Types
- Introduction of New Question Formats: While the core topics remain the same, the format in which questions are asked can change. For example, new types of logical puzzles or application-based questions can be introduced.
- Variations in Difficulty Level: The difficulty level of questions can vary. Some years might see more challenging questions, while others might have relatively easier questions.
- Shift in Focus: Occasionally, there might be a slight shift in focus towards certain topics based on recent trends in past papers.
Recent Trends and Expectations
- TITA (Type In The Answer) Questions: There has been an increase in the number of non-MCQ questions, where candidates have to type in the answer. These questions do not have negative marking, encouraging precise answers without guesswork.
- Application-Based Questions: There is a trend towards more application-based questions, which test the understanding of concepts rather than rote learning.
- Balanced Distribution: The examiners aim for a balanced distribution of questions across various topics to ensure comprehensive testing of the candidate’s quantitative abilities.
Preparation Strategy
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the official CAT website and notifications for any updates or changes in the exam pattern.
- Practice Diverse Questions: Solve a variety of questions from each topic to be prepared for any format or difficulty level.
- Mock Tests: Take mock tests under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Conceptual Clarity: Focus on understanding the fundamental concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.
Conclusion
While the specifics of the questions in the Quantitative Ability section may see minor changes in format or difficulty, the fundamental areas of testing remain consistent. Staying updated with the latest trends and practicing a broad range of questions will help in effectively tackling this section.
The CAT exam pattern for 2025 and expected pattern for 2026 shows stability with minor fluctuations, especially in the Quantitative Ability section. There is no major overhaul in Quant questions, and the focus remains on core mathematical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and accuracy under time pressure.
Preparing based on past trends, mastering fundamentals, and analysing mock tests remains the most effective strategy to excel in the Quant section of CAT
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