CAT Preparation: 8 Important Topics To Cover in Quantitative Aptitude – Times of India

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based test for admission to graduate management programs in India. It is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. This year, IIM Lucknow is conducting the CAT 2023 exam which is scheduled for November 26, 2023, in three sessions in 155 cities.
The CAT exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).Each section has its own set of topics and question types, so it is important to familiarise yourself with the syllabus and section-wise topics on the basis of their weightage.
In this article, we will talk about the important topics in CAT Quantitative Aptitude. The CAT QA section covers a wide range of topics, but some of the most important ones that candidates must focus are given below;
CAT Syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude

CAT Subject-wise Weightage of Previous Years
Understanding the sectional distribution of marks in the CAT exam is an important element in strategising for effective preparation. The table presented below illustrates a data interpretation aimed at analysing the weightage allotted to individual sections in Common Admission Test based on the previous years’ question papers.

8 Important Topics To Focus on in the CAT QA Section
1. Algebra
Concepts: Algebra involves the study of mathematical symbols and rules for manipulating those symbols. It includes topics such as equations, inequalities, polynomials, functions, and quadratic equations.
Application: Algebraic concepts are widely used in problem-solving, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. CAT often tests your ability to set up and solve algebraic equations.
2. Arithmetic
Concepts: Arithmetic covers fundamental operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It includes topics such as percentages, ratios, averages, and proportions.
Application: Arithmetic is the foundation for many quantitative problems. CAT often includes questions related to profit and loss, time and work, and other real-life scenarios.
3. Number System
Concepts: The number system involves integers, fractions, decimals, and prime numbers. It also includes concepts like LCM (Least Common Multiple) and HCF (Highest Common Factor).
Application: Understanding the properties of numbers is crucial for solving problems involving divisibility, remainders, and factors. CAT may test your ability to work with different number types.
4. Modern Math
Concepts: Modern Math includes topics such as set theory, functions, permutations, combinations, and probability.
Application: Modern Math concepts are often applied to solve problems related to data interpretation and logical reasoning. CAT may test your ability to apply these concepts in various scenarios.
5. Geometry & Mensuration
Concepts: Geometry deals with shapes, sizes, properties of space, and the relationships between them. Mensuration involves the measurement of geometric figures.
Application: Understanding geometric principles is crucial for solving problems related to areas, volumes, and angles. CAT often tests your spatial reasoning and visualisation skills.
6. Trigonometry
Concepts: Trigonometry deals with the relationships between the angles and sides of triangles. It includes concepts such as sine, cosine, tangent, and their inverses.
Application: Trigonometry is often used in solving problems related to heights and distances, as well as in geometry. CAT may test your ability to apply trigonometric principles.
7. Permutation & Combination
Concepts: Permutation involves the arrangement of objects, while combination involves the selection of objects without considering the order.
Application: These concepts are often applied in counting problems and probability. CAT may test your ability to analyse different arrangements and selections.
8. Probability
Concepts: Probability deals with the likelihood of events occurring. It includes concepts such as probability distributions, conditional probability, and Bayes’ theorem.
Application: Probability is often used in solving problems related to chance and uncertainty. CAT may test your ability to analyse and calculate probabilities in various situations.
Disclaimer: Please note that all topics are important and candidates should focus on all the topics of CAT QA. However, the above-mentioned topics are a few that aspirants should focus on more. Also, it is advised to check the official website of CAT in case more information is required.