The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive exams in India for admission into prestigious management programs like the IIMs and other top B-schools. With CAT 2025 around the corner, aspirants are gearing up to understand the exam pattern, marking scheme, syllabus, and duration to strategize their preparation effectively. This article breaks down everything you need to know about CAT 2025 in a simple, user-friendly manner. Let’s dive in!
Key Point
Details
Organization Name
ABC (Conducting Body for CAT 2025)
Exam Mode
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration
2 hours (120 minutes)
Sections
Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning
Each section will have approximately 22 questions, making the total number of questions around 66.
Marking Scheme Explained 🖊
Understanding the marking scheme is crucial to avoid unnecessary mistakes. Here’s how it works:
Question Type
Marks Awarded
Marks Deducted
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
+3
-1
Non-MCQs (Type-in Answers)
+3
0
Pro Tip: Focus on accuracy, especially in MCQs, as negative marking can impact your overall score.
Syllabus Breakdown 📚
The CAT syllabus is vast but manageable with proper planning. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Reading Comprehension (RC) passages
Para-jumbles, sentence completion
Grammar-based questions
2. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry
Number Systems, Mensuration
Modern Math (Permutations, Probability)
3. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Tables, Graphs, Charts
Puzzles, Seating Arrangements
Logical Sequences, Venn Diagrams
Exam Duration and Time Management ⏳
CAT 2025 will be a 2-hour exam, divided into three sections. Each section will have a 40-minute time limit, and you cannot switch between sections during this time.
Section
Time Allotted
VARC
40 minutes
DILR
40 minutes
QA
40 minutes
Time Management Tip: Practice mock tests to get a feel for the time constraints and improve your speed.
Preparation Tips for CAT 2025 🎯
1. Understand the Basics
Start with the fundamentals of each section. Build a strong foundation in topics like grammar, arithmetic, and logical reasoning.
2. Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is key. Solve previous years’ papers and take mock tests to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
Analyze your performance in mock tests and dedicate extra time to improving weaker sections.
Keep an eye on the official website for any updates regarding the exam date, pattern, or syllabus.
Why CAT 2025 is Important 🚀
CAT is not just an exam; it’s a gateway to some of the best management institutes in India. A good CAT score can open doors to prestigious institutions like the IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, and more. With proper preparation and a clear understanding of the exam pattern, you can ace CAT 2025 and take a significant step toward your dream career.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle CAT 2025 with confidence. Remember, consistency and smart preparation are your best allies. Good luck! 🌟
Siddharth Patel is a career counselor and content creator focusing on recruitment notifications. He holds a degree in Management and has 7+ years of experience. Siddharth enjoys playing badminton and reading self-help books.
