Why Understanding the CAT Pattern is Crucial?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most competitive MBA entrance exam, conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It’s the gateway to India’s top B-Schools, including all IIMs, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, and more.
If your child plans to appear for CAT 2025, understanding the exam pattern is the first step towards thoughtful preparation. Every year, CAT throws minor surprises, especially in the number of questions or difficulty level—but the core structure has remained largely consistent post-2020.
Here’s why it matters:
| Reason Why CAT Pattern Matters | Explanation |
| Strategic Preparation | Knowing the number of questions helps allocate time and resources effectively. |
| Time Management | Sectional time limits mean students must master speed + accuracy per section. |
| Better Mock Analysis | Pattern knowledge helps students analyze mock tests meaningfully and improve weak areas. |
| Reduced Exam Anxiety | Familiarity with question types and format increases confidence on test day. |
For aspirants and parents, understanding the CAT structure is key to planning the months leading up to the exam.
In the sections ahead, we’ll break down the latest CAT 2025 exam pattern, including:
- Total number of questions
- Section-wise structure (VARC, DILR, QA)
- Time limits and marking scheme
- Tips to leverage the pattern for a higher percentile
Let’s dive in!
CAT Exam Pattern 2025: At a Glance
The CAT exam is conducted in a computer-based format (CBT). It is divided into three major sections – VARC, DILR, and QA. While the official notification for CAT 2025 is expected around July 2025, the pattern will likely remain similar to the last few years.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the expected CAT 2025 structure:
CAT 2025 Exam Structure Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Sections | 3 (VARC, DILR, QA) |
| Sectional Time Limit | 40 minutes per section (no switching allowed) |
| Total Questions | 68 |
| Question Types | MCQs + TITA (Type In The Answer) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for correct answers-1 for incorrect MCQsNo negative marking for TITA |
| Exam Slots | 3 slots in a single day |
| Medium | English |
Section-Wise Distribution
| Section | Approx. Questions | Time Limit | Question Type Mix |
| VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) | 24 | 40 mins | Mostly MCQs, few TITA |
| DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) | 22 | 40 mins | MCQs + TITA mix |
| QA (Quantitative Aptitude) | 22 | 40 mins | MCQs + TITA |
Pro Tip for Aspirants: Prepare with the 68-question format in mind, but be ready for minor adjustments. Don’t let unexpected changes throw you off on exam day!
Section-Wise Breakdown: Number of Questions & Key Topics
Let’s now break down each section of CAT 2025 to understand the question types, syllabus focus areas, and expected difficulty.
3.1 VARC – Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
The VARC section tests a candidate’s comprehension, verbal logic, and language structure. It is known to be less about vocabulary and more about understanding, analysis, and interpretation.
| Component | No. of Questions | Type | Weightage |
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | 16 (4 passages × 4 Qs each) | MCQs | High |
| Verbal Ability (VA) | 8 (approx.) | TITA + MCQ | Medium |
Common Topics in VARC:
- Reading Comprehension: Abstract, Philosophy, Economics, History, Sociology, Animal-based
- Para Summary
- Odd Sentence Out
Key Notes:
- RC dominates the section (65–70% of VARC).
- Vocabulary-based direct questions are rare.
- TITA questions are usually seen in ParaJumbles and Odd Sentence Out.
Tip: Build reading stamina and comprehension skills. Prioritize accuracy in VA to boost your sectional score.
3.2 DILR – Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning
DILR is considered the trickiest section in recent CAT exams. It features 5 sets, 2 sets of 5 questions and 3 sets of 4 questions each. The section tests both logic-building and number-interpretation skills.
| Component | No. of Sets | Total Questions | Type | Difficulty |
| Data Interpretation (DI) | 3 | ~12 | MCQ + TITA | Moderate |
| Logical Reasoning (LR) | 2 | ~10 | MCQ + TITA | High |
Common Topics in DI:
- Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Tables, Pie Charts
- Caselets, Data Sufficiency
Common Topics in LR:
- Puzzles (Seating, Team Formation)
- Arrangements
- Binary Logic, Games and Tournaments
- Venn Diagrams, Scheduling
Key Notes:
- The entire section is set-based; no standalone questions.
- Time-consuming sets; question selection is crucial.
- Often the most decisive section for 99+ percentile scorers.
Tip: Practice puzzles and DI sets under time constraints. Improve your ability to identify the easiest 3 out of 5 sets.
3.3 QA – Quantitative Aptitude
The QA section checks numerical ability and conceptual clarity. Arithmetic has had the highest weight in recent years, followed by algebra and geometry.
| Topic Group | Weightage (Approx.) | TITA Questions | Focus Level |
| Arithmetic (Time-Speed, Profit-Loss, PerTime and Work, Averages) | 40–50% | 4–5 | Very High |
| Algebra (Equations, Functions, Inequalities) | 20–25% | 1–2 | High |
| Number Systems | 10–15% | 1 | Medium |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 10–15% | 1–2 | Medium |
| Modern Math (P&C, Probability, Logs, Set Theory) | 5–10% | – | Low-Medium |
Key Notes:
- QA is concept-driven. Speed comes from practice.
- Around 6–8 TITA questions, often from Arithmetic/Algebra.
- Emphasis is on application-based problem-solving, not memorization.
Tip: Build a strong foundation in Arithmetic first. Then, move to Algebra and Geometry. Solve topic-wise and sectional mocks regularly.
With a clear understanding of each section, let’s explore TITA questions and how they work in CAT.
What Are TITA Questions in CAT?
In addition to standard multiple-choice questions (MCQs), the CAT exam includes a unique question type called TITA – Type In The Answer.
These questions do not have answer options. Instead, candidates must calculate and directly type the final answer using an on-screen keyboard.
Key Features of TITA Questions
| Feature | Description |
| Full-Form | Type In The Answer |
| Answer Format | No options given – type numerical/text response |
| Negative Marking | No penalty for incorrect answers |
| Answering Tool | On-screen keyboard |
| Appears In | All three sections: VARC, DILR & QA |
| Difficulty Level | Medium to High – requires accuracy without options to eliminate |
Approximate TITA Distribution (Based on Past Years)
| Section | Expected TITA Questions |
| VARC | 3–4 (mainly in Verbal Ability) |
| DILR | 3–5 (varies by set) |
| QA | 6–8 (across Arithmetic, Algebra, Numbers) |
| Total | ~12–16 out of 68 questions |
How to Approach TITA Questions
- No Elimination Strategy: Since no options exist, candidates can’t use guesswork or approximation. A strong understanding of concepts is required.
- Practice Typing Precision: Mistyping answers can cost marks. Get comfortable with the on-screen keyboard format used in CAT.
- TITA First or Last? Many toppers recommend attempting to answer the TITA questions later in the section once you’ve secured MCQs.
- Use the “No Negative Marking” Advantage: Don’t leave TITA questions blank—always attempt them even if unsure.
Tip for Aspirants: Treat TITA as an opportunity. There’s zero risk but full reward if your calculation is accurate!
Now that you know how TITA works, let’s explore how the marking scheme and sectional time limit impact your strategy for CAT 2025.
Marking Scheme & Sectional Timing in CAT 2025
Understanding how CAT marks are awarded (and deducted) is crucial for planning your answering strategy. Combined with the strict sectional time limits, CAT is an actual test of accuracy and time management.
CAT 2025 Marking Scheme
| Question Type | Marks for Correct Answer | Negative Marking | Unattempted |
| MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) | +3 | -1 for wrong answer | 0 |
| TITA (Type In The Answer) | +3 | No negative marking | 0 |
Important Note: TITA questions carry equal weightage as MCQs but come with no penalty. Competent candidates use this to maximize scoring opportunities.
Sectional Time Limit: What You Need to Know
CAT follows a strict sectional time limit format. You cannot switch between sections during the test. Once 40 minutes are over, the screen automatically moves to the next section.
| Section | Time Allotted | Switching Allowed? |
| VARC | 40 minutes | No |
| DILR | 40 minutes | No |
| QA | 40 minutes | No |
| Total | 120 minutes | Fixed order: VARC → DILR → QA |
What This Means for Aspirants
- No skipping ahead: You must complete one section before moving to the next.
- Balance speed & accuracy: With negative marking, accuracy matters as much as speed.
- No review later: You can’t return to a question from a previous section.
- Stay calm under pressure: If one section doesn’t go well, don’t let it affect your performance in the next.
Topper Tip: Attempt TITA questions towards the end of each section and prioritize accuracy in MCQs to avoid negative markings.
CAT 2025 Syllabus Overview – Quick Recap
The CAT exam does not have an officially prescribed syllabus. Still, over the years, a pattern of topics has become consistent across all three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA.
Here’s a quick reference table covering the major topic areas expected in CAT 2025:
Section-Wise CAT 2025 Syllabus
| Section | Key Topics | Focus Area |
| VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) | Reading Comprehension (RC), Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out | Comprehension + Verbal Reasoning |
| DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) | Tables, Graphs, Bar Charts, Caselets, Seating Arrangement, Venn Diagrams, Puzzles | Set-based Analysis & Logic |
| QA (Quantitative Aptitude) | Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, TSD, Averages), Algebra (Equations, Inequalities), Numbers, Geometry, Modern Math (P&C, Probability, Logs) | Conceptual Clarity + Calculation Speed |
Syllabus Highlights:
- VARC: No grammar or vocabulary-based direct questions. RC is 65–70% of the section.
- DILR: Entirely set-based; no individual questions. Emphasis on multi-layered logic.
- QA: Arithmetic dominates (~40–50% of questions). Algebra and Geometry are also important.
Pro Tip: Start with Arithmetic in QA, RC in VARC, and easy DI sets in DILR—these form the foundation of the exam.
Want to dive deeper? ➤ Read: Full CAT 2025 Syllabus – Topic-Wise Breakdown & Study Plan (Add an internal link to the full syllabus blog when available)
How to Prepare for CAT Based on Its Pattern
Now that you understand the structure, time limits, marking scheme, and syllabus, it’s time to convert that knowledge into a focused preparation strategy.
Here’s how to align your CAT 2025 preparation with the exam pattern to maximize your score.
1. Focus on Sectional Strengths and Weaknesses
| Section | Strategy |
| VARC | Practice 2 RCs daily, solve parajumbles regularly and read editorials (The Hindu, Aeon, New Yorker) to improve comprehension. |
| DILR | Practice at least 1 LR and 1 DI set daily. Focus on understanding logic trees, caselets, and set formats from past CAT papers. |
| QA | Build your Arithmetic base first, then move to Algebra and Geometry. Daily practice of 15–20 questions is ideal. |
2. Time Management Drills Per Section
- Simulate real CAT conditions – 40-minute timers per section.
- Use tools like Tarkashastra’s YouTube Mocks or test platforms.
- Don’t spend too much time on one question—learn when to skip.
3. Attempt + Accuracy Strategy (Especially for MCQs)
| Task | Goal |
| Overall Attempt Rate | 80–90% of questions |
| Accuracy Goal (MCQs) | Minimum 85% to avoid losing marks |
| TITA Strategy | Attempt all—no penalty! Prioritize logical and calculable ones. |
4. Build TITA Muscle Without Fear
- Practice typing exact answers, especially in QA and DILR.
- TITA questions often test your pure understanding, not tricks.
- Since there’s no negative marking, take educated guesses if needed.
5. Mock Tests + Analysis (Game Changer!)
| Phase | No. of Mocks | Frequency |
| Foundation (Apr–Jul) | 5–6 full mocks | 1 every 2 weeks |
| Growth (Aug–Sep) | 8–10 full mocks | 1 per week |
| Peak (Oct–Nov) | 12–15 mocks | 2–3 per week |
- Analyze attempts, accuracy, time per question, and question selection.
- Maintain an error log to track recurring mistakes.
Topper Insight: The CAT exam is not just about knowledge—it’s about how smartly you apply that knowledge under pressure.
Expert Tip: What Top Scorers Do Differently
Thousands of aspirants prepare for the CAT yearly, but only a few make it to the IIMs. The secret often lies in how much they study and how they think, analyze, and strategize.
Here’s what consistently separates the 99+ percentiles from the rest:
1. They Master the Art of Question Selection
| Situation | Topper’s Approach |
| Tricky DILR set | Skip in the first pass; revisit only if time permits |
| Lengthy RC passage | Read the first few lines to decide whether to attempt |
| Confusing MCQ | Flag it, move on and return only after all easy ones are done |
Tip: Don’t chase ego-solving. Know when to move on.
2. They Treat Each Section Like a Separate Exam
- Focus entirely on the section before them—no overthinking the next.
- Use the first 2–3 minutes to scan the section and plan the attack order.
- This minimizes panic and maximizes control.
3. They Build Momentum Through Mock Analysis
- After every mock, they don’t just look at the score.
- They analyze:
- Which questions were time-wasters?
- What was their accuracy per section?
- Were they overconfident or too cautious?
Tarkashastra Tip: Keep a Mock Tracker Sheet with data from every test. It’s your roadmap to improvement.
4. They Stay Consistent, Not Perfect
- They know some days will be tough—but they show up anyway.
- They stick to a weekly target, not daily guilt.
- They take breaks without quitting.
Mindset Tip: CAT is a mental marathon, not a sprint. Stay calm, stay steady.
5. They Seek Feedback & Stay Humble
- They join peer groups, enrol in mentor-led programs (like Tarkashastra), and ask questions.
- They aren’t afraid of being wrong—they’re committed to being better.
Bottom line? CAT is not cracked by being the smartest but by being the most strategic, adaptable, and self-aware.
Conclusion: Use Pattern Knowledge to Prepare Smarter
Success in CAT 2025 won’t just depend on how many hours your child studies — it will depend on how strategically they prepare based on the exam pattern.
By now, you’ve understood that:
- CAT is a 2-hour, high-pressure exam with three equally important sections.
- Each section has a fixed 40-minute limit—no skipping or going back.
- The mix of MCQs and TITA questions requires both accuracy and confidence.
- Patterns over the last 4–5 years show that CAT rewards clarity, selection, and calmness more than brute speed.
Key Takeaway: Pattern knowledge isn’t optional—it’s the starting point for adequate preparation.
Final Action Plan for CAT 2025 Aspirants
| Month | Focus |
| May–July | Build concepts, solve topic-wise questions, and understand the pattern. |
| August–September | Start full-length mocks and sectionals based on the 68-question pattern |
| October–November | Analyze mocks deeply, optimize test-taking strategy |
| Last 2 weeks | Focus on accuracy, revision, and mindset management |
At Tarkashastra, we help students not just study hard but study smart.
Ready to Start Your CAT 2025 Journey?
- Download a Free Study Plan – Custom-made for the CAT 68-question format
- Join Our Free YouTube Series – Live sessions, mocks, and masterclasses
- Book a 1:1 Strategy Call – With expert mentors at Tarkashastra
Visit www.tarkashastra.co.in and take the first step today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Exam Pattern of CAT 2025?
The CAT 2025 exam will be a computer-based test of 120 minutes, divided into three sections:
- VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) – 24 questions
- DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) – 22 questions
- QA (Quantitative Aptitude) – 22 questions
- Total: 68 questions across 3 sections, with a 40-minute time limit per section. No switching between sections is allowed during the exam.
- How Many Questions Are Asked in CAT?
CAT 2025 is expected to have 68 questions in total, distributed as follows:
- VARC: 24 questions
- DILR: 22 questions
- QA: 22 questions.
- Are There Any Non-MCQs (TITA Questions) in CAT?
Yes. CAT includes TITA (Type In The Answer) questions, which require you to type the answer using an on-screen keyboard. These appear in all three sections. There is no negative marking for TITA questions.
- Is There a Sectional Time Limit in CAT 2025?
CAT has a strict sectional time limit of 40 minutes per section. You cannot switch sections during the test, and once a section ends, the screen automatically moves to the next.
- Can I Use a Calculator During the CAT Exam?
Yes, an on-screen calculator is provided during the CAT exam. You are not allowed to bring a physical calculator into the exam hall.
- What Is the Marking Scheme in CAT?
The marking scheme is as follows:
- +3 marks for each correct answer (MCQ or TITA)
- –1 mark for each incorrect MCQ
- 0 marks for unattempted questions and incorrect TITA questions (no negative marking for TITA).
- What are the key sections of the CAT exam?
The CAT exam has three key sections:
- VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) – Focuses on RC passages, para summary, and verbal logic.
- DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) – Tests set-based reasoning, puzzles, and data analysis.
- QA (Quantitative Aptitude) – Emphasizes arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Each section is equally important and has 40 minutes allotted.
- How Are TITA Questions Different from MCQs in CAT?
TITA (Type In The Answer) questions:
- Do not provide options—you must type the answer manually.
- Appear in all three sections.
- Have no negative marking, unlike MCQs, which have a –1 penalty for wrong answers. TITA questions reward conceptual clarity over guesswork.
- Can I Skip Questions and Come Back Later During CAT?
You can skip and revisit questions within the same section during the 40-minute window.
However, you cannot go back to a previous section once the time is over or switch ahead before the time ends for the current section.
- How Many TITA Questions Can I Expect in CAT 2025?
Based on past trends, CAT 2025 is expected to have 12–16 TITA questions:
- VARC: 3–4 TITA
- DILR: 3–5 TITA
- QA: 6–8 TITA
- These numbers may vary slightly depending on the year’s paper design.
