If you’re looking for CAT 2025 preparation strategy, staring at the massive syllabus can feel overwhelming. You're not alone — one of the most common questions aspirants ask is: “Where should I begin?”

Quantitative Aptitude (QA): Focus on High-Impact Topics First

Quant can be intimidating, especially if you’ve been out of touch with math. But here’s the good news: not all topics are equally important.

High-Weight Topics in Quant:

• Arithmetic – consistently 30–50% of the section

• Algebra – high weightage but slightly tougher

• Geometry – moderate relevance

• Number System & Modern Math – low weightage, but still useful for easy marks

Where to Start:

1. Begin with Arithmetic
   These chapters are scoring and moderately difficult — perfect to build your base.

   • Time, Speed & Distance

   • Percentages & Profit-Loss

   • Ratio, Proportion & Mixtures

2. Move to Algebra
   Concepts like quadratic equations and logarithms show up often. They’re tougher but essential once you’re confident with arithmetic.

3. Next: Geometry
   While its weightage has slightly reduced in recent years, it’s still relevant and needs a strong conceptual understanding.

4. Wrap up with Number Systems & Modern Math
   These are low-weight but often easy. Use them to pick up bonus marks without burning out.

Suggested Study Order:

Arithmetic → Algebra → Geometry → Number System / Modern Math

VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension): RC is King

The VARC section is dominated by Reading Comprehension — nearly 70% of the section is based on it.

Focus on:

• Reading Comprehension (RC)
  Practice at least 1–2 RCs daily. Focus on comprehension, tone, and inference — not just speed.

• Verbal Ability (VA) topics like:

  • Para Jumbles

  • Para Summary

  • Odd Sentence Out

These VA questions don’t carry as much weight as RC, but regular practice will still help improve your reading flow and comprehension.

DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning): No Pattern, So Build Versatility

This section has been the most unpredictable over the years. You won’t find a fixed pattern — which is why variety and practice are your best strategies.

Where to Begin:

• Start with simple DI sets
  Tables, bar graphs, and pie charts are great to get comfortable with data.

• Basic LR puzzles
  Arrangements, selections, and sequencing puzzles are perfect for warming up.

Once you’re confident, slowly move on to the tougher, hybrid sets that mix DI and LR in the same question.

Pro Tip: Start Smart, Not Just Hard

Your CAT 2025 prep doesn’t need to be a 10-hour daily grind. What matters is starting with the right topics — the ones that are high-weightage and easier to grasp.

Here’s how:

• Quant → Start with Arithmetic

• VARC → Focus on RC

• DILR → Begin with simple DI and LR sets

Once you build a strong base, you can gradually move toward tougher topics like Algebra or advanced puzzle sets.

Bonus Tip: Use the Power of Community and Coaching

If you’re someone who thrives in structure, consider joining a coaching institute or a free online study group. However, even without coaching, following a trend-based approach like this will keep you focused and consistent.

Join the Conversation

Already started your CAT prep? How are you structuring your syllabus?
What’s working best for you? Let us know in the comments — your experience might help others too!