CAT exam trends: topic frequency over 10 years

I’ve often found myself analyzing previous years' CAT papers to better understand the exam's evolving patterns. One of the most effective ways to prepare smartly is to identify recurring themes and topics that appear frequently in the exam. In this blog, I’ll break down the topic-wise frequency trends of the CAT exam over the past decade, across its three major sections: VARC, DILR, and QA. This analysis is particularly helpful when aligning preparation with the CAT exam syllabus and understanding the CAT exam pattern.

1. Verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC)

Reading comprehension (RC)
Over the last ten years, RC has consistently carried the highest weightage in the VARC section. Typically, RC comprises around 70% of this section, with four to five passages appearing each year. The topics of these passages range from philosophy, science, sociology, to current affairs and economics.

Verbal ability (VA)
In the remaining 30%, VA questions focus on:

• Para jumbles

• Para summary

• Odd one out

Among these, para jumbles have appeared almost every year. While their number has varied, their consistent presence makes them essential for preparation.

2. Data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR)

This section has seen the most dynamic changes in terms of difficulty and pattern. However, some recurring trends have emerged:

Data interpretation (DI)

• Tables, bar graphs, and pie charts were common up until 2015.
  
  

• Post-2016, sets have become more complex and puzzle-based, blending DI with logical reasoning.
  
  

Logical reasoning (LR)

• Arrangements (linear and circular)

• Team selection and tournaments

• Binary logic

• Puzzles (with constraints)

Among these, arrangement-based puzzles and team selection problems have appeared frequently across most years.

3. Quantitative aptitude (QA)

The QA section has remained relatively stable in terms of topic distribution. However, there have been shifts in focus from time to time.

Frequently appearing topics:

• Arithmetic (time, speed, distance; time & work; averages; ratios): most consistent and heavily weighted

• Algebra (equations, inequalities, functions): especially dominant in recent years

• Geometry and mensuration: slightly reduced presence after 2020

• Number system: appeared more often between 2013–2017

• Modern math (permutation & combination, probability): less frequent, but still worth preparing

Arithmetic has clearly been the most dependable section, featuring prominently in every year’s paper.

4. Evolution of difficulty and pattern

• Pre-2015 era: predictable pattern, segregated DI and LR sections, moderate difficulty

• Post-2015 to present: introduction of non-MCQs, time-restricted sectional attempts, blended DI-LR sets, higher unpredictability

This transformation indicates CAT’s shift towards assessing problem-solving abilities over rote learning or conventional shortcuts.

5. What these trends mean for aspirants

Understanding the frequency of topics helps in prioritizing preparation. For instance:

• Focus more on RC, arithmetic, and DILR sets with logic puzzles

• Don’t ignore algebra, as it has gained importance

• Be ready for surprises, especially in DILR

Also, make sure you’re well-versed with the official CAT exam syllabus and CAT exam pattern to align your preparation with what’s most relevant. Keep an eye on updates regarding the CAT application form and ensure timely download of your CAT admit card to avoid last-minute issues.

Conclusion

While CAT remains unpredictable in its design, analyzing past trends helps bring clarity to your preparation strategy. Rather than attempting to study everything with equal intensity, being data-driven about topic frequency over the years allows smarter and more focused preparation.

If you're starting your CAT journey or even revising your strategy, looking at topic trends is a powerful way to gain an edge. Make sure you stay updated on key details like the CAT application form release dates and when the CAT admit card becomes available to streamline your journey to a top B-school.