Is CMAT easier than CAT?

Yes, CMAT is much easier that CAT exam. Despite the fact that CMAT and CAT syllabus are same and that CMAT has two more sections than CAT the former is much easier than the latter. The CAT exam is usually of moderate to high difficulty level, whereas the CMAT exam is of easy to moderate difficulty level. There are key differences between CMAT and CAT which make the former easier. There is no sectional time limit in CMAT so candidates do not face the pressure of completing a given section within certain time limit. In CAT there are 4-5 Reading Comprehension passages which are 500-600 words, and 12-14 question. In CMAT there is usually, only one Reading Comprehension passage, having 4 questions. The Quantitative Aptitude questions of CMAT are also easier than CAT and so are Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation questions. It is easier to score high percentile in CMAT as the number of applicants is more than one Lacs less in CAT.

Can I prepare for CMAT from CAT books?

Yes, CMAT candidates can refer to the books recommended for CAT exam preparation as the syllabus is same for both exams, but they must also solve mock tests and sample questions specific to CMAT to get the hang of it. The CMAT exam is easier than CAT but if you don't know the nature of CMAT questions, you may find it difficult to crack. Candidates can refer to these books for studying the concepts: 1. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education) 2. Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission into Iims by Sarvesh K Verma (Arihant) 3. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha (McGraw Hill Education) 4. NCERT Mathematics Books for Standard 8, 9 and 10 5. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by Dr RS Aggarwal To know more similarities between CAT and CMAT read this article: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/is-cmat-easier-than-cat-know-the-differences-and-similarities-blogId-58019.

Are CMAT mock tests enough for exam preparation?

If you have appeared for CMAT before then you can prepare for another attempt only with mock tests as you would be already thorough with the syllabus and topics. You would also know your strengths and weakness. So, with CMAT mock tests, you will be able to revise and prepare accordingly. However, if you haven't appeared for CMAT or any national level MBA entrance exam before, you will need to cover the syllabus and then practice mock tests. In both scenarios, GK section will have to be prepared through year books. Only mock tests will not be helpful for CMAT GK.

What is the CMAT Innovation and entrepreneurship syllabus? Which books to study?

The syllabus of CMAT Innovation and entrepreneurship section includes Concepts of Entrepreneurship, Overview of Entrepreneurship, Evolution of Entrepreneurship in India, Role of Entrepreneurship in Economic Development, Theories and Models of Entrepreneurship, Framework of Entrepreneurship Theories, Models of Entrepreneurship, Emerging Models of Corporate Entrepreneurship, Dimensions of Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Society, Entrepreneurial Culture, Rural Entrepreneurship, Women Entrepreneurship, Emerging Trends in Social Entrepreneurship, Principles of Business Organisation, Motivation, Communication and Leadership To study these topics candidates should refer to books like: 1. Innovation & Entrepreneurship by Peter F. Drucker 2. Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management by R Goal 3. Entrepreneurship - Robert D. Hisrich 4. Manorama Year Book - Mammen Mathew Apart from these books, candidates must solve last two years' CMAT question papers to know the type of questions asked in this section and their difficulty level. These questions will give you an insight into CMAT Innovation and entrepreneurship.

What are the important topics of CMAT syllabus?

CMAT has five sections - Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Important topics of CMAT across all the five sections are listed below: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation: Time-speed-distance, Ratio-Proportion, Profit and Loss, SICI, Average, Partnership, Triangles Probability Surds, HCF-LCM, Quad equations, Quad inequality, Graphs, Tables, Bar, Pie Chart. Logical Reasoning: Family Tree, Analytical Reasoning, Linear Arrangements, Number Series, Matrix Arrangements, Blood Relationship Tests, Coding-Decoding, etc. Language Comprehension: Synonym, Antonym, Fill in the Blanks, Idioms, Match the Following, Reading Comprehension, Identify the Correct Statement, Direct/Indirect Speech, Classify the Sentence, Question Tag, Parajumble. General Awareness: Economy, Business, World, Politics, Sports, Culture, Society Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Concepts of Entrepreneurship, Overview of Entrepreneurship, Evolution of Entrepreneurship in India, Role of Entrepreneurship in Economic Development, Theories and Models of Entrepreneurship, Framework of Entrepreneurship Theories, Models of Entrepreneurship, Emerging Models of Corporate Entrepreneurship, Dimensions of Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Society, Entrepreneurial Culture, Rural Entrepreneurship, etc.

Which books to refer for CMAT GK?

Manorama Year Book, Lucent's General Knowledge will be a good source to prepare static GK for CMAT. Apart from that, you should refer Pratiyogita Darpan and GK Today for current affairs.

What is the ideal time duration for CMAT preparation?

CMAT has five subjects – Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, English Comprehension, General Awareness and Innovation & Entrepreneurship and to cover all of them, one will need good enough time. Overall, 3 months are needed to cover syllabus of CMAT and about 2 to 3 months for practice and revision. So, overall 6 months are good for CMAT preparation.

How many questions are asked in GK section of CMAT?

There are 20 questions from General Knowledge in CMAT. All the questions are in MCQ format. Four options are given for each question to choose the right answer from. The General Knowledge section of CMAT is usually of a higher difficulty level but as it is a memory based section, it can be completed in maximum 15 minutes. The questions pertain to static GK and Current Affairs. Topics included in CMAT GK section are business, politics, awards, inventions, Science and technology, sports, society, world, advertising, trade, books and authors, arts, entertainment, history, geography and politics. Candidates should attempt the GK section in the end as the main criteria for MBA are English Quantitative Aptitude Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation. The candidate's main focus should be on getting maximum questions correct in these three sessions. GK can be handled at the end.

Which CMAT section has the maximum weightage?

All the five sections of CMAT have equal weightage of 20 questions and 80 marks. Candidates must prepare keeping in mind, scoring a minimum of 50 in every section is important for a decent score.

Can I prepare for CMAT with mock test practice only?

If you have appeared for CMAT before and have complete conceptual clarity of topics, you can prepare for CMAT with mock test practice only.

How many hours should I study for CMAT?

One should dedicate about 4 to 5 hour in a day for CMAT preparation. If you have started CMAT preparation six months before 4 to 5 hours daily will be good. But if you start preparation 3 months before CMAT exam, you will need to dedicate about 7 hours to exam preparation as you will have to cover a lot in less time.

Which are the best LR books for CMAT?

Candidates can prepare for CMAT Logical Reasoning with: · Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K. Sinha · How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma · A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Aggarwal · Concepts of LR - Logical Reasoning for CAT and Other MBA Exams by Gajendra Kumar

How many mock tests to attempt to score 99 percentile in CMAT?

There is no particular number of CMAT mock test that you should target to solve during your preparation phase but on an average it has been seen that about 30-40 CMAT mock tests are good enough to score 99 percentile. Candidates must start solving CMAT mock tests after completing the syllabus as it will help them gauge which are the topics that they have understood well and which are the topics that require more work. 30-34 CMAT mock tests are recommended as, CMAT exam is all about speed and accuracy. The more questions you'll solve in an exam environment, the better you'll get at understanding, choosing and solving questions faster and correctly. Important point to note about practicing CMAT mock test is that one should analyse every mock test to understand the gaps and fissures and what to do to fill them. Another aspect to keep in mind is not to overdo it. When you start to score 98-99 percentile in CMAT mock tests consistently then you should stop and focus on revision, etc.

Which is the lengthiest section in CMAT?

Sectional weightage of CMAT is same. Since the Language Comprehension section of CMAT includes reading comprehension passages, it can be considered a lengthy section. However, any other section can also be lengthier due to nature of the questions.

What is the section wise weightage in CMAT?

CMAT has five sections. Given below is the sectional break up of CMAT exam: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation: 20 questions of 4 marks each Logical Reasoning: 20 questions of 4 marks each Language Comprehension: 20 questions of 4 marks each General Awareness: 20 questions of 4 marks each Innovation & Entrepreneurship: 20 questions of 4 marks each.

Can I prepare for CMAT 2027 without practicing mock tests?

CMAT mock test is an important aspect of exam preparation. You cannot score well in the exam with extensive practice of mock tests.

How can I master Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation topics of CMAT?

Cracking Logical Reasoning section of CMAT is all about how well and how quickly you understand the puzzles and patterns. To master this section of CMAT exam, sample questions for practice and sectional mock tests for CMAT are the best resource. You should start practicing Logical Reasoning questions early on in the preparation cycle. Pay attention to the topics from which Logical Reasoning questions are asked in CMAT. Prepare for those type of questions only. For Data Interpretation section of CMAT. You should be well versed with reading tables, graphs and charts correctly. For quick calculation, you should strengthen basic mathematical calculations like multiplication, division, square, square roots, cube, cube roots, etc. This section is all about observation and ability to break down information into pieces, so you need to practice a wide range of data interpretation questions.

How many mock tests to attempt to score 99 percentile in CMAT?

There is no particular number of CMAT mock test that you should target to solve during your preparation phase but on an average it has been seen that about 30-40 CMAT mock tests are good enough to score 99 percentile. Candidates must start solving CMAT mock tests after completing the syllabus as it will help them gauge which are the topics that they have understood well and which are the topics that require more work. 30-34 CMAT mock tests are recommended as, CMAT exam is all about speed and accuracy. The more questions you'll solve in an exam environment, the better you'll get at understanding, choosing and solving questions faster and correctly. Important point to note about practicing CMAT mock test is that one should analyse every mock test to understand the gaps and fissures and what to do to fill them. Another aspect to keep in mind is not to overdo it. When you start to score 98-99 percentile in CMAT mock tests consistently then you should stop and focus on revision, etc.

What is the latest CMAT exam pattern?

Latest CMAT exam pattern is given below: Question paper carries 100 MCQs Each section has 20 question Exam duration is 180 minutes Each question carries 4 marks There is no negative marking

Are 6 months enough for CMAT preparation?

Yes, 6 months is enough to prepare for CMAT exam. Make a plan in the following manner: First 3 months Cover syllabus Next 2 months Practice mock tests Last 1 month Revision and more mock test Read More: CMAT preparation in 6 months

Is CMAT syllabus the same as that of CAT?

Yes, syllabus of CMAT and CAT are same and include: 1. Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation: Mensuration Number System Algebra Time-Speed-Distance, Allegation and Mixtures, Geometry, Graph, Quadratic and Linear Equations, etc. 2. Logical Reasoning: Analytical Reasoning, Linear Arrangements, Number Series, Matrix Arrangements, Blood Relationship Tests, etc. 3. Language Comprehension: Reading Comprehension, Verbal Ability, Vocabulary, Grammar, English Usage Errors, Para jumbles, etc. However, CMAT has two extra sections - General Knowledge and Innovation and Entrepreneurship, topics of which are mentioned below: 4. General Awareness: Economy, Business, World, Politics, Sports, Culture, Society, Arts, Awards, Inventions 5. Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Questions related to innovation, entrepreneurship and start up business, models of entrepreneurship, Emerging Trends in Social Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Society, Rural Entrepreneurship, etc.

Should I take coaching for CMAT 2026 preparation?

For preparation of an exam like CMAT will always be helpful as you will be provided with relevant study material and guidance from industry experts. It will help you in disciplined and focused study as coaching centres have time bound classes, lectures, practice sessions, mock tests, etc. So, if you feel that you will not be able to stay dedicated and motivated enough in self-study to crack CMAT will high scores, join a CMAT coaching institute.

Best Book for CMAT 2027 Preparation: Check Section-wise Books recommended by experts

Updated on Jul 5, 2026 22:06 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

The choice of right CMAT books is the foundation of a good performance in the exam. Candidates must choose only those books for CMAT 2027 preparation which cover all the topics included in the exam syllabus. One of the most important books for CMAT exam is The Complete Reference Manual for CMAT by SK Sinha, S Satyanarayan and JS Rana. Besides this, candidates can refer CAT books to prepare Quant, DI and Logical Reasoning topics. Candidates must also refer secondary material, mock tests and sample papers for CMAT 2027. Read below on this page, section wise best CMAT books for preparation.

Table of contents

CMAT Books for Preparation: Syllabus to Cover
Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Quantitative Techniques
Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Logical Reasoning
Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Language Comprehension
Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Best Books for CMAT Preparation: General Awareness
Additional CMAT Study Material
FAQs on CMAT Books and Preparation

CMAT Books for Preparation: Syllabus to Cover

Before selecting CMAT books, you must understand the requirement, i.e. the topics which you need to study for the exam. Here is the table indicating topics included in CMAT syllabus 2027. The books you refer for preparation must have these topics explianed in detail.

CMAT Syllabus	CMAT Important Topics
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation	Algebra, Time-Speed-Distance, Mensuration, Allegation & Mixtures, Geometry, Graph, Quadratic and Linear Equations, etc.
Logical Reasoning	Analytical Reasoning, Linear Arrangements, Number Series, Matrix Arrangements, Venn Diagram, Blood Relationship Tests, etc.
Language Comprehension	Reading Comprehension, Grammar, English Usage Errors, Parajumbles, etc.
General Awareness	Economy, Business, World, Politics, Sports, Culture, Society
Innovation & Entrepreneurship	Optional paper having questions related to innovation, entrepreneurship and start up business

Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Quantitative Techniques

To prepare for CMAT Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, you will need books that provide conceptual clarity and practice question sets. Check the table below for CMAT exam preparation books for Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation:

CMAT Books 2027	Author Name/Publisher
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT	Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education)
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT	Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education)
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission Into IIMs	Sarvesh K Verma (Arihant)
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations	Abhijit Guha (Mc Graw Hill Education)
NCERT Mathematics Books for Class 8, 9 and 10	NCERT
Quantitative Aptitude	Dr RS Aggarwal
The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams	Pearson

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips: Cracking Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation

Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning questions of CMAT need a lot of practice as there are not concepts or formulae. Check the table below for recommended CMAT preparation books for Analytical and Logical Reasoning:

CMAT books 2027	Author Name/Publisher
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT	Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education)
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha (Pearson)

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips for Cracking Logical Reasoning

Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Language Comprehension

Language Comprehenshion section of CMAT has more grammar and vocabulary based questions, than passage based questions. Check the table below for CMAT exam preparation books for Language Comprehension:

CMAT Books 2027	Author Name/Publisher
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT	Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education)
The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning	Dr RS Aggarwal

For strengthening English Grammar and Vocabulary, candidates must refer to following CMAT books:

Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
Wren & Martin English Grammar
Barron’s Pocket Guide to Vocabulary
The Students’ Companion by Wilfred D Best
Business English and Communication by John O E Clark
A Communicative Grammar of English by Geoffrey Leech and Jan Svartvik

For practicing Reading Comprehension, candidates must practice sample papers and previous years' CMAT question papers. Reading books and novels will generally improve language comprehension skills.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips for Cracking Language Comprehension

Best Books for CMAT Preparation: Innovation and Entrepreneurship

CMAT has a unique subject Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which is similar to business studies. It is an easy subject and can be prepared by studying topics on entreprenuership and business organisation. Given below are some of the most recommended CMAT books that will help you in preparation.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship by Peter F. Drucker
Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management by R Gopal
Entrepreneurship - Robert D. Hisrich

Also Read: CMAT Preparation tips for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Best Books for CMAT Preparation: General Awareness

There is no one CMAT GK book. To prepare for General Awareness section of CMAT exam, candidates must refer to GK Year Books. Apart from that, candidates must also include newspapers and current affairs magazines as study material for CMAT. This will give them the exposure to current affairs and business news. Some of the magazines and journals recommended for CMAT preparation 2027 are:

Manorama Year Book - Mammen Mathew

Economic Times
Business Today
The Financial Times
Hindu Business Line
Financial Express
Business World

Additional CMAT Study Material

Apart from CMAT books, candidates should practice a lot of sample papers and mock test series of various difficulty levels. CMAT mock tests, will help candidates in understanding the topics better as well as application of concepts and formulae. Candidates shuuld practice about 30 - 40 full length and sectional mock tests during CMAT 2027 preparation to master every topic. Shiksha has created free CMAT mock tests. Candidates can simply login to access it.

CMAT Mock Test by Shiksha

CMAT_Mock_Test_1	CMAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions
CMAT_Mock_Test_2	CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions

Check CMAT Cut offs and predict calls from colleges accepting CMAT score for admission. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and Eligibility of all CMAT participating colleges by clicking the link below:

Predict CMAT Admission Calls

FAQs on CMAT Books and Preparation

Check here Frequently Asked Questions related to CMAT books:

Q: How many questions should I solve to get a good score in CMAT?

Since every section of CMAT has 20 questions in total, solving 15 to 18 questions in each section with 80 percent accuracy is considered a good attempt in CMAT, and it can ensure a good percentile in the exam. In the GK section, about 10 to 12 correct attempts will be enough. Out of 100 questions, candidates must try to solve about 70 to 75 questions to achieve a 99 percentile. However, candidates must aim to solve a higher number of questions with maximum accuracy and minimize negative marking. To be able to achieve this target, candidates have to prepare for the CMAT in a disciplined manner. Candidates must set aside about three months to complete the CMAT syllabus, as they have to study five subjects and their numerous topics. If they have appeared for CAT, XAT, and IIFT exams, then they can complete the CMAT syllabus in one month as well. However, it is advised that candidates spend at least three months on CMAT syllabus for complete preparation.

Q: Which are the best books for CMAT Quantitative Aptitude preparation?

The Quantitative Aptitude section of CMAT has questions from Arithmetic, Geometry, Modern Math, Numbers, Algebra and Data Interpretation. The questions are of moderate difficulty level and one can prepare for it with the help of best books for CMAT recommended by experts and toppers. We have listed down some of the popular CMAT books that candidates usually refer: 1. NCERT Mathematics Books for Class 8, 9 and 10 2. The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams 3. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education) 4. Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission into Iims by Sarvesh K Verma (Arihant) 5. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha (Mc Graw Hill Education) 6. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by RS Aggarwal.

Q: Which books to refer for CMAT English preparation?

For CMAT English preparation, candidates can refer to High School English Grammar by Wren and Martin and Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis. These two will help in building grammar and vocabulary.