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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How much time will be required to cover Innovation and Entrepreneurship syllabus of CMAT?

Innovation and Entrepreneurship syllabus of CMAT is not a very difficult section. The syllabus pertains to business studies, economy and entrepreneurship. So, it will not require must time to cover the syllabus. Candidate can dedicate one month to this section towards the end, while preparing for other sections. You can refer to books - Innovation and Entrepreneurship by Peter F. Drucker and Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management by R. Gopal, Entrepreneurship by Robert D. Hisrich and Manorama Year Book by Mammen Mathew.

Are three months enough for CMAT preparation?

Three months may not be enough for CMAT preparation, if you're doing it from scratch. However, if you are preparing for CAT, XAT, NMAT, you can prepare for CMAT in 3 months as you have clear understanding of the syllabus already and you will need exam specific practice only.

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.

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.

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.

Are MAT and CMAT syllabi same?

MAT and CMAT syllabi are same for Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. MAT also has GK like CMAT, but the nature of GK questions of MAT are slightly different from that of CMAT. The MAT GK section has more questions from economy and business.

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

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

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.

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.

CMAT Exam Preparation 2027: Know Complete Strategy, Prep Tips, Best Books & Guide

Updated on Jun 15, 2026 19:01 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

CMAT exam preparation can be done in 6- 8 months. It is a moderately difficult exam but the syllabus include five subjects which require a few months for complete coverage. CMAT 2027 will be held in the third week of January 2027, so those planning to appear in it, must start exam preparation from July onwards. Read on this page, key tips on how to prepare for CMAT 2027 exam.

Table of contents

CMAT Preparation 2027: Overview
CMAT 2027 Exam Preparation Tips: Section Wise
CMAT Preparation Books and Study Material
CMAT Question Paper PDFs
CMAT Mock Test Practice
CMAT Preparation FAQs

CMAT Preparation 2027: Overview

CMAT 2027 preparation can be done in two ways.

1. By joining coaching institute

2. By self-study

If you join a coaching institute for CMAT exam 2027, you will be taken care of well. But if you plan to prepare by self-study then make a focused plan. Make a preparation plan with time frames for completion of syllabus of CMAT, mock test practice and revision. A good CMAT preparation plan must have daily time-table, topic-wise distribution of hours, dedicated time for solving sample questions.Most importantly, you will have to be disciplined and dedicated in your approach.

Keep the following in mind while making your CMAT 2027 preparation plan:

Check the topics included in CMAT syllabus and evaluate your familiarity with them
Understand the CMAT pattern well, to know which are the high scoring topics
Make a weekly and monthy CMAT exam preparation strategy for 2027
Get hold of recommended CMAT preparation books and study material
Join online study groups and download MBA entrance exam preparation apps

CMAT 2027 Exam Preparation Tips: Section Wise

CMAT 2027 syllabus includes the following sections. We have shared section wise preparation tips below:

Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
Logical Reasoning
Language Comprehension & Verbal Ability
General Awareness and
Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Language Comprehension and Verbal Ability

The English comprehension part of CMAT is direct and easy to comprehend. A lot of questions in this section are asked from Grammar and Vocabulary. So, you will need to break down preparation strategy for this section into two parts.
You will need to put in more time in reading and practicing Language Comprehension so start with it early on. Grammar and Vocabulary practice can be a daily one-hour activity in which you go through word meanings, grammar test practices, revise concepts and application. English grammar rules are easy but can be confusing in application, so do not do surface level study.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips: Cracking Language Comprehension

Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation

If your Maths is strong you will need to practice CMAT questions and you will be sorted. But if not, then start with conceptual clarity Study each topic of Arithmetic, Mensuration, Geometry, Trigonometry and Algebra and keep practicing questions alongside to understand application. The key is to plan out this section. You will need to know which of the topics are your strong areas and which are weak areas. Divide them on the basis of hours per day until the CMAT 2027 exam day to be able to practice nearly 1000 questions.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips: Cracking QA-DI

Logical Reasoning

CMAT Logical Reasoning preparation is all about practice. So go through the topics, check out sample questions, note down your strengths and weaknesses. The next step is to plan daily practice sessions. Refer Logical Reasoning books for problems and solutions, practice PYQs and mock tests.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips: Cracking Logical Reasoning

General Awareness

CMAT General Awareness is memory based, so all you need to do it memorise important events and happenings. You can either prepare for this section by dedicating one hour daily on reading current affairs and static GK, or can dedicatedly do it in the last one month before the exam with the help of year books.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

CMAT Innovation & Entrepreneurship section is relatively new, so you need to have a different strategy for it. Go back to Business Studies books and revise the fundamentals of business and entrepreneurship. Read books on start-ups and entrepreneurs. Refer CMAT previous year questions for Innovation & Entrepreneurship practice questions.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips: Innovation and Entrepreneurship

CMAT Preparation Books and Study Material

For a fruitful preparation, one needs to refer to the right books for CMAT. The Complete Reference Manual for CMAT by SK Sinha, S Satyanarayan and JS Rana is one of the highly recommended books for CMAT 2027 preparation. Check some of the highly recommended CMAT books below:

CMAT Books for Preparation	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 R S Aggarwal
Trishna’s Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT and Other MBA Examinations	TIME
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
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)
Wren & Martin English Grammar	H Martin & P.C. Wren
Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Business English and Communication	John O E Clark
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary	Norman Lewis
The Students’ Companion	Wilfred D Best

Refer to this list of best books for CMAT preparation

Other than CMAT books, the best source of exam preparation is previous years’ CMAT question papers.The actual question papers give you key insights of the nature of test, types of questions, important topics and dominant themes. As part of exam preparation plan, candidates must include CMAT previous years' question paper practice in the last month.

CMAT Question Paper PDFs

The second phase of CMAT preparation 2027 should be dedicated to application of the concepts that you studied in the first phase. Get hold of previous years’ CMAT question papers, sample papers and mock test series. NTA, the CMAT conducting body, too will provide an official mock test to registered candidates.

Check CMAT question papers of previous years with answer keys

CMAT Question Paper PDFs

CMAT Mock Test Practice

CMAT mock tests and question papers will help you in improving your speed and accuracy while providing you opportunities to analyse to preparation level viz-a-viz CMAT syllabus and topics. Practice below Shiksha's free CMAT mock test:

CMAT_Mock_Test_1	CMAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions
CMAT_Mock_Test_2	CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions

Our advice:

Don’t start solving sample questions before completing the CMAT syllabus.
After appearing for each CMAT mock test, analyse your performance and take the next step accordingly.
Behind practicing mock tests, your aim should be to increase speed and improve accuracy.
It will help you understand the test structure so that you can prepare topics accordingly.
Try to solve a variety of questions. This will give you an idea of all kinds of questions - tough, easy, tricky and lengthy.

CMAT Preparation FAQs

Check a few Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on CMAT preparation:

Q: 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.

Q: Is there any negative marking in CMAT?

Yes, there is a negative marking in CMAT exam. For each wrong answer, 1 mark will be deducted. However, no marks will be deducted for unanswered questions.

Q: 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.