CMAT Exam Preparation 2026: Know Complete Strategy, Prep Tips, Best Books & Guide

Updated on Jan 17, 2026 15:40 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

CMAT preparation 2026 is in the final stages. Candidates must focus on analyzing previous years' CMAT question papers to make an exam day strategy.

CMAT 2026 will be moderately difficult but speed is the key. Candidates will have to balance - speed, accuracy and question choice, to optimize their performance. We have provided here key CMAT exam preparation tips and study material that will help you score 99 percentile. Read further below for CMAT preparation 2026.

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Table of contents

CMAT Preparation 2026: Last Week Preparation Tips
CMAT Preparation: Coaching or Self Study?
CMAT 2026 Preparation 3 Key Tips
CMAT Exam Preparation Plan 2026
CMAT Preparation Books and Study Material

CMAT Preparation 2026: Last Week Preparation Tips

A lot of candidates fail to score well despite long hours of preparation, as they lose steam in the last few days before the exam. It is mostly either overconfidence or tiredness that leads to dropping the guards before exam. It is extremely crucial to keep working on the plan till last. Here are some last week tips for CMAT 2026 preparation:

In the last week of CMAT 2026 preparation, stick to practicing mock tests and devote a couple of hours to revision of important concepts and formulae.
It is also the time to focus on General Awareness section of CMAT 2026 exam. Memorising static GK topics and go through the latest currenrt events and announcement across fields.
While you are revising tough topics, make notes of key points. You can refer to these key point a day before CMAT 2026 exam to refresh your memory.
If you have doubt on any topic or concept, reach out to your mentors or study group to get it cleared. Practice it at least twice to ensure you have understood it.
Make a note of the types of questions that you are able to solve in CMAT mock tests with speed and accuracy. Target such questions in the exam to reduce the possibility of negative marking.
CMAT is a 3-hour test without break and without sectional time limit, so you will need to be mindful of the how much time you allot to which section. Allot more time to sections that you find tough and less time to those you find easier.
Take a CMAT mock test 2 days before the exam to practice time management once. Do not attempt any mock after that. Let your mind rest before the exam and process all that you've learnt.
There are topics that you may need to avoid in CMAT exam. Do not do guess work in those. Avoid negative marking as much as you can.

Commonly asked questions

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.

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.

CMAT Preparation: Coaching or Self Study?

CMAT 2026 preparation can be done in two ways.

1. By joining coaching institute

2. By self-study

If you join a coaching institute to prepare for CMAT exam 2026, 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. Understand the CMAT pattern well. Keep the following in mind while making your CMAT 2026 preparation plan:

Candidates must begin CMAT preparation by understanding CMAT syllabus
CMAT 2026 syllabus includes:

- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Language Comprehension & Verbal Ability
- General Awareness and
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Make a weekly CMAT exam preparation strategy for 2026.
Get hold of recommended CMAT preparation books and study material.
Join online study groups and download MBA entrance exam preparation apps.
Stay focussed and motivated throughout the journey.

Commonly asked questions

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: 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.

CMAT 2026 Preparation 3 Key Tips

CMAT 2026 Preparation: Join online study groups

Since CMAT comprises Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Innovation & Entrepreneurship and General Awareness, you may need guidance from time to time. At times you’d be unable to understand a particular concept or unable to solve an equation. In such situations, being a member of online study groups will help you immensely. You can interact with other members of the group (mentors and students) and find a solution to the problem. Discuss other topics and concepts, learns tips & tricks of solving tough topics, get guidance on various other aspects and also encourage each other in CMAT preparation 2026.

CMAT Prepararation 2026: Download MBA entrance exam preparation apps

Today, candidates have the benefit of technology. With everyone owning a smart phone, exam preparation has moved from notebooks and classroom to mobile phone apps. Make the best of it. Download top MBA preparation apps on your phone. These apps have everything you need – topic wise tutorials, videos, blogs, sample questions, practice tests and exercises, etc. This mode of study allows you to prepare from anywhere, anytime. All you need is a good internet connection.

CMAT Preparation 2026: Take inspiration from CMAT toppers

Get in touch with previous years' CMAT toppers in student forums and social media groups to learn from them the appropriate prepararation strategy. What and when to do like - How to address tough topics, how to practice CMAT mock tests. It is important to understand how to and when to start CMAT preparation so that one is able to complete the syllabus on time.

Commonly asked questions

Q: 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.

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: 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.

CMAT Exam Preparation Plan 2026

Your CMAT exam strategy should be divided into three phases:

First phase: Completing the CMAT syllabus 2026
Second phase: Practicing CMAT mock tests and sample papers
Third phase: Problem solving and topic-wise revision

CMAT Preparation 2026: Phase 1 - Completing the CMAT Syllabus 2026

While studying for CMAT topics, you need to understand their uniqueness and prepare accordingly. For example, Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation is a concept driven section, so while preparing for it, your focus should be on understanding and memorising the concepts and theorems thoroughly. On the other hand, the Logical Reasoning section is practice-based, hence the requirement will be practicing a good number of sample questions and mock tests to master all types of logic and reasoning. 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.

Some sections of CMAT Verbal Ability (Grammar and Verbal Reasoning) are concept driven, while some are practice based (reading comprehensions). General Awareness is memory based so memorise GK topics and events.

Our Advice:

Start with the CMAT section that you find the toughest and then move to easier ones.
Do not start a new topic without completing the previous one.
Do not study more than one topic at the same time, you might end up confused at the end of the day.
General Awareness is the easiest section to prepare, so prepare for it at the end of this phase.

CMAT Preparation 2026: Phase 2 - Practicing Sample Papers and CMAT Mock Tests

The second phase of CMAT preparation 2026 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.

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

Download: CMAT questions with solutions Free PDF

Our advice:

Don’t start solving sample questions before completing the CMAT syllabus.
If you have prepared for or appeared in CAT, XAT, SNAP, GMAT, etc. then you can prepare by only practicing CMAT mock tests.
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 2026 Preparation: Phase 3- Topic-Wise Revision of Important CMAT Topics

Keep aside a fortnight for revision of CMAT syllabus before the exam. Devote more time on revising your weak points or topics that have high weightage in the exam, but do not ignore your strong points. Don’t be overconfident. Revise all the CMAT concepts, theorem, formulae, short cuts and tricks of solving questions with 100 per cent accuracy.

Our advice:

Don’t start a new chapter in the last two days before the CMAT 2026 exam
Finish revision a day prior to the exam and let your mind relax overnight
Do not study or revise anything in the morning of the exam

Commonly asked questions

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

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 2026 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 2025

Other than CMAT books, the best source of exam preparation is previous years’ CMAT question papers. The actual question papers help you in familiarizing with the test structure and type of questions asked. But solving only the question papers is not enough. You must also practice CMAT sample papers and online CMAT mock tests. While the sample papers give you an exposure of a variety of questions, the online mock test, help you increase your speed and accuracy.

Commonly asked questions

Q: 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.

Q: 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.