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 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.

Is it necessary to attempt GK section in CMAT?

Yes, it is necessary to attempt GK section in CMAT as unlike other MBA entrance exams, scores of GK are included in percentile calculation in CMAT. Total number of GK questions in 20 and attempting 8-10 questions correctly, can get the candidate desired sectional cut off in CMAT. So, while preparing for CMAT exam, do not ignore GK. You can prepare for it in the last couple of months with the help of year books as most of the questions are asked from Static GK.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What is the difficulty level of CMAT RC passages?

CMAT RC passages are easy. Candidates need not worry about RCs in CMAT because they are short and pretty much straight forward. Questions are fact based and generally require candidates to identify the main argument/theme/idea of the passage. Sometimes, there are a few vocabulary and idiom based questions too, but mostly from familiar areas and topics. The length is about 200-500 words.

CMAT Syllabus 2027: Download Latest PDF, Section-wise Important Topics

CMAT 2027 registration and application process

27 Oct '26 - 28 Nov '26

Updated on Sep 24, 2026 22:06 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

CMAT syllabus 2027 includes Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. The difficulty level of CMAT syllabus is medium but one needs to work on fundamental concepts to be able to master each topic. Coverage of the topics ishould be done in a time bound manner. Read on this page, complete details of CMAT exam syllabus 2027.

CMAT syllabus 2027: Key Highlights

CMAT syllabus has been precribed by the NTA as per AICTE guidelines
CMAT syllabus has been carefully prepared keeping in mind the skills and aptitude required for managerial roles
CMAT syllabus was last revised in 2020 when Innovation & Entrepreneurship section was introduced
No change is expected in CMAT 2027 syllabus

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Section Wise CMAT Syllabus 2027 PDF

Given below is the CMAT syllabus PDF having section-wise topics. Download the PDF of CMAT syllabus and make a study plan according to the number of chapters and time needed to cover them. Some topics may be familiar and some may be not. So, use this PDF to make a focussed preparation strategy for CMAT 2027.

⚡ CMAT 2027 Syllabus (Section-Wise)

Get a complete overview of CMAT syllabus 2027 prescribed by the AICTE for management entrance test.

📄 Download PDF

CMAT syllabus 2027: Sectional Weightage

All the five sections of CMAT have equal weightage. And scores of all five sections are considered for score and percentile calculation. So, it is critical for candidates to cover each and every topic of CMAT syllabus.

CMAT section	Number of questions
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation	20
Logical Reasoning	20
Language Comprehension	20
General Awareness	20
Innovation & Entrepreneurship	20
Total	100

CMAT Syllabus: Logical Reasoning

CMAT is an exam of moderate difficulty level. Given below are some of the most important topics from the four main sections of CMAT 2027 syllabus, which are common to other MBA entrance exams too. These topics carry more weightage in the CMAT question paper. So prepare these topics with extra care.

Sections	Topics	Weightage
Verbal Reasoning	Statements Assumptions, Inferences	40-50%
Non Verbal Reasoning	Analogy, Direction, Linear Arrangement, Seqeuencing, Matrix Arrangements	30-40%
Critical Reasoning	Blood Realtions, Ranking, Number Series, Venn Diagram, Cause and Effects, Symbol-based puzles	10-15%

CMAT Syllabus: Quantitative Techniques

CMAT Quantitative Techniques section consists of the following topics. Candidates need to be well versed with the theory of these topics so that they can solve any type of question. Additionally, they need to practice a lot to ensure they have speed and acccuracy on their side. Also check the expected weightage of CMAT Quantitative Aptitude section.

Section	Topics	Weightage
Arithmetic	Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ration-Proportion, Average, Simple Interest and Compound Interest, Tim and Work, Pipes & Cisterns, Time, Speed, Distance	30-40%
Geometry	Lines and Angles, Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, Mensuration (2D& 3D)	15-20%
Modern Math	Permutation and Combination, Probability, Set Theory, Functions and Relations	10-15%
Number System	Divisibility Rules, Remainder Theorem, HCF-LCM, Unit Digits, Factors and Multiples, Basic Number Properties, Surds & Indices	10-15%
Data Interpretation	Tables and Charts	15-20%

CMAT Syllabus: Language Comprehension

CMAT Language Comprehension section consists of the following topics. Most of the Language Comprehension section of CMAT is dominated by Grammar and Vocabulary questions. Reading Comprehension passages are about 3-4 but easy to read and mostly solvable. Also check the weightage of the sub sections of this section of CMAT.

Section	Topics	Weightage
RC and Parajumbles	Passage based questions	50-55%
Vocabulary	English Usage Errors, Synonyms, Antonyms, One-Word Substitution	15-20%
Grammar	Idioms and Phrases	25-30%

CMAT Syllabus: General Knowledge

CMAT General Knowledge section consists of the following topics. For the GK section, candidates need to memories current afffairs and static GK from science, technology, business, economy, trade, inventions, policy changes, sports, awards, books, art, literature and education. Also check the weightage.

Section	Weightage
Static GK	25-30%
Current Affairs	40-50%
Business and Economy	15-20%

CMAT Syllabus: Innovation and Entrepreneurship

CMAT Innovation and Entrepreneurship section consists of the following topics. Some of the questions in Innovation & Entrepreneurship section are passage based, while some questions are based on General Knowledge of Economics and Business. Overall, this section is easy and a month long preparation will be sufficient.

Section	Weightage
Fundamental concepts of Entrepreneurship	23-30%
Start up and business models	20-25%
Govt policies and initiatives	15-20%
Finance, Venture Capital & Finance	10-15%
Innovation, Creativity and Case based questions	10-15%

CMAT Syllabus vs CAT Syllabus

Most of the candidates who appear for CAT also give the CMAT exam, because the latter is similar the former but easier. Even though CMAT has more sections than CAT, one can easily prepare for both simultaneously as the syllabi encompasses core concept of business management. Given below is a brief comparison between CMAT syllabus and CAT syllabus.

CMAT Sections	Topics Included	CAT Sections	Topics Included
Language Comprehension	Reading Comprehension, Parajumbles, Parasummary, Odd Sentence, Word Meaning, Synonym-Antonym, Fill in the Blanks, Idioms, Grammar, Cloze Test, Sentence Correction	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Reading comprehension, parajumbles, parasummary, odd sentence
Logical Reasoning	Statements Assumptions, Inferences, Analogy, Direction, Linear Arrangements, Sequencing, Matrix Arrangements, Blood Relationship, Ranking, Symbol Based Problems, Number Series, Cause and Effects, Venn Diagram	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Tables, Charts, Bar Graphs, Venn Diagram, Syllogism, Clocks and Calendars, Number Series, Analogy, Statement and Assumptions, Family Tree, Arrangements, Caselets
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Mensuration, Tables, Charts, Graphs	Quantitative Aptitude	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Mensuration, Modern Math
General Awareness	Static GK, Current Affairs, Business and Economy	No section	No topics
Innovation & Entrepreneurship	Concepts of Entrepreneurship, Business Studies, Partnerships, Business Laws, Govt, Policies, Finance, Venture Capital, Start Ups and Business Models	No section	No section

CMAT Exam Pattern 2027

While preparing the CMAT 2027 exam pattern, authorities have taken into consideration, the candidate’s time management and business aptitude skills. Check below sectional break up of CMAT:

CMAT section	Marks alloted
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation	80
Logical Reasoning	80
Language Comprehension	80
General Awareness	80
Innovation & Entrepreneurship	80
Total	400

CMAT Marking Scheme

Candidates need to keep in mind the marking scheme while solving the test paper as they will need to match speed with accuracy to optimise performance. Here's how marks will be awarded in CMAT 2027.

For every correct answer 4 marks are awarded
For every incorrect answer 1 mark is deducted
For unanswered question 0 marks are awarded

Also read: CMAT questions with solutions - Free PDFs and mock tests

CMAT Preparation Tips 2027

CMAT preparation should be comprehensive and must include time bound syllabus coverage, practice tests and revision. First of all, candidates must complete the exam syllabus. Then they should practice sample questions to see if they have understood the theory part or not. Start with easy topics and then move to tough ones. To know which are the important topics, refer to past year CMAT question papers. Candidates must also make daily, weekly and monthly plans so that they can cover all the topics in a time bound manner. Study from recommended CMAT books only and practice a good number of sample papers and mock tests in a time bound manner. To know how to and what to study for the exam, check out the following articles for CMAT exam preparation tips:

CMAT Mock Test by Shiksha

Shiksha has created a free CMAT mock test for candidates to practice and see their control over various topics. This CMAT mock test PDF has been prepared on the basis of actual CMAT question papers and are of same difficulty level as the actual exam.

CMAT Mock Test 1	Download Questions PDF	Download Solutions PDF
CMAT Mock Test 2	Download Question PDF	Download Solutions PDF

CMAT Syllabus FAQs

Check below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on CMAT 2027 syllabus:

Q: How similar is CMAT syllabus to CAT syllabus?

Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning topics of CMAT syllabus are same as CAT syllabus. So, an MBA aspirant can prepare for CAT and CMAT simultaneously with the same study material. However, they will need CMAT specific books and resources to study Innovation and Entrepreneurship and GK section. CAT doesn't have these two sections.

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.

Q: How many questions should I solve to get a good score in CMAT 2027?

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: What is the CMAT 2027 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.

Q: How much time should I devote in preparation of GK section of CMAT 2027?

GK is memory based, so all that you need to do is memorise important events and occurrences. So, candidates may not need a lot of time to prepare for CMAT GK. They can devote one or two months for it. On daily basis, they can read Year Books for one hour to memorise events. Apart from that they can use CMAT question papers to know types of static GK questions asked previously. Candidates can refer to GK books too in free 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.