MAT Exam Books and Study Material 2025: Check out Best Books for MAT Exam Preparation

Q: Which MAT exam phase is the easiest to crack?

MAT exam of every phase is easy to moderate in terms of difficulty level. It depends upon the candidate's preparation whether they find their test form easy or tough. Meaning, candidates should register and appear for MAT in only that phase by which they are full prepared and have started scoring 90 plus in mock tests. If they are well prepared, they will find any MAT session easy.

Q: What is the benefit of secondary reading in MAT preparation?

To prepare for a competitive exam like MAT, it is never enough to study from the course books only. Given that, the nature of questions is vastly varied across Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude, English and Logical Reasoning, it is but necessary to refer to secondary reading and extra study material. Referring to extra question banks and practicing additional MAT sample questions is always beneficial.

Q: If I have appeared for MAT February, can I appear for MAT May session?

Yes, you can. There is no cap on the number of attempts in MAT. Infact, MAT aims to cater to MBA aspirants in such a way that they do not have to waste a year to improve their entrance exam score. MAT is conducted in multiple sessions in four phases – February, May, August and December. An aspirant can appear for the MAT any number of times in a year. They can use the best exam score for MBA admission.

Q: What is MAT Syllabus?

Since, MAT exam is conducted only for admission to MBA and PGDM/PGP courses. It is a post graduate level business aptitude test comprising Quantitative Aptitude critical reasoning, data interpretation, data sufficiency, language comprehension and general awareness. Given below are the topics included in the MAT syllabus: MAT Syllabus for Language: Comprehension Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Parts of Speech, Sentence Correction, Fill in the Blanks, Antonyms and Synonyms, One Word Substitution, Idioms/Phrases, Para Jumbles, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Verbal Ability, etc. MAT Syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: Family Tree, Course of Action, Arrangement, Pie Chart, Calendars, Statement Conclusions, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding and Decoding, Column Graphs, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Visual Reasoning, Numeric Grid, Critical Reasoning, Syllogisms, Graphs Representing Areas MAT Syllabus for Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Tables, Charts, Pie Charts, Caselet-based Data, Graphs - Line X-Y Graphs, Venn Diagram, Bar Diagrams, Data Analysis and Data Comparison, Data Sufficiency MAT Syllabus for Mathematical Skills: LCM and HCF, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest and Compound Interest, Heights and Distance, Inequalities, Speed, Time and Distance, Triangles Set Theory, Number System Circles, Mixtures and Alligations, Elementary Mathematics, Geometry, Venn Diagrams, Trigonometry Equations, Linear Programming MAT Syllabus for Economic and Business Environment Section: Current Affairs World Records, Business and Economy, Companies and CEOs, Awards and Winners, Books and Authors, Company Punchlines, History, International Organisation, Quotes and Personalities, Social Issues, Geography, Sports, Arts, Entertainment, Technology.

Q: What are the best books for MAT Language Comprehension?

MAT Language Comprehension section has equal weightage of verbal ability and reading comprehension. Candidates need to work on their English grammar and comprehension to crack this section Given below is the list of books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Verbal Ability and Comprehension for MBA Exams by Odisha Publications Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Nishit K Sinha Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis Verbal Ability and Comprehension by Odisha Publication Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Gautam Puri How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay Verbal Ability & Comprehension for CAT/XAT/GMAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Bharat Patodi and Aditya Choudhary English Comprehension for MAT by Odisha Experts English Reading Comprehension by RPH Editorial Board Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the Passage for You by Ajay Singh Reading Comprehension Ordering of Words Ordering of Sentences by Dilip Kushwaha.

Q: How can I prepare for MAT in six months?

For MAT preparation in six months candidates need to have a focused plan. They must gather the best books for MAT preparation and start with covering the syllabus. MAT syllabus should be completed in three months. You can make a monthly/weekly or daily plan to cover the syllabus which should include studying one topic each from the main four sections - Mathematical Skills, Data Interpretation, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning as well as Language Comprehension. Keep the Indian and Global Environment section for the last. In the next two months, practice MAT sample papers and MAT mock tests to gain control over the topics you studied in the first three months. For a speed based test like MAT mock test and sample paper practice is a must because only with the help of these you can gain speed and accuracy in solving questions. The MAT question paper can have tough, tricky or easy question so you should be prepared for all types. In the last one month, study for the Indian and Global Environment section and do daily revision of all other topics. Solve a few previous year MAT question paper or solve a couple of mock tests to stay in touch with your abilities. Read More: MAT 6 months preparation plan

Q: Which are the best books for MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning?

MAT Intelligence and Critical section is a moderately difficult section. Candidates need to prepare for this section in 2-3 months by preparing from the following books. These books are recommended by MBA experts: A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Aggarwal Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gajendra Kumar Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT by Arun Sharma Critical Reasoning Guide by Crackverbal General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT by Odisha Experts Koncept of Logical Reasoning by Gajendra Kumar Analytical & Logical Reasoning for CAT & Other Management Entrance Tests by Peeyush Bhardwaj.

Q: What is the total number of questions in MAT exam?

MAT exam has 150 multiple-choice questions equally divided into five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Economic and Business Environment. Each section of the exam has 30 questions. The questions are in MCQ format with four options to choose the correct options from. Given below is the sectional break up of MAT question paper. All three modes of exam have the same weightage. Language Comprehension: 30 questions Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: 30 questions Data Analysis and Sufficiency: 30 questions Mathematical Skills: 30 questions Economic and Business Environment: 30 questions Since there is no sectional time limit in MAT candidates can divide time between all the five sections according to their own exam strategy and target score. The score of Economic and Business Environment section is not taken into consideration for percentile calculation, thus candidates should not spend more than 10-15 minutes on it.

Q: What are the best books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency?

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency section is of moderate difficulty level. Candidates can prepare for this section in about 2-3 months. Given below is the list of books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Data Analysis and Sufficiency by Arun Sharma How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT by Arun Sharma Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations by Nishit K Sinha The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation by Nishit K Sinha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency for CAT/XAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Odisha Experts Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Analysis and Interpretation Data Sufficiency by Think Tank of Kiran Prakashan Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Arihant Experts.

Q: How should I prepare for Data Analysis and Sufficiency section of MAT?

For Data Analysis and Sufficiency of MAT test takers should constantly revise the topics and practice sample questions as this section can be cracked only by enough practice of all types of questions. It is also important to strengthen basic calculations of Maths. Candidates must memorise Tables up 20, Cubes, Cube roots, square, square roots, percentage, pie value, etc. For quick multiplication and division, Practicing adequate number of MAT mock tests and sample papers will prepare you for the main exam, so you should practice 30-35 mock tests. To improve percentile score, focus on maximizing accuracy of every question that you solve in mock tests and sample papers. Candidates must attempt questions of all types and all difficulty levels to master this section of MAT exam. They should also practice every MAT sample question 2-3 times, to gain speed and accuracy.

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Updated on Aug 28, 2025 12:42 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

MAT books - MAT is an easy to medium difficulty level MBA entrance exam. The first step of MAT preparation is completing the syllabus, which can be done only by studying each topic in detail. For that, MAT preparation books are the best resource. If you are preparing for MAT 2025, you should get hold of the best books and study material recommended by experts.

MAT books provide topics-wise explanation of concepts, application of concepts, examples to help in understanding and sample questions for practice. Shiksha has listed down some highly recommended books for MAT preparation 2025 for candidates. Refer to these MAT books and study material to build conceptual knowledge on the topics and practice sample questions of various difficulty levels. But before that, let’s understand the key aspects of MAT exam.

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Table of content

MAT Books and Preparation 2025: Exam Highlights
Best Books for MAT Preparation 2025
MAT Preparation Books: Additional Study Material
MAT Preparation 2025: Tips and Strategy
FAQs on MAT Books and Preparation

MAT Books and Preparation 2025: Exam Highlights

Check here some of the key details related to MAT 2025 exam preparation:

MAT is a speed-based aptitude test, which aims to assess candidate’s general knowledge and analytical, reasoning and comprehension skills.
MAT syllabus includes Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Language Comprehension and Economic & Business Environment.
MAT is conducted in Paper Based Test (PBT), Computer Based Test (CBT) and Internet Based Test (IBT) modes.
MAT exam pattern of all the three modes are same. So the MAT preparation strategy can be the same.
The MAT exam pattern is similar to other MBA entrance exams, having MCQs with four options to choose the right answer from.
The MAT question paper carries 150 questions and each of the five sections carry 30 questions.
MAT exam duration is 2 hours in which candidates have to complete the test. Attempting all questions is not mandatory.
Candidates can take multiple attempts in MAT in the same academic year as it is held multiple times.
The total marks of MAT exam is 150. Every question carries one mark for correct attempt and -0.25 for incorrect attempt.
The score of Economic & Business Environment section is not taken into consideration for calculation of MAT score and percentile.

Commonly asked questions

Q: What are the best books for MAT Mathematical Skills?

Q: What is the difficulty level of MAT exam?

Q: Is the question paper of MAT IBT different from MAT CBT or PBT?

Best Books for MAT Preparation 2025

MAT Books for Data Analysis and Sufficiency

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency section includes topics such as Data Tables, Data Charts, Bar Diagrams, Pie Charts, Graphs, Data Comparison, Data Sufficiency, Caselets based on Data, Venn Diagram. One needs to have complete control over these topics to be able to solve questions quickly. Refer to MAT books for Data Analysis and Sufficiency mentioned in the table below:

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Data Analysis and Sufficiency	Arun Sharma
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT	Arun Sharma
Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations	Nishit K Sinha
The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation	Nishit K Sinha
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency for CAT/XAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC	Disha Experts
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha
Data Analysis & Interpretation Data Sufficiency	Think Tank of Kiran Prakashan
Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency	Arihant Experts

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Data Analysis & Sufficiency

MAT Books for Language Comprehension

The MAT syllabus of Language Comprehension consists topics like Analogies, Antonyms, Grammar, Idioms, Verbal Reasoning, Reading Comprehension passage, etc. There are not many RC passages in MAT. Most of the questions are based on Grammar and Vocabulary. Thus, javing strong Grammar and Vocabulary will help you score well in this section. Refer to the following MAT books for preparation of Language Comprehension section:

MAT Books	Authors/ Publishers
Verbal Ability & Comprehension for MBA Exams	Disha Publications
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Nishit K Sinha
Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Verbal Ability & Comprehension	Disha Publication
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension	Gautam Puri
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT	Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
Verbal Ability & Comprehension for CAT/XAT/GMAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC	Bharat Patodi and Aditya Choudhary
English Comprehension for MAT	Disha Experts
English Reading Comprehension	RPH Editorial Board
Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the “Passage” for You	Ajay Singh
Reading Comprehension Ordering of Words Ordering of Sentences	Dilip Kushwaha

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Language Comprehension

MAT Books for Mathematical Skills

The Mathematical Skills section of MAT exam includes topics such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, Modern Maths, etc. One needs to have complete clarity of the concepts of these topics to be able to crack any type of question. Refer to the MAT books for Mathematical Skills.

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Mathematics for MBA	RS Aggarwal
Magical Book on Quicker Maths	M Tyra
Arithmetic and Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams	R Gopal
Speed Mathematics: Do it quick, Do it right	Rajesh Kumar Thakur C
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams	RS Aggarwal
Vedic Mathematics: Secrets Skills for Quick, Accurate Mental Calculations	Sumita Bose
The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude	Dinesh Khattar
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude	Arun Sharma

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Mathematical Skills

MAT Books for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning

MAT Intelligence & Critical Reasoning section includes topics such as Family Tree, Calendars, Statements, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding & Decoding, Columns & Graphs, etc. Refer to the list of MAT books for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning mentioned in the table below:

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning	RS Aggarwal
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	Gajendra Kumar
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT	Arun Sharma
Critical Reasoning Guide	Crackverbal
General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT	Disha Experts
Koncept of Logical Reasoning	Gajendra Kumar
Analytical & Logical Reasoning for CAT & Other Management Entrance Tests	Peeyush Bhardwaj

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning

MAT Books for Economic & Business Environment

MAT Economic & Business Environment section includes GK and Current Affairs. The questions are majorly asked from the field of business and economy. Thus, while stuyding GK, focus on business current affairs for MAT.

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Manorama Year Book	Mammen Mathew
The Mega Yearbook	Disha Experts
Objective General Knowledge	Lucents Publications
General Knowledge 2020	Arihant Publications
The Mega Yearbook 2016: Current Affairs & General Knowledge for Competitive Exams	Disha Experts

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Economic & Business Environment

Commonly asked questions

Q: What is MAT Syllabus?

Q: What are the best books for MAT Language Comprehension?

Q: How can I prepare for MAT in six months?

MAT Preparation Books: Additional Study Material

Apart from the books mentioned in the tables above, MAT 2025 aspirants can also refer to the following books for sample questions and practice tests. These MAT books provide sample questions for practice and exam based exercises to help you master the topics included in exam syllabus.

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Face to Face MAT 22 years Solved Papers	Arihant Publications
Complete Guide for MAT & Other MBA Entrance Exams with GK	Disha Experts
Mission MBA MAT Mock Tests & Solved Papers	BS Sijwali
Study Package for Management Aptitude Test	Arun Sharma
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning	Dr RS Aggarwal
MAT Score Accelerator	Disha Publication
MAT (Management Aptitude Test) Entrance Exam Guide	R Gupta
MAT 20 Years Topic-Wise Solved Papers	Deepak Aggarwal

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

Predict MAT Admission Calls

Commonly asked questions

Q: Which MAT exam phase is the easiest to crack?

Q: What is the benefit of secondary reading in MAT preparation?

Q: If I have appeared for MAT February, can I appear for MAT May session?

MAT Preparation 2025: Tips and Strategy

To prepare for MAT exam, candidates need to first understand the pattern and have a target month in mind. MAT is held in February, May, August and December. So, plan and prepare for MAT according to the exam month. It is recommended that, candidates must prepare for MAT for at least 6 months, however, the preparation can be done in lesser time too. Here are a few tips for MAT preparation 2025:

Check the MAT syllabus and list down topics that are your pain areas.
Understand the MAT exam pattern well. It might look fairly simple but the key is time management.
Start your preparation with tough topics. Read MAT books and study material in a focussed manner.
Take guidance from teachers/mentors and solve MAT practice questions strengthen your hold
Once you’ve cracked the tough topics of the MAT, move to easier ones.
Do not ignore any topic. Give importance to each one of them as questions can be asked from any.
Keep solving MAT sample questions alongside to be able to know the correct application of formulae and theorem
MAT is a speed based test, thus include MAT mock test practice in your routine.
Practice a good number of mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Practice MAT mock tests in the last month of exam preparation with the aim to increase speed and accuracy.
Practice MAT mcok tests of various difficulty levels. Start with easy, the move to moderate and then to tough ones.
The Economic and Business Environment section is memory based so you may need only 15 days in the end to prepare for it.
Economic and Business Environment scores are not considered for MAT percentile calculation purpose so you can deprioritize it in case of time crunch.