Is the syllabus of MAT IBT, PBT and CBT mode exams common?

Yes, the syllabus MAT IBT, PBT and CBT mode exams is common. In fact the exam pattern and marking are also same for all three modes. MAT syllabus for all modes includes topics from Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. The candidate needs to prepare all the topics mentioned above on this page to crack MAT exam. The total time required for completion of MAT syllabus is about 3 months. If a candidate has appeared for MAT before or any other MBA entrance exam then they can complete the syllabus in lesser time. The only difference between the three MAT modes is that, in IBT, candidates have to take the test from home on a computer. In PBT, candidates have to appear for the test at an exam centres and fill the OMR sheet as part of the test. In CBT, candidates have to take the test on a computer at an exam centre.

Is DILR a theory-based section or practice-based?

The DILR section is mostly practice-based. There is not much theory-based or conceptual parts involved in the question unlike Quantitative Ability or Verbal Ability sections. Here, rather than focusing on the definitions of the topics, students get more accustomed to the question types and excel in the areas through practice. As it takes practice to improve the analytical and critical thinking ability rather than rote learning the concepts. The Data Interpretation is all about reading and comprehending tables and charts. The questions are calculation based, so you need to a strong base in Maths and practice. Logical Reasoning too is all about deciphering puzzles and patterns so even for that no theoretical knowledge is required. Practice questions are the key.

What are the best ways to prepare for the DILR section?

The best way to prepare for DILR section is through practice. Before starting the preparation, aspirants should check previous years’ question papers. Since there is not much conceptual understanding required in this section, practice is important. Some of the most popular books on DILR section that you can refer are How to Prepare for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma, Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit Sinha, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning for CAT by Pearson, to name a few.

Is it necessary to have Maths background to perform well in DILR?

While candidates belonging to Science and Engineering background do have an edge over Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), it is not impossible for students from non-Science background to crack this section of an MBA entrance exam. They do need to prepare harder which includes going back to study fundamentals of Mathematics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Mensuration. With regular practice and understanding of the question types and topics, candidates, irrespective of the educational background, can crack this section. Aspirants must note that it is important to identify the weak areas and improve on them to get a stronghold on this section. For Logical Reasoning, a good amount of practice of sample questions will be enough.

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.

What does Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) mean?

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning or DILR is one of the main sections of the MBA entrance exams and competitive exams. This section carries questions on a particular situation or graphs/charts/diagrams, etc. which test-takers have to study and examine properly to answer the multiple-choice questions that are related to the caselets or figures and diagrams. DILR section tests candidates’ analytical bent of mind and critical thinking ability. In DILR, the questions are based on Tables, Graphs (Line and Bar), Charts (Pie, Area, Line), Data Analytic Caselets, Data Structure, Calendar, Clocks, Data Sufficiency, Venn Diagram, Blood Relations, Arrangement (Seating, Linear and Matrix), Coding-Decoding, Logical Sequence, Assumption, Binary Logic and Critical Reasoning

What are the best ways to prepare for the DILR section?

The best way to prepare for DILR section is through practice. Before starting the preparation, aspirants should check previous years’ question papers. Since there is not much conceptual understanding required in this section, practice is important. Some of the most popular books on DILR section that you can refer are How to Prepare for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma, Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit Sinha, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning for CAT by Pearson, to name a few.

Is DILR section part of all MBA entrance exams?

Yes, DILR section is a major section of all the MBA entrance exams. It covers almost 1/3rd of a test paper. In some exams, Data Interpretation is clubbed with Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning is an individual section. Irrespective of what the composition is, the both DI and LR are a part of MBA entrance exams. The section includes graphs, charts, diagrams, caselets, clocks & calendars, blood relation, family tree, number system, coding-decoding, arrangements and other such topics. There are a few state-level exams like TANCET, which does not have a separate section on DILR area, but the topics from this area are included in Data Sufficiency.

Is DILR one section in all MBA entrance exams?

No, DILR is not a combined section in all the MBA entrance exams. In some exams, the LR section is combined with DI, whereas in some exams DI is clubbed with Quantitative Analysis. For example, in CAT, DILR is a combined section, in XAT, the DI area is combined with Quantitative Ability and LR is combined with Verbal Ability. The DILR section is also known as Decision Making, Data Analysis, Critical Reasoning, Logical Ability, Analytical Ability, etc. This section is named differently but comprises common topics such as Bar Graph, Line Chart, Tabular Form, Caselet Form, Pie Chart, Missing Data, 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.

What are the important topics of MAT exam?

Questions in MAT are asked from verbal ability, reading comprehension, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, arrangement, coding decoding, graphs and tables, family tree, blood relation, clocks and calendars, time, speed and distance, statements, etc.

What is the weightage of the DILR section in CAT?

In CAT exam, there are 20 questions in the Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning section and the total sectional marks is 60 out of 198. In CAT 2020, there were 24 question on DILR and the sectional marks were 72. In CAT 2021 and CAT 2022, there were 20 questions and the sectional marks were 60. The 20 questions are equally divided into both Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. That means, Both Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning have 10 questions each. The questions are mostly in sets. There’s rarely any standalone question in DILR. Some of the top MBA entrance exams carrying a high weightage of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning questions are MAH CET, ATMA, CAT, CMAT, XAT IIFT, to name a few.

What is the SNAP syllabus for Analytical and Logical Reasoning?

The syllabus for Analytical and Logical Reasoning section of SNAP exam includes topics such as Family Tree/Blood Relations, Coding/Decoding, Analogy & Series, Seating Arrangement, Direction Sense, Mathematical Reasoning, Clocks & Calendars, Syllogisms, Meaningful Word/Matrix, Critical Reasoning, Visual Reasoning, Verbal & Miscellaneous Reasoning. The Analytical and Logical Reasoning section of SNAP carries maximum number of questions i.e. 25. Candidates have to choose the questions they can answer correctly, otherwise they will be given negative marks. So, SNAP aspirants must practice ample number of sample questions from these topics. The more they will practice, the better they will get at solving reasoning questions as it is all about knowing the patterns and unravelling the puzzles. Since, this section carries maximum marks, you cannot be ill prepared for it.

What is the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning?

The important topics included in the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning include Family Tree, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Course of Action, Puzzles, Visual Reasoning, Arrangement, Series, Numeric Grid, Pie Chart, Blood Relations, Critical Reasoning, Calendars, Coding & Decoding, Syllogisms, Statement Conclusions, Column Graphs, Graphs Representing Area. Candidates must note that covering MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning is tough because it is not Mathematics. There is no concept to be understood, there is no formula to be memorized. It is also not like General Knowledge, where facts are to be memorized. This section of MAT requires developing intelligence and reasoning skills. Most of the questions in this section are based on puzzles and patterns so one needs to develop the skill of identifying key details. Practice of several types of questions from all the topics is one of the best ways to cover the syllabus of this section of MAT.

What is the syllabus of MAH MBA CET Logical Reasoning and Abstract Reasoning?

The syllabus of MAH MBA CET Logical and Abstract Reasoning section includes Arrangements, Family tree, Coding-Decoding, Direction, Clock and Calendars, Groups and Conditionality, Number Series, Venn Diagrams, Syllogisms, Odd Word Out, Analogies, Blood Relations, Proposition, Direction Sense, Assumptions, Puzzles, Binary Logic, Clock and Calendars, Sets and Caselets, etc. This section is divided into two parts. The Logical Reasoning section has 75 questions and Abstract Reasoning Section has 25 questions. Each question has five option to choose the correct option from. Each correct option fetches 1 mark and incorrect option fetches 0 marks. The candidates need to focus more on this section of MAH MBA CET as it carries the maximum weightage. Prepare for this section by practicing a large number of practice questions.

What are the important topics for DILR in IIFT syllabus?

The important topics of DILR syllabus for IIFT include Decision Making, Series, Data Structures, Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding, Alphabetical Series, Syllogisms, Verbal Logic, Visual & Critical Reasoning, Linear & Matrix Arrangements, Puzzles, Family Tree Problem, Statement & Conclusion, Cause & Effect, Input & Output, Partnership, Line Graph, Tables, Bar Graph and Pie Graphs. The IIFT DILR section has 30 questions in total. To prepare for these topics, candidates need to first learn the types of questions and their key elements. LR questions are mostly like a puzzle where you have to uncover a pattern and to complete the series. This requires a bit of analytical and a bit of logical deduction. Practice a good number of IIFT DILR questions of previous years as well as sample papers to master this section.

Where can I find study material for Decision Making syllabus for XAT?

Since Decision Making section is unique to XAT, study material for the same in not readily available. Thus the best source of preparation material for Decision Making section is XAT previous years’ question papers. This section has passages related to business situations. Candidates have to select the closest solution to the given situation from the list of four options. You have to make an informed decision regarding the decision which has be in favour of the larger good. This section essentially tests your ability to take objective decisions regarding various business situations and activities. Candidates can practice Decision Making questions from XAT question papers of previous years to know the types and difficulty level. In a way, this section is similar to Reading Comprehension and requires same skills as that.

What is the difficulty level of SNAP question paper?

SNAP is one of the few MBA entrance exams which is easy in terms of difficulty level. It is much easier The number of questions, as well as the exam duration are less that than other MBA entrance exams. The type of questions asked in SNAP as also pretty straightforward. Moreover, SNAP exam is held thrice for candidates to repeat attempts, which allows candidates to improve their score if they want to. The SNAP syllabus is same as other MBA entrance exam and there are no questions on Reading Comprehension or Data Sufficiency. This makes the SNAP exam much easier to crack than other exams. Since 2020, the exam is conducted for only 60 minutes and the total number of questions asked is also 60. The first section of SNAP question paper is General English, the second section is Analytical & Logical Reasoning and the third section is Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency.

What are the important topics that usually dominate the SNAP question paper?

Candidates preparing for SNAP exam must study all the topics included in the SNAP syllabus i.e. General English and Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency and Analytical and Logical Reasoning.

What makes CAT tougher than other MBA entrance exams?

CAT exam is a national level MBA entrance exam conducted by the IIM. Every year, over 2.3 lakh candidates apply for it. Since the last two years, the competition has increased further with oveer 3 lakh candidates applying for the exam. The CAT score is accepted by the Iims and all top MBA colleges in India. To select the best candidates from over 3 lakh test takers there is a need for stringent criteria. That's why, the CAT exam is tougher than other MBA entrance exams. Even though the syllabus of CAT is same as that of other MBA entrance exams, the question paper set by the IIM faculty always has tough questions. Moreover, CAT has sectional time limit for each section which is not there in any other exam except XAT. Having a time limit for each section adds pressure on candidates to complete solving adequate number of questions in a section within the time limit. If a student is weak in a particular subject, they can't use the time as per their need. CAT's Reading Comprehension passages are long and dense unlike other MBA exams. This is one more reason why most candidates feel CAT is tougher than any other MBA entrance exam.

How can I prepare for XAT by self study?

If you are planning to prepare for XAT exam by self study, you need to start early. At least six months before. XAT exam is conducted on the first Sunday of January every year. So, if you start preparing for the XAT in June or July, you will have good six months to prepare. Make a preparation plan that includes XAT syllabus coverage, problem solving sessions, mock tests and revision. Get hold of best books for XAT. Consult mentors or previous year toppers for selecting the best books for preparation. Join online study groups where you can get the help of mentors and peers for problem solving and clearing of doubts in topics. Work in tough topics first and then move to easier topics. Solve a large number and variety of XAT mock tests to master the syllabus. You will need to do a rigorous work on XAT mock tests as for candidates who opt for self study, have to rely on practice.

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.

Logical Reasoning Preparation Tips for MBA Exams - Check Syllabus, Weightage, Practice Questions

Updated on Mar 12, 2026 16:47 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

Logical Reasoning or LR is one of the most important sections of all MBA entrances exams. It is often presented as a complete section of with a minimum of 20-25 questions. Logical Reasoning is a scoring section, but only if you get the logic right. Many a times, questions display obvious answer, but it lies elsewhere. CAT Logical Reasoning questions are often tricky and in sets of 3-4 questions. Same goes for other national level MBA entrance exams.

It is tough to prepare for Logical Reasoning as there are no formulae to be memorised or techniques to be applied. Solving LR questions accurately is possible only by learning logical analysis of the problem and its possible solution. The only trick is filtering out irrelevant information. Let’s understand all about Logical Reasoning and know how to prepare for it.

Table of contents

What is Logical Reasoning?
Logical Reasoning Syllabus for MBA Exams
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning?
Best Books for Logical Reasoning
What is the Weightage of DI and LR in Top MBA Entrance Exams?
Logical Reasoning Questions with Answers for Practice
FAQs on LR Preparation

What is Logical Reasoning?

Logical Reasoning is like brainteasers, which require common sense and logical thinking. It is categorised into two types:

Verbal Reasoning: It is the ability to logically understand the concepts and find solution to the problems expressed in words. Verbal Reasoning requires a good command on the language for understanding the question and extraction of information. The answers are often hidden in the question. Sometimes, one has to follow the logic and order of the given situation to derive the answer.

Non-Verbal Reasoning: It is the ability to logically understand the concepts and find solution of the problems presented in a combination of numbers/letters/figures and words. Non-Verbal Reasoning problems can be solved by deduction and induction of logic of information and implications in a problem. This includes visual reasoning and analytical reasoning. The challenge lies in reading the pattern correctly after considering all possible combinations and dimensions. Abstract Reasoning is also a part of non-verbal reasoning.

Logical Reasoning Syllabus for MBA Exams

Logical Reasoning is also a part of various competitive exams at undergraduate as well as postgraduate level inlcuding top Government and Banking exams. Bllod Relation, Clocks and Calendars, Syllogism, Aphanumeric Series, Statements, Seating Arrangement, Odd One Out and Coding-Decoding are main topics of CAT Logical Reasoning syllabus. Listed below are all the Logical Reasoning topics of all MBA entrance exams.

Logical Reasoning Syllabus for CAT and other exams
Blood Relations	Alphanumeric Series	Input-Output
Calendars	Reasoning Analogies	Mirror and Water Images
Cause and Effect	Odd One Out	Picture Series and Sequences
Clocks	Statement and Assumptions	Embedded Images
Cubes and cuboids	Statement and Conclusions	Paper Folding
Coding-Decoding	Artificial Language	Puzzles
Syllogism	Critical Path	Figure Matrix
Seating Arrangements	Deductive Reasoning/Statement Analysis	Pattern Series and Sequences
Data Sufficiency	Dices	Order & Ranking
Decision Making	Directions	Shape Construction

How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning?

Here are some key tips that you can follow for preparation of CAT Logical Reasoning section:

There is no set formula for Logical Reasoning preparation. So apply your cognitive ability just as you do for solving riddles and puzzles.
The most tried and tested method of cracking Logical Reasoning section in CAT and other MBA exams is practicing sample questions and mock test series.
Read the Logical Reasoning questions carefully. Clue to the answer lies in the question itself. Break down the question into parts to know what is the actual question.
Use the process of elimination while practicing LR questions and mock tests; and also in the actual exam. In MBA entrance exams, there are usually four options for each question. Start with rejecting the each impossible choice until you arrive at the right option or the one closest to the answer.
Sometimes, it is useful to see the answer choices in LR problems first and the read the questions. This is a good way of assessing the options that need to be eliminated first.
You can also visualize the problem or draw grids or tables in the rough sheet to help you solve the problem.
In Logical Reasoning questions, calculations are always very elementary. You will not be required to do heavy calculation in LR section.

Best Books for Logical Reasoning

Below we have listed some of the best books for LR preparation. Apart from these books, one can also refer to secondary readings and practice test books. If a candidate is preparing for multiple MBA entrance exams, then they must refer to exam specific Logical Reasoning test practice series.

A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Agarwal
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT book by Arun Sharma
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit Sinha
CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by Dr RS Aggarwal
A new approach to Reasoning By BS Sijwali & S. Sijwali Arihant
Multi Dimensional Reasoning by Mishra & Kumar Dr Lal
Reasoning Book for Competitive Examinations by Pearson

Also read:

What is the Weightage of DI and LR in Top MBA Entrance Exams?

Logical Reasoning questions may seem quick and easy to solve but are otten tricky and time taking. Listed below are some of the top MBA entrance exams and weightage of their Logical Reasoning section.

MBA Exam	Number of Questions	Total Marks
CAT	22	66
XAT	27	27
CMAT	20	80
MAT	30	30
SNAP (A-LR)	25	25
ATMA	60	60

Logical Reasoning Questions with Answers for Practice

Directions for questions 1-4: Answer the questions on the basis of the information given below. A college stores data on students, showing their gender and performance, on a computer disc. Due to virus, some of the data is lost and only the following could be recovered. Study the table carefully and answer the questions given below it.

Category	Performance			Total
Category	Average	Good	Excellent	Total
Male	-	-	50	-
Female	-	-	-	96
Total	-	54	-	-

However, an expert committee arrived at the following conclusions

One-third of the male students were ‘average’.
40% of the students were female.

III. Half the total numbers of students were ‘excellent’.

1. The number of male ‘good’ students is

(a) 74

(b) 46

(d) 26

Solution: (b)

2. The number of female ‘good’ students is

(a) 40

(b) 66

(d) 54

Solution: (c)

3. The ratio of female ‘good’ students to male ‘average’ students is

(a) 2 : 1

(b) 2 : 3

(d) 1 : 6

Solution: (d)

4. What fraction of total excellent students are female excellent students?

(a) 0.37

(b) 0.58

(d) 0.60

Solution: (b)

Download Free DILR Question Bank for Practice

Click to Download

Get here free PDFs of LR practice questions with solutions. Practice these LR questions to improve your performance in CAT and other MBA entrance exams:

LR Easy Questions Set 1	LR Easy Set 1 Solutions
LR Medium Questions Set 1	LR Medium Set 1 Solutions
LR Difficult Questions Set 1	LR Difficult Set 1 Solutions
LR Easy Questions Set 2	LR Easy Set 2 Solutions
LR Medium Questions Set 2	LR Medium Set 2 Solutions
LR Difficult Questions Set 2	LR Difficult Set 2 Solutions
LR Easy Questions Set 3	LR Easy Set 3 Solutions
LR Medium Questions Set 3	LR Medium Set 3 Solutions
LR Difficult Test Set 3	LR Difficult Set 3 Solutions

FAQs on LR Preparation

Check below some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on LR preparation.

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Logical Reasoning Preparation Tips for MBA Exams - Check Syllabus, Weightage, Practice Questions

What is Logical Reasoning?

Logical Reasoning Syllabus for MBA Exams

How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning?

Best Books for Logical Reasoning

What is the Weightage of DI and LR in Top MBA Entrance Exams?

Logical Reasoning Questions with Answers for Practice

Download Free DILR Question Bank for Practice

Click to Download

FAQs on LR Preparation

Explore exams which ask questions on DILR Prep Tips for MBA

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