It has been a great debate that students who had opted mathematics in their school and college days can do much better in the QA section of CAT 2019. But the results of the previous CAT examinations prove this thought to be a fad. Well planned preparation can actually create wonders.
The QA in CAT 2019 is all about the high school mathematics with a flavour of critical thinking added. Although it may seem challenging, the QA section of CAT can be the most scoring section for the candidates if prepared well.
There are a few things that every MBA aspirant must know before they start preparing for the Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT 2019.
- Syllabus for the QA – CAT 2019
- Paper format
- Books for preparation for QA section of CAT 2019
- Cut off marks for QA section of CAT 2019
SYLLABUS FOR THE QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE SECTION OF CAT 2019
The syllabus for the QA section of CAT 2019 can be broadly sorted into five main divisions:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Number systems
- Modern mathematics
Of these divisions, arithmetic takes the maximum dominance of the QA section, followed by geometry and algebra. In recent times, very few questions come from number systems and modern mathematics. However, these sections cannot be overlooked entirely.
|
Section Name |
Topics | Number of Questions | Percentage of QA Section |
|
Arithmetic |
|
13-15 |
40% |
|
Algebra |
|
6-8 | 25% |
|
Geometry |
|
6-9 | 25% |
| Number System |
|
1-2 | 5% |
| Modern Mathematics |
|
1-2 | 5% |
PAPER FORMAT – QA section
The QA section in the sample paper of CAT 2019 is set in the same pattern as the actual examination. Candidates must note that the CAT does not follow a specific pattern. However, it has been noticed that the pattern has remained unchanged since 2015, so the same pattern can be expected this year too. This section usually requires more time than the others, as it involves actual solving of the questions. Candidates can spend a maximum of 60 minutes on this section.
| Section Name |
Quantitative Aptitude |
| Total Number of Questions | 34 |
| Number of MCQ questions | 23 |
| Number of non MCQ questions | 11 |
| Marks for correct answer | +3 |
| Marks for incorrect answer | -1 |
| Total Marks | 102 |
| Time Allotted | 60 minutes |
BOOKS TO HELP FOR PREPARATION FOR QA SECTION OF CAT 2019
| S.L. No. | NAME OF THE BOOK | AUTHOR |
| 1. | Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Nishit K Sinha |
| 2. | The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Dinesh Khatter |
| 3. | How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
| 4. | Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Verma |
| 5. | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Dinesh K Sinha |
| 6. | Complete course pack for CAT [12 books] | Erudite |
| 7. | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT and other MBA Entrance Examinations | T.I.M.E. |
| 8. | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
| 9. | How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| 10. | Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission into IIMs | Sarvesh K Verma |
Stay connected with fellow students on PaGaLGuY for Books of CAT preparation
CUT OFF MARKS FOR QA SECTION OF CAT 2019
The cut off marks for the QA section of CAT varies for different institutions. In the table below, we will provide you with an average cut off for the QA section for CAT 2019, based on the average cut off for the QA section of CAT 2018.
| Category | Cut off Marks ( Out of 102 Marks) |
| General | 70 |
| NC-OBC/Transgender | 65 |
| SC | 60 |
| ST | 50 |
As we all know, the most important aspect of any examination which involves Mathematics is only twofold:
- Understanding of the concepts
- Practice
It has been observed that, within the list of topics gives, it becomes tougher for many candidates to be good at all topics. Therefore, the candidates are advised to divide each topic to be their strength or need improvement area.
This way one can dedicate right amount of time and can ace through the CAT 2019.
May someone feel, that they are stranded or stuck somewhere, the educational networks of Pagalguy are a great help. The group of like-minded people who can help you with exam processes as well as for preparation are available for free.
For more CAT 2019 Articles please check below:
IIM CAT 2019 Notification to get Release on 28th July 2019
CAT 2019 – Check Eligibility, Age Limit and Seats Reservation Criteria