CMAT Preparation 2026: Strategy, Tips, Books, Guide, Download PDF
The CMAT 2026 exam has been announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA). CMAT Exam Pattern 2026 is divided into five sections: Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The CMAT exam difficulty level is considered moderate, and the exam duration is 180 minutes. Read this in-depth article on section-wise CMAT preparation strategy, books, mock tests and tips. CMAT 2026 Preparation pdf download link is also given in the article below. Information on this page is for CMAT preparation online for free. CMAT 2026 Exam Date is January 25, 2026.
CMAT Exam Pattern 2026
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern has been released by NTA in the CMAT Information Bulletin. CMAT Exam Pattern 2026 is divided into five sections: Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Check section wise number of questions in the table below.
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | Exam Sections | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks Section-wise |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| 2 | Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| 3 | Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| 4 | General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| 5 | Innovation and Entrepreneurship | 20 | 80 |
CMAT Preparation 2026 for Language Comprehension Section
Out of the total 100 questions in CMAT, 20 questions are based on the Language Comprehension section. For the right preparation strategy, you should know the type of questions asked in previous year question papers and the syllabus. Check these details, and the CMAT preparation 2026 strategy for the Language Comprehension section.
CMAT 2025 Slot 1: Type of Questions in Language Comprehension Section
CMAT 2025 Slot 1 Language Comprehension section consisted of 5 Reading Comprehension questions and 15 Grammar and English language usage related questions. Details are given in the table below.
| Sub Section | Type of Question | No of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | RC Passage | 5 |
| Verbal Ability | Identify correct/Incorrect usage (Active/Passive, Speech, Verb Usage) | 4 |
| Idioms and meanings | 2 | |
| Assertion-Reason (Grammar Based – Simple Sentences, Adjectives) | 2 | |
| Choose the correct sentence (Adjectives, Verb usage) | 2 | |
| Match the following (Types of Pronouns) | 1 | |
| Jumbled Sentences | 1 | |
| Parajumbles | 1 | |
| Synonyms (Match the following) | 1 |
CMAT Syllabus 2026: Language Comprehension Section
Based on the previous year’s exam pattern, the CMAT syllabus for the language comprehension section is given below.
| Topics | ||
| Reading Comprehension | Para Completion | Antonym/Synonyms |
| Para Jumbles | Sentence Completion | Idioms and Phrases |
| Grammar-based Questions | Errors in English Usage | Sentence Correction |
| Parts of Speech | One-Word Substitution | Cloze Test |
| Sentence Improvement | ||
CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy for Language Comprehension Section
Based on the pattern and syllabus, the CMAT 2026 preparation strategy for the Language Comprehension section is given below:
- Practice Grammar and Usage Rules: Questions often test grammar concepts like active/passive voice, speech, adjectives, and verb usage. Regular practice with grammar rules and identifying errors in sentences is essential.
- Build Vocabulary and Idiomatic Expressions: Expect questions on idioms, synonyms, antonyms, and one-word substitutions. Reading editorial articles and maintaining a vocabulary list can significantly help.
- Master Reading Comprehension Techniques: RC questions test your ability to infer meanings, identify central ideas, and understand expressions. Practice with diverse reading materials and time-bound exercises is key.
- Work on Sentence Arrangement: Topics like jumbled sentences and parajumbles are frequent in CMAT. Daily practice with paragraph structuring improves logical flow and sequencing skills.
- Solve Previous Year Questions: Analysing past CMAT previous year papers gives insight into question types and difficulty levels. Take CMAT mock tests and CMAT previous year papers free on campus.digitalpush.io.
CMAT Preparation 2026 for Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Section
Out of the total 100 questions in CMAT, 20 questions are based on the Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Section. For the right preparation strategy, you should know the type of questions asked in previous year question papers and the syllabus. Check these details, and the CMAT preparation 2026 strategy for the Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Section.
CMAT 2025 Slot 1: Type of Questions in Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation section
| Area | No of Questions | Details |
|---|---|---|
| – | Total | – |
| Arithmetic | 10 | Time-speed-distance(3),Ratio-Proportion(2)Profit & Loss (2),SICI(1), Alligation and Mixtures(2) |
| Geometry | 1 | Triangles(1) |
| Modern Math | 2 | Probability(2) |
| Numbers | 2 | Surds(1) and indices(1) |
| Algebra | 2 | Quad equations(1), Linear equations(1) |
| Data Interpretation | 3 | 2 Pie charts (Set of 3 questions) |
CMAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation section
Based on the previous year’s exam pattern, the CMAT syllabus for the Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation section is given below.
| Topics | ||
| Pie Chart | Bar Graph | Tabulation |
| Number System | Percentages | Allegations & Mixtures |
| Ratio and Proportion | Fractions and Decimals | Averages |
| Allegations and Mixtures | Profit and Loss | Quadratic and Linear Equations |
| Permutation and Combination | Simple and Compound Interest | Geometry |
| Pipes and Cisterns | Probability | Mensuration |
| Work and Time | Time-Speed and Distance | Partnership |
| Algebra | ||
CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy for Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Section
Based on the pattern and syllabus, the CMAT 2026 preparation strategy for the Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation is given below:
- Focus on Arithmetic Fundamentals: Arithmetic dominates this section with topics like time-speed-distance, ratio, profit-loss, and mixtures. Mastering these topics ensures accuracy and boosts the overall score.
- Practice Data Interpretation Sets: DI questions are based on pie charts, bar graphs, and tables requiring quick analysis. Regular practice improves your speed and comprehension of graphical data.
- Revise Algebra and Modern Math: Topics like quadratic equations, linear equations, and probability appear consistently. Understanding concepts and solving practice problems is crucial for accuracy.
- Strengthen Number System Basics: Questions on surds, indices, and divisibility test conceptual clarity. A strong grasp of fundamentals helps tackle these with confidence.
- Cover Geometry and Mensuration: Geometry questions, especially on triangles and mensuration, test spatial understanding. Drawing diagrams and memorising formulas can simplify these questions.
- Solve Past Year Questions Regularly: Reviewing the CMAT 2025 paper gives a clear idea of question trends and difficulty. It also helps fine-tune your preparation and improve time management.
CMAT Preparation 2026 for Logical Reasoning Section
Logical Reasoning section carries an overall 20% Weightage in CMAT 2025 preparations for the exam. Out of the total 100 questions in CMAT, 20 questions are based on the LR section. Below is shared the topic-wise LR sectional pattern with the number of questions in the exam and actual CMAT questions that appeared recently in the exam to help you familiarise with the type of questions in CMAT:
CMAT 2025 Slot 1: Type of Questions in Logical Reasoning Section
In the CMAT 2025 Slot 1 exam, out of the 20 questions in this section, 14 were on Non-Verbal Reasoning, and 6 questions were on Verbal Reasoning. All the questions were standalone, and there were no set-based questions. Check the detailed breakup in tthe able below.
| Sub-section/ Topic | Type of Questions | No of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | Directions (1), Cubes (2), Counting the number of squares (1), Linear Arrangement (1), Family tree (1), Clocks (1), Numerical Puzzle (1), Misc (1), Logical Venn diagram (1), Set theory (1), Number Series (1), Analogy based sequence (1), Alpha numeric (1) | 14 |
| Verbal Reasoning | Assertion Reason; Strong/Weak Argument; Assumption; Conclusion, Word-based Analogy and Odd one out | 6 |
| Total Questions | – | 20 |
CMAT Syllabus 2026: Logical Reasoning Section
Based on the previous year’s exam pattern, the CMAT syllabus for the Logical Reasoning Section is given below.
| Topics | ||
| Statement and Arguments | Statement and Assumptions | Arrangements |
| Blood Relationship | Non-Verbal Reasoning | Direction and Distance |
| Symbol-Based Problems | Linear Arrangements | Coding and Decoding |
| Number Series | Analogies | Analytical Reasoning |
| Inferences | Cause and Effects | Ranking Tests |
CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy for Logical Reasoning Section
Based on the pattern and syllabus, the CMAT 2026 preparation strategy for the Logical Reasoning Section is given below:
- Emphasis on Non-Verbal Reasoning: A major portion (14 out of 20) was from Non-Verbal Reasoning, like directions, cubes, and sequences. Strengthening visual and analytical reasoning skills is essential.
- But don’t forget to cover Key Verbal Reasoning Types: Questions on assumptions, arguments, and conclusions test critical thinking. Understanding how to evaluate statements logically will help with these questions.
- Practice Puzzles and Pattern-based Questions: Numerical puzzles, analogies, and series questions are frequent. These test your logical sequencing and pattern recognition under time pressure.
- Master Directions and Arrangements: Direction sense, linear arrangements, and family trees are common. Drawing diagrams and using elimination can simplify these problems.
- Revise Statement-Based Logic Questions: Topics like statement-argument, assumption, and cause-effect frequently appear. A clear understanding of logical flow and reasoning is crucial.
- Use Previous Year Papers Strategically: Solving CMAT 2025-type questions helps identify question formats and difficulty. This improves speed, accuracy, and familiarity with logic puzzles.
CMAT Preparation 2026 for General Awareness Section
General Awareness section also has 20 questions out of 100 questions in the CMAT exam. For the right preparation strategy, you should know the type of questions asked in previous year question papers and the syllabus. Check these details below, and the CMAT preparation 2026 strategy for the General Awareness section.
CMAT 2025 Slot 1: Type of Questions in the General Knowledge Section
In the CMAT 2025 slot 1 exam, all 20 questions were based on Static GK. The questions were on different sections like Science, Sports, the Indian Constitution, History, and Culture of India, among others. Most of the questions were based on Indian GK; only a few questions were on international events.
CMAT Syllabus 2026: General Knowledge Section
| Topics | ||
|---|---|---|
| National and International Importance | Recent Government Schemes | Geography |
| Awards | International Affairs | Politics |
| Arts & Culture | Sports | Static GK and Current GK |
| Geography | Books & Authors | History |
| Polity | National and International Economy | Politics |
| Literature | Trade Awareness | Indian Constitution |
| Business-related Issues | Science | History |
| Economics | Sports | Important Personalities |
CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy for General Awareness Section
Based on the pattern and syllabus, the CMAT 2026 preparation strategy for the General Awareness Section is given below:
- Focus on Static GK Topics: All 20 questions in CMAT 2025 were from Static GK areas like history, geography, and the constitution. Prioritising these topics will give you a solid score boost.
- Emphasis on Indian GK: The majority of questions were based on Indian subjects such as culture, polity, and science. Knowledge of Indian affairs holds more weight than global events.
- Prepare Government Schemes & Policies: Familiarity with recent Indian government schemes is important. These are often asked to test awareness of socio-political developments.
- Cover Sports and Award Events: Sports personalities, tournaments, and national awards are recurring themes. Stay updated on major annual events and achievements.
- Revise Economy and Business Awareness: Questions on national and international economic issues and trade awareness may appear. Understand basic economic terms and current business headlines.
- Read About Arts, Books & Authors: Literature-based questions, including famous books and authors, are commonly asked. Prepare a list of recent award-winning works and historical classics.
CMAT 2026 Preparation Books
Apart from campus.digitalpush.io, the best CMAT Books can help you in exam preparation. Here is a list of the best books for the CMAT 2026 exam preparation.
CMAT Exam Preparation Books for Language Comprehension Section
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT’ by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
- ‘Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT’ – by Nishit K Sinha
CMAT Preparation Books for Quantitative Techniques and DI Section
- ‘How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT’ – by Arun Sharma (Published by McMcGraw-Hill)
- ‘How to prepare for Quantitative for the CAT’ – by Arun Sharma, published by MGH Education
- ‘Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT’ – by Nishit K.Sinha, Published by Pearson
CMAT Preparation Books for Logical Reasoning Section
- ‘Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT’ – by Nishit K Sinha (Published by Pearson)
- ‘How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT’ – by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw-Hill)
CMAT Preparation Books for Current Affairs (GK) Section
- Manorama Year Book
CMAT Books for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Section
- Press Information Bureau (PIB) of the Government of India
- National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
- Document on Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) Website
CMAT Preparation 2026 for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Section
Innovation & Entrepreneurship section also has 20 questions out of 100 questions in the CMAT exam. For the right preparation strategy, you should know the type of questions asked in previous year question papers and the syllabus. Check these details below, and the CMAT preparation 2026 strategy for the Innovation & Entrepreneurship section.
CMAT Syllabus 2026 for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Section
The Innovation & Entrepreneurship Section in the CMAT exam tests the knowledge on Innovative business practices, Government plans and policies, global entrepreneurs and personalities, among others. Checkthe type of questions that appeared in this section in the CMAT 2025 exam. Based on this, the CMAT Innovation and Entrepreneurship syllabus 2026 is published below.
CMAT 2025 Slot 1: Type of Questions in Innovation & Entrepreneurship Section
Out of the 20 questions, 19 were based on Business and Entrepreneurship concepts (Bootstrapping, Startup valuation, Fabian entrepreneur, Angel investment, Lean startup, Trademark, Feasibility analysis). 1 question was on Business GK. Overall, this section was of a medium difficulty level.
CMAT Syllabus 2026: Innovation & Entrepreneurship Section
Based on the previous year’s exam pattern, the CMAT syllabus for the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Section is given below.
| Topics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneur- Definition, Types | Theories of Entrepreneurship | Role of the Government in Promoting Entrepreneurship |
| Funding of start-ups | Concepts of Innovation | Entrepreneurship Challenges |
| Entrepreneurship Challenges | Innovation Framework | Types of Entrepreneurs |
| Marketing and growth strategy | ||
CMAT Preparation Books and CMAT Exam Study Material
CMAT Preparation Books & Guide are very much needed to begin your preparation. Best CMAT Preparation Books & Guide for CMAT exam preparation, section-wise are:
CMAT Exam Preparation Books for Language Comprehension Section:
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT- by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
- ‘Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT’ – by Nishit K Sinha
- Latest RC Passages and practice questions provided by Study centres like TIME, CL, among others
- Editorial and short articles published in English newspapers
- ‘Word Power Made Easy’ – by Norman Lewis
- ‘High School English Grammar & Composition’ – by Wren & Martin
- Regularly solve the Verbal Ability questions from your study material, especially on Para summary, Jumbled Paragraphs
- There are also several CMAT preparation books available for free PDF download online for CMAT 2025 aspirants
- Use the study material of the best online coaching for CMAT 2025
CMAT Preparation Books for Quantitative Techniques and DI
- ‘How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT’ – by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw-Hill)
- ‘How to prepare for Quantitative for the CAT’ – by Arun Sharma, published by MGH Education
- ‘Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT’ – by Nishit K.Sinha, Published by Pearson
- ‘The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams’
- Quant study modules by TIME, CL, IMS
CMAT Preparation Books for Logical Reasoning
- ‘Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT’ – by Nishit K Sinha (Published by Pearson)
- ‘How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT’ – by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw-Hill)
CMAT Preparation Books for Current Affairs (GK)
- Manorama Year Book
CMAT Preparation Books & Study Material for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship – Published by Govt of India
- Document on Atal Incubation Centre (AIC)
- Venture Capital Scheme by Govt of India
- Standup India program by Govt of India
CMAT Preparation 2026 Plan
Based on the above information, you can make a good CMAT 2026 preparation plan. Check these points below.
- Language Comprehension: Focus on Reading Comprehension and Grammar—practice RCs, sentence correction, idioms, and parajumbles daily.
- Quantitative Techniques & DI: Strengthen Arithmetic fundamentals and practice data interpretation sets—cover topics like TSD, Profit & Loss, SICI, and Pie Charts.
- Logical Reasoning: Practice both verbal and non-verbal reasoning—work on number series, directions, assumptions, arguments, and family trees.
- General Knowledge: Revise static GK with emphasis on Indian polity, history, and constitution—supplement with weekly updates on major national/international events.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Study key startup concepts, government schemes, and entrepreneur types—focus on terms like bootstrapping, lean startup, and funding stages.
- Mock Tests & Analysis: Take full-length CMAT mock tests regularly—analyse your performance to identify weak areas and improve time management.
CMAT Preparation PDF
CMAT Preparation PDF download is available from the link below. CMAT Preparation PDF includes the complete exam syllabus, pattern and tips given in this article. CMAT 2026 preparation pdf free download is given below.
In summary, the CMAT preparation strategy should focus on covering all five sections. Read the above article on section-wise CMAT preparation strategy, books, mock tests and tips. CMAT 2026 Preparation pdf download link is also given above. You can download and save it for future reference. Also read: CMAT 2026 Exam Overview & Highlights and CMAT 2026 Exam Registration Guidelines.
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