Best CAT Preparation Books for Students in 2025 – Section-wise Guide to Crack the Exam

Planning to pursue an MBA in 2025? Then CAT (Common Admission Test) is your gateway to top B-schools like IIMs, FMS, MDI, and others.

To crack this highly competitive exam, you don’t just need hard work—you need smart resources. In this blog, we’ll explore the best CAT preparation books, how to read them effectively, and the study plan you need to ace the exam.

Understanding the CAT Exam Pattern

Before diving into the best books for CAT, let’s quickly review the exam format:

CAT is a computer-based test with both MCQs and non-MCQs. The syllabus is not officially defined, which makes choosing the right CAT exam resources even more crucial.

Best CAT Preparation Books – Section-Wise Guide

Let’s now look at the best books for CAT, broken down section-wise, with expert tips on how to study each book effectively.

1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

VARC is all about reading speed, comprehension, grammar, and logical deduction.

✅ Top Books for VARC:

How to Use These Books:

• Read 3-4 RCs daily, diversify genres (philosophy, history, science)
• Solve grammar drills and VA sets (para-jumbles, odd sentence out)
• Maintain a vocab diary for new words with usage examples
• Practice timed mocks and sectionals twice a week

2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

This section is unpredictable. The only strategy is practice, practice, and more practice.

✅ Top Books for DILR:

How to Use These Books:

• Start with easy DI sets (tables, bar graphs), move to caselets & reasoning puzzles
• Focus on set selection strategies—don’t attempt everything in mocks
• Practice mock test DILR sections under time pressure. Solve 2–3 DILR sets daily, increasing difficulty every week.

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

QA tests your basic maths skills (class 6–10 level), with a strong emphasis on logic, speed, and accuracy.

✅ Top Books for QA:

How to Use These Books:

• Start with basics—ratios, percentages, averages, number systems
• Move on to algebra, geometry, and modern math
• Solve 30–40 questions daily, mix of easy and hard

For all sections and practices, Maintain an error log—revise mistakes weekly. This exercise will help you strengthen your ability to perform better.

Additional CAT Study Material & Resources

Along with books, using supplementary CAT exam resources boosts performance.

Online Platforms:

• IMS, Career Launcher, TIME, 2IIM: For test series, workshops
• Arun Sharma YouTube Channel: For concept videos
• Cracku, Handa Ka Funda, Unacademy: Video lectures and quizzes
• Previous Year CAT Papers: Must-practice!

Other Must-Haves:

• CAT Previous Year Questions (Free PDFs available online)
• Formula Booklet for QA
• Sectional Tests & Full-Length Mocks
• Group study forums and Telegram channels for doubt-solving

How to Prepare for CAT 2025 – Study Plan

Starting early gives you an edge. Here’s a suggested study plan:

Phase 1 (Feb–June): Build Concepts

• Focus on books, revise fundamentals
• No pressure of mocks
• Read daily and build vocab

Phase 2 (July–Sept): Practice & Speed

• Take 1–2 mocks per week
• Start solving moderate to tough CAT-level questions
• Track accuracy and time taken

Phase 3 (Oct–Nov): Test Readiness

• 3 mocks per week
• Revise only from your notes & error log
• Focus on mental stamina and time management

CAT 2025 is expected in November 2025, so plan your prep backward from that date.

Why MBA after CAT?

Cracking CAT opens doors to India's top B-schools—and a transformational MBA experience. Consider enhancing your future with the MBA program at UPES School of Business, known for its industry-aligned curriculum, global exposure, and career-focused learning.

At UPES School of Business, CAT-qualified students can pursue MBAs in:

• Marketing, Finance, Operations, HR
• Business Analytics, Oil & Gas, International Business
• With placements in Deloitte, EY, Accenture, Infosys, and more

Conclusion

CAT is more about consistency than just intelligence. Choosing the right CAT preparation books and following a structured plan can make the journey smoother and more rewarding.

So whether you're starting from scratch or refining your strategies, this list of books for CAT preparation will be your go-to companion until exam day. Start your CAT prep now, and get ready for life-changing opportunities with an MBA at UPES—where academic excellence meets real-world business success.