Crack the CAT with the Right Books
The importance of the CAT exam cannot be overstated. Scoring well on the CAT can open doors to the top management institutes in the country, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Because the stakes are so high, picking the right books to study for the CAT test is necessary. The study tools a candidate chooses can make or break their preparation. The right books can help them learn the test material and question forms in an organised and thorough way.
In this blog, we will delve into the importance of selecting the appropriate CAT preparation books, explore the key factors to consider when choosing them,
and provide recommendations on the best available resources from previous years to current.
Best Books for the CAT Examination
Best Books for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT exam tests a candidate’s English language skills, application and use of vocabulary, and reading comprehension proficiency. A strong performance in this section is crucial, as it contributes significantly to the overall score.
| SN | Book name | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
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1.
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How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT
|
Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
|
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2.
|
Mastering the Verbal Ability for CAT
|
Ajay Singh
|
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3.
|
Word Power Made Easy
|
Norman Lewis
|
|
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4.
|
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension For The CAT
|
Nishit Sinha
|
|
|
5. |
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary
|
Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/ Simon & Schuster
|
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Importance of Strong Vocabulary and Reading Skills
- A robust vocabulary and reading comprehension skills are essential for success in the VARC section.
- Candidates must understand and interpret complex passages, identify the main ideas and supporting details, and effectively apply their language skills to answer questions.
Tips for Improving Reading Speed and Comprehension
- Candidates can adopt strategies such as active reading, identifying main ideas, and practising with timed exercises to enhance their reading speed and comprehension.
- Regular practice with diverse reading materials can also help improve overall reading skills.
Best Books for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
The CAT exam’s Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section tests candidates’ ability to analyse data, identify patterns, and apply logical reasoning to solve complex problems.
| SN | Book name | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1.
|
A Modern Approach
to Logical Reasoning
|
R S Aggarwal
|
R S Aggarwal’s book is a boon for beginners
who need to start with the basicLR concepts.
|
|
2.
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Logical Reasoning and Data
Interpretation for the CAT
|
Nishit Sinha
|
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3.
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How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT
|
Arun Sharma
|
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4.
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How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT
|
Arun Sharma
|
|
|
5. |
CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning
|
Gautam Puri
|
|
Importance of Logical Thinking and Data Analysis Skills
- Strong logical thinking and data analysis skills are essential for success in the DILR section.
- Candidates must be able to interpret and draw insights from various data representations, such as tables, graphs, and diagrams, and then apply logical reasoning to arrive at the correct answers.
Tips for Improving Speed and Accuracy in Solving DILR Questions
- To improve speed and accuracy in solving DILR questions, candidates can practise regularly WITH TIMER ON, familiarise themselves with different data representation formats, and develop strategies for quickly identifying the relevant information and applying logical reasoning.
Best Books for Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section of the CAT exam tests a candidate’s proficiency in fundamental mathematical concepts and problem-solving abilities.
| SN | Book name | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1.
|
NCERT Mathematics books (Class 6-10)
|
NCERT
|
|
|
2.
|
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT
|
Arun Sharma
|
|
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3.
|
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations
|
Abhijit Guha
|
|
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4.
|
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT
|
Sarvesh Verma
|
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5. |
Quantitative Aptitude for CAT
|
Nishit Sinha
|
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6. |
Quantitative Aptitude
|
R S Aggarwal
|
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Importance of Basic Mathematical Concepts
- A strong foundation in basic mathematical concepts, such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation, is essential for success in the QA section.
- Candidates must be able to apply these concepts to solve various quantitative problems.
Tips for Improving Calculation Speed and Accuracy
- Candidates can practise regularly, focus on developing efficient problem-solving techniques, and work on improving mental maths skills to enhance calculation speed and accuracy.
- Familiarity with shortcuts and tricks can also help solve QA questions quickly and accurately.
Grammatical and Vocabulary CAT Exam Preparation
These books are your trusted guides, offering comprehensive grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension coverage. They’ll help you enhance your language skills, improve your word power, and boost your critical reasoning abilities. Using these books gives you the confidence and tools needed to tackle the CAT exam’s Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section. Find all these books listed here on Amazon!
| Book Title | Author | Genre |
|---|---|---|
|
Word Power Made Easy
|
Norman Lewis
|
Vocabulary
|
|
High School English Grammar
|
Wren and Martin
|
Grammar
|
|
Objective General English
|
S.P. Bakshi
|
English
|
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How to Read Better and Faster
|
Norman Lewis
|
Reading
|
|
Barron’s Essential Words for the GRE
|
Philip Geer
|
Vocabulary
|
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The Elements of Style
|
William Strunk Jr.
|
Writing Style
|
|
English Grammar in Use
|
Raymond Murphy
|
Grammar
|
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Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
|
Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
|
Verbal Ability
|
|
A Mirror Of Common Errors
|
Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh
|
Grammar
|
|
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary
|
Wilfred Funk and Norman Lewis
|
Vocabulary
|
Additional Resources for CAT Preparation Referred in Previous Year(2024)
| Seven Habits of Highly Effective People | Stephen Covey | Management |
|---|---|---|
|
A Brief History of time
|
Stephen Hawking
|
Science
|
|
Cosmos
|
Carl Sagan
|
Science
|
|
An Illustrated Retelling of Mahabharta – Jaya
|
Devdutt Patnaik
|
Mythology & Management
|
|
India in Slow Motions
|
Mark Tully
|
Politics
|
|
Capitalism & Freedom
|
Milton Friedman
|
Economics
|
|
Maximum City
|
Suketu Mehta
|
City Life - Mumbai
|
|
Long Walk to Freedom
|
Nelson Mandela
|
Autobiography - Politics
|
|
Wings of Fire
|
APJ Abdul Kalam
|
Autobiography
|
|
Shantaram
|
David Gregory Roberts
|
Autobiography – City Life
|
Conclusion
Cracking the CAT exam is a challenging yet achievable goal. Selecting the right books is the first step; consistent effort, strategic planning, and disciplined execution are equally crucial. Remember, every aspirant’s journey is unique. Therefore, tailor your study plan to your strengths, weaknesses, and learning style.
Combining the knowledge from recommended books with ample practice, mock tests, and time management can significantly enhance your chances of securing a coveted seat in your dream B-school. Remember, the CAT exam is not just about intelligence but also about perseverance and the ability to think critically under pressure.
Tarkashastra offers courses and resources to help you develop critical thinking skills, argument analysis, and problem-solving techniques—all valuable assets for the CAT exam. Remember, pursuing knowledge has no boundaries, and incorporating elements of Tarkashastra into your study plan might give you that extra edge on exam day.
Stay motivated, believe in yourself, and give your best shot! We wish you all the very best in your CAT preparation journey.
FAQ
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1. How can I select the best books based on my current preparation level for the CAT Exam 2025?
Assessing your current preparation level is crucial for choosing the right books. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, then select books that align with your needs. If you're a beginner, opt for comprehensive guides covering all topics. If you're seeking advanced preparation, choose books that offer strategic tips and practice questions.
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2. What are the latest editions of CAT preparation books that include updated content for 2025?
CAT exam preparation books are typically updated annually to reflect syllabus or exam pattern changes. Look for books labelled as "Edition 2025" or with a recent publication date. These latest editions and previous years ensure that you're preparing with the most up-to-date content, aligning your studies with the expectations of the upcoming CAT 2025 exam.
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3. Are there any highly recommended books for practising past CAT exam papers and mock tests?
Yes, practising past CAT exam papers and mock tests is essential for your preparation. Look for books like "CAT Previous Years' Papers" or "CAT Mock Test Series," which provide authentic practice questions and simulate actual exam conditions. Solving these papers helps you familiarise yourself with the exam format and improve your time management skills.
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4. What role do supplementary books or guides play in CAT Exam preparation, and which ones are suggested?
Supplementary books offer additional support and practice beyond the standard prep books. They provide focused guidance on specific topics or sections of the CAT exam. Look for guides like "The Official Guide to CAT Quantitative Aptitude" or "CAT Verbal Ability Workbook," which offer extra practice and strategic insights for particular sections.
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5. How can I use online book reviews and recommendations to choose the best CAT Exam prep books?
Online book reviews and recommendations are valuable tools for selecting prep books. Visit reputable websites like Amazon, Goodreads, or Quora to read reviews from fellow aspirants and experts. Look for books with high ratings and positive feedback. Consider your specific needs and goals when assessing these reviews to make an informed decision.
