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Candidates can access the official XAT syllabus and question paper format on xatonline.in. The syllabus for XAT 2025 includes Verbal and Logical Ability, Analytical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. To achieve a competitive score in the XAT exam, candidates should thoroughly cover all topics outlined in the syllabus document. Additionally, the MBA-specific syllabus includes distinctive sections on decision-making and essay writing. The XAT 2025 exam is scheduled for January 5 and will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
The XAT question paper is divided into two sections. The first part includes sections such as Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, Decision Making, and Verbal & Logical Ability. The second part consists of questions related to General Knowledge and Current Affairs and an essay-writing section.
The XAT 2025 question paper will contain 103 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Additionally, the English Comprehension section will include a poem. For a comprehensive preparation for the XAT exam, candidates should review the complete XAT 2025 syllabus and explore recommended books and study materials.
XAT Syllabus 2025
To excel in the XAT exam and achieve high scores, candidates must thoroughly acquaint themselves with the detailed XAT syllabus for 2025. The syllabus covers crucial topics across sections such as Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, and QA & DI. A deep understanding of the XAT syllabus 2025 helps candidates formulate a strategic study plan, crucial for maintaining consistency throughout preparation and ultimately achieving a strong performance in the exam.
XAT Syllabus 2025 Overview
XAT Section | Important Topics |
Verbal & Logical Ability | – Reading Comprehension |
– Analogy | |
– Vocabulary | |
– Grammar | |
– Parajumble | |
– Fill in the Blanks | |
– Critical Reasoning | |
Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation | – Arithmetic |
– Mensuration | |
– Geometry | |
– Percentage | |
– Algebra | |
– Tables | |
– Data Interpretation | |
Decision Making | – Data Arrangement |
– Grouping | |
– Conditioning | |
– Caselets | |
– Complex Arrangement | |
– Premises | |
– Assumptions | |
– Conclusions | |
General Knowledge | – Science |
– Business | |
– Economy | |
– Static GK | |
– Politics | |
– Sports | |
– Constitution of India |
Section-wise XAT Syllabus 2025
Understanding the section-wise distribution of subjects in the XAT syllabus is crucial for planning your preparation effectively. It helps you allocate time appropriately to each section and decide how many questions to attempt in the XAT 2025 exam. Below is a breakdown of the XAT 2025 syllabus by section along with essential points for exam readiness:
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XAT Syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude (QA) & Data Interpretation (DI)
The Quantitative Aptitude section of the XAT exam typically ranges from moderate to high in difficulty. Arithmetic largely dominates this section. Below are the topics covered in the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) & Data Interpretation (DI) section of the XAT exam syllabus:
Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation | Additional Topics | Data Interpretation |
Percentage | Tables and Caselets | Data Tables |
Linear and Quadratic Equations | Profit and Loss | Data Charts |
Probability | Surds and Indices | Bar Diagrams |
Ratio and Proportion | Critical Path | Graphs |
Inequalities | Variation | Pie Charts |
Averages and Partnerships | Logarithms | Data Analysis |
Time and Work | Allegations and Mixtures | |
Numbers | Time, Speed, and Distance | |
Algebra | Mensuration | |
LCM and HCF | Simple and Compound Interest | |
Geometry | Pure Maths | |
Venn Diagrams | Trigonometry |
The XAT Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation syllabus for 2025 remains consistent with previous years:
- This section comprises 28 questions.
- The difficulty level is generally high.
- Each question carries one mark.
- There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- Questions primarily cover topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Co-ordinate Geometry, Data Sufficiency, Time and Work, and Mixed Graphs.
- The format of the questions is multiple-choice (MCQ).
XAT Syllabus for Verbal & Logical Ability
The English section of the XAT is comparable to the CAT exam. It typically includes 2-3 Reading Comprehension (RC) passages, which may include a poem. Approximately 10 questions are based on these RC passages. The Verbal Ability section of the XAT exam syllabus covers the following topics:
Verbal & Logical Ability Topics | Description |
Reading Comprehension | Understanding and answering questions based on passages. |
Fill in the Blanks | Completing sentences with appropriate words. |
Antonyms/Synonyms | Knowledge of words with opposite and similar meanings. |
Jumbled Paragraphs | Arranging sentences or paragraphs in the correct order. |
Contextual Usage of Vocabulary | Using words appropriately in different contexts. |
Correction of Errors in Sentences | Identifying and correcting grammatical mistakes. |
Word Usage | Knowledge of correct usage of words in sentences. |
Sentence Completion | Completing sentences to convey the correct meaning. |
Paragraph Completion | Completing paragraphs with appropriate sentences. |
The Verbal Ability syllabus for XAT 2025 remains consistent with previous years:
- The section will consist of 26 questions.
- Each question carries one mark.
- There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- The format of questions in the XAT Verbal Ability section is multiple-choice (MCQ).
XAT Syllabus for Decision Making (DM)
The Decision Making section of the XAT exam does not have a fixed syllabus. It resembles Logical Reasoning, where candidates are presented with scenarios requiring ethical decision-making for the greater good. Topics in this section typically include:
Decision-Making Topics | Description |
Analytical Reasoning | Analyzing and reasoning based on given information. |
Logical Reasoning | Applying logical thinking to solve problems. |
Complex Arrangement | Dealing with intricate arrangements or scenarios. |
Data Arrangement | Organizing and interpreting data sets. |
Caselets | Solving problems based on short cases or scenarios. |
Conditions and Grouping | Applying conditions and categorizing information. |
Situations | Handling various situations effectively. |
Assumptions | Identifying underlying assumptions in scenarios. |
Decision Making | Making ethical decisions for the greater good. |
Here are the key points related to the Decision Making section of XAT 2025:
- This section consists of 22 questions.
- Each correct answer is awarded one mark.
- Incorrect answers incur a penalty of 0.25 marks.
- All questions in this section are based on real-life scenarios.
- Questions are presented in multiple-choice format (MCQs).
XAT Syllabus for General Knowledge (GK)
The General Knowledge section of the XAT exam is relatively straightforward compared to other sections. Topics typically covered in this section include:
General Knowledge Topics | Description |
Awards and Winners | Recognition and achievers in various fields. |
History and Geography | Events, places, and their significance. |
Static GK | Facts, figures, and static information. |
Business and Politics | Economic and political developments. |
Constitution of India | Fundamental laws and governance principles. |
Personalities | Notable figures and their contributions. |
Government and Economy | Policies, economic indicators, and governance. |
World Events | Significant global occurrences. |
Current Affairs | Recent events and developments. |
Here are the highlights of the General Knowledge section in XAT 2025:
- The General Knowledge section will consist of 25 questions.
- Each question will carry one mark, and there is no negative marking in this section.
- Questions will cover topics such as History, Geography, Economy & Business, Current Affairs, Personality & Awards, and Science & Technology.
- Candidates can focus on preparing for General Knowledge in the final month of XAT preparation, focusing on memorizing dates, events, names, etc.
- The format of questions in this section will be multiple-choice (MCQ).
Best Books for XAT Preparation 2025
XAT is considered one of the most challenging MBA entrance exams, requiring candidates to diligently prepare using recommended books and study materials. Shiksha has curated a list of highly recommended books for XAT preparation, noting that many of the books recommended for CAT are also suitable for XAT due to overlapping topics between the two exams.
Preparation Books: Quantitative Aptitude (QA) & Data Interpretation (DI)
Here are the recommended books for XAT Quantitative Aptitude (QA) and Data Interpretation (DI) preparation, along with their authors/publishers:
Books for XAT Preparation | Author/Publisher |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests For Admission into IIMs | Sarvesh K Verma |
Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations | Guha Abhijit |
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha/Arihant |
Preparation Books: Verbal Ability
Here are the recommended books for XAT Verbal Ability preparation, along with their authors/publishers:
Books for XAT Preparation | Author/Publisher |
Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
Objective General English | Dr RS Agarwal and Vikas Agarwal |
High School English Grammar | Wren & Martin |
The Students’ Companion Book | D Best |
Preparation Books for XAT: Decision Making
Here are the recommended books for XAT Decision Making preparation, along with their authors/publishers:
Books for XAT Preparation | Author Name/Publisher |
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | Gautam Puri |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
Best XAT Study Material for General Knowledge
XAT General Knowledge questions are typically straightforward and can often be completed within 10-15 minutes. To enhance their knowledge of important events, candidates are advised to subscribe to yearly publications. To stay updated with Current Affairs and General Knowledge, aspirants should consider subscribing to the following newspapers and journals:
Newspapers and Journals | Description |
The Hindu | Leading English daily newspaper in India. |
Economic Times | Major financial newspaper in India. |
Financial Express | Business newspaper focusing on the economy. |
Hindu Business Line | Business and financial news from The Hindu Group. |
Wall Street Journal | International business-focused newspaper. |
The Financial Times | Global financial newspaper. |
Business Today | Business magazine covering the Indian economy. |
Business World | Business and economy-focused magazine. |
Competition Success Review | Monthly magazine for competitive exam preparation. |
Management Compass Career Launcher | Management and career development magazine. |
XAT Syllabus 2025 for Essay Writing Test
The essay writing section of the XAT exam assesses candidates’ writing skills. Candidates must compose a clear and organized essay on a chosen topic within a time frame of approximately 20-25 minutes. Essay topics typically relate to current international events of significance. Candidates need to ensure that their essays are at least 200 words in length.
XAT Exam Pattern 2025
This table provides an overview of the number of questions, marks per question, and the marking scheme for each section of the XAT 2025 exam. Candidates can use this information to plan their preparation effectively based on the sectional weightage.
Aspect | Details |
XAT Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Duration | 3 hours and 30 minutes |
Medium of Language | English |
Total Sections in XAT | 5 Sections along with Mock Keyboard Testing |
Sections | Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR) |
Decision-making (DM) | |
Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | |
General Knowledge (GK) | |
Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) | |
Number of Questions in VA & LR | 26 |
Number of Questions in DM | 22 |
Number of Questions in QA & DI | 28 |
Number of Questions in GK | 25 |
Essay Questions | 1 |
Sectional Time Limits | None |
Marking Scheme for Part 1 | +1 mark for correct answer |
-0.25 marks for wrong answer | |
-0.10 marks for every answer after 8 unattempted questions | |
Marking Scheme for Part 2 (GK) | +1 mark for each correct answer |
No negative marking | |
Essay Evaluation | Only for shortlisted candidates |
XAT Preparation 2025
A period of six to eight months is generally considered adequate for preparing for the XAT exam. During this time, candidates should focus on thoroughly covering the XAT syllabus initially. Subsequently, they should transition to practising with mock test series and solving previous years’ question papers. As the exam date approaches, it is crucial to dedicate the last few days to intensive mock test practice, monitoring performance, and revising key topics. This structured approach helps candidates effectively manage their preparation and enhance their readiness for the XAT exam.
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XAT 2025 Exam Preparation Strategy
Here are the recommended strategies for candidates to excel in the XAT 2025 exam:
- Thoroughly review the XAT syllabus 2025: Understand all the topics and sub-topics included in the syllabus to ensure comprehensive preparation.
- Comprehend the XAT exam pattern and sectional weightage: Familiarize yourself with the number of questions, marks allocated, and the structure of each section to prioritize preparation accordingly.
- Regularly revise covered topics: Consistent revision helps strengthen understanding and aids in better retention of information.
- Remain consistent throughout the preparation: Maintain a disciplined study schedule to cover the syllabus effectively and prepare consistently over the months leading up to the exam.
- Establish a study schedule: Plan a structured study routine that covers all sections of the exam, allocating time for each subject based on its importance and your proficiency.
- Utilize XAT mock tests and test series: Practice with mock tests to simulate exam conditions, improve time management, and familiarize yourself with the question formats.
- Evaluate performance and focus on improvement: Analyze mock test results to identify weak areas and work on them diligently to enhance performance.
- Practice with XAT previous year’s question papers: Solving previous years’ papers helps understand the exam pattern, familiarizes with frequently asked questions, and boosts confidence.
XAT Syllabus 2025 FAQs
What are the main sections covered in the XAT syllabus?
The XAT syllabus includes five main sections: Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation, General Knowledge, and Analytical Essay Writing.
What topics are included in the Verbal and Logical Ability section of XAT?
The Verbal and Logical Ability section includes Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Critical Reasoning, Para-jumbles, and Sentence Correction.
What does the Decision-Making section of XAT involve?
The Decision Making section assesses candidates’ ability to analyze and make decisions based on given complex situations, including topics like Analytical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Caselets.
Which subjects are covered under Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation in XAT?
This section includes topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Interpretation (Tables, Charts, Graphs), Probability, Permutation and Combination, and Data Sufficiency.
What are the key areas of General Knowledge tested in XAT?
General Knowledge in XAT focuses on areas like Current Affairs, Business and Economics, History, Geography, Science and Technology, Awards and Honors, and Politics.
Is there a specific syllabus for the Analytical Essay Writing section in XAT?
No, there is no predefined syllabus for the Analytical Essay Writing section. Candidates are generally asked to write an essay on a current and relevant topic, evaluating their ability to articulate thoughts coherently.
How can I prepare effectively for XAT General Knowledge?
To prepare for XAT General Knowledge, focus on reading newspapers, magazines, and relevant books. Subscribe to current affairs updates and practice with quizzes and mock tests.
Is there a negative marking in the XAT exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking scheme in XAT. For each incorrect answer in the objective-type questions (MCQs), 0.25 marks are deducted.
Are there sectional time limits in the XAT exam?
No, there are no sectional time limits in the XAT exam. Candidates can manage their time across sections according to their preferences and strategy.
How should I utilize the previous year’s XAT question papers in my preparation?
Previous years’ XAT question papers are invaluable for understanding the exam pattern, practising different types of questions, and identifying your strengths and weaknesses. Use them to simulate exam conditions and improve your time management skills.
If you have any queries about XAT Syllabus 2025, you can ask your query and leave comments below.
As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.