How many MAT mock test should I practice?

Although MAT is an easier exam practice of mock tests is an essential part of preparation for this exam as well. Since MAT is also a speed based test which requires solving of 200 questions in 2.5 hours, one need to have good speed of solving questions from topics of Data Interpretation, Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Language Comprehension and Indian and Global Environment. Mock Test is the best source to improve speed and accuracy and aspirants must practice about 20-30 mock tests during their preparation phase. They should also analyse their performance per mock test so that they know their progress viz. Their strong and weak areas. At the same time, candidates need to keep in mind that they must keep in mind that they don't over do it. If they start to score 90 plus percentile in the MAT mock test they should stop at that and do revision.

How can I prepare for MAT in six months?

For MAT preparation in six months candidates need to have a focused plan. They must gather the best books for MAT preparation and start with covering the syllabus. MAT syllabus should be completed in three months. You can make a monthly/weekly or daily plan to cover the syllabus which should include studying one topic each from the main four sections - Mathematical Skills, Data Interpretation, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning as well as Language Comprehension. Keep the Indian and Global Environment section for the last. In the next two months, practice MAT sample papers and MAT mock tests to gain control over the topics you studied in the first three months. For a speed based test like MAT mock test and sample paper practice is a must because only with the help of these you can gain speed and accuracy in solving questions. The MAT question paper can have tough, tricky or easy question so you should be prepared for all types. In the last one month, study for the Indian and Global Environment section and do daily revision of all other topics. Solve a few previous year MAT question paper or solve a couple of mock tests to stay in touch with your abilities. Read More: MAT 6 months preparation plan

What is MAT Syllabus?

Since, MAT exam is conducted only for admission to MBA and PGDM/PGP courses. It is a post graduate level business aptitude test comprising Quantitative Aptitude critical reasoning, data interpretation, data sufficiency, language comprehension and general awareness. Given below are the topics included in the MAT syllabus: MAT Syllabus for Language: Comprehension Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Parts of Speech, Sentence Correction, Fill in the Blanks, Antonyms and Synonyms, One Word Substitution, Idioms/Phrases, Para Jumbles, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Verbal Ability, etc. MAT Syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: Family Tree, Course of Action, Arrangement, Pie Chart, Calendars, Statement Conclusions, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding and Decoding, Column Graphs, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Visual Reasoning, Numeric Grid, Critical Reasoning, Syllogisms, Graphs Representing Areas MAT Syllabus for Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Tables, Charts, Pie Charts, Caselet-based Data, Graphs - Line X-Y Graphs, Venn Diagram, Bar Diagrams, Data Analysis and Data Comparison, Data Sufficiency MAT Syllabus for Mathematical Skills: LCM and HCF, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest and Compound Interest, Heights and Distance, Inequalities, Speed, Time and Distance, Triangles Set Theory, Number System Circles, Mixtures and Alligations, Elementary Mathematics, Geometry, Venn Diagrams, Trigonometry Equations, Linear Programming MAT Syllabus for Indian and Global Environment Section: Current Affairs World Records, Business and Economy, Companies and CEOs, Awards and Winners, Books and Authors, Company Punchlines, History, International Organisation, Quotes and Personalities, Social Issues, Geography, Sports, Arts, Entertainment, Technology.

What are the best books for MAT Language Comprehension?

MAT Language Comprehension section has equal weightage of verbal ability and reading comprehension. Candidates need to work on their English grammar and comprehension to crack this section Given below is the list of books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Verbal Ability and Comprehension for MBA Exams by Odisha Publications Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Nishit K Sinha Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis Verbal Ability and Comprehension by Odisha Publication Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Gautam Puri How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay Verbal Ability & Comprehension for CAT/XAT/GMAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Bharat Patodi and Aditya Choudhary English Comprehension for MAT by Odisha Experts English Reading Comprehension by RPH Editorial Board Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the Passage for You by Ajay Singh Reading Comprehension Ordering of Words Ordering of Sentences by Dilip Kushwaha.

What are the best books and study materials for MAT preparation?

Preparing for an entrance exam like MAT can be daunting, but there are many excellent resources available to help you succeed. Some of the best books for MAT preparation include the Mission MBA Guide by B. S. Sijwali & Tarun Goal, The Pearson MAT Super Course by Pearson, and Study Package for MAT by Arun Sharma. In addition to these books, candidates can also benefit from practicing with previous years' question papers and mock tests, which provide insight into the exam pattern and syllabus. Online study materials and video lectures are also available to supplement your preparation. Be sure to check the official website and other reliable sources for the most updated information on the best books and study materials for MAT preparation. With the right resources and dedication, you can ace the exam and take the first step towards your dream management career. All the best!

What is the total number of questions in MAT exam?

MAT exam has 150 multiple-choice questions equally divided into five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. Each section of the exam has 30 questions. The questions are in MCQ format with four options to choose the correct options from. Given below is the sectional break up of MAT question paper. All three modes of exam have the same weightage. Language Comprehension: 30 questions Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: 30 questions Data Analysis and Sufficiency: 30 questions Mathematical Skills: 30 questions Indian and Global Environment: 30 questions Since there is no sectional time limit in MAT candidates can divide time between all the five sections according to their own exam strategy and target score. The score of Indian and Global Environment section is not taken into consideration for percentile calculation, thus candidates should not spend more than 10-15 minutes on it.

What is the MAT syllabus for Mathematical Skills?

Some of the main topics included in the MAT syllabus for Mathematical Skills are LCM and HCF, Percentages, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequence and Series Surds and Indices, Interest (Simple and Compound), Heights and Distance, Inequalities, Speed, Time and Distance, Triangles Set Theory, Number System Circles, Mixtures and Alligations, Elementary Mathematics, Geometry, Venn Diagrams, Trigonometry Equations and Linear Programming. Candidates need to study all these topic thoroughly this section of MAT carries 40 questions and in every session there can be more questions from any topic. So, start preparing for Mathematical Skills section of the MAT exam at least six months before you intend to appear for it. To cover the entire syllabus of this section thoroughly, you will need at least six months.

What are the best books for MAT Mathematical Skills?

The Mathematical Skills section of MAT carries 40 questions and which belong to Arithmetic, Geometry, Mensuration Algebra and Number System. To crack this section of MAT one needs study all the topics included five Mathematical sub sections. To prepare for these topics, CAT Quantitative Aptitude books are useful. Candidates can also refer to MAT specific books. Mathematics for MBA by RS Aggarwal Magical Book on Quicker Maths by M Tyra Arithmetic and Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R Goal Speed Mathematics: Do it quick, Do it right by Rajesh Kumar Thakur Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by RS Aggarwal Vedic Mathematics: Secrets Skills for Quick, Accurate Mental Calculations by Sumita Bose The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude by Dinesh Khattar How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma.

Is the syllabus of MAT IBT, PBT and CBT mode exams common?

Yes, the syllabus MAT IBT, PBT and CBT mode exams is common. In fact the exam pattern and marking are also same for all three modes. MAT syllabus for all modes includes topics from Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. The candidate needs to prepare all the topics mentioned above on this page to crack MAT exam. The total time required for completion of MAT syllabus is about 3 months. If a candidate has appeared for MAT before or any other MBA entrance exam then they can complete the syllabus in lesser time. The only difference between the three MAT modes is that, in IBT, candidates have to take the test from home on a computer. In PBT, candidates have to appear for the test at an exam centres and fill the OMR sheet as part of the test. In CBT, candidates have to take the test on a computer at an exam centre.

Is the question paper of MAT IBT different from MAT CBT or PBT?

No, the question paper of MAT IBT is not different from MAT CBT or PBT. The test pattern, time duration, question type and marking scheme are the same for all three modes. Candidates can choose to appear for any exam mode with the worry of doing exam specific preparation. The only difference between MAT IBT and MAT CBT or PBT is that MAT IBT is a remote proctored exam and can be taken from any location unlike MAT CBT or PBT which are held at designated exam centres. The MAT question paper of every session however is different. All the 200 questions of each question paper is unique. The difficulty level is the same- easy to moderate but since the questions are different from each other candidates can feel slight difference in the difficulty level. The questions for every session are chosen randomly so in one session the paper can be overall easy while in another session the exam can be slightly difficult.

MAT Exam Books and Study Material 2025: Check out Best Books for MAT Exam Preparation

Q: Which are the best books for MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning?

MAT Intelligence and Critical section is a moderately difficult section. Candidates need to prepare for this section in 2-3 months by preparing from the following books. These books are recommended by MBA experts: A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Aggarwal Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gajendra Kumar Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT by Arun Sharma Critical Reasoning Guide by Crackverbal General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT by Odisha Experts Koncept of Logical Reasoning by Gajendra Kumar Analytical & Logical Reasoning for CAT & Other Management Entrance Tests by Peeyush Bhardwaj.

Q: What are the best books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency?

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency section is of moderate difficulty level. Candidates can prepare for this section in about 2-3 months. Given below is the list of books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Data Analysis and Sufficiency by Arun Sharma How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT by Arun Sharma Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations by Nishit K Sinha The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation by Nishit K Sinha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency for CAT/XAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Odisha Experts Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Analysis and Interpretation Data Sufficiency by Think Tank of Kiran Prakashan Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Arihant Experts.

8.3K Students Q&A

Registration - 24 Dec '24 - 2 Mar '25

Updated on Dec 2, 2024 12:43 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

MAT books - MAT is an easy to medium difficulty level MBA entrance exam. The first step of MAT preparation is completing the syllabus, which can be done only by studying each topic of the MAT exam in detail. For that, MAT preparation books are the best resource. If you plan to appear for MAT 2025, you should get hold of the best books recommended by experts. The first MAT 2025 phase exam will be held in February 2025, so start preparing now.

MAT books provide topics-wise explanation of concepts, process of application of concepts, examples for understanding and sample questions for practice. Shiksha has listed down some highly recommended books for MAT preparation 2025 for candidates. Refer to these MAT books to build conceptual knowledge on the topics and practice sample questions of various difficulty levels. But before that, let’s understand the key aspects of MAT exam.

Q: Which are the best books for MAT preparation?

MAT preparation can be done by the books that are recommended for CAT. There are a few books available in the market which are exclusively for MAT preparation. We have listed down some highly recommended books for MAT preparation. How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT by Arun Sharma Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations by Nishit K Sinha The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation by Nishit K Sinha Verbal Ability and Comprehension for MBA Exams by Odisha Publications Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Nishit K Sinha Verbal Ability and Comprehension for CAT/XAT/GMAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Bharat Patodi and Aditya Choudhary Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the Passage for You by Ajay Singh Mathematics for MBA by RS Aggarwal Arithmetic and Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R Goal Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by RS Aggarwal How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by RS Aggarwal Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT by Odisha Experts Analytical and Logical Reasoning for CAT and Other Management Entrance Tests by Peeyush Bhardwaj.

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Q: Is MAT syllabus more difficult than other MBA entrance exams?

The MAT syllabus is same as other MBA entrance exams, which is Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude English Comprehension and General Awareness, only their nomenclature is different. So, candidates preparing for MAT has to study the same subject, topics and sub-topics that they have to study in CAT or CMAT.

In fact, candidates can use the same books for studying for MAT as well as other MBA entrance exams. In terms of difficulty level of the exam, MAT is easier in comparison to other MBA entrance exams. The difficulty level of MAT question paper is usually easy and there is no sectional time limit.

Moreover, MAT is conducted multiple times a year so candidates can choose an exam date or session whenever they are fully prepared for the exam, unlike in other MBA entrances, where candidates have to cover the syllabus, etc. Before a particular exam date. In MAT candidates have the choice of multiple attempts to improve score. A lot of candidates opt for the MAT for the reason that it is easy and they can get a good MBA college through it.

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Q: What are the important topics of MAT exam?

MAT exam has five important sections - Mathematical Skills, Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. Each section carries 40 questions each. Given below are the important topics from which questions are asked in MAT.

Language Comprehension - Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Antonyms and Synonyms, Reading Comprehension, Parts of Speech, One Word Substitution, Vocabulary, Sentence Correction, Idioms/Phrases, Grammar, Fill the Blanks, Para Jumbles and Verbal Ability.
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning - Family Tree, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Course of Action, Puzzles, Visual Reasoning, Arrangement, Series, Numeric Grid, Pie Chart, Blood Relations, Critical Reasoning, Calendars, Coding and Decoding, Syllogisms, Statement Conclusions, Column Graphs and Graphs Representing Area.
Data Analysis and Sufficiency - Tables, Pie Charts, Caselet-based Data Charts, Graphs - Line X-Y Graphs, Venn Diagram, Bar Diagrams, Data Analysis and Data Comparison and Data Sufficiency Mathematical Skills- LCM and HCF, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, and more.

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MAT Books and Preparation 2025: Exam Highlights

Check here some of the key details related to MAT 2025 exam preparation:

MAT is a speed-based aptitude test, which aims to assess candidate’s general knowledge and analytical, logical and comprehension skills.
MAT syllabus includes Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Language Comprehension and Indian & Global Environment.
MAT is conducted in Paper Based Test (PBT), Computer Based Test (CBT) and Internet Based Test (IBT) modes.
Candidates can choose the mode of test as per their convenience at the time of filling the MAT application form.
MAT books and exam pattern of all the three modes are same. So the MAT preparation strategy can be the same.
The MAT exam pattern is similar to other MBA entrance exams, having MCQs with four options to choose the right answer from.
The MAT question paper carries 200 questions and each of the five sections carry 40 questions.
MAT exam duration is 2.5 hours in which candidates have to complete the test. Attempting all questions is not mandatory.
Candidates can take multiple attempts in MAT in the same academic year as it is held multiple times.
The total marks of MAT exam is 200. Every question carries one mark for correct attempt and -0.25 for incorrect attempt.
The score of Indian & Global Environment section is not taken into consideration for calculation of MAT score and percentile.

Explore subject-wise topics asked in MAT

Select your preferred subject

Quant

VARC

DILR

Best Books for MAT Preparation 2025

MAT Books for Data Analysis and Sufficiency

The Data Analysis and Sufficiency section of MAT exam includes topics such as Data Tables, Data Charts, Bar Diagrams, Pie Charts, Graphs, Data Comparison, Data Sufficiency, Caselets based on Data, Venn Diagram. Having complete command over calculations and concepts will work for you in this section. Refer to MAT books on Data Analysis and Sufficiency mentioned in the table below:

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Data Analysis and Sufficiency	Arun Sharma
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT	Arun Sharma
Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations	Nishit K Sinha
The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation	Nishit K Sinha
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency for CAT/XAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC	Disha Experts
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha
Data Analysis & Interpretation Data Sufficiency	Think Tank of Kiran Prakashan
Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency	Arihant Experts

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Data Analysis & Sufficiency

MAT Books for Language Comprehension

The MAT syllabus of Language Comprehension consists topics like Analogies, Antonyms, Grammar, Idioms, Verbal Reasoning, Reading Comprehension passage, etc. Hving strong grammar and vocabulary will help you score well in this section. Refer to the following MAT books for preparation of Language Comprehension section:

MAT Books	Authors/ Publishers
Verbal Ability & Comprehension for MBA Exams	Disha Publications
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Nishit K Sinha
Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Verbal Ability & Comprehension	Disha Publication
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension	Gautam Puri
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT	Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay
Verbal Ability & Comprehension for CAT/XAT/GMAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC	Bharat Patodi and Aditya Choudhary
English Comprehension for MAT	Disha Experts
English Reading Comprehension	RPH Editorial Board
Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the “Passage” for You	Ajay Singh
Reading Comprehension Ordering of Words Ordering of Sentences	Dilip Kushwaha

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Language Comprehension

MAT Books for Mathematical Skills

The Mathematical Skills section of MAT exam includes topics such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, Modern Maths, etc. One needs to have complete clarity of the concepts of these topics to be able to crack any type of question. Refer to the MAT books mentioned in the table below for MAT Mathematical Skills.

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Mathematics for MBA	RS Aggarwal
Magical Book on Quicker Maths	M Tyra
Arithmetic and Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams	R Gopal
Speed Mathematics: Do it quick, Do it right	Rajesh Kumar Thakur C
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams	RS Aggarwal
Vedic Mathematics: Secrets Skills for Quick, Accurate Mental Calculations	Sumita Bose
The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude	Dinesh Khattar
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude	Arun Sharma

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Mathematical Skills

MAT Books for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning

The Intelligence & Critical Reasoning section of MAT exam includes topics such as Family Tree, Calendars, Statements, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding & Decoding, Columns & Graphs, etc. Refer to the list of MAT books mentioned in the table below:

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning	RS Aggarwal
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	Gajendra Kumar
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT	Nishit K Sinha
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT	Arun Sharma
Critical Reasoning Guide	Crackverbal
General Intelligence and Critical Reasoning for MAT	Disha Experts
Koncept of Logical Reasoning	Gajendra Kumar
Analytical & Logical Reasoning for CAT & Other Management Entrance Tests	Peeyush Bhardwaj

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning

MAT Books for Indian & Global Environment

Strengthen General Knowledge and Current Affairs for MAT exam by studying from the books listed below:

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Manorama Year Book	Mammen Mathew
The Mega Yearbook	Disha Experts
Objective General Knowledge	Lucents Publications
General Knowledge 2020	Arihant Publications
The Mega Yearbook 2016: Current Affairs & General Knowledge for Competitive Exams	Disha Experts

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Indian & Global Environment

MAT Preparation Books: Secondary Reading

Apart from the books mentioned in the tables above, MAT 2025 aspirants can also refer to the following books for sample questions and practice tests. These MAT books provide sample questions for practice and exam based exercises to help you master the topics included in exam syllabus.

MAT Books	Authors/Publishers
Face to Face MAT 22 years Solved Papers	Arihant Publications
Complete Guide for MAT & Other MBA Entrance Exams with GK	Disha Experts
Mission MBA MAT Mock Tests & Solved Papers	BS Sijwali
Study Package for Management Aptitude Test	Arun Sharma
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning	Dr RS Aggarwal
MAT Score Accelerator	Disha Publication
MAT (Management Aptitude Test) Entrance Exam Guide	R Gupta
MAT 20 Years Topic-Wise Solved Papers	Deepak Aggarwal

Check MAT cut offs and predict calls from colleges accepting MAT score for admission. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and Eligibility of all MAT participating colleges by clicking the link below:

Predict MAT Admission Calls

How to Prepare for MAT 2025

To prepare for MAT exam, candidates need to first understand the pattern and have a target month in mind. MAT is held in February, May, August and December. So, plan and prepare for MAT according to the exam month. It is recommended that, candidates must prepare for MAT for at least 6 months, however, the preparation can be done in lesser time too. Here are a few tips for MAT preparation 2025:

Check the MAT syllabus and list down topics that are your pain areas.
Start with those tough topics. Read MAT books, take guidance and solve practice questions to gain control.
Once you’ve cracked the tough topics, move to easier ones.
Do not ignore any topic. Give importance to each one of them as questions can be asked from any.
Keep solving sample questions alongside to be able to know the correct application of formulae and theorem
MAT is a speed based test, thus include MAT mock test practice in your routine.
Practice a good number of mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
The GK and current affairs section is memory based so you may need only 15 days in the end to prepare for it.
MAT GK section is not considered for MAT percentile calculation purpose so you can deprioritize it in case of time crunch.