Before analysing the difficulty level of the CAT exam over the years, it’s important to understand its structure. The CAT question paper is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) & Quantitative Ability (QA). The total exam duration is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes allotted to each section. There is also negative marking for incorrect answers in MCQs. The table below provides a year-wise overview of the overall CAT exam difficulty from 2020 to 2024 to help candidates prepare better.
CAT Exam Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of the CAT exam has varied over the years, with some shifts in question complexity & section balance. Understanding past trends can help aspirants set realistic expectations & prepare accordingly. The table below highlights the overall difficulty level of the CAT from 2020 to 2024.
Also Check: CAT Quantitative Syllabus 2025, Topics, Best Books, Preparation Tips
CAT Exam Difficult Level- Past Trends
Over the years, the CAT exam has seen several changes in structure, difficulty, and question types, especially in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section. While the number of Reading Comprehension (RC) passages has remained mostly constant, the Verbal Ability section has experienced changes like removing or reintroducing question types such as Parajumbles and Odd One Out. The difficulty level has ranged from moderate to difficult, and the marking scheme has stayed the same. The table below outlines the key changes and difficulty trends from 2020 to 2024.
Also Check: CAT VARC Syllabus 2025, Weightage, Best Books, Preparation Tips
Will CAT 2025 Be Tough?
Predicting the exact difficulty level of CAT 2025 is challenging, but reviewing previous years’ trends can offer useful insights into what to expect. One reason the exam may be considered tough is the presence of complex and time-consuming DILR sets and unexpected changes in topic-wise weightage. These variations can make the paper more challenging for students who rely heavily on past patterns.
On the other hand, CAT 2025 may remain manageable if the exam continues with a balanced structure & places greater importance on accuracy over guesswork. The difficulty level also depends on each candidate’s preparation, familiarity with concepts and ability to manage time effectively during the test.
To boost exam readiness, it is strongly recommended that aspirants take multiple full-length CAT-level mock tests & analyse their performance regularly. Joining a trusted coaching institute or following a structured study plan can also help improve speed, accuracy & overall confidence. With the right approach and consistent practice, candidates can tackle the exam effectively, regardless of its difficulty level.
Expert Tips to Tackle Any CAT Exam Difficulty Level
The CAT exam is known for its unpredictability—not just in question types, but also in overall difficulty level. Whether the paper is easier or tougher than expected, your strategy should remain adaptable. Here are expert-approved tips to handle any difficulty level:
- Don’t Panic—Adapt If the paper feels tough, remember it's likely tough for everyone. CAT is a percentile-based test, so focus on accuracy and smart selection rather than attempting everything.
- Master Time Management Use the first 2–3 minutes of each section to scan and prioritise. Don’t dive into a question just because it’s the first—start with the ones you’re confident in.
- Prioritise Accuracy Over Attempts In difficult papers, students who focus on accuracy often score higher percentiles than those who attempt more but make mistakes. Avoid guesswork, especially on MCQs with negative marking.
- Maximise TITA Questions TITA (non-MCQ) questions carry no negative marking. Attempt all of them—even partial attempts can fetch you marks without penalty.
- Use Sectional Strategy
- VARC: Focus on reading RCs thoroughly and attempt VA questions only if you’re confident in sentence logic.
- DILR: Identify two solvable sets early on and target them first.
- QA: Don’t get stuck on a single question. Move on quickly and return later if time allows.
- Simulate Tough Mocks in Advance Practice with at least 3–4 tough-level mocks. This builds your mental endurance and sharpens your reaction to unexpected twists in exam difficulty.
- Maintain Sectional Balance Avoid spending too much time on your favourite section. Stick to the 40-minute cap strictly to avoid underperforming in others.
- Revise Basic Concepts Thoroughly Most tough papers test your clarity of concepts more than speed. Revise formulas, standard puzzle types, grammar rules, and shortcuts.
- Avoid Overanalyzing Post-Exam Don’t second-guess your performance immediately after the exam. Stay calm and wait for the official key or percentile data.
- Trust Your Preparation If you’ve prepared strategically, trust your process. The CAT doesn't reward cramming—it rewards clarity, calmness, and control.
Final Words
While CAT 2025 may bring its own set of surprises, a strong foundation, regular practice & a flexible strategy can help you face any level of difficulty with confidence. Whether the paper is tough or moderate, staying calm, managing time wisely, and focusing on accuracy are key to success. Regular mock tests, concept revision, and smart question selection will greatly impact your performance. Trust your preparation, stay consistent, and remember that CAT is not just about hard work—it’s about smart, focused effort and staying composed under pressure.
