How to Strategise Sectional Time Limit in XAT 2026 Exam

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of the toughest management entrance exams in India. To succeed in XAT 2026, understanding how to manage time during the exam is very important. The exam has different sections, each testing different skills. Knowing how much time to spend on each section can help complete the paper on time and improve the overall score. The exam lasts for 3 hours and has two parts: the first part includes Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, and Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, while the second part is General Knowledge.

A smart time strategy suggests allocating approximately 35 minutes for Decision Making, 50 minutes for Verbal & Logical Ability, 85 minutes for Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation and 10 minutes for General Knowledge. Each section requires a different approach, such as reading carefully in Decision Making or solving math problems quickly in Quantitative Ability.

To manage time well, it is helpful to practice with mock tests, use timers, and learn shortcut tricks. It is also important to answer easier questions first and avoid spending too long on difficult ones. Following these time strategies and practising regularly can help complete the exam on time and increase the chances of a good score inXAT 2026.

Overview of XAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Sections

Before planning a time strategy, it is important to know the XAT 2026 Exam Pattern.

• The XAT 2026 exam is a computer-based test.
• The total duration of the exam is 3 hours (180 minutes).
• The exam has two parts:
  • Part 1: Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (170 minutes)
  • Part 2: General Knowledge (10 minutes)
• There are 95 questions in total.
• Questions are multiple-choice, with four answer choices each.
• Negative marking applies in most sections except General Knowledge.

The major sections in Part 1 are:

1. Decision Making
2. Verbal and Logical Ability
3. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation

Part 2 is General Knowledge, which has a separate 10-minute time slot.

Why Is Time Management Important in XAT?

XAT exam tests not only knowledge but also speed and accuracy. Time management helps in:

• Ensuring that every question is given attention without running out of time.
• Avoiding last-minute rushing, which can cause careless mistakes.
• Allocating more time to difficult sections or questions.
• Increasing confidence by having a clear plan on how to approach the paper.
• Managing stress during the exam by avoiding panic.

General Time Strategy for XAT 2026 Exam

Since the exam duration is 180 minutes, the challenge is to finish all 95 questions effectively within this time.

• Part 1 (170 minutes): This includes 3 main sections — Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, and Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation.
• Part 2 (10 minutes): Dedicated to General Knowledge.

Many students find the Decision Making and Quantitative Ability sections more time-consuming. Verbal & Logical Ability can be quicker if practised well.

Also Check: 32 Common Questions Asked in a Personal Interview in XAT

Suggested Time Allocation for Each Section

A smart way to approach XAT 2026 is to divide the 170 minutes of Part 1 strategically:

General Knowledge (Part 2):

• 10 minutes for 25 questions. This section is separate and requires a quick response, as there is no negative marking.

How to Strategise Time for Each Section?

The XAT 2026 exam has four important sections. Decision-making tests the ability to solve real-life business problems quickly and wisely. Verbal & Logical Ability checks English skills and reasoning. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation focuses on math and data analysis. General Knowledge covers current events and important facts, requiring quick and confident answers.

1. Decision Making (35 Minutes)

• This section tests judgment skills and the ability to solve ethical or business dilemmas.
• Questions are case-based and require careful reading.
• It is better to spend about 1.5 to 2 minutes per question.
• Focus on understanding the situation quickly and eliminating wrong options fast.
• Avoid getting stuck on one case for too long; if a question seems too difficult, mark it and move on.

2. Verbal & Logical Ability (50 Minutes)

• This section includes reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and reasoning.
• Reading passages can take time, so divide the time between passages and grammar questions.
• Allocate around 2 minutes per reading comprehension passage.
• Grammar questions are usually quicker and can be done in 30-45 seconds each.
• Logical reasoning questions may need 1.5 to 2 minutes depending on difficulty.
• Practice shortcut techniques for quicker comprehension.

3. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (85 Minutes)

• This section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
• Problems require calculations, so more time is needed here.
• Spend about 1.5 to 2 minutes per question, but this varies.
• Start with simpler problems to build confidence and save time.
• Use approximation and elimination to save time on complex questions.
• Do not spend too long on a single difficult question. Mark and move on, return if time permits.

4. General Knowledge (10 Minutes)

• Since there is no negative marking, attempt all questions quickly.
• Don’t spend more than 20 seconds on a question.
• This section tests awareness of current events, business, and static GK.
• Practice GK quizzes regularly to answer confidently and fast.

Also Check: MBA Colleges Accepting XAT 2026 Score For Admission

Tips for Practicing Time Management

Managing time well is very important to do in exams like XAT. Practicing with mock tests, using timers, and learning shortcuts can help improve speed and accuracy. It’s also smart to answer easy questions first and avoid spending too much time on one problem. These habits make exam time more effective

Take Regular Mock Tests

• Mock tests simulate the real exam environment.
• Practice managing the above time limits strictly.
• Learn to move on from difficult questions.
• Analyse which sections take more or less time than planned.

Use a Timer While Practicing

• Set timers for each section and stick to them.
• This will train the brain to work under pressure.
• Note improvement over time.

Develop Shortcuts and Tricks

• Learn mental math tricks for calculations.
• Improve reading speed without losing understanding.
• Use logical elimination methods to avoid guesswork.

Prioritise Easier Questions First

• During the exam, answer questions that seem easier quickly.
• This ensures scoring easy marks early.
• After completing easier questions, return to tougher ones.

Avoid Spending Too Much Time on One Question

• If stuck, mark the question and move on.
• Time lost on one question can cause the loss of several others.

Also Check: XAT 2026 Selection Process And Admission Criteria

Practice Plan for Time Management

A daily or weekly practice plan should include:

• Practicing one section at a time within the suggested time limits.
• Taking full-length mock tests once every week.
• Reviewing errors and identifying time-consuming question types.
• Gradually increasing speed without sacrificing accuracy.

Common Time Management Mistakes to Avoid

• Spending too much time on one difficult question.
• Ignoring time limits during practice.
• Not attempting mock tests regularly.
• Guessing answers randomly without elimination.
• Overthinking simple questions.
• Ignoring the General Knowledge section until the end.

Final Thoughts

Effective time management in the XAT 2026 exam is as important as knowing the answers. With 180 minutes & 95 questions, it is crucial to plan how much time to allocate to each section. The suggested time limits help allocate attention wisely across Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Consistent practice with mock tests and timed sessions helps build the speed and accuracy needed to complete the paper on time. Avoid spending too much time on tough questions and learn to move efficiently between sections. By following a clear time strategy and practising regularly, a strong performance in the XAT 2026 exam can be achieved confidently.