NATA Syllabus 2025: Check Revised NATA Syllabus, Topics, Preparation Tips and Recommended Books

The NATA 2025 syllabus has been released online by the Council of Architecture (CoA) on its official website, nata.in. Candidates can refer to the syllabus for detailed information about the subjects, topics, and units they need to study for the entrance examination.

Candidates are advised to carefully review the NATA 2025 syllabus to ensure comprehensive preparation for the exam. It is important to note that the syllabus primarily assesses aptitude and drawing skills, so candidates should strategically prepare for both sections of NATA 2025.

Additionally, along with the syllabus, candidates should also review the official NATA 2025 exam pattern to further enhance their preparation.

NATA 2025 Exam Pattern

The NATA 2025 Exam Pattern is designed to assess candidates' aptitude in architecture through a combination of drawing, composition, and analytical reasoning skills. The exam will be conducted in two different modes: a Computer-Based Adaptive Test for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and No Choice Questions (NCQs), and an Offline Test for the Drawing and Composition section.

The total duration of the NATA 2025 exam is three hours, which is divided into two parts. Part A, which consists of the Drawing and Composition Test, will be conducted for 90 minutes, while Part B, which includes MCQs and NCQs, will also have a time limit of 90 minutes. The exam will be available in both English and Hindi.

NATA 2025 Marking Scheme

The NATA 2025 exam is divided into two sections: Part A (Drawing and Composition Test) and Part B - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & No Choice Questions (NCQs).

Part A – Drawing and Composition Test (80 Marks)

This section consists of three questions, each carrying different marks:

• A1: One question on Composition and Colour, carrying 25 marks.
• A2: One question on Sketching and Composition (Black and White), also carrying 25 marks.
• A3: One question on 3D Composition, carrying 30 marks.

The total marks allotted for Part A is 80 marks.

Part B – MCQs & NCQs (120 Marks)

This section consists of 50 questions, with a total allocation of 120 marks, divided as follows:

• B1: 42 questions based on the Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) format, carrying 1, 2, 3, or 4 marks each.
• B2: 8 questions under the No Choice Questions (NCQs) format.

The total number of questions in the NATA 2025 exam is 53, with Part A contributing 3 questions and Part B contributing 50 questions. Thus, the overall exam scores out of 200 marks, assess candidates' drawing skills, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for a career in architecture.

NATA 2025 Syllabus

The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) 2025 is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude for architecture through a comprehensive evaluation of various skills. The exam is divided into two main sections: Part A and Part B, each focusing on different competencies.

Part A: Drawing and Composition Test

This section evaluates candidates' drawing and visualization skills, essential for a career in architecture. It is conducted in an offline mode over 90 minutes and carries a total of 80 marks. The section comprises three questions:

• Composition and Colour: Candidates are required to create suitable compositions for various situations and apply appropriate colors. This assesses their understanding of aesthetics and color theory.
• Sketching and Composition (Black and White): This involves drawing and visualizing situations that include buildings, components, people, environments, and products. Emphasis is on scale, proportion, texture, shades, and shadows.
• 3D Composition: Candidates must create interesting three-dimensional compositions for given situations using a provided kit, demonstrating spatial awareness and creativity.

Part B: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and No Choice Questions (NCQs)

This section assesses candidates' cognitive abilities and general aptitude. It is a computer-based adaptive test lasting 90 minutes, with a total of 120 marks. The section includes 50 questions, divided into:

• B1: 42 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), each carrying 1, 2, 3, or 4 marks.
• B2: 8 No Choice Questions (NCQs).

The topics covered in Part B include:

• General Knowledge, Architecture, and Design: Awareness of architecture and design, current issues, notable buildings, historical developments, and innovations in materials and construction technology.
• Visual Reasoning: Ability to understand and reconstruct 2D and 3D compositions, including knowledge of their structures and technical concepts.
• Logical Derivation: Skill in decoding situations, compositions, and contexts to generate meaningful conclusions.
• Numerical Ability: Basic mathematics and its application in creative thinking, particularly in spatial understanding through geometry.
• Language Interpretation: Proficiency in understanding and logically interpreting English grammar, words, and sentences.
• Design Thinking and Sensitivity: Ability to observe, record, and analyze people, spaces, products, and environments, along with critical thinking and reasoning skills.

NATA 2025 Preparation Tips

To succeed in NATA 2025, candidates must follow a well-structured study plan. Below are detailed preparation tips for each section of the exam.

Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly

The first step in preparing for NATA 2025 is to go through the syllabus carefully. Candidates should focus on the key topics covered in both Part A and Part B.

Part A: Drawing and Composition Test

• Composition and Colour: Candidates must develop an understanding of color theory, contrast, balance, and visual aesthetics.
• Sketching and Composition (Black and White): This requires strong observation skills and the ability to create detailed sketches of real-life objects, human figures, and structures.
• 3D Composition: Candidates should practice perspective drawing, 3D visualization, and proportional representation.

Part B: MCQs & NCQs (General Aptitude & Reasoning)

• General Knowledge (Architecture & Design): Candidates must stay updated with famous architects, historical monuments, and design trends.
• Visual Reasoning: Questions will test a candidate’s ability to recognize patterns, symmetry, and spatial relations.
• Logical & Analytical Reasoning: Practice puzzles, sequences, and numerical reasoning questions.
• Numerical Ability: Revise basic mathematics, algebra, and geometry as these topics form the foundation of architectural design.
• Design Thinking & Sensitivity: Candidates must develop their creative problem-solving skills by analyzing various real-world design scenarios.

Create a Well-Structured Study Plan

A proper study schedule is essential for effective preparation. Candidates should:

• Allocate Time Wisely: Devote equal time to drawing skills, reasoning, and numerical ability.
• Set Weekly Goals: Breaking down the syllabus into smaller, manageable sections will help track progress.
• Revise Regularly: Revising key concepts and formulas will help in retaining information.

Improve Drawing and Visualization Skills

• Practice Sketching Daily: Candidates should draw human figures, buildings, landscapes, and abstract compositions.
• Use Different Drawing Mediums: Experimenting with pencil shading, charcoal, and watercolor can help in enhancing artistic skills.
• Observe Real-Life Objects: Understanding perspective, proportions, and symmetry is crucial for the Drawing & Composition section.

Strengthen General Aptitude and Logical Reasoning

• Solve Aptitude Questions Daily: Practicing reasoning and numerical ability questions will improve speed and accuracy.
• Enhance Architectural Awareness: Reading books and magazines on architecture will help in understanding design principles and current trends.

Solve Previous Year's Papers and Mock Tests

• Understand Question Patterns: Going through past NATA papers will help in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
• Improve Time Management: Taking timed mock tests will help candidates develop exam-taking strategies.

Stay Updated with Architectural Trends and Current Affairs

• Read Architecture Journals: Following publications like Architectural Digest, Domus, and ArchDaily will provide insights into architectural advancements.
• Follow Notable Architects: Learning about renowned architects such as Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Charles Correa will enhance design knowledge.

Maintain a Healthy Study Routine

• Take Short Breaks: Studying for long hours without breaks can lead to fatigue and reduced concentration.
• Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise improves mental alertness and creativity.
• Get Enough Sleep: A well-rested mind enhances memory retention and problem-solving abilities.

Best Books for NATA 2025 Preparation

To excel in NATA 2025, candidates must refer to high-quality books that cover the drawing, aptitude, and mathematical concepts tested in the exam. The right books will help candidates enhance their sketching skills, improve problem-solving abilities, and strengthen their architectural awareness.

Below is a list of the best books for NATA 2025 preparation, divided into sections based on the exam pattern.

Best Books for NATA Drawing & Composition (Part A)

The Drawing & Composition section evaluates a candidate’s creativity, sketching ability, color theory, and 3D visualization skills. The following books will help improve these skills:

Recommended Books:

A Complete Self Study Guide for B.Arch 2025 – P. K. Mishra

• Covers all drawing and aptitude topics required for NATA.
• Includes practice exercises, sample questions, and solved papers.

NATA & B.Arch Complete Self-Study Material – Ar. Shadan Usmani

• Best for drawing, perspective, and composition.
• Covers colour theory, 3D composition, and human figures.

Perspective Drawing Handbook – Joseph D'Amelio

• Explains one-point, two-point, and three-point perspectives.
• Essential for 3D visualization and architectural sketching.

Learn to Draw Still Life – Barrington Barber

• Improves shading, textures, and observational drawing skills.
• Covers sketching techniques for buildings and objects.

How to Draw – Scott Robertson

• Focuses on perspective drawing and spatial awareness.
• Highly recommended for improving architectural sketches.

Best Books for NATA General Aptitude & Reasoning (Part B)

The General Aptitude and Logical Reasoning section includes pattern recognition, visual reasoning, numerical ability, and general knowledge of architecture.

Recommended Books:

Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal

• Best for puzzles, analogies, pattern identification, and reasoning.
• Covers all types of logical and analytical reasoning questions asked in NATA.

NATA & JEE B.Arch Complete Guide – Ar. Shadan Usmani

• A comprehensive book covering NATA-specific reasoning and aptitude topics.
• Contains practice tests and solved examples.

A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal

• Best for solving logical puzzles and analytical questions.
• Includes previous years’ questions with explanations.

General Knowledge for NATA & B.Arch Exams – Ashok Kumar Singh

• Covers famous architects, monuments, and architectural history.
• Includes current trends in architecture and design.

Best Books for NATA Mathematics & Numerical Ability

The Numerical Ability section tests a candidate’s understanding of basic mathematics, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

Recommended Books:

NATA Mathematics Study Material – Ar. Shadan Usmani

• Covers geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and probability.
• Includes solved problems and shortcut techniques.

NCERT Mathematics (Class 11 & 12) – NCERT

• Best for fundamental concepts and problem-solving techniques.
• Covers all essential math topics required for NATA.

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams – R.S. Aggarwal

• Provides practice questions for numerical reasoning and problem-solving.
• Includes speed math techniques and shortcuts.

Higher Engineering Mathematics – B.S. Grewal

• Good for advanced mathematical concepts.
• Covers coordinate geometry, matrices, and calculus.

Best Books for NATA Architectural Awareness & General Knowledge

The Architectural Awareness section tests a candidate’s knowledge of famous architects, monuments, and current trends in architecture and design.

Recommended Books:

Architecture: Form, Space & Order – Francis D.K. Ching

• Covers basic architectural design principles and spatial concepts.
• Essential for understanding composition and structural balance.

The Story of Architecture – Patrick Nuttgens

• Explains the evolution of architecture from ancient times to the modern era.
• Covers historical and contemporary architectural movements.

Architectural Design: A Beginner’s Guide – Chris van Uffelen

• Introduces basic design concepts, building structures, and materials.
• Includes case studies of famous buildings.

History of Architecture – Sir Banister Fletcher

• A detailed book covering architectural history across different civilizations.
• Covers Indian, European, and modern architectural developments.

Best Books for NATA Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

Solving previous year's question papers and mock tests is essential to understanding the exam pattern and managing time effectively.

Recommended Books:

NATA & JEE B.Arch Previous Year Papers – P.K. Mishra

• Contains the past 10 years of solved NATA papers.
• Includes detailed explanations and answer keys.

NATA Mock Test Series – Ar. Sandeep Jain

• Offers full-length mock tests based on the latest NATA pattern.
• Helps in time management and accuracy improvement.

NATA Solved Papers & Practice Tests – Arihant Publications

• Covers exam trends, sample papers, and practice questions.
• Includes detailed solutions for all practice questions.

NATA Syllabus 2025 FAQs