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Tip 1 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices

Index ▪ “Logarithms, Surds and Indices” is one of the easiest topics in the
quantitative section of the CAT exam.

1. Logarithms, surds and indices 70. Geometry/Mensuration for CAT ▪ Although the number of formulae is high, the basic concepts are very
simple to understand and apply.
9. Permutations and combinations 111. Time, Speed, Distance & Work
19. Simple interest and compound interest 128. Number Systems ▪ There are no shortcuts to remember and the scope of the questions that
can be asked is very limited.
27. Profit & Loss, Discount 148. Ratio & Proportion
35. Set theory and Venn diagrams 159. Inequalities ▪ The accuracy of answering questions from this section is very high and
good students tend to score very well here.
47. Mixture & Alligations 165. Quadratic Equations
53. Progressions and Series 174. Liner Equations

1
Tip 2 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices Tip 3 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices
If X,Y > 0 and m,n are rational numbers then
If X and Y are positive real numbers and a,b are rational
▪ Xm × Xn = Xm+n numbers.

▪ X0 = 1 ▪ (X/Y)-a = (Y/X)a
a
Xm ▪ X1/a = X
▪ = Xm-n
Xn
b
▪ Xa/b = Xa
▪ (Xm)n = Xmn
a a
▪ X× = XY
▪ Xm × Ym = (X × Y)m
a a a
▪ X/ Y= X/Y
Xm
▪ = (X/Y)m
Ym 1
▪ = N + 1+ N
N+1− N
1
▪ X-m =
Xm
2 3

Tip 4 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices Tip 5 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices
▪ If a+ b = c+ d, then a = c and b = d
3 5
▪ Surd is an irrational number involving a root ex : 5, 7, 2
▪ The conjugate of a+ b is a- b
▪ Like surds are two surds having same number under radical sign.
▪ a a a…..∞ = a
▪ Like surds can be added or subtracted. 6 2+ 3 2 = 9 2

▪ a a a … . . x times = a1-[1 /(2^x)]

▪ To find x+ y , x + y should be written in the form of m+n+2 mn where

x = m+n and 4mn = y and x+ y =± ( m+ n)

4 5
Tip 6 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices Tip 7 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices
n logab
▪ loga b =
If N = ax then, x is defined as the logarithm of N to base a n
or x = log a N
Logarithm of a negative number or zero is not defined. 1
▪ logax =
logxa
▪ loga1 = 0
▪ blogbx = x
▪ logaxy = logax + logay
logcb
▪ logab =
logca
▪ logabc = c logab
▪ logab ∗ log a = 1
▪ logaa = 1
▪ loga(X/Y) = logaX – logaY
▪ xlogby = ylogbx

6 7

Tip 8 – Logarithms, Surds and Indices Tip 1 – Permutations & Combinations

▪ If 0 < a < 1, then logax < loga (if x>y) ▪ Permutations & Combinations is an extremely important topic in CAT.

▪ If a > 1 then logax > logay (if x>y) ▪ This topic can be the most rewarding topic in quant section.

▪ Unlike number systems questions, most of these questions generally take

lesser time to solve.

▪ Also, they are generally fairly basic in nature.

8 9
Tip 2 – Permutations & Combinations Tip 3 – Permutations & Combinations

▪ The more questions you solve, the better you will get at this topic. ▪ N! = N(N-1)(N-2)(N-3)……1

▪ So look through the formula list a few times and understand the ▪ 0! = 1! = 1
formulae.
n!
▪ nC =
▪ But the best way to tackle this subject is by solving questions. r n−r ! r!

▪ Solve as many questions as you can, from this topic that you will n!
▪ nP
r =
start to see that all of them are generally variations of the same n−r !
few themes that are listed in the formula list.

10 11

Tip 4 – Permutations & Combinations Tip 5 – Permutations & Combinations

▪ Arrangement :
▪ Selecting r objects out of n is same as selecting (n-r) objects out
n items can be arranged in n! ways
of n, nCr = nCn-r
▪ Permutation :
n!
A way of selecting and arranging r objects out of a set of n objects, nPr =
n−r ! ▪ Total selections that can be made from ‘n’ distinct items is given
σnk=0 nCk = 2n
▪ Combination :
A way of selecting r objects out of n (arrangement does not matter)
nC n!
r =
n−r !r!

12 13
Tip 6 – Permutations & Combinations Tip 7 – Permutations & Combinations

Partitioning : Arrangement with repetitions :

▪ Number of ways to partition n identical things in r distinct slots is given If x items out of n items are repeated, then the number of ways of
by n+r−1Cr−1 n!
arranging these n items is ways. If a items, b items and c items are
x!
▪ Number of ways to partition n identical things in r distinct slots so that n!
repeated within n items, they can be arranged in ways.
each slot gets at least 1 is given by n−1Cr−1 a! b! c!

▪ Number of ways to partition n distinct things in r distinct slots is given

by rn
▪ Number of ways to partition n distinct things in r distinct slots where
(n+r−1)!
arrangement matters =
(r−1)!

14 15

Tip 8 – Permutations & Combinations Tip 9 – Permutations & Combinations

Integral Solutions :
Rank of a word :
▪ Number of positive integral solutions to x1+x2+x3+.....+xn= s where
▪ To get the rank of a word in the alphabetical list of all permutations of the s ≥ 0 is s−1Cn−1
word, start with alphabetically arranging the n letters. If there are x letters
higher than the first letter of the word, then there are at least x*(n-1)! Words ▪ Number of non-negative integral solutions to x1+x2+x3+.....+xn = s
above our word. where s ≥ 0 is n+s−1Cn−1

▪ After removing the first affixed letter from the set if there are y letters above
the second letter then there are y*(n-2)! words more before your word and
so on. So rank of word = x*(n-1)! + y*(n-2)! + .. +1

16 17
Tip 10 – Permutations & Combinations Tip 1 – S.I and C.I
Circular arrangement : ▪ Simple Interest (S.I) and Compound Interest (C.I) is one of the easiest
topics in quantitative section.
Number of ways of arranging n items around a circle are 1 for n = 1,2
and (n- )! for n≥3. If its a necklace or bracelet that can be flipped over, ▪ Every year, a significant number of questions appear from each of these
(n−1)! sections and students should aim to get all the questions right from these
the possibilities are
2 topics.
Derangements :
▪ The number of concepts in these topics is limited and most of the problems
can be solved by applying the formulae directly.
If n distinct items are arranged, the number of ways they can be arranged
so that they do not occupy their intended spot is
▪ Many students commit silly mistakes in this topic due to complacency and
1 1 1 1 −1 𝐧 this should be avoided.
D= n!( − + − +…… )
0! 1! 2! 3! n!

18 19

Tip 2 – S.I & C.I Tip 3 – S.I

▪ In Simple Interest the principal and the Interest (occurred every period) ▪ The sum of principal and the interest is called Amount.
remains constant
Amount (A) = Principal (P) + Interest (I)
▪ In Compound Interest the Interest earned over the period is added over to
the existing principal after every compounding period. So the principal and ▪ The Simple Interest (I) occurred over a time period (T) for R% (rate of
the Interest over a period changes after every compounding period. Interest per annum),

PTR
▪ For the same principal, positive rate of interest and time period (>1 year), I =
100
the compound interest on the loan is always greater than the simple
interest.

20 21
 Tip 4 – C.I Tip 5 – C.I
▪ The amount to be paid, if money is borrowed at Compound Interest If R is rate of interest per year, N is number of years, P is the principal
for N number of years,
R N ▪ If interest is compounded half yearly, then Amount,
A=P 1+
100
R/2 2N
A=P 1+
100
▪ The Interest occurred, I = A – P
▪ If interest is compounded quarterly, then Amount,
R N
I=P 1+ -P
100 R/4 4N
A= 1+
100

22 23

Tip 6 – S.I & C.I Tip 7 – S.I & C.I

▪ If interest Rate is R1% for first year, R2% for second year and R3% for 3rd
year, If R is the rate per annum, then present worth of Rs. K due to N years
R1 R R hence is given by
then the Amount, A = P (1 + ) 1 + 2 ) (1 + 3 )
100 100 100
K
▪ If a difference between C.I and S.I for certain sum at same rate of interest Present worth = R N
1+
is given, then Principal = Difference (100/R)2 100

b
▪ When interest is compounded annually but time is in fraction, let a then
c
b
R a R
c
the Amount, A = P (1+ ) (1 + )
100 100

24 25
 Tip 7 – Quadratic Equations Tip 1 – Profit, Loss and Discount
If AnXn + An−1Xn−1 + ... + A1X + A = 0, then
▪ Profit, Loss and Discount is very important topic for CAT and significant
▪ Sum of the roots = −An−1/An
number of questions are asked from this topic every year.
▪ Sum of roots taken two at a time = An−2/An
▪ The number of concepts in these topics is limited and most of the problems
▪ Sum of roots taken three at a time = −An−3/An and so on can be solved by applying the formulae directly

▪ Product of the roots = [(−1)n A0 ] /An ▪ This document covers various formulas, tips and shortcuts of Profit, Loss
and Discount topic.

26 27

Tip 2 – Profit, Loss and Discount Tip 3 – Profit, Loss and Discount
▪ Cost Price ▪ If S.P>C.P, then Profit or Gain, P = S.P – S.P

The amount paid to purchase an article or the cost of manufacturing an ▪ If C.P>S.P, then Loss, L = C.P – S.P
article is called Cost Price (C.P)
Profit
▪ % Profit or Gain percentage or Profit Percentage = × 100
▪ Selling Price C.P

The price at which a product is sold is called Selling price (S.P) Loss
▪ %Loss = × 100
C.P
▪ Marked Price
▪ Discount = M.P – S.P (If no discount is given, then M.P = S.P)
The price at which an article is marked is called Marked price (M.P)
▪ %Discount = × 100

28 29
 Tip 4 – Profit, Loss and Discount Tip 5 – Profit, Loss and Discount
▪ Total increase in price due to two subsequent increases of X% and ▪ If C.P of two items is same, and by selling of each item he earned p%
XY
Y% is ( X+ Y+ )% profit on one article and p% loss on another, then the there will be no loss
100 or gain.

▪ If two items are sold at same price, each at Rs. x, one at a profit of ▪ If a trader professes to sell at C.P but uses false weight, then
P2
P% and other at a loss of P% then there will be overall loss of %
100 Error
2P2x Gain% = × 100
The absolute value of loss = True value−Error
1002−P2

30 31

Tip 6 – Profit, Loss and Discount Tip 7 – Profit, Loss and Discount
100 + Profit% y
▪ Buy x get y free, then the %discount = × 100.
▪ S.P = ( ) C.P (If S.P > C.P) x+y
100
(here x+y articles are sold at C.P of x articles.)
100 − Loss%
▪ S.P = ( ) C.P (If S.P < C.P)
100
▪ When there are two successive discounts of a% and b% are given then
100 × S.P the,
▪ C.P = (If S.P > C.P) a∗b
100 + Profit% Resultant discount = (a + b - )
100
100 × S.P
▪ C.P = (If S.P < C.P)
100 − Loss% ▪ If C.P of x article is equal to the selling price of y articles then the,

y−x
Resultant profit % or loss % = × 100
y

32 33
 Tip 6 – Quadratic Equations Tip 1 – Sets and Venn diagrams
▪ Minimum and maximum values of ax2+bx+c = 0 ▪ Its one of the easiest topics of CAT.
4ac−b2 ▪
▪ If a > 0: minimum value = and occurs at x = -b/2a Most of the formulae in this section can be deduced logically with little
4a
effort.
4ac−b2
▪ If a < 0: maximum value = and occurs at x = - ▪
4a The difficult part of the problem is translating the sentences into areas of
the Venn diagram.

▪ While solving, pay careful attention to phrases like and, or, not, only, in as
these generally signify the relationship.

34 35

Tip 2 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 3 – Sets and Venn diagrams
Types of Sets
▪ Set is defined as a collection of well-defined objects. 1. Null set:
Ex. Set of whole numbers
A set with zero or no elements is called Null set. It is denoted by { } or Ø. Null set
▪ Every object is called Element of the set. cardinal number is 0

▪ The number of elements in the set is called cardinal number 2. Singleton set:

Sets with only one element in them are called singleton sets.
Ex. {2}, {a}, {0}

3. Finite and Infinite set:

A set having finite number of elements is called finite set. A set having infinite or

36 37
Tip 4 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 5 – Sets and Venn diagrams
Types of Sets
Types of Sets
6. Equal sets:
4. Universal set:
Two sets are said to be equal sets when they contain same elements
A set which contains all the elements of all the sets and all the other sets in Ex. A = {a,b,c} and B = {a,b,c} then A and B are called equal sets.
it, is called universal set.
7. Disjoint sets:
5. Subset:
When two sets have no elements in common then the two sets are called
A set is said to be subset of another set if all the elements contained in it disjoint sets
are also part of another set. Ex. If A = {1,2}, B = {1,2,3,4} then, Set “A” is Ex. A = {1,2,3} and B = {6,8,9} then A and B are disjoint sets.
said to be subset of set B.

38 39

Tip 6 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 7 – Sets and Venn diagrams
Types of Sets Properties of Sets:

8. Power set: ▪ The null set is a subset of all sets

▪ A power set is defined as the collection of all the subsets of a set and is ▪ Every set is subset of itself
denoted by P(A)
▪ A U (BUC) = (AUB) U C
▪ If A = {a,b} then P(A) = { { }, {a}, {b}, {a,b} }
▪ A ∩ (B∩C) = (A∩B) ∩ C
▪ For a set having n elements, the number of subsets are 2n
▪ A U (B∩C) = (AUB) ∩ (AUC)

▪ A ∩ (BUC) = (A∩B) U (A∩C)

▪ AUØ=A

40 41
Tip 8 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 9 – Sets and Venn diagrams
Venn diagrams: A Venn diagram is a figure to represent various sets and
their relationship. Union of sets is defined as the collection of elements either in A or B or
both. It is represented by symbol “U”. Intersection of set is the collection of
A B elements which are in both A and B.
V
I II
IV ▪ Let there are two sets A and B then,
VI VII
VIII n(AUB) = n(A) + n(B) - n(A∩B)
III
C ▪ If there are 3 sets A, B and C then,

I,II,III are the elements in only A, only B and only C respectively n(AUBUC) = n(A) + n(B) + n(C) - n(A∩B) - ∩C) - n(C∩A) + n(A∩B∩C)
IV – Elements which are in all of A, B and C.
V - Elements which are in A and B but not in C.
VI – Elements which are in A and C but not in B.
VII – Elements which are in B and C but not in A.
VIII – Elements which are not in either A or B or C.
42 43

Tip 10 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 11 – Sets and Venn diagrams

To maximize overlap, To minimize overlap,

▪ Union should be as small as possible ▪ Union should be as large as possible

▪ Calculate the surplus = n(A) + n(B) + n(C) - n(AUBUC) ▪ Calculate the surplus = n(A) +n(B) +n(C) - n(AUBUC)

▪ This can be attributed to n(A∩B∩C′), n(A∩B′∩C), n(A′∩B∩C), n(A∩B∩C). ▪ This can be attributed to n(A∩B∩C′), n(A∩B′∩C), n(A′∩B∩C), n(A∩B∩C).

▪ To maximize the overlap, set the other three terms to zero. ▪ To minimize the overlap, set the other three terms to maximum possible.

44 45
Tip 12 – Sets and Venn diagrams Tip 1 – Mixtures and Alligations

Some other important properties ▪ The topic mixtures and alligations is basically an application of averages
concept in CAT.
▪ A’ is called complement of set A, or A’ = U-A
▪ The theory involved in this topic is very limited and students should be
▪ n(A-B) = n(A) - n(A∩B) comfortable with the some basic formulas and concepts.

▪ A-B = A∩B’ ▪ This pdf covers all the important formulas and concepts related to mixtures
and alligations.
▪ B-A = A’∩B

▪ (A-B) U B = A U B

46 47

Tip 2 – Mixtures and Alligations Tip 3 – Mixtures and Alligations

Item 1 Item 2
A mixture is created when two or more substances are mixed in a certain ratio.
M1 M2
Types of mixtures

1. Simple mixture MA

A simple mixture is formed by the mixture of two or more different substances. Q1 Q2

Ex. Water and Wine mixture If M1 and M2 are the values, Q1 and Q2 are the quantities of item 1 and item 2
respectively and MA is the weighted average of the two items, then
2. Compound mixture
Q1 M2−MA
=
Compound mixture is formed by the mixture of two or more simple mixtures. Q2 MA−M1

Q1M1+Q2M2
Weighted average MA can be calculated by, MA =
Q1+Q2

48 49
Tip 4 – Mixtures and Alligations Tip 5 – Mixtures and Alligations
The alligation rule can be applied when cheaper substance is mixed with If two mixtures M1 and M2,having substances S1 and S2 in the ratio a:b and
expensive substance p:q respectively are mixed, then in the final mixture,

Quantity of cheaper Price of dearer−Mean price

Quantity of dearer
=
Mean price−Price of cheaper
Quantity of S1
M [
1 a+b
a
2 p+q
]+M [ p
]
=
Quantity of S2 M [ b ]+M [ q ]
1 a+b 2 p+q

50 51

Tip 6 – Mixtures and Alligations Tip 1 – Progressions and Series

If there is a container with ‘a’ liters of liquid A and if ‘b’ liters are withdrawn
and equal amount is replaced by another liquid B and if the operation is
repeated for ‘n’ times ▪ Progressions and Series is one of the important topics for CAT and
significant number of questions appear in the examination from this section
After nth operation, every year.
a−b n
▪ Liquid A in the container = [ ] × Initial quantity of A in the container ▪ of the questions from this section can be very tough and time
a consuming while the others can be very easy.

Liquid A after nth operation [ a ]

a−b n
▪ The trick to ace this section is to quickly figure out whether a question is
▪ =
Liquid B after nth operation 1−[a−b]n solvable or not and not waste time on very difficult questions.
a

52 53
 Tip 3 – Progressions and Series
▪ Some of the questions in this section can be answered by ruling out There are 3 standard types of progressions
wrong choices among the options available. This method will both save
time and improve accuracy. ▪ Arithmetic Progression

▪ There are many shortcuts which will be of vital importance in answering ▪ Geometric Progression
this section.
▪ Harmonic Progression
▪ This formula sheet contains an exhaustive list of various formulas and
shortcuts.

54 55

Tip 4 – Progressions and Series Tip 5 – Progressions and Series

Arithmetic progression (A.P)
Properties of A.P
▪ If the sum or difference between any two consecutive terms is constant
then the terms are said to be in A.P If a, b , c, d,…. are in A.P and ‘k’ is a constant then
▪ Ex. 2,5,8,11 or a, a+d, a+2d, a+3d… ▪ a-k, b-k, c-k,… will also be in A.P
▪ If ‘a’ is the first term and ‘d’ is the difference then the general ▪ ak, bk, ck,…will also be in A.P
‘n’ term is Tn = a + (n-1)d
▪ a/k, b/k, c/k also be in A.P
n
▪ Sum of first ‘n’ terms in A.P = [2a+(n-1)d ]
2

Last term−First term

▪ Number of terms in A.P = +1
Common difference

56 57
Tip 6 – Progressions and Series Tip 7 – Progressions and Series
Geometric Progression
Properties of G.P
▪ If in a succession of numbers the ratio of any term and the previous term is
constant then that numbers are said to be in Geometric Progression.
If a, b , c, d,…. are in G.P and ‘k’ is a constant then
▪ Ex :1, 3, 9, 27 or a, ar, ar2, ar3
1. ak, bk, ck,…will also be in G.P
▪ The general expression of an G.P, Tn = arn-1(where a is the first terms and
‘r’ is the common ratio) 2. a/k, b/k, c/k will also be in G.P

a(1−rn) a(rn−1) a
▪ Sum of ‘n’ terms in G.P, Sn = (If r<1) or (If r>1) Sum of term of infinite series in G.P, S∞ = (-
1−r r−1 1−r

58 59

Tip 8 – Progressions and Series Tip 9 – Progressions and Series

Harmonic Progression Arithmetic Geometric Series

▪ A series will be in arithmetic geometric series if each of its term is
▪ If a, b, c, d,.…..are unequal numbers then they are said to be in H.P if formed by product of the corresponding terms of an A.P and G.P.
1/a, 1/b, 1/c,……are in A.P
▪ The general form of A.G.P series is a, (a+d)r, (a+2d)r2,……
▪ The ‘n’ term in H.P is 1/(nth term in A.P)
▪ Sum of ‘n’ terms of A.G.P series
Properties of H.P :
𝑎 (1−𝑟 𝑛−1 ) [𝑎+ 𝑛−1 𝑑]
Sn = + 𝑟𝑑 + 𝑟𝑛 ≠1)
If a, b, c, d,…are in H.P, then 1−𝑟 1−𝑟 1−𝑟
𝑛
a+d > b+c Sn = [2𝑎 + 𝑛 − 𝑑 ]
2

ad > bc
60 61
Tip 10 – Progressions and Series Tip 11 – Progressions and Series
Standard Series
Arithmetic Geometric Series

▪ Sum of infinite terms of A.G.P series n(n+1)

▪ The sum of first ‘n’ natural number =
2
𝑎 1
S∞ = + 𝑟𝑑 2 (r<1) 𝑛(𝑛+1)(2𝑛+1)
1−𝑟 1−𝑟 ▪ The sum of squares of first ‘n’ natural numbers =
6

𝑛(𝑛+1) 2
▪ The sum of cubes of first ‘n’ natural numbers = ( )
2

▪ 2

▪ The sum of first ‘n’ even natural numbers = n(n+1)

▪ In any series Tn = Sn – Sn-1

62 63

Tip 12 – Progressions and Series

Arithmetic mean
Arithmetic mean
▪ Inserting ‘n’ means between two numbers a and b

Sum of all the terms ▪ The total terms will become n+2, a is the first term and b is the last term
▪ The arithmetic mean =
Number of Terms
b−a
a+b ▪ Then the common difference d =
n+1
▪ If two number A and B are in A.P then arithmetic mean =
2
▪ The last term b = a+(n+1)d

▪ The final series is a, a+d, a+2d,….

64 65
Tip 14 – Progressions and Series Tip 15 – Progressions and Series
Geometric Mean
Geometric Mean
▪ Inserting ‘n’ means between two quantities a and b with common ration ‘r’

▪ If a, b, c,… n terms are in G.P then G.M =

n
a × b × c × ⋯ n terms ▪ Then the number of terms are n+2 and a, b are the first and last terms

n+1
b b
▪ If two numbers a, b are in G.P then their G.M = a×b ▪ rn+1 = or r =
a a

▪ The final series is a, ar, ar2,…

66 67

Tip 16 – Progressions and Series Tip 17 – Progressions and Series

Harmonic Mean Relationship between AM, GM and HM for two numbers a and b,

▪ If a, b, c, d,.. are the given numbers in H.P then the Harmonic mean of ‘n’
a+b
Number of terms ▪ AM =
terms = 1 1 1 2
a b c
+ + +⋯..
▪ G.M = a × b
2ab
▪ If two numbers a and b are in H.P then the Harmonic mean = 2ab
a+b ▪ H.M =
a+b

▪ G.M = AM × HM

▪ A.M ≥ G.M ≥ H.M

68 69
 Tip 1 - Geometry Tip 2 - Geometry
▪ Knowing a formula and knowing when to apply it are two different
▪ Geometry is one of the hardest sections to crack without preparation and abilities.
one of the easiest with preparation.
▪ The first will come through reading the formulae list and theory but the
▪ With so many formulas to learn and remember, this section is going to take latter can come only through solving many different problems.
a lot of time to master.
▪ So in this document we are going to provide an exhaustive list of
▪ Remember, read a formula, try to visualize the formula and solve as many formulas and tips for making geometry section a lot easier.
questions related to the formula as you can.
▪ Try to remember all of them and don’t forget to share.

70 71

Tip 3 - Geometry Tip 4 - Geometry

Y
▪ Collinear points : Three or more points lying on the single straight line.
Quadrant 2 Quadrant 1 In this diagram the three points A,B and C are collinear

X' X A B C
▪ Concurrent lines : If three or more lines lying in a same plane intersect
Quadrant 3 Quadrant 4 at a single point then that lines are called concurrent lines. The three
lines X, Y and Z are here concurrent lines.
Y'
Quadrant I X is Positive Y is Positive

Quadrant II X is Negative Y is Positive

Z Y
Quadrant III X is Negative Y is Negative X
Quadrant IV X is Positive Y is Negative
72 73
 Tip 5 - Geometry Tip 6 - Geometry
▪ The distance between two points with coordinates (X1,Y1), (X2,Y2) is given ▪ If two intersecting lines have slopes m1 and m2 then the angle between
m1−m2
by D = (X2−X1)2 + (Y2−Y1)2 two lines will be tan θ = (where θ is the angle between the lines)
1+m1m2
y2−y1
▪ Slope, m = (If x2 = x1 then the lines are perpendicular to each other) ▪ The length of perpendicular from a point (X1,Y1) on the line AX+BY+C =
x2−x1
0 is
x1+x2 y1+y2 AX1+BY1+C
▪ Mid point between two points A(x1,y1) and B (x2,y2) is ( , 2 ) P=
A2+B2
2

▪ When two lines are parallel, their slopes are equal i.e. m1 = m2 ▪ The distance between two parallel lines Ax+By+C1 = 0 and Ax+By+C2= 0
is
▪ -1 i.e. m1∗m2 = −1 C1−C2
A2+B2

74 75

Tip 7 - Geometry Tip 8 - Geometry

Equations of a lines : General equation of a circle :

The general equation of a circle is x2+y2+2gx+2fy+c=0

General equation of a line Ax + By = C

Slope intercept form y = mx + c (c is y intercept) ▪ Centre of the circle is (-g,-f)

Point-slope form y - y1 = m (x - x1) ▪ Radius of the circle = g2 + f2 − c

x y
Intercept form
a
+b=1 ▪ If the origin is the centre of the circle then equation of the circle is
2+y2=r2
y−y1 x−x1
Two point form =
y2−y1 x2−x1

76 77
 Tip 9 - Geometry Tip 10 - Geometry
▪ Consider parallel lines AB, CD and EF as shown in the figure.
▪ When two angles A and B are complementary, sum of A and B is 90°

▪ When two angles A and B are supplementary, sum of A and B is 180°

▪ When two lines intersect, opposite angles are equal. Adjacent angles
are supplementary

▪ When any number of lines intersect at a point, the sum of all the angles
formed = 360°

▪ XY and MN are known as transversals

▪ ∠XPQ = ∠PRS = ∠RTU as corresponding angles are equal

78 79

Tip 11 - Geometry Tip 12 - Geometry

▪ Sum of all angles in a triangle is 180°

▪ An angle less than 90° is called an acute angle. An angle greater

than 90° is called an obtuse angle.

▪ A triangle with all sides unequal is called scalene triangle

▪ A triangle with two sides equal is called isosceles triangle. The two
angles of an isosceles triangle that are not contained between the
▪ Interior angles on the side of the transversal are supplementary.
i.e. ∠PQS + ∠QSR = 180°
equal sides are equal

▪ Exterior angles on the same side of the transversal are supplementary. ▪ A triangle with all sides equal is called equilateral triangle. All angles
i.e. ∠MQB + ∠DSU = 180° of an equilateral triangle equal 60°.

▪ Two transversals are cut by three parallel lines in the same ratio i.e. PR
=
QS
RT SU
80 81
 Tip 13 - Geometry Tip 14 - Geometry
▪ A line joining the mid point of a side with the opposite vertex is called a
▪ If in a triangle all of its angles are less than 90o than that triangle is called median. (Here D is the midpoint of AC side or AD = DC). BD is the median
as acute angled triangle of this triangle ABC. B

▪ A triangle with one of its angle equal to 90o than that triangle is called as
Right angled triangle
A AD D DC C
▪ A triangle with one of its angle greater than 90o than that triangle is called
as Obtuse angled triangle ▪ A perpendicular drawn from a vertex to the opposite side is called the
altitude
C
▪ If one side of a triangle is produced then that exterior angle formed is
equal to the sum of opposite remote interior angles
900

A B

82 83

Tip 15 - Geometry Tip 16 - Geometry

▪ A line that bisects and also makes right angle with the same side of the ▪ The point of intersection of the three altitudes is the Orthocentre
triangle is called perpendicular bisector
▪ The point of intersection of the three medians is the centroid.
▪ A line that divides the angle at one of the vertices into two parts is called
angular bisector ▪ The three perpendicular bisectors of a triangle meet at a point called the
Circumcentre. A circle drawn from this point with the circumradius would
▪ All points on an angular bisector are equidistant from both arms of the angle. pass through all the vertices of the triangle.

▪ All points on a perpendicular bisector of a line are equidistant from both ends ▪ The three angle bisectors of a triangle meet at a point called the incentre
of the line. of a triangle. The incentre is equidistant from the three sides and a circle
drawn from this point with the inradius would touch all the sides of the
▪ In an equilateral triangle, the perpendicular bisector, median, angle bisector triangle.
and altitude (drawn from a vertex to a side) coincide.

84 85
 Tip 17 - Geometry Tip 18 - Geometry
Mid Point Theorem :
▪ Sum of any two sides of a triangle is always greater than it’s third side
The line joining the midpoint of any two sides in a triangle is parallel to the
▪ Difference of any two sides of a triangle is always lesser than it’s third side third side and is half the length of the third side. C
If X is the midpoint of CA and Y is the midpoint of CB
Pythagoras theorem : X Y
Then XY will be parallel to AB and XY = ½ * AB
In a right angled triangle ABC where ∠B=900, AC2 = AB2 + BC2 A B
Basic proportionality theorem :
Apollonius theorem
If a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle and it intersects the other
In a triangle ABC, if AD is the median to side BC then by Apollonius theorem, two sides at two distinct points then it divides the two sides in the ratio of
respective sides B

2∗(AD2+BD2) = AC2 + AB2 If in a triangle ABC, D and E are the points lying on AB
D E
and BC respectively and DE is parallel to AC then
AD/DB = EC/BE A C

86 87

Tip 19 - Geometry Tip 20 - Geometry

Interior Angular Bisector theorem :
Cyclic Quadrilateral :
In a triangle the angular bisector of an angle divides the side B
opposite to the angle, in the ratio of the remaining two sides. In a D
D If a quadrilateral has all its vertices on the circle
triangle ABC if AD is the angle bisector of angle A then AD divides
the side BC in the same ratio as the other two sides of the triangle. and its opposite angles are supplementary (here
A C x+y = 180o) then that quadrilateral is called cyclic y C
i.e. BD/ CD= AB/AC.
quadrilateral.
x
Exterior Angular Bisector theorem : ▪ In a cyclic quadrilateral the opposite angles are
supplementary. A B X
The angular bisector of exterior angle of a triangle divides the
opposite side externally in the ratio of the sides containing the ▪ Area of a cyclic quadrilateral is A = (s−a)(s−b)(s−c)(s−d) where s = (a+b+c+d)/2
angle. In a triangle ABC, if CE is the angular bisector of exterior B E
angle BCD of a triangle, then AE/BE = AC/BC ▪ ∠CBX = ∠ADC)

A C D 88 89
 Tip 21 - Geometry Tip 22 - Geometry
▪ If x is the side of an equilateral triangle then the Similar triangles :
3
Altitude (h) = x
2 If two triangles are similar then their corresponding angles are equal and
the corresponding sides will be in proportion.
3 2
Area = x
4 For any two similar triangles :
1
Inradius = *h ▪ Ratio of sides = Ratio of medians = Ratio of heights = Ratio of
3 circumradii = Ratio of Angular bisectors
2
*h ▪ Ratio of areas = Ratio of the square of the sides.
3
𝑎 Tests of similarity : (AA / SSS / SAS)
▪ Area of an isosceles triangle = 4c2 − a2
4
(where a, b and c are the length of the sides of BC, AC and AB respectively
and b = c)
90 91

Tip 23 - Geometry Tip 24 - Geometry

Area of a triangle, A :
Congruent triangles
▪ A= s(s−a)(s−b)(s−c) where s = (a+b+c)/2.
If two triangles are congruent then their corresponding angles and their
corresponding sides are equal.
▪ A = 1/2 * base * altitude

▪ A = 1/2 * ab * sinC (C is the angle formed between sides a and b)

Tests of congruence : (SSS / SAS / AAS / ASA)
abc
▪ A= where R is the circumradius
4R

▪ A = r * s where r is the inradius and s is the semi perimeter.

(where a, b and c are the lengths of the sides BC, AC and AB)

92 93
 Tip 25 - Geometry Tip 26 - Geometry
▪ Consider the triangle ABC with incentre I, and the incircle touching the
triangle at P,Q,R as shown in the diagram. As tangents drawn from a point
Special triangles : are equal, AP=AQ, CP=CR and BQ=BR.

600
2x 3 2
300, 600 and 900 x Area = x
2
900 300
3x

x2
450, 450, 900
450 Area =
x 2x 2
0
450
▪ If a is the side of an equilateral triangle, circumradius = a/ 3 and inradius =
x a/(2 3 )
94 95

Tip 27 - Geometry Tip 28 - Geometry

▪ The angle subtended by a diameter of circle on the circle = 900

▪ Angles subtended by a equal chord are equal. Also, angles subtended in O

the major segment are half the angle formed by the chord at the centre θ
A C
▪ Equal chords of a circle or equidistant from the centre X

▪ The radius from the centre to the point where a tangent touches a circle θ
is perpendicular to the tangent
Area of sector OAXC =
360
∗ πr2

▪ Tangents drawn from the same point to a circle are equal in length θ 1
Area of minor segment AXC = πr2 - r2 sinθ
360 2
▪ A perpendicular drawn from the centre to any chord, bisects the chord

96 97
 Tip 29 - Geometry Tip 30 - Geometry
Inscribed angle Theorem :
C a b

O
A B
A B
Angles subtended by the same segment on the circle will be equal. So here
angles a and b will be equal
2∠ACB = ∠AOB

The angle inscribed by the two points lying on the circle, at the centre of
the circle is twice the angle inscribed at any point on the circle by the
same points.

98 99

Tip 31 - Geometry Tip 32 - Geometry

Consider a circle as shown in the image. Here, AP * AQ = AS * AU = AT2
The angle made by a chord with a tangent to one of the ends of the chord
is equal to the angle subtended by the chord in the other segment. As
shown in the figure, ∠ACB = ∠BAT. Z

Two tangents drawn to a circle from a external common point will be

equal in length. So here AZ = AT

100 101
 Tip 33 - Geometry Tip 34 - Geometry
Direct common tangent : Transverse common tangent :
P
Q Q
r1

A
. r1
.
r2 B
. .B
A C r2
S S
R P
In this figure PQ and RS are the direct common tangents and let AB In this figure PQ and RS are the transverse common tangents and
(Distance between the two centres) = D let AB (Distance between the two centres) = D

PQ2 = RS2 = D2-(r1-r2)2 PQ2 = RS2 = D2-(r1+r2)2

102 103

Tip 35 - Geometry Tip 36 - Geometry

A B

▪ If all sides and all angles are equal, then the polygon is a regular polygon F C

▪ A regular polygon of n sides has n(n-3)/2 diagonals

E D
ABCDEF is a regular hexagon with each side equal to ‘x’ then
▪ In a regular polygon of n sides, each exterior angle is 360/n degrees.
▪ Each interior angle = 120o
▪ Sum of measure of all the interior angles of a regular polygon is 180 (n-2)
▪ Each exterior angle = 60o
degrees (where n is the number of sides of the polygon)
▪ Sum of all the exterior angles = 360o
▪ Sum of measure of all the exterior angles of regular polygon is 360 degrees
▪ Sum of all the interior angles = 720o
3 3 2
▪ Area =
2
a
104 105
 Tip 37 - Geometry Tip 38 - Geometry
Volume of different solids
Cube length3
Areas of different geometrical figures
Cuboid Length ∗ base ∗ height
Triangle ½ * base * height
Prism Area of base ∗ height
Rectangle length * width
Cylinder πr2h
Trapezoid ½ * sum of bases * height
Pyramid 1/3 ∗ Area of base ∗ Height
Parallelogram base * height
Cone 1/3 ∗ πr2 ∗ h
Circle π∗ radius2
Cone Frustum (If R is the base 1/3 πh(R2+Rr+r2)
Rhombus ½ * product of diagonals radius, r is the upper surface radius
and h is the height of the frustum)
square side2 or ½ diagonal2
4/3 * π * r3
Kite ½ * product of the diagonals
106 Hemi-sphere 2/3 πr3 107

Tip 39 - Geometry Tip 40 - Geometry

Total Surface area of different solids Lateral/Curved surface area
Prism 2* base area + base perimeter*height
Prism base perimeter*height
Cube 6 * length2
Cube 4 * length2
Cuboid 2(lh+bh+lb)
Cuboid 2length*height + 2*breadth*height
Cylinder 2πrh + 2πr2

Pyramid 1/2 *Perimeter of base *slant height Cylinder 2πrh

+Area of base
Pyramid 1/2 *Perimeter of base *slant height
Cone (l is the slant height) πr(l+r)
Cone Frustum (where R and r are the π(R2+r +Rl+rl) Cone (l is the slant height) πrl
radii of the base faces and l is the slant
height) Cone Frustum (where R and r are the π
Sphere 4πr2 radii of the base faces and l is the slant
height)
Hemi-sphere 3πr2
108 109
 Time, Speed, Distance and
Tip 41 - Geometry Work Tips
▪ The angle subtended by a diameter of circle on the circle = 90 degrees • Time, Distance and Work is the most important topic for all
Competitive examinations.
▪ Angles subtended by a equal chords are equal. Also, angles subtended
in the major segment are half the angle formed by the chord at the • The questions from this topic varies from easy to difficult.
centre
• This formula sheet covers the most importance tips that helps you
▪ The radius from the centre to the point where a tangent touches a circle to answer the questions in a easy, fast and accurate way.
is perpendicular to the tangent

▪ Tangents drawn from the same point to a circle are equal in length

▪ A perpendicular drawn from the centre to any chord, bisects the chord

▪ In a regular polygon of n sides, each exterior angle is 360/n degrees.

110 111

Tip 1 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 2 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work
Distance = Speed × Time
If the ratio of the speeds of A and B is a : b, then
Distance
Speed = •
Time The ratio of the times taken to cover the same distance is 1/a : 1/b or b : a.

Distance • The ratio of distance travelled in equal time intervals is a : b

Time =
Speed

112 113
Tip 3 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 4 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work
• In a journey travelled with different speeds, if the distance covered in
Total Distance travelled each stage is constant, the average speed is the harmonic mean of the
• Average speed = different speeds.
Total Time taken
• Suppose a man covers a certain distance at x km/hr and an equal
distance at y km/hr
• If a part of a journey is travelled at speed S1 km/hr in T1 hours and
2xy
remaining part at speed S2 km/hr in T2 hours then, Then the average speed during the whole journey is km/hr
x+y
Total distance travelled = S1T1 + S2T2 km

S1T1 + S2T2
Average speed = km/hr
T1 + T2

114 115

Tip 5 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 6 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work

Constant distance :
• In a journey travelled with different speeds, if the time travelled in each
stage is constant, the average speed is the arithmetic mean of the different
Let the distances travelled in each part of the journey be d1, d2, d3 and
speeds.
so on till dn and the speeds in each part be s1, s2, s3 and so on till sn.
• If a man travelled for certain time at the speed of x km/hr and travelled
1 = d2 = d3 =...= dn= d, then the average speed is the harmonic mean
for equal amount of time at the speed of y km/hr then
of the speeds s1, s2, s3 and so on till sn.
x+y
The average speed during the whole journey is km/hr
2 Constant time :

Let the distances travelled in each part of the journey be d1, d2, d3 and
so on till dn and the time taken for each part be t1, t2, t3 and so on till tn.

If t1 = t2 = t3 =...= tn= t, then the average speed is the arithmetic mean of

the speeds s1, s2, s3 and so on till sn.

116 117
Tip 7 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 8 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work

Circular Tracks : Circular Tracks

If two people are running on a circular track with speeds in ratio a:b where a If two people are running on a circular track having perimeter l, with
and b are co-prime, then speeds m and n,

• They will meet at a+b distinct points if they are running in opposite • The time for their first meeting = l / (m +n)
direction. (when they are running in opposite directions)

• They will meet at |a-b| distinct points if they are running in same direction • The time for their first meeting = l / (|m-n|)
(when they are running in the same direction)

118 119

Tip 9 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 10 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work

If a person P starts from A and heads towards B and another person Q A and B started at a time towards each other. After crossing each other,
starts from B and heads towards A and they meet after a time 't' then, they took T1 hrs, T2 hrs respectively to reach their destinations. If they travel
at constant speeds S1 and S2 respectively all over the journey, Then
t = √(x*y)

where x = time taken (after meeting) by P to reach B and 𝑆1 𝑇2

=
y = time taken (after meeting) by Q to reach A. 𝑆2 𝑇1

120 121
Tip 11 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 12 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work
Trains : Work :
• If X can do a work in 'n' days, the fraction of work X does in a day is 1/n
• Two trains of length L1 and L2 travelling at speeds of S1 and S2 cross each
other in a time
• If X can do a work in 'x' days, and Y can do a work in 'y' days,
L1+L2
= (if they are going in opposite directions) x∗y
S1+S2
The number of days taken by both of them together is
x+y
L1+L2
= (if they are going in the same direction) • If M1 men work for H1 hours per day and worked for D1 days and completed
|S1−S2|
W1 work, and if M2 men work for H hours per day and worked for D2 days
and completed W2 work, then

M1H1D1 M2H2D2
=
W1 W2

122 123

Tip 13 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 14 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work

Boats and Streams : Boats and Streams :

• If the speed of the boat downstream is x km/hr and the speed of the
If the speed of water is 'W' and speed of a boat in still water is 'B‘ boat upstream is y km/hr, then
x+y
Speed of boat in still water = km/hr
• Speed of the boat (downstream) is B+W 2
• Speed of the boat (upstream) is B-W
x−y
Rate of stream = km/hr
2

The direction along the stream is called downstream. • While converting the speed in m/s to km/hr, multiply it by 3.6 (18/5).
And, the direction against the stream is called upstream. 1 m/s = 3.6 km/h

• While converting km/hr into m/sec, we multiply by 5/18

124 125
Tip 15 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work Tip 16 – Time, Speed, Distance & Work

Pipes and Cisterns : • Some of the questions may consume a lot of time. While solving, write down
Inlet Pipe : A pipe which is used to fill the tank is known as Inlet Pipe. the equations as far as possible to avoid mistakes. The few extra seconds can
help you avoid silly mistakes.
Outlet Pipe : A pipe which can empty the tank is known as Outlet Pipe.
• Check if the units of distance, speed and time match up. So if you see yourself
• If a pipe can fill a tank in ‘x’ hours then the part filled per hour = 1/x adding a unit of distance like m to a unit of speed m/s, you would realize you
have missed a term.
• If a pipe can empty a tank in ‘y’ hours, then the part emptied per hour =
1/y • Choose to apply the concept of relative speed wherever possible as it can
greatly reduce the complexity of the problem.
• If a pipe A can fill a tank in ‘ ’ hours and pipe can empty a tank in ‘y’
hours, If they are both active at the same time, then • Like speed and distance, in time and work while working with terms ensure
1 1 that you convert all terms to consistent units like man-hours.
The part filled per hour = − (If y > x )
x y
1 1
The part emptied per hour = − (If x > y )
y x
126 127

Number Systems Tips Tip 1 - Number systems

▪ Number Systems is the most important topic in the quantitative HCF and LCM
section.
▪ HCF * LCM of two numbers = Product of two numbers
▪ It is a very vast topic and a significant number of questions appear
▪ The greatest number dividing a, b and c leaving remainders
in CAT every year from this section.
of x1, x2 and x3 is the HCF of (a-x1), (b-x2) and (c x3).
▪ Learning simple tricks like divisibility rules, HCF and LCM, prime
▪ The greatest number dividing a, b and c (a<b<c) leaving the same
number and remainder theorems can help improve the score
remainder each time is the HCF of (c-b), (c-a), (b-a).
drastically.
▪ If a number, N, is divisible by X and Y and HCF(X,Y) = 1. Then, N is
▪ This document presents best short cuts which makes this topic
divisible by X*Y
easy and helps you perform better.

128 129
Tip 2 - Number systems Tip 3 - Number systems
Prime and Composite Numbers Properties of Prime numbers
▪ To check if n is a prime number, list all prime factors less than or
▪ Prime numbers are numbers with only two factors, 1 and the equal to √n. If none of the prime factors can divide n then n is a
number itself. prime number.

▪ Composite numbers are numbers with more than 2 factors. ▪ For any integer a and prime number p, ap−a is always divisible
Examples are 4, 6, 8, 9. by p

▪ 0 and 1 are neither composite nor prime. ▪ All prime numbers greater than 2 and 3 can be written in the form
of 6k+1 or 6k-1
▪There are 25 prime numbers less than 100.
▪ If a and b are co-prime then a(b-1) mod b = 1.

130 131

Tip 4 - Number systems Tip 5 - Number systems

Theorems on Prime numbers Theorems on Prime numbers

Fermat's Theorem: Remainder Theorem

Remainder of a^(p-1) when divided by p is 1, where p is a prime ▪ If a, b, c are the prime factors of N such that N= ap * bq * cr
Then the number of numbers less than N and co-prime to N is
ϕ(N)= N (1-1/a) (1 1/b) (1 - 1/c).
Wilson's Theorem: This function is known as the Euler's totient function.
Remainder when (p-1)! is divided by p is (p-1) where p is a prime Euler's theorem

▪ If M and N are co-prime to each other then remainder

when Mϕ(N) is divided by N is 1.

132 133
Tip 6 - Number systems Tip 7 - Number systems

▪ If the number can be represented as N = ap ∗ bq∗ cr. . . then

▪ Highest power of n in m! is [m/n]+[m/n2]+[m/n3]+….. number of factors the is (p+1) * (q+1) * (r+1)

Ex: Highest power of 7 in 100! = [100/7] +[100/49] = 16

▪ Sum of the factors =

▪ To find the number of zeroes in n! find the highest power of 5 in n!

▪
▪ If all possible permutations of n distinct digits are added together
the sum = (n-1)! * (sum of n digits) * (11111... n times) ▪ If there are n factors, then the number of pairs of factors would be
n/2. If N is a perfect square then number of pairs (including the
square root) is (n+1)/2

134 135

Tip 8 - Number systems Tip 9 - Number systems

Number of positive integral solutions of the equation x2 - y2 = k is given

If the number can be expressed as N = 2p ∗ aq ∗ br . . . where by
the power of 2 is p and a, b are prime numbers
Total number of factors of k
▪ (If k is odd but not a perfect square)
2
▪ Then the number of even factors of N = p (1+q) (1+r) . . .
(Total number of factors of k) − 1
▪ The number of odd factors of N = (1+q) (1+r)… ▪ (If k is odd and a perfect square)
2

k
Total number of factors of
4
▪ (If k is even and not a perfect square)
2

k
(Total number of factors of ) −1
4
▪ (If it is even and a perfect square)
2

136 137
 Tip 10 - Number systems Tip 11 - Number systems

▪ Number of digits in ab = [ b logm(a) ] + 1 ; where m is the base ▪ Sum of first n odd numbers is n2
of the number and [.] denotes greatest integer function
▪ Sum of first n even numbers is n(n+1)

▪ Even number which is not a multiple of 4, can never be ▪ The product of the factors of N is given by Na/2, where a is
expressed as a difference of 2 perfect squares. the number of factors

138 139

Tip 12 - Number systems Tip 13 - Number systems

Divisibility
▪ The last two digits of a2, (50 - a)2, (50+a)2, (100 - a)2 . . .. . . . . are
same. ▪ Divisibility by 2: Last digit divisible by 2

▪ 210n ▪ Divisibility by 4: Last two digits divisible by 4

When n is odd, the last 2 digits are 24. ▪ Divisibility by 8: Last three digits divisible by 8

When n is even, the last 2 digits are 76. ▪ Divisibility by 16: Last four digit divisible by 16

140 141
 Tip 14 - Number systems Tip 15 - Number systems

Divisibility Divisibility properties

▪ Divisibility by 3: Sum of digits divisible by 3 ▪ For composite divisors, check if the number is divisible by the
factors individually. Hence to check if a number is divisible by 6 it
▪ Divisibility by 9: Sum of digits divisible by 9 must be divisible by 2 and 3.

▪ Divisibility by 27: Sum of blocks of 3 (taken right to left) divisible by 27 ▪ The equation an−bn is always divisible by a-b. If n is even it is
divisible by a+b. If n is odd it is not divisible by a+b.
▪ Divisibility by 7: Remove the last digit, double it and subtract it from the
truncated original number. Check if number is divisible by 7 ▪ The equation an+bn , is divisible by a+b if n is odd. If n is even it
is not divisible by a+b.
▪Divisibility by 11: (sum of odd digits) - (sum of even digits) should be 0
or divisible by 11
142 143

Tip 17 - Number systems

Tip 16 - Number systems
Cyclicity
• Converting from decimal to base b. Let R1, R2 . . . be the
▸To find the last digit of an find the cyclicity of a. For Ex. if a=2,
remainders left after repeatedly dividing the number with b.
we see that
Hence, the number in base b is given by ... R2R1.
▸21=2
▸22=4
• Converting from base b to decimal - multiply each digit of the
▸23=8
number with a power of b starting with the rightmost digit and b0.
▸24=16
▸25=32
• A decimal number is divisible by b-1 only if the sum of the digits
Hence, the last digit of 2 repeats after every 4th power. Hence
of the number when written in base b are divisible by b-1.
cyclicity of 2 = 4. Hence if we have to find the last digit of an,
The steps are:
1. Find the cyclicity of a, say it is x
2. Find the remainder when n is divided by x, say remainder r
3. Find ar if r>0 and ax when r=0
144 145
Tip 18 - Number systems Tip 19 - Number systems

▪ (a + b)(a - b) = (a2 - b2) ▪ (a3 + b3) = (a + b)(a2 - ab + b2)

▪ (a + b)2 = (a2 + b2 + 2ab) ▪ (a3 - b3) = (a b)(a2 + ab + b2)

▪ (a - b)2 = (a2 + b2 - 2ab) ▪ (a3 + b3 + c3 - 3abc) = (a + b + c)( a2 + b2 + c2 - ab - bc - ac)

▪ When a + b + c = 0, then a3 + b3 + c3 = 3abc.

▪ (a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2(ab + bc + ca)

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Tip 1 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 2 – Ratio and Proportion

▪ Ratio and Proportions is one of the easiest concepts in CAT. It is just an ▪ A ratio can be represented as fraction a/b or using the notation a:b. In
extension of high school mathematics. each of these representation ′a′ is called the antecedent and ′b′ is
called the consequent.
▪ Questions from this concept are mostly asked in conjunction with other
concepts like similar triangles, mixtures and alligations. ▪ For a ratio to be defined, the quantities of the items should be of same
nature. We can not compare the length of the rod to the area of a
▪ Hence fundamentals of this concept are important not just from a stand-alone square.
perspective, but also to answer questions from other concepts
▪ However if these quantities are represented in numbers, i.e., length of a
rod is a cm and area of a square is b sq.km, we can still define the ratio
of these numbers as a:b

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Tip 3 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 4 – Ratio and Proportion
Properties of Ratios : ▪ Two ratios in their fraction notation can be compared just as we compare
real numbers.
a p
▪ A ratio need not be positive. However, if we are dealing with quantities of =q ⟺ aq = bp
b
items, their ratios will be positive. In this concept we will consider only
positive ratios. a p
>q ⟺ aq > bp
b
▪ A ratio remains the same if both antecedent and consequent are
multiplied or divided by the same non-zero number, i.e., a p
b
<q ⟺ aq < bp
a pa qa
= = , p, q ≠0 ▪ If antecedent > consequent, the ratio is said to be ratio of greater
b pb qb
inequality.
a a/p a/q
= b/p = b/q , p, q ≠0 ▪ If antecedent < consequent, the ratio is said to be ratio of lesser inequality.
b
▪ If the antecedent = consequent, the ratio is said to be ratio of equality

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Tip 5 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 6 – Ratio and Proportion

If a, b, x are positive, then If two ratios a/b and c/d are equal

a+x a a c b d
▪ ▪ = ⟹ = (Invertendo)
If a > b, then <
b+x b b d a c

a+x a a c a b
▪ ▪ = ⟹ = (Alternendo)
If a < b, then >
b+x b b d c d

a−x a a c a+b c+d

▪ If a > b, then > ▪ = ⟹ = (Componendo)
b−x b b d b d
a−x a a c a−b c−d
▪ If a < b, then < ▪ = ⟹ = (Dividendo)
b−x b b d b d
a b c d a c c+d
▪ If = = = =... , then a:b:c:d:... = p:q:r:s:... ▪ = ⟹ = (Componendo-Dividendo)
p q r s b d c−d

a c pa+qb pc+qd
▪ = ⟹ = , for all real p, q, r, s such that pa+qb≠0 and rc+sd≠0
b d ra+sb rc+sd
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 Tip 7 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 8 – Ratio and Proportion
If a, b, c, d, e, f, p, q, r are constants and are not equal to zero
a c e a+c+e.. Proportions :
▪ = = = … then each of these ratios is equal to
b d f b+d+f..
A proportion is an equality of ratios. Hence a:b = c:d is a proportion. The first
a c e and last terms are called extremes and the other two terms are called means.
▪ = = =… then each of these ratios is equal to
b d f
If four terms a, b, c, d are said to be proportional, then a:b = c:d. If three terms
a c e (pna+qnc+rne+..)1/n
▪ = = =… then each of these ratios is equal to n a, b, c are said to be proportional, then a:b = b:c
b d f (p b+qnd+rnf+..)1/n.

▪ Duplicate Ratio of a : b is a2 : b2

▪ Sub-duplicate ratio of a : b is a : b

▪ Triplicate Ratio of a : b is a3 : b3

▪ Sub-triplicate ratio of a : b is a1/3 : b1/3

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Tip 9 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 10 – Ratio and Proportion

Variations :
Properties of proportions :
▪ If x varies directly to y, then x is said to be in directly proportional with
If a:b = c:d is a proportion, then y and is written as x ∝ y

▪ Product of extremes = product of means i.e., ad = bc x = ky (where k is direct proportionality constant)

x = ky + C (If x depends upon some other fixed constant C)
▪ Denominator addition/subtraction: a:a+b = c:c+d and a:a-b = c:c-d
▪ If x varies inversely to y, then x is said to be in inversely proportional
▪ a, b, c, d,.... are in continued proportion means, a:b = b:c = c:d = .... 1
with y and is written as x ∝
y
▪ a:b = b:c then b is called mean proportional and b2 = ac
1
x=k (where k is indirect proportionality constant)
▪ The third proportional of two numbers, a and b, is c, such that, a:b = b:c y
1
x = k + C (If x depends upon some other fixed constant C)
▪ d is fourth proportional to numbers a, b, c if a:b = c:d y

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 Tip 11 – Ratio and Proportion Tip 1 – Inequalities

Variations : ▪ The topic Inequalities is one of the few sections in the quantitative part
which can throw up tricky questions. The questions are often asked in
▪ If x ∝ y and y ∝ z then x ∝ z conjunction with other sections like ratio and proportion, progressions etc.

▪ If x ∝ y and x ∝ z then x ∝ (y ± z) ▪ The theory involved in Inequalities is very limited and students should be
comfortable with the basics involving addition, multiplication and changing
▪ If a ∝ ∝ y then ax ∝ by of signs of the inequalities.

▪ The scope for making an error is high in this section as a minor mistake in
calculation (like forgetting the sign) can lead to a completely different
answer.

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Tip 2 – Inequalities
Tip 3 – Inequalities
▪ The modulus of x, |x| equals the maximum of x and –x
▪ For any three real numbers X, Y and Z; if X > Y then X+Z > Y+Z
–|x| ≤ x ≤ |x|
▪ If X > Y and
▪ For any two real numbers 'a' and 'b’,
1. Z is positive, then XZ > YZ
2. Z is negative, then XZ < YZ
|a| + |b| ≥ |a + b|
3. If X and Y are of the same sign, 1/X < 1/Y
4. If X and Y are of different signs, 1/X > 1/Y
|a| - |b| ≤ |a - b|

|a . b| = |a| |b|

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Tip 4 – Inequalities Tip 5 – Inequalities
1
▪ For any positive real number, x+ ≥2 ▪ If |x| ≤ k then the value of x lies between –k and k, or –k ≤ x ≤ k
x

▪ For any real number x > 1, ▪ If |x| ≥ k then x ≥ k or x ≤ -k

1 x
2 < [1+ ] < 2.8.
x

As x increases, the function tends to an irrational number called 'e' which is

approximately equal to 2.718

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Tip 6 – Inequalities Tip 1 – Quadratic Equations

▪ If ax2+bx+c < 0 then (x-m)(x-n) < 0, and if n > m, then m < x < n
▪ Quadratic Equations is one of the important topics for CAT
▪ If ax2+bx+c 0 then (x-m)(x-n) > 0 and if m < n, then x < m and x > n
▪ The theory involved in this topic is very simple and students should be
▪ If ax2+bx+c > 0 but m = n, then the value of x exists for all values, comfortable with the some basic formulas and concepts.
except x is equal to m,
▪ The techniques like option elimination, value assumption can help to solve
i.e., x < m and x > m but x ≠ m questions from this topic quickly.

▪ This pdf covers all the important formulas and concepts related to Quadratic
Equations.

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Tip 2 – Quadratic Equations Tip 3 – Quadratic Equations
General Quadratic equation will be in the form of ax2+bx+c = 0 Let D denote the discriminant, D = b2−4ac. Depending on the sign and value of D,
nature of the roots would be as follows:
The values of ‘x’ satisfying the equation are called roots of the equation.
▪ D < 0 and |D| is not a perfect square:
−b ± b2 − 4ac Roots will be in the form of p+iq and p-iq where p and q are the real and imaginary
▪ The value of roots, p and q =
2a parts of the complex roots. p is rational and q is irrational.

−b ▪ D < 0 and |D| is a perfect square:

▪ Sum of the roots = p+q =
a Roots will be in the form of p+iq and p-iq where p and q are both rational.
c
▪ Product of the roots = p*q = ▪ D=0
a
Roots are real and equal. X = -b/2a
▪ If c and a are equal then the roots are reciprocal to each other

▪ If b = 0, then the roots are equal and are opposite in sign.

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Tip 4 – Quadratic Equations Tip 5 – Quadratic Equations

▪ D > 0 and D is not a perfect square:
Signs of the roots: Let P be product of roots and S be their sum
Roots are conjugate surds
▪ P > 0, S > 0 : Both roots are positive
▪ D > 0 and D is a perfect square:
Roots are real, rational and unequal
▪ P > 0, S < 0 : Both roots are negative

▪ P < 0, S > 0 : Numerical smaller root is negative and the other root is positive

▪ P < 0, S < 0 : Numerical larger root is negative and the other root is positive

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Tip 6 – Quadratic Equations Tip 7 – Quadratic Equations
If AnXn + An−1Xn−1 + ... + A1X + A0 = 0, then
▪ Minimum and maximum values of ax2+bx+c = 0
▪ Sum of the roots = −An−1/An
4ac−b2
▪ If a > 0: minimum value = and occurs at x = -b/2a
4a ▪ Sum of roots taken two at a time = An−2/An

4ac−b2 ▪ Sum of roots taken three at a time = −An−3/An and so on

▪ If a < 0: maximum value = and occurs at x = -b/2a
4a
▪ Product of the roots = [(−1)n A0 ] /An

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Tip 8 – Quadratic Equations Tip 9 – Quadratic Equations

Finding a quadratic equation:
▪ Descartes Rules: A polynomial equation with n sign changes can have
▪ If roots are given: (x-a)(x-b)=0 => x2−(a+b)x+ab = 0 a maximum of n positive roots. To find the maximum possible number
of negative roots, find the number of positive roots of f(-x).
If sum s and product p of roots are given: x2−sx+p = 0
▪ An equation where highest power is odd must have at least one real
▪ If roots are reciprocals of roots of equation ax2+bx+c = 0, then equation root
is cx2+bx+a = 0

▪ If roots are k more than roots of ax2+bx+c = 0 then equation

is a(x−k)2+b(x−k)+c = 0

▪ If roots are k times roots of ax2+bx+c = 0 then equation

is a(x/k)2+b(x/k)+c = 0

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 Tip 1 – Linear equations Tip 2 – Linear equations
▪ A linear equation is an equation which gives straight line when plotted on
▪ Linear equations is one of the foundation topics in the Quant section of a graph.
CAT.
▪ Linear equations can be of one variable or two variable or three variable.
▪ Hence, fundamentals of this concept are useful in solving the questions of
the other topics by assuming the unknown values as variables. ▪ Let a, b, c and d are constants and x, y and z are variables. A general
form of single variable linear equation is ax+b = 0.
▪ Be careful of silly mistakes in this topic as that is how students generally
lose marks here. ▪ A general form of two variable linear equation is ax+by = c.

▪ Generally, the number of equations needed to solve the given problem is ▪ A general form of three variable linear equation is ax+by+cz = d.
equal to the number of variables

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Tip 3 – Linear equations

Equations with two variables: Tip 4 – Linear equations
General Procedure to solve linear equations:
▪ Consider two equations ax+by = c and mx+ny = p. Each of these equations
represent two lines on the x-y co-ordinate plane. The solution of these ▪ Aggregate the constant terms and variable terms
equations is the point of intersection.

a b c
▪ For equations with more than one variable, eliminate variables by substituting
▪ If
m
= n ≠ p then the slope of the two equations is equal and so they are equations in their place.
parallel to each other. Hence, no point of intersection occurs. Therefore no
▪ Hence, for two equations with two variables x and y, express y in terms of x
solution.
and substitute this in the other equation.
a b
▪ If ≠ then the slope is different and so they intersect each other at a single ▪ For Example, let x+y = 14 and x+4y = 26 then x = 14-y (from equation 1)
m n
point. Hence, it has a single solution. substituting this in equation 2, we get 14-y+4y = 26. Hence, y = 4 and x = 10.

a b c
▪ If
m n
= p then the two lines are same and they have infinite points
common to each other. So, infinite solutions occurs
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Tip 5 – Linear equations Tip 6 – Linear equations
General Procedure to solve linear equations:
▪ If the system of equations has n variables with n-1 equations then the
For equations of the form ax+by = c and mx+ny = p, find the LCM of b and n.
solution is indeterminate
Multiply each equation with a constant to make the y term coefficient equal to
the LCM. Then subtract equation 2 from equation 1.
▪ If system of equations has n variables with n-1 equations with some
additional conditions like the variables are integers then the solution may
Example:
be determinate
Let 2x+3y = 13 and 3x+4y = 18 are the given equations (1) and (2).
▪ If system of equations has n variables with n-1 equations then some
combination of variables may be determinable.
▪ LCM of 3 and 4 is 12.
▪ For example, if ax+by+cz = d and mx+ny+pz = q, if a, b, c are in Arithmetic
▪ Multiplying (1) by 4 and (2) by 3, we get 8x+12y = 52 and 9x+12y = 54.
progression and m, n and p are in AP then the sum x+y+z is determinable.
▪ (2)-(1) gives x=2, y=3

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Tip 7 – Linear equations

Equations with three variables:
Let the equations be a1x+b1y+c1z = d1, a2x+b2y+c2z = d2 and
a3x+b3y+c3z = d3. Here we define the following matrices.

▪ If Determinant of D ≠ 0, then the equations have a unique solution.

▪ If Determinant of D = 0, and at least one but not all of the determinants Dx, Dy or
Dz is zero, then no solution exists.

▪ If Determinant of D = 0, and all the three of the determinants Dx, Dy and Dz are
zero, then there are infinitely many solution exists.

▪ Determinant can be calculated by D = a1(b2c3-c2b3)-b1(a2c3-c2a3)+c1(a2b3-b2a3)

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