Quantitative Ability in XAT 2026 is commonly known to be sharply challenging, requiring speed as well as conceptual acumen. Unlike all other MBA entrance exams, XAT itself uniquely stresses logic-based calculation, data interpretation, and mathematical reasoning over formula memorization. Students who have participated in the XAT exam, experience the section to be tough due to ambiguity about the nature of questions being searched, the range of subjects being tested, and the inclusion of Data Interpretation exercises requiring diligent scrutiny under the time constraint.
To achieve success, the candidates need to enhance their Arithmetic accuracy, increase Algebraic manipulation speed, and develop a conceptual understanding of Geometry and Number Theory. Practice with previous year question papers and full-length mock tests turns out to be the mantra to get used to the difficulty and speed characteristic of the XAT exam pattern.
Proper preparation timetable with emphasis on clarity of concepts, systematic revision, and efficient solving is required. With proper foundation in main subjects and special care in high-weightage subjects, the candidates are adequately prepared to attempt this section confidently and precisely. This book offers the important formulas, concepts, and strategic tips to help the aspirants master the Quantitative Ability section of XAT 2026.
XAT 2026 Quantitative Ability Key Formulas & Concepts
Refer to the following to learn more about all the crucial concepts and formulas of the XAT quantitative ability section.
Key Formulas and Description | |
Arithmetic & Percentage | |
Formula | Description |
Profit% = (Profit / Cost Price) × 100 | Calculates profit percentage relative to cost price. |
Loss% = (Loss / Cost Price) × 100 | Computes the loss incurred on the cost price. |
Simple Interest = (P × R × T) / 100 | Interest based on principal, rate, and time. |
Compound Interest = P × (1 + R/100)^n | Computes compound interest compounded annually. |
Distance = Speed × Time | Key formula for time, speed, and distance problems. |
Average Speed = Total Distance / Total Time | Used when speeds vary over different legs of a journey. |
Algebra & Progressions | |
x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a | Finds the roots of a quadratic equation. |
AM = (a + b) / 2 | Arithmetic Mean |
GM = √(ab) | Geometric Mean |
HM = (2ab) / (a + b) | Harmonic means. |
nth term of AP = a + (n - 1)d | Finds a term in an arithmetic progression. |
Sum of AP = (n / 2) × [2a + (n - 1)d] | Calculates the sum of an arithmetic progression. |
nth term of GP = a × r^(n - 1) | Finds a term in a geometric progression. |
Geometry & Mensuration | |
Area = ½ × base × height | Measures the area of a triangle. |
Area = π × r² | Circle Basic formula |
Circumference = 2π × r | Standard metrics for a circle. |
Volume = π × r² × h | Calculates cylinder volume. |
Volume = (4/3) × π × r³ | Calculates the total volume of a sphere. |
Pythagorean Theorem = a² + b² = c² | Used in right-angle triangles. |
Modern Math & Number Theory | |
nCr = n! / [r! × (n-r)!] | Formula for combinations. |
nPr = n! / (n-r)! | Formula for permutations. |
P(A ∪ B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A ∩ B) | Probability of the union of two events. |
Bayes’ Theorem | Used in conditional probability problems. |
Euler’s Theorem | Used in number theory and modular arithmetic. |
XAT 2026 Quantitative Ability Preparation Tips
Prepare a Time Table: It makes no difference how much study time you have if you don't use it effectively. This is especially true for candidates who have a limited amount of time to study for the next major exam. So the first step is to create a well-structured and specified timetable.
Always Commence With the Basics: It is recommended to start with the fundamental ideas before moving on to more complicated subjects. You won't be able to manage the more complicated ideas until you understand the basic ones clearly. So make a list of subjects that range from easy to challenging.
Understand your strengths and weaknesses: Since it is essential to devote extra time to working on your shortcomings when it comes to XAT preparation, you must have heard this advice from many former XAT toppers. Giving a few practice exams can help you identify your strengths and limitations. Once you are aware of this, concentrate more on improving your understanding of the concepts related to your weak areas.
Learn the formulas then memorize them: A significant part of the quants section involves formulas. But avoid the error of trying to remember them without comprehending the process or reasoning involved. Understanding a problem's whole solution process logically and applying precise formulae would not only hasten your learning process but also make you more intuitive throughout the exam.
Analyze your performance by taking sectional mock exams: Once you've mastered all of the material in this area, begin practicing by taking sectional XAT mock examinations. After taking the tests, review the answers and evaluate your performance. You may also use internet tools that offer video answers to a variety of XAT questions and themes. The goal of this study is to evaluate your performance on a regular basis and adjust your XAT preparation approach as needed.
Practice and revise more: It is impossible to overstate the value of practice and correction. If you want to do it successfully, you must consistently put in preparatory time and effort. Once you have studied every quant subtopic and taken several practice exams, keep studying. Keep returning to concepts and formulae and improving them. To stay on track in your preparation, practice often by completing sample papers, previous papers, etc.
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