XAT 2026 Preparation: XAT stands as one of the most challenging MBA entrance exams. XAT exam preparation demands a significant investment of time, effort, and consistency. The exam comprises around 100 questions covering sections like English, Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, Decision Making, and Essay writing.
To complete each section, candidates get a specific time limit. Therefore, it is essential for candidates to improve their problem-solving and time management skills to score well in XAT. Here we have provided a section-wise XAT preparation tips to excel in the XAT 2026 exam.
The XAT entrance exam includes a varied distribution of questions across its sections. Unlike other MBA entrance exams, XAT comprises essay-writing questions in addition to MCQs. Below is the detailed sectional breakdown of the XAT question paper:
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XAT 2026 Section-Wise Breakdown Overview |
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XAT Exam Part |
Section |
No. of Questions |
Duration (minutes) |
|
Part 1 |
Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR) |
26 |
175 minutes |
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Decision Making (DM) |
22 |
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Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) |
28 |
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Part 2 |
Mock Keyboard Testing |
NA |
5 minutes |
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Part 3 |
General Knowledge (GK) |
25 |
30 minutes |
|
Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) |
1 |
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Verbal Ability is the first section of the XAT exam. Know how to prepare for XAT 2026, then read the complete page for a better understanding of the XAT 2026 Exam. The VA section in XAT includes questions from two parts, namely English Usage and Reading Comprehension. To score well in the XAT VA section, candidates should adhere to the following preparation strategies:
Aim to improve reading skills by solving at least two comprehension passages daily.
To strengthen grammar and vocabulary, candidates must practise using sample papers and PYPs.
Candidates should develop the habit of reading books, journals, and newspapers regularly.
Success in the verbal section largely hinges on candidates' proficiency in understanding and using the English language.
Excelling in the decision-making section is crucial for boosting candidates’ overall XAT score. To prepare effectively, candidates must follow the strategies mentioned below:
Practice Decision Making questions from past year XAT papers and study sample cases.
Understand the fundamental concept of each topic before solving related questions.
Participate in sectional mock tests or attempt sample questions in a timed manner to enhance speed and accuracy.
Analyse performance to identify weak areas and work on strengthening them.
The QA section of the XAT is known for its high level of difficulty. To perform well in this section, candidates must become well-acquainted with the types of questions that come in XAT. Additionally, candidates must carefully select XAT QA questions to accurately solve them and avoid negative marking. Here are the XAT QA preparation strategies to score good marks:
Get familiar with the XAT exam pattern and syllabus topics to create an effective study plan.
Understand the concept of each topic. In case a topic seems difficult, seek guidance from experts to resolve doubts.
Practice by solving actual XAT question papers from the past five years and thoroughly analysing performance in each paper.
Take online XAT mock tests, seek performance analysis from experts, and focus on enhancing weak areas.
Understand the specific types of questions asked in XAT, improve time management, and understand how the time constraint affects the difficulty level.
The General Knowledge section in XAT comprises a variety of topics, such as International Relations, Business, National and State Politics, Sports, Economy, Science, Commerce, Geography, and History. To excel in this area, candidates should follow the following preparation strategies:
Stay updated on current affairs by following news channels, internet content, books, journals, and magazines.
Engage in group discussions with peers and teachers to enhance knowledge.
Study different topics to gain a comprehensive understanding and perform well in this section of the exam.
The essay writing section of XAT distinguishes it from other MBA entrance exams. To score well in this section, candidates must ensure their writing is both significant and original, as recommended by experts. Here are the strategies to write a compelling essay and score well in XAT:
Begin the essay with an introductory paragraph that communicates the essay topic.
Structure the essay into multiple paragraphs, with each paragraph discussing a distinct idea that supports the main topic.
Avoid using technical jargon or informal slang words.
Make speculative remarks rather than definitive conclusions to leave room for further discussion.
To enter the top MBA institutes, it is crucial that candidates follow a strategic preparation plan. PW MBA Online Coaching provides expert guidance through regular live classes. Join PW MBA Classes to strengthen fundamental knowledge, attempt multiple test series, get performance analysis report, and streamline preparation to clear MBA entrance exams with commendable scores.
