Quantitative Aptitude is an important part of most competitive examinations, such as CAT, SSC, Bank PO, etc. One of the most frequent questions of aspirants is: What topic should I begin with in quantitative aptitude? Below is an in-depth guide to kick-start your preparation in the right direction.
What is the Best Topic to Start with in Quantitative Aptitude?
Number System is the best topic to start your quantitative aptitude journey. It sets the ground for a lot of other things and helps develop your numerical sense. Number System familiarizes you with terms like divisibility, factors, remainders, LCM, HCF, etc., which tend to crop up again in other chapters such as Algebra, Arithmetic, and Data Interpretation.
Why Is the Number System Recommended First?
Starting with the Number System helps you:
-
Understand the structure of numbers
-
Strengthen calculation skills
-
Get comfortable with basic operations used throughout the syllabus
Many concepts from this topic form the base for other advanced areas in quantitative aptitude.
What Topics Should I Study After the Number System?
Here’s a suggested sequence of topics to follow after completing the Number System:
|
Stage |
Topic |
Why Study It Next? |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Number System |
Builds the base for all further learning |
|
2 |
Percentages |
Used in Profit-Loss, SI-CI, and Data Interpretation |
|
3 |
Profit and Loss |
Direct application of percentage concepts |
|
4 |
Simple & Compound Interest |
Involves time-value calculations |
|
5 |
Time, Speed, and Distance |
Builds logical thinking and unit handling |
|
6 |
Time and Work |
Improves ratio and proportion concepts |
|
7 |
Averages and Mixtures |
Sharpens the arithmetic mean and logic |
|
8 |
Algebra |
Expands problem-solving using variables |
|
9 |
Geometry & Mensuration |
Visual and formula-based problem-solving |
|
10 |
Modern Maths (Set Theory, etc.) |
Helpful for high-level reasoning questions |
This structure is designed to ensure gradual progression from basic to advanced topics.
How to Use a Quantitative Ability Book Effectively?
When you begin your preparation, it is very important to supplement your learning with a good Quantitative Ability Book. A structured book helps in:
• Sequential learning of concepts
• Doing a great number of problems
• Gaining exposure to exam-level questions
Select a quantitative aptitude book that has topic-wise theory, and then practice questions at different levels of difficulty.
Is this preparation strategy also useful for CAT Aspirants?
Yes, absolutely. Even the CAT aspirants benefit from the starting point of the Number System. This topic is usually the first topic of the CAT quantitative aptitude book, as it forms the basis for the more complex problem-solving needed in the exam.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right topic to start your preparation can make a huge difference in your understanding and your speed. The Number System is the most preferable topic that should be started with because of its fundamental nature. Consult a good quantitative ability book or quantitative aptitude book to back up your learning, and adopt a rational order of topics to achieve the highest score possible in the quantitative component of any competitive exam.
