MH-CET MBA Exam Pattern Analysis
MH-CET MBA Exam Pattern Analysis: The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test for MBA (MAH MBA CET) is a pivotal examination for aspirants seeking admission to MBA/MMS programs in Maharashtra’s esteemed institutions. Over the years, the exam has maintained a consistent structure, though subtle variations in difficulty and question distribution have been observed. This article delves into an in-depth analysis of the MAH MBA CET exam patterns from 2021 to 2024, providing a year-wise breakdown with subject-wise and section-wise insights.
Overview of MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern (2021-2024)
The fundamental structure of the MAH MBA CET has remained consistent across these years:
- Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Total Questions: 200
- Duration: 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes)
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with five options each
- Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer; no negative marking
- Medium: English
The exam encompasses four primary sections:
- Logical Reasoning (LR)
- Abstract Reasoning (AR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Year-wise Exam Pattern Analysis
1. MAH MBA CET 2021
The 2021 exam adhered to the traditional format with a moderate difficulty level. The Logical Reasoning section was predominant, comprising 75 questions. The Abstract Reasoning section had 25 questions, while both Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension sections contained 50 questions each. The overall difficulty was moderate, with Logical Reasoning being slightly challenging due to intricate puzzles.
MAH MBA CET 2021 Section-wise Distribution
Section | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Logical Reasoning | 63-85 | Moderate |
Abstract Reasoning | 10-25 | Easy |
Quantitative Aptitude | 50-60 | Moderate |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 45-50 | Moderate |
Total | 200 | – |
- Logical Reasoning
The Logical Reasoning section focused heavily on non-verbal reasoning, contributing more than 50 questions. The remaining questions were based on verbal reasoning topics.
Topic | No. of Questions |
---|---|
Arrangements | 20+ |
Coding-Decoding | 8-10 |
Series | 6-7 |
Family Tree | 5-6 |
Syllogisms | 4-5 |
Analogies | 3-4 |
Assertion-Reasoning | 3-4 |
Statement-Assumption | 3-4 |
- Abstract Reasoning
This section was generally easy, with a few tricky questions.
Topic | No. of Questions |
Series Completion | 7-8 |
Analogies | 6-7 |
Paper Folding/Cutting | 4-5 |
Odd One Out | 5-6 |
- Quantitative Aptitude
This section was dominated by arithmetic-based questions.
Topic | No. of Questions |
Arithmetic | 12-25 |
Algebra | 6-7 |
Geometry | 5-6 |
Data Interpretation (some slots) | 5-7 |
Modern Math | 3-4 |
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
Grammar and vocabulary questions formed the majority, with a few short RC passages.
Topic | No. of Questions |
Reading Comprehension | 10-12 |
Synonyms/Antonyms | 6-7 |
One-word Substitutions | 4-5 |
Jumbled Paragraphs | 4-5 |
Spelling Corrections | 4-5 |
2. MAH MBA CET 2022
The 2022 exam maintained the established structure but presented a slightly higher difficulty level, especially in the Logical Reasoning section. The Abstract Reasoning section remained relatively easy, while Quantitative Aptitude and VARC sections were moderate. The Logical Reasoning section included complex puzzles, making it more challenging.
MAH MBA CET 2022 Section-wise Distribution
Section | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Logical Reasoning | 70-85 | Moderate to Difficult |
Abstract Reasoning | 8-25 | Easy |
Quantitative Aptitude | 48-60 | Moderate |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 50-55 | Moderate |
Total | 200 | – |
- Logical Reasoning
The LR section continued to have a majority of non-verbal reasoning questions.
Topic | No. of Questions |
Arrangements | 40-50 |
Coding-Decoding | 8-10 |
Directions | 5-6 |
Family Tree | 5-6 |
Syllogisms | 3-6 |
- Abstract Reasoning
Topic | No. of Questions |
Series Completion | 6-7 |
Odd One Out | 5-6 |
Analogies | 5-6 |
Grid-based Figures | 3-4 |
- Quantitative Aptitude
Topic | No. of Questions |
Arithmetic | 20+ |
Number System | 6-7 |
Modern Math | 5-6 |
Geometry | 5-6 |
Data Interpretation (some slots) | 5-7 |
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
Topic | No. of Questions |
Reading Comprehension | 7-8 passages |
Vocabulary Questions | 6-7 |
Para Jumbles | 4-5 |
Fill in the Blanks | 4-5 |
3. MAH MBA CET 2023
In 2023, the exam pattern remained consistent with previous years. The Logical Reasoning section continued to dominate with 75 questions, followed by Quantitative Aptitude and VARC with 50 questions each, and Abstract Reasoning with 25 questions. The overall difficulty level was moderate, with Logical Reasoning being moderately challenging due to intricate puzzles and arrangements.
MAH MBA CET 2023 Section-wise Distribution
Section | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Logical Reasoning | 73 -74 | Moderate |
Abstract Reasoning | 45-46 | Easy |
Quantitative Aptitude | 45-46 | Moderate |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 54-55 | Moderate |
Total | 200 | – |
- Logical Reasoning
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Analogy
|
3-4
|
Blood Relations
|
9-10
|
Clocks & Calendar
|
1-2
|
Coding – Decoding
|
4-5
|
Letter & Number Series
|
3-4
|
Direction Sense
Dictionary Order
|
5-6
5-6
|
Linear & Matrix Arrangement
|
14-15
|
Syllogism & Venn diagram
|
8-9
|
Missing letter & Number
|
7-8
|
Misc.
|
6-7
|
The section featured a balanced mix of conventional reasoning questions, including blood relations, coding-decoding, direction sense, and arrangements. It was primarily dominated by arrangements, coding, syllogisms, Venn diagrams, and missing letter & number patterns. While most questions were easy, a few puzzle-based ones, such as the family tree (which had five questions), posed a slight challenge. Additionally, there were 4-5 questions in a set based on Venn diagrams. Overall, the section ranged from easy to slightly moderate in difficulty.
- Abstract Reasoning
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Analogies
|
6-7
|
Series
|
5-6
|
Odd one out
Mirror Image & Water
Misc.
|
2-3
6-7
1-2
|
This section included questions based on visual reasoning concepts, covering topics such as series completion, odd-one-out, and analogies. It was primarily dominated by analogies and water/mirror images. Overall, the section was moderate in difficulty and time-consuming.
- Quantitative Aptitude
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Number system
|
4
|
Averages
|
1-2
|
Ratio & Mixtures
TSD & TW
Percentages
SI & CI
P&C and Probability
Algebra & Logarithm
Profit & Loss
Misc.
DI
|
4-5
4-5
2-3
2-3
4-5
2-3
2-3
1-3
10
|
The section was heavily focused on arithmetic, with over 20 questions from this area. Only a few questions were asked from modern math topics like permutations & combinations and probability. This time, there were no questions on data sufficiency. While the data interpretation (DI) questions were manageable, they were slightly calculation-intensive.
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
RC
|
12-13
|
Vocabulary
|
19-20
|
Sentence Completion
Part – Error
Misc.
|
6-7
9-10
4-5
|
This section was dominated by vocabulary and reading comprehension (RC) passages. The vocabulary-based questions included antonyms, synonyms, idioms, one-word substitutions, and contextual vocabulary. There were two RC passages, both of easy to moderate difficulty—one focused on sociology and culture, while the other explored the inclination toward power in politics. Most of the questions were straightforward and manageable. Overall, the section was relatively easy.
An attempt of 170+ in MAH-CET 2023 was sufficient for a high score in the exam.
4. MAH MBA CET 2024
The 2024 exam followed the same pattern as previous years. The Logical Reasoning section included 75 questions, Abstract Reasoning had 25 questions, and both Quantitative Aptitude and VARC sections contained 50 questions each. The overall difficulty level was moderate, with Logical Reasoning being moderately challenging due to intricate puzzles and arrangements.
MAH MBA CET 2024 Section-wise Distribution
Section | Number of Questions | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Logical Reasoning | 75 | Moderate |
Abstract Reasoning | 25 | Easy |
Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | Moderate |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 50 | Moderate |
Total | 200 | – |
- Logical Reasoning
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Analogy
|
6
|
Blood Relations
|
4
|
Input output
|
2
|
Coding – Decoding
|
6
|
Letter & Number Series
|
5
|
Direction Sense
Data sufficiency
|
4
4
|
Analytical reasoning(circular, games, arrangementetc.)
|
19
|
Syllogism & Venn diagram
|
7
|
Verbal reasoning
|
6
|
Mathematical Inequalities
|
5
|
Misc.
|
7
|
Overall, the section had a well-balanced mix of conventional reasoning questions, including blood relations, coding-decoding, direction sense, and arrangements. It was primarily dominated by arrangements, coding, syllogisms, Venn diagrams, and missing letter & number patterns. Additionally, there were around eight questions on circular arrangements. In terms of difficulty, the section ranged from easy to slightly moderate.
- Abstract Reasoning
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Analogies
|
4
|
Series
|
8
|
Odd one out
Paper cutting
Misc.
|
7
2
4
|
This section included questions based on visual reasoning concepts, such as series completion, odd-one-out, and analogies. It was primarily dominated by analogy and series-based questions. Overall, the section was moderate in difficulty and time-consuming.
- Quantitative Aptitude
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
Number system
|
8
|
Averages
|
6
|
Ratio & Mixtures
TSD & Time and Work
Percentages
SI & CI
P&C and Probability
Algebra & Logarithm
Profit & Loss
Data sufficiency.
Data comparison
|
1
10
5
4
4
3
4
3
2
|
This section featured questions on visual reasoning concepts, including series completion, odd-one-out, and analogies. Analogies and series-based questions formed the majority of the section. Overall, it was moderately difficult and required considerable time to solve.
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
Area
|
No. of Questions
|
RC
|
14
|
Vocabulary
|
15
|
Sentence Completion
Part – Error
Idioms/Spelling
|
5
5
7
|
Misc.
|
4
|
This section was primarily focused on vocabulary and reading comprehension (RC) passages. The vocabulary-based questions covered antonyms, synonyms, idioms, one-word substitutions, and contextual vocabulary. There were three RC passages, each of easy to moderate difficulty—one centered on banking, another on the automobile industry, and the third on middle-class society. Most of the questions were straightforward and manageable. Overall, the section was easy.
An attempt of 175+ in MAH-CET 2024 is considered sufficient for a high score in the exam.
Subject-Wise Analysis (2021-2024)
a. Logical Reasoning (LR):
This section consistently held the highest weightage with 75 questions each year. It encompassed topics such as puzzles, seating arrangements, syllogisms, blood relations, and coding-decoding. The difficulty level varied from moderate to difficult, with puzzles and seating arrangements often being time-consuming.
b. Abstract Reasoning (AR):
Consistently comprising 25 questions, this section tested candidates’ ability to interpret patterns, sequences, and relationships. The difficulty level remained relatively easy across the years.
c. Quantitative Aptitude (QA):
With 50 questions each year, this section evaluated mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. The difficulty level was moderate, with a mix of straightforward and complex questions.
d. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):
This section also contained 50 questions annually, assessing grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, and reading comprehension abilities. The difficulty level was moderate, with reading comprehension passages ranging from easy to moderately challenging.
Trend Analysis and Key Takeaways (2021-2024)
Analyzing the MAH MBA CET exam pattern over the past four years, we can identify certain trends that can help aspirants prepare effectively:
-
Logical Reasoning Dominance:
- With 75 questions every year, Logical Reasoning remains the most crucial section.
- The difficulty level fluctuates between moderate and difficult, with puzzles and seating arrangements consuming the most time.
-
Abstract Reasoning Stability:
- This section consistently comprises 25 questions and remains the easiest among all sections.
- It primarily tests pattern recognition, making it a scoring area for candidates.
-
Moderate Quantitative Aptitude:
- The QA section remains at 50 questions each year, with a moderate difficulty level.
- Arithmetic-based problems dominate, followed by algebra and data interpretation.
-
Verbal Ability & RC Consistency:
- This section remains predictable, with grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension forming the core.
- Reading comprehension passages range from short to moderately lengthy but are manageable within the given time.
Year-wise Difficulty Level Comparison (2021-2024)
Year | Logical Reasoning | Abstract Reasoning | Quantitative Aptitude | VARC | Overall Difficulty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 | Moderate | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
2022 | Moderate-Difficult | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
2023 | Moderate | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
2024 | Moderate | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
Preparation Strategy Based on Exam Pattern
To optimize preparation, candidates should focus on the following:
1. Logical Reasoning (75 Questions)
- Prioritize solving puzzles and seating arrangements as they are frequently asked.
- Practice syllogisms, blood relations, coding-decoding, and direction sense.
- Focus on speed and accuracy by attempting timed mock tests.
2. Abstract Reasoning (25 Questions)
- Regularly practice series and pattern recognition to improve speed.
- Attempt as many previous year questions as possible to understand question patterns.
3. Quantitative Aptitude (50 Questions)
- Strengthen arithmetic topics such as percentages, profit & loss, and time & work.
- Improve calculation speed with mental math and shortcut techniques.
- Practice data interpretation sets to get comfortable with graphs and charts.
4. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (50 Questions)
- Read newspapers and editorials daily to enhance comprehension skills.
- Work on vocabulary through word lists and synonym-antonym exercises.
- Solve grammar-based questions, including sentence correction and para jumbles.
The MAH MBA CET exam pattern has remained stable over the years, with Logical Reasoning holding the highest weightage. The difficulty level is moderate, making strategic preparation essential. Candidates should practice previous years’ papers, take mock tests, and focus on time management to maximize their scores. Understanding the exam pattern in-depth allows aspirants to approach the test with confidence and secure admission into top MBA colleges in Maharashtra.