The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is one of India’s most prestigious MBA entrance exams, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur. Unlike other management exams, XAT focuses not only on aptitude but also on decision-making ability, ethical judgment, and critical thinking. Understanding the expected questions and key topics for XAT 2026 can help aspirants prepare smartly and score high.
In this blog by Planet.E, we provide a section-wise analysis of expected questions, important topics, and preparation tips for XAT 2026.
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern Overview
XAT 2026 is expected to follow a similar structure as previous years:
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Part 1
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Verbal & Logical Ability
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Decision Making
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Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
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Part 2
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General Knowledge
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Essay Writing (may be evaluated during GD-PI stage)
Verbal & Logical Ability – Expected Questions 2026
This section tests comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and logical reasoning.
Important Topics
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Reading Comprehension (long & abstract passages)
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Critical Reasoning
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Para-jumbles
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Sentence correction & completion
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Vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, contextual usage)
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Logical consistency questions
Expected Question Types
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RC passages on philosophy, economics, ethics, and social issues
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Identify the author’s tone or argument
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Grammar-based error spotting
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Inference-based questions
Planet.E Tip: Focus on reading editorials, opinion articles, and philosophy-based texts to handle XAT-level RCs.
Decision Making – Expected Questions 2026
Decision Making (DM) is the most unique and scoring section of XAT.
Important Topics
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Business ethics
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Corporate dilemmas
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Social and ethical conflicts
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Managerial decision scenarios
Expected Question Types
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Caselets with 3–5 related questions
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Choosing the most ethical and practical solution
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Eliminating extreme or biased options
Planet.E Insight: XAT does not reward emotional or aggressive decisions. Logical, balanced, and ethical reasoning is key.
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation – Expected Questions 2026
This section checks numerical ability and analytical skills.
Important Quant Topics
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Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Averages)
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Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
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Geometry & Mensuration
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Number System
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Probability & Permutations
Data Interpretation Topics
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Tables & Bar Graphs
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Caselet-based DI
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Data sufficiency
Expected Question Types
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Moderate to difficult calculation-based problems
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Conceptual questions rather than speed-based
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Multi-step DI sets
Planet.E Strategy: Accuracy matters more than attempts in XAT QA. Master basics before moving to advanced problems.
General Knowledge – Expected Questions 2026
GK is not counted in percentile, but it is crucial for XLRI final selection.
Important GK Areas
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National & International current affairs
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Business & economy
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Government schemes & policies
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Awards, sports, books, personalities
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Static GK (history, geography, organizations)
Expected Question Types
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One-line factual questions
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Business and economy-focused current affairs
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Mixed static + current GK
Planet.E Advice: Read GK daily but don’t over-invest time. Focus on last 12–18 months of current affairs.
Essay Writing – Expected Topics 2026
Essay topics are usually abstract or socio-economic.
Expected Themes
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Ethics in business
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Technology & society
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Leadership and responsibility
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Economic inequality
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Education and employment
Planet.E Tip: Practice structuring essays with a clear introduction, balanced arguments, and a strong conclusion.
How to Prepare for XAT 2026 Effectively?
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Understand XAT-specific patterns (especially DM)
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Practice previous year XAT papers
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Focus on accuracy over speed
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Develop ethical reasoning and business awareness
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Take mock tests designed for XAT level
At Planet.E, students are guided with XAT-focused study plans, decision-making workshops, and mock analysis to improve performance holistically.
Final Words
Cracking XAT 2026 requires a strategic approach, strong fundamentals, and ethical reasoning skills. Knowing the expected questions and important topics in advance gives aspirants a clear edge over others.
Stay consistent, practice smart, and prepare with expert guidance from Planet.E to convert your XLRI dream into reality.