Introduction
Are you from a commerce or arts background dreaming of getting into one of the top IIMs? Then the IPMAT (Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test) is your golden ticket. But here’s the catch — preparing for IPMAT as a commerce or arts student demands a strategic approach. Let’s dive into a comprehensive plan that helps you ace IPMAT 2026 confidently.
Overview of IPMAT Exam
What is IPMAT?
IPMAT is an entrance examination given by IIMs to enable one to get admission into their five-year Integrated Program in Management (IPM). It is an ability test in Quantitative Ability (QA), Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI), and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC).
Importance strategy for Commerce and Arts Students
Although quantitative and logical logic is easier to learn especially to students of science as they have a background in math, the students of commerce and arts have to work on building a solid foundation in quantitative and logical reasoning. And, having the right preparation, you can make your stream your strength.
IPMAT Exam Pattern 2026
| Exam Name | IPMAT Indore 2026 | IPMAT Rohtak 2026 | JIPMAT 2026 |
| Mode | Online | CBT | Computer-Based Test |
| Sections | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Total Questions | 90 | 120 | 100 |
| Total Marks | 360 | 480 | 400 |
| Duration | 120 min | 120 min | 150 min |
| Marking Scheme | +4 / -1 | +4 / -1 | +4 / -1 |
| Negative Marking (QA-SA) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Difficulty Level | Most Difficult | Moderate | Easy |
IPMAT Syllabus 2026 Overview
Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio, Time-Speed-Distance)
- Algebra (Linear & Quadratic Equations)
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Number System
- Higher Mathematics (for Indore only)
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI)
- Puzzles and Arrangements
- Syllogisms and Series
- Data Tables and Charts
- Critical Reasoning
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Grammar and Vocabulary
- Reading Comprehension
- Para-jumbles and Sentence Correction
Why Commerce and Arts Students Need a Different Strategy
Students of commerce and arts do not always have a regular exposure to more advanced mathematics and hence QA becomes the most difficult part. Nevertheless, their good mastery of English and analytic thinking skills could provide them with an advantage in VARC and LRDI. It is critical to have a balanced approach that addresses the weaknesses in the process of enhancing the strengths.
IPMAT Preparation Strategy for Commerce Students
With Mathematics Background
- Begin with NCERT Maths (Class 9-12) to facilitate the basics.
- Target on Algebra, Geometry, and Arithmetic as they comprise 70-80% of QA.
- Do previous year papers to find the repetitive patterns.
- Keep an error book where you will write down common errors.
Without Mathematics Background
- Begin with basics — percentages, ratios, averages, and time-speed-distance.
- Use YouTube or online courses for conceptual clarity.
- Dedicate at least 2 hours daily to QA practice.
- Don’t skip mental math drills — they save valuable time in the exam.
IPMAT Preparation Strategy for Arts Students
Students of arts tend to be good in verbal reasoning and bad in QA. To balance this:
- Start early preparation at least 8 -10 months before the exam.
- Learn with the help of simple materials such as NCERT and proceed to the sophisticated ones.
- Have VARC as your strong point and strive to get the best score here.
- In the case of QA, clarity on the topic of discussion should be considered first before speed.
Quantitative Ability (QA) Preparation Tips
Topic-Wise Strategy
Break down the QA syllabus into weekly targets:
- Week 1–2: Number System & Averages
- Week 3–4: Time, Speed, Distance & Algebra
- Week 5–6: Geometry & Mensuration
High-Scoring Topics
| Topic | Weightage | Difficulty |
| Arithmetic | High | Easy |
| Algebra | High | Moderate |
| Geometry | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mensuration | Moderate | Moderate |
| Number System | Low | Easy |
Formula Revision and Error Log
Keep a small diary of formulas and tricks. Maintain an “error log” where you record every mistake and its correct approach. Reviewing this weekly drastically boosts accuracy.
VARC Section Strategy
Reading Habits
Read The Hindu, The Economist, or blogs to enhance comprehension. Dedicate 30–40 minutes daily to reading.
Vocabulary Building
- Learn 10–15 new words daily.
- Use “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis.
- Revise through flashcards for better retention.
Accuracy and RC Practice
- Practice 2–3 RCs daily from diverse topics.
- Focus on the option elimination technique to boost accuracy up to 90%.
LRDI Section Strategy
Key Topics and Tricks
- Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations
- Syllogism and Logical Deductions
- Practice at least 2–3 LRDI sets every week.
Practice Plan
- Focus more on accuracy than speed initially.
- Gradually move towards timed practice sets.
- Analyze your mock performance — identify which question types take more time.
Time Management During IPMAT Preparation
- Divide your study time: QA – 40%, VARC – 30%, LRDI – 30%.
- Avoid studying all three sections every day; rotate topics for freshness.
- Keep Sundays for mock tests and analysis.
Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers
Attempt at least 10–15 full-length mocks before the exam. Analyzing mocks is more important than attempting them. Identify your weak areas and reattempt the same paper after one week to track improvement.
Conclusion
In brief, the preparation of IPMAT can be made smart, regular, and individual to assist the commerce and arts students in overcoming this competitive test. Enhance your VARC, enhance speed in QA, and ensure accuracy in LRDI. Through hard work and systematic planning, you will be able to get a place in one of the best IIMs in India and jump-start an effective management life.
FAQs
Q1. Is it possible to crack IPMAT without maths in 12th by arts students?
Yes, once the students of arts have been practicing QA and conceptual knowledge, it is very easy to crack IPMAT.
Q2. How many hours are required to dedicate to preparing for the IPMAT per day?
Preferably, three -four hours per day with equal attention to all sections suffices.
Q3. Which section is the toughest for commerce students?
Generally, the QA part is tough, particularly when one does not have the background in maths.
Q4. Are mock tests really necessary?
Absolutely. Mocks have the advantages of pointing out the weak points, time management, and confidence.
Q5. What coaching institute is the best in the preparation of IPMAT?
The highest-rated institute IPM Careers are the best choices to prepare in 2025-26 to take IPMAT.
