IPMAT Preparation Strategy for Non-Maths Students: Complete Guide for 2026

The IPMAT exam can seem daunting for students from Commerce (without Maths) and Humanities backgrounds, especially due to the Quantitative Aptitude section. However, the reality is that you can definitely succeed in IPMAT even if you haven't studied Maths in Class 11-12. IPMAT does not focus on advanced calculus or complex mathematics; it evaluates your logic, fundamentals, speed, and precision. With an effective preparation plan, even those without a maths background can achieve high scores.

This guide provides a practical, step-by-step approach to prepare for IPMAT from the ground up.

What Makes IPMAT Tough for Non-Maths Students?

• Lack of familiarity with algebraic expressions
• Weak basics in arithmetic
• Low calculation speed
• Fear of quantitative problems
• Misconception that only “maths students” can crack IPMAT

But the reality is: IPMAT focuses on Class 6-10 level maths, which can be learned in 60-90 days with the right approach.

IPMAT Exam Structure for Beginners

Understanding the exam pattern is the first step:

IPMAT Indore Pattern

• Quantitative Aptitude (SA) - Short Answer (No choices)
• Quantitative Aptitude (MCQ)
• Verbal Ability (MCQ)

IPMAT Difficulty Level for Non-Maths Students

• Quant - Moderate to tough
• Verbal - Moderate and highly scoring
• Cut-offs - Usually higher in Verbal, slightly lower in Quant

Knowing this helps non-maths students prepare smarter, not harder.

Quant Strategy for Non-Maths Students

This is the section most students fear, but once you understand the basics, it becomes manageable.

1. Start with Absolute Basics

Before starting IPMAT-level questions, rebuild your foundation:

• BODMAS
• Fractions & Decimals
• Percentage
• Ratio & Proportion
• Basic Algebra
• Profit & Loss
• Simple & Compound Interest

Tip: Start with NCERT Class 6-10 Maths for 10-15 days.

2. Follow the Right Order of Topics

A structured sequence makes learning easier:

Start with:

• Number System
• Percentages
• Ratio & Proportion
• Averages
• Time-Speed-Distance
• Time & Work

Move to:

• Algebra (Linear equations, Quadratic basics)
• Arithmetic Progressions
• Coordinate Geometry (basics only)
• Geometry & Mensuration

End with:

• Permutations & Combinations
• Probability
• Logarithms (only basic level)

3. Best Books for Non-Maths Students

• RS Aggarwal - Quantitative Aptitude (Basics)
• Quant for IPMAT - Pearson
• Arun Sharma - QA for CAT (Level 1 only)
• Previous Year Papers

4. Improve Calculation Speed

Practice for 15 minutes daily:

• Addition-subtraction drills
• Multiplication tables (till 20)
• Fast fraction-to-percent conversions
• Mental maths techniques

Speed matters more than formulas.

Verbal Ability Strategy for Non-Maths Students

Good news: VA is the strongest section for non-maths students.
You can score very high with consistent practice.

1. Focus Areas

• Reading Comprehension
• Para Jumbles
• Para Completion
• Vocabulary (Word usage-based)
• Grammar (Basics only)

2. Daily Reading Habit

Read for 20-30 minutes daily:

• Editorials
• Business news
• Magazines
• Blogs

This improves comprehension and vocabulary naturally.

90-Day Study Plan for Non-Maths IPMAT Aspirants

Month 1 - Build Concepts

• Complete basics of arithmetic & algebra
• RC practice: 1 passage/day
• Vocabulary revision: 15-20 words/day

Month 2 - Practice Intensively

• Solve topic-wise questions
• Give 1 mock every 10 days
• Start solving PYQs

Month 3 - Mock-Focused Preparation

• 1 mock every 3 days
• Analyze strengths & weaknesses
• Focus on accuracy, not speed
• Revise formula book every week

Mock Test Strategy

When to start?

• After 30-40 days of concept building.

How to analyse mocks?

• Identify wrong answers
• Check time spent per question
• See accuracy in each topic
• Practice weak areas immediately

Common mistakes

• Spending too much time on 1 question
• Not attempting enough SA questions
• Neglecting Verbal because it is “easy”

Importance of Previous Year Papers

Previous Year Questions help non-maths students:

• Understand frequently asked topics
• Observe the difficulty trend
• Learn question framing styles

Always solve at least 5-7 previous year papers before the exam.

Time Management Tips for IPMAT

For Quant (QA-MCQ & QA-SA):

• Skip time-consuming questions
• Attempt easier topics first
• Maintain accuracy to avoid negative marking

For Verbal Ability:

• Start with RC
• Attempt grammar & vocabulary next
• Save para jumbles for the end

Why Being a Non-Maths Student is NOT a Disadvantage?

Many IPMAT toppers did not have maths in Class 11-12.
Why?

Because:

• IPMAT maths is basics-focused
• Verbal scores increase overall rank
• Logical thinking matters more than formula memorisation
• Consistent practice beats background advantage

With the right strategy, non-maths students often outperform maths students.

IPMAT is an approachable exam for anyone who studies in a systematic way—regardless of whether they come from a Maths, Commerce, or Arts background. If you begin early, establish solid fundamentals, adhere to a structured plan, and take regular mock tests, passing IPMAT becomes entirely possible.
Remember:
Consistency + Smart Strategy = IPMAT Success

FAQs

1. Can a non-maths student crack IPMAT?

Yes! By mastering the fundamentals, practicing consistently, and analyzing mock tests, students without a math background can achieve high scores in IPMAT.

2. Is the Quant section very difficult for non-maths students?

The QA section includes concepts for Class 6 to 10. It seems difficult at first, but it gets easier with practice.

3. How many months are enough for IPMAT preparation?

A well-organized 90-day plan is sufficient, but preparing for 5 to 6 months provides a greater edge.

4. Do I need coaching?

Not necessary. Many crack IPMAT through self-study. But coaching helps if you struggle with maths basics.

5. How many mocks should I attempt?

At least 20+ full-length mocks and 10-12 sectional tests.

6. Which topics should non-maths students focus on first in Quant?

Start with easy and high-scoring topics like Percentages, Ratios, Averages, Time-Speed-Distance, and Number System. These build a strong base before learning Algebra and Geometry.

7. How important are mock tests for IPMAT?

Mocks are essential. They assist you in grasping time management, the level of difficulty, and your areas of weakness. The more mocks you take (along with analysis), the greater your performance will be in the real exam.