Best Strategy for Attempting CLAT Quantitative Section
- Himanshi Goyal
- 1 minute ago
- 5 min read
For many CLAT aspirants, the quantitative section often feels like the most unpredictable part of the paper. Unlike current affairs or legal reasoning, where memory and comprehension play big roles, this part tests how quickly and accurately you can work with numbers under pressure.
The good news is that the syllabus is not vast, and with the right strategy, even students who do not consider themselves “maths lovers” can perform well. What really matters is practicing the right way, managing time smartly, and knowing how to approach the questions. Let’s go through ten effective strategies that can completely change the way you handle the quantitative section.
1. Understand the Nature of the Section
The quantitative section of CLAT is not about solving lengthy problems but about applying basic concepts to short passages and data. It usually covers arithmetic-based questions rather than advanced mathematics. Recognizing this will help you avoid over-studying unnecessary topics and instead focus on core areas.
Questions are based on topics like percentages, ratios, averages, profit and loss, and time-speed-distance.
Data interpretation is often framed in graphs, tables, or small case-based scenarios.
The difficulty level is usually moderate, but accuracy is highly important. For anyone preparing seriously for CLAT 2026, focusing on these fundamentals will make the section much easier to handle.
Keeping this in mind ensures that your preparation remains focused on what is most relevant for the exam.
2. Build Strong Fundamentals First
Before attempting tricky data sets, you need a strong grip over basic mathematical operations. Many students lose marks because they forget formulas or make small calculation errors. Brushing up your basics allows you to approach even unfamiliar questions with confidence.
Revise percentage to fraction conversions, such as 50% = ½ and 25% = ¼.
Practice squares and cubes of numbers at least up to 30 for quick calculations.
Learn shortcuts for division and multiplication to save precious seconds.
Once your basics are rock solid, moving on to application-based questions will feel much easier.
3. Practice with Previous Year Papers
One of the smartest ways to understand the pattern is by working on real CLAT papers from the past. These will show you the recurring types of questions and help you analyze the examiner’s mindset. Practicing this way ensures that your preparation aligns with the actual demand of the exam.
Attempt at least five to six previous year papers within strict time limits.
Identify topics that appear most frequently, such as averages or ratios.
Track your speed and accuracy after every attempt to measure progress.
Regular exposure to past papers makes you exam-ready by reducing surprises on the test day.
4. Develop a Calculation Speed Strategy
Since the quantitative section is time-sensitive, your ability to calculate quickly plays a major role. Speed does not mean rushing but developing efficiency with numbers. A dedicated approach to faster calculations will give you more time to analyze data-based questions.
Memorize multiplication tables up to at least 25.
Use mental math techniques such as Vedic methods where applicable.
Reduce dependency on rough work by training yourself to solve smaller parts mentally.
With improved calculation speed, you can comfortably solve questions without panicking about time.
5. Focus on Data Interpretation Skills
CLAT quantitative questions often present information in tables, bar graphs, or passages. The challenge is not only to calculate but also to interpret what the data is asking. Developing this skill ensures you extract the right information before applying formulas.
Practice questions where you convert given data into percentages for comparison.
Train yourself to identify unnecessary numbers that may confuse you.
Work on accuracy in multi-step calculations without skipping intermediate steps.
Strong data interpretation is one of the key skills that can help you score better in the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT Exam), making this section a scoring opportunity.
The better you are at reading data, the faster you will arrive at the correct answers.
6. Learn to Eliminate Options
Sometimes, solving an entire question is unnecessary if you can eliminate wrong choices smartly. This technique helps you save time and boosts your chances of getting the right answer without excessive effort. Understanding when to apply this is a game-changer.
Use approximations when answer options are far apart.
Check unit digits of numbers to eliminate unsuitable options.
Plug values back into the question when calculations become too lengthy.
Elimination allows you to solve more questions in less time while maintaining accuracy.
7. Manage Time Across Sections
The quantitative section carries fewer marks compared to other sections, so you must balance time wisely. Spending too much time here may affect your performance in areas like legal reasoning or current affairs. A clear time-management plan prevents this from happening.
Allocate a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes for the entire section.
Attempt easy and direct questions first before moving to data sets.
Skip questions that appear too lengthy and return to them later if time allows.
Effective time allocation helps you secure marks without compromising other high-weightage sections.
8. Practice Sectional Tests Regularly
Full-length mock tests are useful, but targeted practice through sectional tests is even more effective for quantitative preparation. By focusing only on one area, you develop speed and confidence specific to numerical questions. Regular practice will help you recognize patterns and shortcuts naturally.
Take sectional tests at least twice a week to build stamina.
Review every mistake to understand where you lost marks.
Track which topics consistently reduce your accuracy and re-learn them.
Consistent sectional practice ensures steady improvement and reduces exam pressure.
9. Balance Accuracy with Attempts
Many students make the mistake of attempting every question in a rush, leading to negative marking. The key is to strike a balance where you attempt enough questions to maximize marks but without compromising accuracy. A calm and selective approach works best here.
Aim to attempt only those questions where you are at least 80% confident.
Avoid random guessing since every wrong answer reduces your score.
Prioritize accuracy first, then focus on increasing the number of attempts.
Maintaining the right balance ensures that your score steadily improves without unnecessary risks.
Find more about Difference Between Good and Great CLAT Mock Attempts
10. Build a Consistent Daily Practice Routine
Quantitative skills cannot be mastered overnight; they need daily polishing. Consistency ensures that formulas stay fresh in your mind and calculations become second nature. A well-structured routine keeps you disciplined and exam-ready.
Dedicate at least 30 to 45 minutes daily to practicing quantitative questions.
Mix easy, moderate, and slightly difficult sets to build versatility.
Track your improvement by maintaining a log of scores over time.
A daily habit of practicing numbers gradually transforms your weakest section into a scoring opportunity.
In conclusion
The quantitative section of CLAT may look intimidating at first, but it is actually one of the most rewarding areas to prepare with the right mindset. It requires smart work more than endless hard work, focusing on basics, data interpretation, time management, and accuracy. By following the strategies outlined above, you will not only gain confidence but also secure valuable marks that can make a big difference in your overall score. Treat this section as a chance to stand out, and with steady practice, you’ll turn it into one of your strongest areas.
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