CAT 2023 Preparation: How to ace DILR section

NEW DELHI: IIM Lucknow is all set to conduct CAT 2023 on November 26. The CAT exam paper will be divided into 3 sections- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The DILR section of the CAT exam assesses the ability of the candidates to analyze data, make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

Like last year, CAT DILR section is likely to have 20 questions and candidates are suggested to accurately answer around 13-14 questions to qualify sectional CAT cut-off. Candidates will be given 40 minutes to attempt these questions. With proper preparation and exam-day strategy, candidates can ace this section in the exam.

CAT 2023: DILR Important topics and how to tackle them

• Bar Graphs and Line charts - Solve these questions by understanding the data in the graphs. Then, look for graph pattern and trends and lastly do mental calculations to make quick comparison and answer the question
• Logical Reasoning - To answer these questions, candidates must read the statements carefully and make a mental map of the information. Use the elimination method to solve puzzles and reach logical conclusions
• Data Sufficiency - Candidates must evaluate statements individually or combine them to arrive at the answer
• Tables and Caslets - Solve these questions by breaking down the details into smaller parts then try to identify the correlation among the given data points. Create a clear structure of the answer focusing on accuracy

Tips to ace in DILR section of CAT exam

• Learn not to cram

CAT DILR section does not assess cramming abilities but focuses on examining critical thinking. It becomes very important to understand the principle behind the question to solve different types of questions.

• Practise CAT previous year questions

Previous year CAT papers develop the insight of the type of questions that are asked in the exam and structure of the exam. In the DI part, questions related to line,bar graphs and pie charts are oftenly asked whereas, in LR, questions are asked related to blood relations, family tree and arrangements etc.

• Don't waste time calculating manually

Calculating manually will be time consuming. Candidates are advised to use the on screen calculator to do the calculations which will make it easy for them to use the calculator provided during the actual CAT exam.

• CAT Mock tests

Try to write at least 2-3 CAT mock tests per day by setting up the timer. This will help the candidates adhere to the time limits, identify their strong and weak areas, and improve speed and accuracy.

Official CAT mock test 2023 is available on the official website - iimcat.ac.in. Candidates can access the mock test using their registration number and password.