CAT 2018 Slot 1 DILR: A Success Saga

The Common Admission Test (CAT) conducted by Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in November 2018 had quite a few surprises in store for the candidates, especially those appearing for the first time. But, as you know, an obstacle, if turned into an opportunity, makes all the difference. Similarly, preparing for these surprises could have turned your preparation into something more effective and refined.

This article will help you analyze CAT 2018 Slot 1 DILR paper and prepare efficiently for future CATs.

CAT 2018 Slot 1 DILR Paper Analysis

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of CAT 2018 Slot 1 was widely regarded as one of the easiest in recent years. The overall difficulty level was moderate, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult questions.

Key Findings:

• Number of Questions: 24
• Time Allotted: 60 minutes
• Total Marks: 60
• Average Time per Question: 2.5 minutes
• Average Marks per Question: 2.5 marks

Section-Wise Analysis

Data Interpretation:

• The Data Interpretation section consisted of 12 questions.
• The questions were based on a variety of data types, including tables, charts, and graphs.
• The majority of the questions were straightforward and could be solved with basic arithmetic and logical reasoning skills.

Logical Reasoning:

• The Logical Reasoning section consisted of 12 questions.
• The questions covered a wide range of topics, including syllogisms, critical reasoning, and puzzles.
• Most of the questions required careful analysis and critical thinking skills.

Question-Type Distribution

Data Interpretation:

• Table: 6 questions
• Chart: 3 questions
• Graph: 3 questions

Logical Reasoning:

• Syllogism: 5 questions
• Critical Reasoning: 4 questions
• Puzzle: 3 questions

Difficulty Level

Data Interpretation:

• Easy: 6 questions
• Moderate: 4 questions
• Difficult: 2 questions

Logical Reasoning:

• Easy: 4 questions
• Moderate: 6 questions
• Difficult: 2 questions

Time Management

Given the moderate difficulty level of the paper, candidates should have been able to complete the section within the allotted time of 60 minutes. Here's a recommended time allocation:

• Data Interpretation: 30 minutes
• Logical Reasoning: 30 minutes

Tips and Tricks

• Practice Regularly: The key to success in DILR is regular practice. Solve as many mock tests and practice questions as possible.
• Focus on Accuracy: Accuracy is paramount in DILR. Don't rush through the questions and make silly mistakes.
• Manage Time Effectively: Time management is crucial in DILR. Allocate time wisely to each question and stick to your plan.
• Identify Question Types: Before attempting a question, identify its type and approach it accordingly.
• Use Visualization Techniques: Visualizing the data in charts and graphs can help you understand and solve problems more easily.

Why DILR Matters

DILR is an important part of CAT as it tests your analytical and reasoning abilities. Strong performance in DILR can improve your overall score and increase your chances of getting into a top IIM.

Benefits of Excelling in DILR

• Improved Analytical Skills: DILR helps you develop your analytical skills, which are essential for success in business and management.
• Enhanced Reasoning Abilities: DILR improves your reasoning abilities, which are crucial for making informed decisions in complex situations.
• Increased Problem-Solving Skills: DILR practice helps you develop your problem-solving skills, which are essential for tackling challenges in both personal and professional life.

Call to Action

If you're planning to take CAT in the future, start preparing for DILR right away. Practice regularly, focus on accuracy, and manage your time effectively. With consistent effort and dedication, you can excel in DILR and achieve your dream of getting into a top IIM.

Interesting Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

A candidate was struggling with a difficult data interpretation question. He kept staring at the data for over 10 minutes without making any progress. Finally, he realized that he had been ignoring the title of the table, which contained important information that would have helped him solve the question.

Lesson Learned: Always read the question carefully and pay attention to all the details.

Story 2:

Another candidate was confident that he had found the answer to a logical reasoning question. However, he made a silly mistake in his calculation and ended up with the wrong answer.

Lesson Learned: Double-check your answers before submitting them.

Story 3:

A third candidate was running out of time and had to guess the answer to a difficult DILR question. Fortunately, he guessed correctly and got the full marks for the question.

Lesson Learned: Sometimes, it's better to take a calculated risk than to leave a question unanswered.

Useful Tables

Table 1: DILR Question Type Distribution

Table 2: DILR Difficulty Level

Table 3: Recommended Time Allocation for DILR

Important Resources

• CAT Official Website: https://iimcat.ac.in/
• Previous CAT Question Papers: https://iimcat.ac.in/question-papers.html
• CAT Preparation Tips: https://www.mbauniverse.com/cat-preparation-tips/