Unlocking the Secrets of CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), is one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in the country. The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of the CAT exam tests the candidate's ability to analyze, interpret, and logically reason through data presented in various formats such as tables, graphs, charts, and text.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR section, analyzing the question paper, providing tips and tricks, highlighting common mistakes to avoid, and comparing the pros and cons.

Question Paper Analysis

The CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR section comprised of 6 sets of questions with 4 questions in each set. The total time allotted for the section was 60 minutes. The difficulty level of the section was moderate to high.

Tips and Tricks

To excel in the CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR section, consider the following tips and tricks:

• Time Management: Allocate time wisely to each set, prioritizing the easier ones first.
• Skimming and Scanning: Quickly read through the data to identify key points and relationships.
• Visualization: Draw diagrams, charts, or graphs to represent the data and make it more understandable.
• Logical Reasoning: Use logical reasoning techniques such as deduction, induction, and contraposition.
• Estimation and Approximation: Estimate values or round numbers to simplify calculations.
• Practice and Analysis: Solve mock tests and analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to enhance your chances of success in the CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR section:

• Overthinking: Don't spend too much time on a single question. Move on and revisit it later if necessary.
• Ignoring Instructions: Carefully read and understand the question instructions before answering.
• Rushing Calculations: Take your time and double-check your calculations to avoid errors.
• Neglecting Assumptions: Some questions may require you to make assumptions. Clearly state these assumptions in your answer.
• Not Revisiting Questions: If time permits, revisit the tougher questions and attempt them again with a fresh perspective.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Develops Analytical Skills: Improves your ability to analyze and interpret data.
• Enhances Problem-Solving Ability: Tests your problem-solving skills in a time-constrained environment.
• Prepares for Business Situations: DILR skills are essential for making informed decisions in business contexts.

Cons:

• Can Be Time-Consuming: Solving DILR questions can take more time than other sections.
• Requires Practice: Requires consistent practice to develop proficiency.
• Can Be Tricky: Some questions may be designed to trick or confuse candidates.

Interesting Stories

Story 1:

A group of MBA students were presented with a DILR caselet involving a company's sales performance. They spent hours analyzing the data and eventually concluded that the company's sales were declining due to increased competition. However, upon further scrutiny, they realized they had overlooked a crucial assumption in the caselet. When they corrected for this assumption, they discovered that the company's sales were actually increasing, leading to a wild celebration in the classroom.

Lesson Learned: Always carefully consider all assumptions and implications before reaching conclusions.

Story 2:

A candidate attempted a DILR set that required estimating the number of people in a park on a given day. In a moment of panic, he mistakenly doubled the number of people mentioned in the text. As a result, he completely missed the correct answer.

Lesson Learned: Stay calm and composed during the exam and double-check your calculations to avoid silly mistakes.

Story 3:

A group of friends decided to solve a DILR puzzle together. They divided the tasks among themselves, with one person reading the passage, another creating a diagram, and the third solving the questions. By collaborating and leveraging each other's strengths, they were able to solve the puzzle in record time.

Lesson Learned: Teamwork and collaboration can significantly enhance your problem-solving ability.

Useful Tables

Table 1: DILR Question Distribution

Table 2: Difficulty Level Distribution

Table 3: Time Allocation

Conclusion

The CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR section presented a moderate to high level of difficulty. By understanding the question paper analysis, implementing tips and tricks, avoiding common mistakes, and considering the pros and cons, candidates can prepare effectively for this section. Remember, practice and analysis are key to success in the CAT DILR section.