Ace the CAT 2017 DILR Slot 2: Comprehensive Guide with Strategies and Solved Examples

Introduction

The CAT (Common Admission Test) is a highly competitive entrance exam for aspiring management professionals seeking admission to Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of the CAT is known for its complexity and time-consuming nature. Slot 2 of the 2017 CAT DILR section was no exception, featuring a challenging set of questions that tested candidates' analytical skills and problem-solving abilities to the limits.

Understanding the CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR

Key Features:

• Number of Questions: 24
• Question Types: Caselets, Tables, Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, and Venn Diagrams
• Time Allocation: 60 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

Tips for Approaching the Slot 2 DILR:

1. Time Management: Prioritize questions wisely. Allocate more time to questions that you're confident about and revisit the tougher ones later.

2. Mapping and Representation: Draw diagrams, tables, or charts to visualize data and identify patterns. Visual representation aids in better understanding and faster problem-solving.

3. Logical Deduction: Use logical reasoning to make inferences and eliminate incorrect options. Start with the most straightforward questions and gradually move on to more complex ones.

4. Elimination Technique: If you're unsure about the correct answer, eliminate options that are clearly incorrect. This increases your chances of selecting the right answer.

Solved Examples from CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR

Caselet 1:

The sales of four products (A, B, C, and D) by two companies (X and Y) over six months are represented in the following table:

Question: What was the average sales per product?
Answer: 225

Step 1: Calculate total sales: 900 + 900 = 1800 units
Step 2: Divide by number of products: 1800 / 4 = 225 units

Caselet 2:

A bar graph shows the distribution of employees in a company based on their experience and gender.

Question: What is the ratio of the number of female employees with more than 10 years of experience to the total number of employees with less than 10 years of experience?
Answer: 1:3

Step 1: Identify relevant information from the graph:
- Total employees with less than 10 years of experience: 600
- Female employees with more than 10 years of experience: 100

Step 2: Calculate the ratio: 100 / 600 = 1:3

Strategies for Succeeding in CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR

1. Practice Regularly: Solve as many practice questions as possible to enhance your speed and accuracy.

2. Focus on Time Management: Practice timed mocks to improve your ability to allocate time effectively and complete the section within the stipulated time frame.

3. Master Different Question Types: Familiarize yourself with various question types, including caselets, tables, graphs, and diagrams. Develop strategies to approach each type efficiently.

4. Enhance Analytical Skills: Practice solving logical puzzles and games to improve your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

5. Strengthen Data Interpretation Skills: Develop your ability to interpret and draw inferences from different forms of data, including tables, charts, and graphs.

Benefits of Cracking CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR

1. Admission to Top Business Schools: Scoring well in the CAT DILR section is crucial for securing admission to prestigious IIMs and other top management institutes in India.

2. Improved Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: The DILR section tests your analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ability to work under pressure.

3. Career Advancement: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are highly valued in the business world, making you a more desirable candidate for management positions.

Conclusion

The CAT 2017 Slot 2 DILR was a challenging section that tested candidates' analytical abilities to the max. By understanding the key features of the section, employing effective strategies, and practicing regularly, you can increase your chances of cracking the DILR section and securing admission to your dream B-school. Remember, with determination and the right approach, you can conquer the CAT DILR and embark on a successful management career.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to prepare for the CAT DILR section?
Answer: Practice regularly, master different question types, and enhance your analytical and data interpretation skills.

2. How much time should I allocate to each question?
Answer: Aim to spend around 2-3 minutes on easier questions and 3-4 minutes on tougher ones. Adjust the time allocation based on the complexity of the question.

3. What should I do if I get stuck on a question?
Answer: Move on to the next question and revisit the tough ones later. Don't waste precious time on a question you can't solve immediately.

4. Is it okay to guess on some questions?
Answer: Yes, it's okay to guess on some questions if you have no idea about the answer. But remember, guessing should be a last resort.

5. What are the most important skills for the CAT DILR section?
Answer: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, data interpretation, and time management.

6. How can I improve my analytical skills?
Answer: Practice solving logical puzzles, brain teasers, and games that require critical thinking and problem-solving.

7. What is the best way to practice data interpretation?
Answer: Study different types of charts, graphs, and tables. Practice interpreting data, identifying trends, and drawing inferences.

8. How can I improve my time management during the DILR section?
Answer: Practice timed mocks and learn to allocate time wisely. Prioritize questions and adjust your time allocation based on the complexity of each question.