How To Prepare For Logical Reasoning in CAT?
Published on 9th October 2024, 11:45 AM
Preparing for the CAT logical reasoning section questions is an important aspect of cracking the CAT exam as it assesses a student’s analytical and problem-solving abilities. Navigating through intricate puzzles, seating appointments, and logical procedures mandates critical thinking and a focused mind. With the proper approach and consistent practice, students can refine their logical reasoning skills, heighten their confidence, and strengthen their performance in the CAT examination.
What is Logical Reasoning?
Logical reasoning is nothing but a set of questions that are usually there to assess your ability to think logically and find the right solution to the given set. The majority of CAT aspirants have a misunderstanding that DILR is a whole new concept; however, this isn’t the case. Almost one-third of DILR is a combination of games, puzzles, and math, which doesn’t require any prior preparation; it just needs an inquisitive mindset. Most questions are based on specific concepts, while others require creative thinking.
Also Check: CAT Syllabus | CAT Exam Pattern
Steps To Solve Logical Reasoning-Based Questions
Listed below are some of the steps to solve Logical Reasoning questions and answers:
> Read and try to understand the information given in the question.
> List the breakdown of key details preferably in the form of a table or pie chart.
> Try to think of different possible solutions that could fit.
> Compare your answer against the potential options.
> Reach a logical conclusion based on your analysis.
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Preparation Tips For Logical Reasoning in CAT
Mentioned below are some of the preparation tips for the logical reasoning section in the Common Admission Test:
> Set Time-goals: The CAT DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section carries 20 questions and provides 40 minutes (53 minutes and 20 seconds for PwD candidates) to solve them which is about two minutes per question if you attempt all the questions. However, candidates don’t have to attempt all 20 questions to get a decent score but they should set a time goal for the LR section if they are aiming to succeed. Attempting at least 10 to 12 questions accurately is more than enough for you to earn a good score. The important thing is to focus on solving each question within a specific time frame.
> Pinpointing the Type of Question: Pinpointing the type of LR question is the initial step to answering it accurately. Keep in mind that this can only be achieved after endless practice, which will make it manageable for you to point out the type of questions and think back on the technique to solve them.
> Understand the Guidelines and Details Mentioned in the Questions: In the CAT logical reasoning section, the questions will most probably deliver you guidelines and limitations for the procedure mentioned in the question. Jot them down separately in your notepad with the correct guidelines while attempting the problems. Ensure that you do this tidily, and just in case you’re unable to attempt the question or if it's time-consuming, you can keep it for later and go to the next question. If you have more time with you, you can start solving the question from where you left off.
> Solve One Step at a Time: First and foremost, you must jot down all of the information provided. Logical reasoning problems often include numerous statements that present as hints to solving the provided questions. You can then continue to solve the problems one step at a time. It's crucial to make sure that you do not skip out on any hints, which can probably get you stuck on a single question consuming a lot of time.
> Don’t Make Assumptions: Students are urged not to make unnecessary assumptions or utilize any information that is not included in the questions. Think of only the information provided in each question passage when deciding among the optional answers. However, in some cases, assumptions can be helpful. So keep this in mind and don't make unnecessary assumptions, as they are not always correct.
> Don’t Waste Too Much Time on Complex Questions: When you encounter a complex question that is too difficult for you to solve, you can skip this question and come back later if you have enough time in your hand. Always try to solve the questions in a way that you don’t spend a lot of time on just one question.
> Taking Mocks Regularly: Taking mock tests regularly, enables you to acquire the necessary skills to tackle the difficulty of the set within a short time going over it. Furthermore, if a particular problem within a set mandates too much work, you can skip it and take on the other sets. It is not essential to solve all the questions that are included in a single set. Hence, what you must do is cultivate the skills to identify such traps by practicing mock tests.
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Best of Luck!!