How to crack the DILR section of CAT

Let's begin with a basic understanding of DILR.

 

The DILR section tests your ability to interpret various forms of data, process that information, and solve related questions. Think of it as tackling a large, intricate puzzle using logical reasoning and some quantitative skills. While DILR does involve basic arithmetic concepts like percentages and averages, the emphasis is more on logical analysis than heavy calculations.

 

Now, you might wonder— Is it difficult to score well in DILR?

 

The answer is both “Yes” and “No.”

 

If you are good at drawing logical inferences from the given data, you are likely to enjoy this section. However, if you rely heavily on formulae and straightforward methods, DILR might feel challenging and unpredictable.

Speaking from my experience as a DILR mentor, I’ve seen many students who struggle with Quantitative Aptitude but can comfortably solve two to three DILR sets with practice and the right mindset.

Is there a secret to cracking the DILR section in CAT?

 

The strategy is quite similar to preparing for any other section:

•Start Small: Begin with basic puzzles that encourage unconventional thinking. Aim to solve at least one puzzle a day from different sources like GitHub, Shakuntala Devi’s books, or even Sudoku. These activities train your brain to approach problems from multiple angles, which is critical in DILR. One key ability you develop through this practice is generating multiple scenarios based on the given conditions.

•Take Bigger Steps: Progress to solving full DILR sets independently. Over time, you will familiarize yourself with different types of sets and learn to recognize common traps set by test makers. Often, the main challenge is figuring out “Where do I start?”— and regular practice will help you build the instincts to find that starting point. Previous Year CAT Questions (PYQs) are excellent resources for this.

•Learn and Analyze: Focus equally on solving and analyzing your approach. Even if you solve just one set daily, ensure you thoroughly understand the key takeaways. This will sharpen your interpretation and analytical abilities, helping you connect the dots more quickly during the exam. Successful DILR solving is all about applying the correct logic and identifying the essential pieces of data.

•Develop a Mock Test Habit: Start with topic-specific tests of moderate difficulty, then gradually move on to more complex sets and full sectional tests. In mocks, read each question carefully. If you are unsure about how to proceed with a set, move on without wasting time. Your strategy for each set should be fine-tuned through detailed analysis of your mock performances.

Final Tip:

Consistent practice, deep analysis, and a flexible thinking approach are your keys to success in DILR.

Good luck with your preparation!

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