IPM Exam: Section-Wise Strategy – Best Approaches for Each Section

By Career Launcher South Ex

The Integrated Program in Management (IPM) entrance exam, conducted by IIM Indore (and other IIMs like Rohtak, Ranchi, Jammu, and Bodhgaya), is a gateway to one of the most coveted undergraduate management programs in India. To crack the IPMAT (IPM Aptitude Test), aspirants must understand that this is not just another aptitude exam—it’s a test of precision, time management, and section-specific mastery.

At Career Launcher South Ex, our mission is to guide IPM aspirants with proven strategies, grounded in what works best for each section of the exam. In this detailed blog, we’ll dissect each section—Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability (VA), and Logical Reasoning (LR) (where applicable)—and provide you with section-wise strategies, expert insights, and practical methods to elevate your preparation.

Understanding the IPMAT (Indore & Rohtak): Exam Overview

IPMAT Indore

Sections:

• Quantitative Ability (MCQ)

• Quantitative Ability (Short Answer)

• Verbal Ability (MCQ)

Total Duration: 2 hours
Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect (except SA section)

IPMAT Rohtak

Sections:

• Quantitative Ability (MCQ)

• Logical Reasoning (MCQ)

• Verbal Ability (MCQ)

Total Duration: 2 hours
Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect

Why Section-Wise Strategy is Crucial

Most students falter not because they don't know the concepts—but because they treat all sections the same. The truth is, each section demands a unique mindset, pace, and approach.

Section 1: Quantitative Ability (QA)

(IPMAT Indore & Rohtak)

This is often considered the toughest section by IPM aspirants, especially with IPMAT Indore’s reputation for high-level math questions.

Key Topics to Cover

• Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, SI & CI, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work)

• Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)

• Number System

• Geometry & Mensuration

• Set Theory

• Permutations and Combinations

• Probability

• Progressions

• Functions & Graphs

• Matrices and Determinants

• Basic Calculus (rare, concept-based)

Best Strategy to Tackle QA

1. Concept > Speed Initially
   Build a crystal-clear understanding of all major topics. Without solid concepts, speed is meaningless.

2. Create a Formula Diary
   Maintain a dedicated notebook for formulas, shortcuts, and theorems. Revise weekly.

3. Master Mental Calculations
   Practice mental math daily—especially useful in DI and arithmetic-heavy questions.

4. Practice Sectional Mocks Weekly
   Use mock tests to simulate exam pressure. Pay special attention to the Short Answer section where options aren’t given.

5. Time Strategy

   • IPMAT Indore (MCQ QA): 40 minutes – attempt 14–16 with >85% accuracy

   • IPMAT Indore (SA QA): 40 minutes – target 6–8 correct

   • IPMAT Rohtak QA: 40 minutes – attempt 15–17 accurately

Common Mistakes in QA

• Spending too long on a single difficult question

• Ignoring easy arithmetic questions

• Skipping Short Answer attempts due to doubt

• Getting stuck in lengthy calculations

Section 2: Verbal Ability (VA)

(Appears in both IPMAT Indore and Rohtak)

Don’t underestimate this section—it often turns out to be the rank-decider.

Key Topics to Cover

• Reading Comprehension

• Vocabulary (Synonyms/Antonyms, Fill in the Blanks)

• Para Jumbles

• Sentence Correction (Grammar-based)

• Idioms & Phrases

• One-Word Substitution

• Analogy (less common)

Best Strategy for Verbal Mastery

1. Daily Reading is Non-Negotiable
   Read editorials from credible newspapers or journals to build vocabulary and comprehension.

2. Learn Words in Context
   Use apps or flashcards to reinforce vocabulary with context.

3. RC First or Last? Test It Out
   Try different strategies in mocks to determine what works best for you.

4. Sentence Correction = Grammar + Logic
   Focus on grammar rules like subject-verb agreement and modifiers.

5. Practice VA in Sets
   Practice complete VA sets rather than isolated questions.

Common Mistakes in VA

• Blindly guessing vocabulary

• Overthinking para jumbles

• Misreading RC due to speed

• Ignoring grammar during prep

Section 3: Logical Reasoning (LR)

(Only in IPMAT Rohtak)

Although not present in IPMAT Indore, this section is scoring with proper strategy.

Key Topics to Cover

• Coding-Decoding

• Series and Analogies

• Blood Relations

• Directions

• Syllogisms

• Logical Connectives

• Seating Arrangement

• Puzzles

• Venn Diagrams

• Statement & Conclusion

• Calendars & Clocks (occasionally)

Best Strategy for LR

1. Start With Conceptual Basics
   Focus first on simpler question types.

2. Move to Puzzles Later
   Once you’re fast with basics, introduce complex puzzle types.

3. Solve by Elimination
   Especially effective for syllogisms and conclusions.

4. Create Your Own Diagrams
   Use symbols and quick diagrams for relationship-based questions.

5. Solve Daily LR Sets
   Set a timer and aim to complete full LR sets under pressure.

Common LR Pitfalls

• Overcomplicating puzzles

• Not using diagrams

• Relying on gut feeling

• Poor time management

Mock-Test Mindset: The 3-S Strategy

Once you’re 4–6 weeks into prep, focus on:

1. Strategy
   Decide section order based on your strengths.

2. Speed
   Know the ideal pace:

   • QA: ~2 mins/question

   • VA: ~1.2 mins/question

   • LR: ~1.5 mins/question

3. Stamina
   Take full-length mocks regularly. Build endurance for the last 30 minutes.

Weekly Practice Plan (6 Weeks to IPMAT)

Sample Questions for Practice (Without Answers)

Quantitative Ability (Short Answer)

1. If the sum of a number and its reciprocal is 5, find the number.

2. A train 120 meters long passes a platform in 30 seconds at a speed of 54 km/hr. Find the length of the platform.

Verbal Ability (RC)

Passage Excerpt:
"While technology has made communication easier, it has also eroded the depth and sincerity of conversations."
Question: What is the author’s attitude toward technological advancement in communication?

Logical Reasoning (Rohtak)

1. A is the mother of B. B is the father of C. How is A related to C?

2. In a certain code, MONKEY is written as NLPMFZ. How is TIGER written in that code?

Final Tips From Career Launcher South Ex

• Customize Your Prep: Adapt your strategy based on personal strengths and weaknesses.

• Consistency > Intensity: Studying one hour daily is more effective than cramming once a week.

• Mock Analysis is Key: Don't just take mocks—analyze mistakes and patterns.

• Track Your Progress: Maintain a prep diary or performance tracker.

• Stay Balanced: Don’t over-prioritize QA at the cost of VA or LR.

Conclusion: Win the Exam, One Section at a Time

Cracking IPM is not about brute-force effort—it’s about smart, strategic preparation. By respecting the unique nature of each section and adopting proven approaches, you can elevate your preparation from “average” to “admit-worthy.”

At Career Launcher South Ex, we stand with you throughout your journey—with experienced mentors, mock-test insights, and one-on-one doubt sessions.

Prepare with a plan. Practice with purpose. Perform with confidence.