Title: CAT 21 Slot 2 DILR: Step-by-Step Solution & Strategic Approach
Content: English | Focus: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Introduction
The 21st question in the DILR section of CAT 2023 (Slot 2) tested candidates' ability to analyze a complex dataset and derive logical conclusions. This post breaks down the question, provides a structured solution, and highlights key strategies for similar problems.
Question Overview
Context: A survey recorded the number of books read by 200 employees in a company over three years (2020–2022). The data was presented in a tabular format with categories:
By Gender: Male vs. Female
By Department: HR, Tech, Sales
Yearly Breakdown: 2020, 2021, 2022
Question:
Which department had the highest percentage increase in the number of books read by female employees from 2020 to 2022?
Step-by-Step Solution
1. Data Interpretation
First, extract relevant data from the table. Example dataset (hypothetical values for illustration):
Department
Gender
2020
2021
2022
HR
Male
10
15
20
HR
Female
8
12
18
Tech
Male
12
18
25
Tech
Female
6
10
14
Sales
Male
15
20
28
Sales
Female
7
11
16
Key Focus: Female employees in each department (HR, Tech, Sales).
2. Calculate Annual Growth
For each department, compute the percentage increase in books read by female employees:
HR:
2020: 8 → 2022: 18
Growth% = [(18 - 8)/8] × 100 = 125%
Tech:
2020: 6 → 2022: 14
Growth% = [(14 - 6)/6] × 100 ≈ 133.33%
Sales:
2020: 7 → 2022: 16
Growth% = [(16 - 7)/7] × 100 ≈ 142.86%
3. Compare & Conclude
Sales has the highest percentage increase (142.86%).
Key Strategies for DILR
Focus on Relevance: Skip irrelevant data (e.g., male employees, other years).
Use Formulas:
Percentage Increase = [(Final - Initial)/Initial] × 100
Elimination: Cross-check calculations to avoid arithmetic errors.
Visual Aids: For complex tables, create quick charts or highlight trends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Confusing percentage increase with absolute increase.
Fix: Always divide by the initial value.
Mistake 2: Misreading rows/columns (e.g., selecting male data instead of female).
Fix: Double-check labels before calculations.
Mistake 3: Overlooking rounding errors.
Fix: Use exact fractions or decimal precision.
Practice Exercise
Test your skills with this similar question:
A survey tracks car sales (Sedan, SUV, Electric) by region (North, South). Which region saw the largest relative increase in Electric car sales from 2021 to 2023?
(Provide dataset or link to practice material in comments.)
Conclusion
Mastering DILR requires precision in data extraction, speed in calculations, and critical analysis. For CAT aspirants, practice with past-year papers and timed mock tests to build confidence.
Need further clarification? Drop your queries below!
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This structured approach ensures clarity and efficiency, helping candidates tackle similar questions under time constraints. Let me know if you need additional examples! 😊
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