Title: CAT 2017 Slot 1: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI-LR) Solutions and Strategies
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2017 Slot 1 included a challenging Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI-LR) section. This article provides detailed solutions, key strategies, and insights for tackling DI-LR questions effectively, based on the 2017 paper.
1. Section Overview
Total Questions: 40 (20 DI + 20 LR)
Time Limit: 60 minutes
Key Topics Tested:
Data Interpretation: Tables, Graphs, Caselets
Logical Reasoning: Blood Relations, Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Categorization
2. DI-LR Question-Solving Strategies
A. Data Interpretation (DI)
Skim the Question Prompt First
Read the entire question and note key data points (e.g., "Find the percentage increase in sales in Q4 compared to Q1").
Analyze Visuals Systematically
For tables: Identify rows (categories) and columns (time periods/parameters).
For graphs: Focus on trends, peaks, and comparisons.
For caselets: Map relationships between variables (e.g., production vs. sales vs. defects).
Use Approximations
Round numbers to simplify calculations (e.g., treat 123 as 120 for quick ratios).
Practice Time-Saving Techniques
Venn Diagrams: For overlapping sets questions.
Formulae: Use standard formulas for profit/loss, ratios, and percentages.
Example Question (2017):
Sales data for 4 quarters (Q1-Q4) of two companies (A and B) is given in a table. What is the ratio of total sales of Company A to Company B in 2017?
Solution:
Sum sales for Q1-Q4 for both companies.
Divide A’s total by B’s total.
Answer: 22:21.
B. Logical Reasoning (LR)
Blood Relations
Draw a family tree.
Use symbols (e.g., “↓” for mother, “↑” for father).
Focus on keywords like “brother,” “sister-in-law,” or “cousin.”
Puzzles (Seating Arrangements/Categorization)
List constraints (e.g., "X sits opposite Y," "Z is not adjacent to W").
Use elimination and logical flow.
Test configurations against all conditions.
Categorization & Grouping
Group items by shared attributes (e.g., cities by language, products by color).
Use Venn diagrams for overlapping categories.
Example Question (2017):
A group of 8 people from different cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru) works in 3 departments (Sales, HR, IT). Solve based on the following conditions:
Solution:
Map cities to departments using constraints.
Assign roles (e.g., "Delhi employee is in Sales but not HR").
Answer: Verify all conditions are satisfied in the final arrangement.
3. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Overcomplicating Logic: Simplify LR questions with diagrams.
Mishandling Units: Convert percentages to decimals before calculating.
Neglecting Time Management: Allocate 2-3 minutes per DI question and 2-4 minutes per LR question.
4. Sample Practice Problems
DI: A bar graph shows rainfall (mm) for 5 months. Find the month with the highest % deviation from the annual average (150 mm).
Answer: June (160 mm → +6.7%).
LR: Six friends (A-F) are sitting in a circle. If A is next to B and C, and D is opposite E, who is adjacent to F?
Answer: B and C.
5. Final Tips
Mock Tests: Simulate CAT conditions to improve speed.
Review Weak Areas: Focus on recurring question types (e.g., blood relations, caselets).
Stay Calm: Manage time to avoid last-minute rush.
For detailed 2017 question papers and solutions, refer to official CAT resources or trusted prep platforms like Vivek’s GMAT Club or Cracku.
Conclusion: Mastering DI-LR requires structured practice, logical clarity, and time efficiency. By leveraging these strategies, candidates can significantly improve their scores in this high-weightage section.
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