Title: CAT 2020 LRDi Slot 3: Strategic Approach to Solving Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and Digital Skills
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2020’s Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and Digital Skills (LRDi) Slot 3 segment demanded a blend of analytical rigor, speed, and precision. Here’s a structured guide to tackle this section effectively:
1. Time Management
Prioritize High-Value Questions: Allocate 30% of your time to DI sets (e.g., 4-5 graphs/tables) and 70% to LR & DS.
DI Tips:
Skim tables/charts first; note key metrics (e.g., percentages, totals).
Focus on comparative questions (e.g., "Which year showed the highest growth?").
Use approximation for calculations (e.g., round numbers to simplify ratios).
LR & DS Tips:
Tackle sequence/pattern questions early (e.g., number series, seating arrangements).
For puzzles, create mental frameworks (e.g., grids for blood relations).
2. Common LRDi Question Types & Strategies
Logical Reasoning:
LR Seating Arrangements:
Map constraints (e.g., "A sits opposite to B") using a circular diagram.
Assign positions based on fixed rules (e.g., "C is not adjacent to D").
Number Series:
Identify patterns (arithmetic, geometric, alternating).
Example: 2, 6, 12, 20, ? → Differences: +4, +6, +8 → Next: 28 → Answer: 28.
Syllogisms:
Use Venn diagrams to visualize logical implications.
Data Interpretation:
Table/Chart Analysis:
Calculate % changes: (New - Old)/Old × 100.
Compare trends (e.g., "Which product’s sales declined the most in 2019?").
Caselet DI:
Summarize data points in bullet points; link them to questions.
Digital Skills:
Binary/Hexadecimal Conversion:
Practice quick conversions (e.g., 1010 in binary = 10 in decimal).
Error-Specific Questions:
Identify common syntax errors (e.g., missing semicolons in Java).
3. Sample Problem & Solution
Question (LR):
8 people (A-H) are seated around a circular table. A sits next to B and E. C is opposite to G. D is adjacent to F. Who is seated between A and C?
Solution:
Draw a circle; place A.
B and E are adjacent to A.
C is opposite G → Place C and G across the table.
D is next to F → Remaining spots: D and F between B/E and G/C.
Final arrangement: A-B-D-F-G-C-E-A.
Answer: F is between A and C.
Question (DI):
Given a bar graph of smartphone sales (2017-2020):
Question: What was the percentage increase in sales from 2018 to 2019?
Solution:
2018 sales = 50,000; 2019 sales = 65,000.
% increase = (65,000 - 50,000)/50,000 × 100 = 30%.
4. Avoid Common Pitfalls
Overcomplicating LR puzzles: Simplify constraints first.
Mishandling DI units: Double-check if the question asks for "units" or "percentage."
DS calculation errors: Use approximations only when allowed.
5. Final Tips
Practice past papers (CAT 2019-2020) to熟悉题型.
Use answer verification tools for self-assessment.
Stay calm: Time pressure often leads to rushed decisions.
By mastering these strategies, test-takers can optimize their performance in CAT 2020’s LRDi Slot 3. For further practice, refer to official CAT mock tests and LR/DS preparation books like Crack the CAT by Arun Shukla.
This guide balances theory and actionable steps, tailored to India’s competitive exam environment. Adjust based on actual CAT 2020 question patterns.
|
