you just need to get your OBC certificate corrected and need to inform the CAT helpdesk about this error.
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The DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section in CAT 2025 plays a crucial role in the overall exam. The section often challenges students with its time-consuming and slightly tricky questions. As per recent CAT trends, Data Interpretation tends to carry a bit more weight than Logical Reasoning. Since the DILR syllabus is quite broad, going through everything can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to focus on high-priority topics based on CAT previous year question papers. In this detailed guide by Careers360, we’ll walk you through the most important topics for CAT 2025 DILR to help you optimise your study time and improve your chances of securing a high CAT 2025 score.
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Before the CAT exam day, it is beneficial for the candidates to gain a good knowledge of what they can expect in the CAT 2025 question paper. This will help them not to be surprised on the CAT exam day.
As per the latest CAT previous year question paper analysis, the difficulty level of the CAT 2025 examination is expected to be moderate. The same difficulty level was maintained in CAT 2023 as well. The candidates can expect a few easy sets, a couple of moderate sets, followed by a difficult set.
Apart from going through all the key topics in DILR for CAT 2025, the candidates should also have a very good understanding of which set to attempt. CAT time management is essential, and choosing a difficult set and not completing it can lead to the wastage of time and effort.
There is a sectional time limit in place for the CAT DILR section. The candidates are allowed 40 minutes to answer all 22 questions. Since it is a Computer-Based Test, the window closes immediately after the time is up without the provision of extra time.
As far as the CAT 2024 exam analysis is concerned, the candidates were asked 12 MCQs and 10 TITA (Type in The Answer) questions without options.
The candidates can also expect almost the same division for the CAT 2025 examination as well going by the latest exam trends.
Looking at previous year CAT question papers and the recent exam trends, the expected exam pattern for CAT 2025 has been shared below. The quantitative aptitude section is likely to range from moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty. Candidates can refer to the pattern below to understand the exam structure better.
Particulars | CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus |
CAT exam time duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) & (160 Minutes for PwD) |
Name of the Section | - Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) - Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) - Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
Section-wise CAT exam time duration | - 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA) - 53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section |
Number of Questions | 68 |
Total Marks | 204 |
Mode of the CAT 2025 exam | Computer-Based Mode (CBT) |
CAT Marking Scheme | - For every right answer, +3 will be awarded - For every wrong answer in MCQs, -1 will be deducted - No negative marks for Non-MCQs |
There is no official syllabus for the CAT DILR section. But going through the CAT sample papers,and previous year question papers, we can shortlist the CAT DILR topics 2025 from which most of the questions will be asked. After the careful analysis, the syllabus and CAT mock tests is listed below for the reference of the candidates.
Games & Tournaments (Points, Knockouts, Tables)
Arrangements – Linear & Circular
Scheduling & Sequencing
Selection & Distribution
Team Assignments (Matrix Grids)
Routes, Directions & Networks
Decision Making / Logical Deductions
Analytical Reasoning Puzzles
Cubes
Visual Puzzles
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Tables
Bar Charts
Line Graphs
Pie Charts
Mixed Graphs (Bar + Table, Pie + Line)
Spider/Radar Charts
Scatter Plots
Reasoning-based DI
Caselet-based DI
The key topics in DILR for the CAT 2025 examination can be shortlisted by properly analysing the CAT previous year question papers. The candidates can make the best use of the remaining time for their CAT 2025 preparation by understanding the most important DILR sets for CAT and learning them first. Careers360 have conducted a proper analysis of the previous year CAT question papers and has shortlisted a set of the most important DILR sets for CAT. They are listed below:
In the CAT 2024 examination, 9 CAT DILR questions were asked in slots 1 and 3 under the logical reasoning section of the CAT DILR 2024 examination. 10 questions were asked under slot 2 of the CAT DILR section’s logical reasoning topic. This collectively constitutes 45% of the total CAT DILR section. Some of the important topics that the candidates should take care of under the CAT Logical Reasoning section are:
While analysing the CAT DILR previous year topics, it was observed that 2 sets of the CAT DILR section were solely focused on the games and tournaments topic. The first five questions of the CAT 2024 slot 1 examination were based on the games and tournament set. The difficulty level of this question was moderate. In the same manner, the last five questions of the CAT 2024 slot 2 examination were also asked from the games and tournaments topic. Due to the frequency with which the questions are repeating from the games and tournaments topics in the recent CAT examinations, the games and tournaments topic becomes one among the most important DILR sets for CAT.
Similar to the games and tournaments topic, 10 questions were collectively asked from both the CAT DILR slots 1 and 2, marking one of the key topics in DILR for CAT 2025. Going by the previous year's CAT question paper analysis, it can be observed that the candidates can expect a question from the routes and networks topic in the CAT 2025 examination. The questions asked under the routes and networks concepts are generally slightly more lengthy and hence, the candidates must prepare well for this section.
Among all the logical reasoning CAT 2025 topics, the logical arrangement and ordering topic is one of the most probable CAT DILR topics 2025 that is sureshot for the CAT 2025 examination. This is mainly because, under this topic, questions can be asked from topics such as:
Linear Arrangements.
Circular Arrangements
Distribution questions
Selection questions
Ordering questions
Since there are a lot of possibilities of questions that may be asked in the logical arrangement and ordering section, this is a very important CAT DILR topic and must be prioritised during the candidate’s CAT DILR preparation.
Quant-Based Logical Reasoning in CAT involves reasoning problems that are grounded in numerical and mathematical logic. These sets often include topics like number series, age problems, time and work, time-speed and distance, clocks, calendars, and puzzles involving mathematical operations. Unlike pure logic-based sets, these require candidates to apply arithmetic concepts along with logical thinking to arrive at the correct answers. They test both quantitative aptitude and the ability to deduce patterns or sequences logically under time pressure. Due to its multi-skill assessment type questions, examiners are keen to introduce these types of questions in the management entrance examinations. So, the candidates should consider QA based LR questions as one of the most important logical reasoning CAT 2025 topics
The CAT previous year analysis indicates that the greatest weightage of the CAT DILR section is given to the Data Interpretation section. One of the key data interpretation CAT 2025 topics that the candidates can expect in the CAT 2025 examination is a question on graphs. Similarly, there are a few most important DILR sets for CAT that the candidates should be aware of. The most important CAT DI topics are listed below after a thorough analysis of the CAT's previous year question papers.
Questions on graphs cannot be overlooked during the candidate’s DILR preparation. Graph questions are a must in the CAT examinations. While various types of graph questions may be asked in the CAT examination, a set of questions from the topic is confirmed. Some of the topics from which the candidates can expect questions under the graph concepts include:
Bar Charts
Line Graphs
Pie Charts
Mixed Graphs (Bar + Table, Pie + Line)
Spider/Radar Charts
Scatter Plots.
In the CAT 2024 examination, the graphical questions were asked from topics such as line charts, bar graphs and candlestick charts. 4 questions were asked from each slot of the CAT 2024 examination under the graph topic. The candidates can secure 12 marks in the CAT examination with efficient graph preparation. Hence, topic graphs are one among the most important DILR sets for CAT and should be prioritised during the data interpretation section preparation of the candidates.
Table-based DI questions appeared in slot 3 of the CAT 2024 examination. The candidates were asked a total of 4 questions under this topic. While it may not be as frequently asked topic as the graphs, there is a good chance that the table-based DI questions may appear in the CAT 2025 examination. Hence, the candidates are advised to solve the various questions of the table-based DI topic to enhance their CAT DI preparation.
The Quant-based DI questions are very frequently asked under the Data Interpretation section of various management entrance examinations. Quant-Based Data Interpretation in CAT involves numerical data given to candidates where they must apply mathematical concepts like ratios, percentages, and averages to analyse and answer the questions accurately. The data presented to the candidates can be in a graph, table or even passages. This type of question assesses the quantitative reasoning skills of the candidates along with their attention to detail. Making it one of the favourite CAT DILR topics 2025 for the examiners.
Now that the candidates have almost 6 months for CAT preparation, they should begin by practising the important topics of each section by following the effective CAT preparation strategies. Some of the necessary CAT DILR preparation tips that can be followed by the candidates to enhance their preparation are listed below.
Focus on understanding different types of DI sets like tables, bar graphs, pie charts, and caselets. The candidates should solve as many CAT DILR sample questions as possible.
Practice calculations involving percentages, ratios, and averages to improve speed and accuracy.
Develop the ability to quickly interpret data and spot trends or inconsistencies.
The candidates should work on their approximation skills to save time during lengthy calculations.
Solve previous year CAT DI questions to get familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Attempt sectional tests and mock exams regularly to improve time management.
The candidates must analyse their performance after each test to identify and work on weak areas.
Prioritise accuracy over speed initially, then gradually work on improving speed.
Use elimination techniques to rule out impossible options in MCQs.
Stay calm and composed during the exam to avoid silly mistakes in DI sets.
CAT DILR questions can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can solve them faster and more accurately. Here are some simple, effective tricks to help you save time and reduce errors.
Read the entire set before attempting. It helps you understand the context and choose the right approach from the start.
Break down large data sets into smaller parts. It makes analysis easier and helps in identifying useful patterns.
Use the options to your advantage. Try eliminating wrong choices instead of solving everything from scratch.
Sketch rough diagrams or tables for arrangements and puzzles. A quick visual often clears up confusion.
Don’t get stuck on one tough set. Move on and return later if time allows. Prioritise solvable sets first.
Practice mental calculations regularly. Fast approximations can give you an edge, especially in Data Interpretation questions.
When it comes to CAT preparation 2025, the candidates have a plethora of CAT preparation books to choose from. While advantageous, this can also be confusing and inexperienced candidates might choose books which may fall short of catering for the exact needs of the candidates. To help the candidates avoid this pressure and prepare well for the examination, Careers360 has shortlisted the best CAT DILR study material for the candidates.
Book Title | Author |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha |
Careers360 provides various resources for CAT 2025 preparation, such as detailed syllabus guides, topic-wise study materials, mock tests, and expert strategy articles. Candidates can access these resources through the links provided below.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions | |
CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics | |
Mastering CAT Exam: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages | |
CAT 2025 Mastery: Chapter-wise MCQs for Success for VARC, DILR, Quant | |
CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers | |
CAT DILR Questions with Solution, Download LRDI Questions for CAT | |
CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Study Material |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Practice bar graphs, line charts, caselets, and pie charts daily. Accuracy, speed, and approximation skills are key to DI.
Typically, the DILR section has 22 questions split into 4 sets. Question count may vary depending on the CAT pattern.
The DILR section tests your data interpretation and logical reasoning skills using puzzles, graphs, tables, and case-based sets.
Focus on arrangements, puzzles, blood relations, Venn diagrams, and logical sequences to improve accuracy in the reasoning section.
Start by practising the most frequently asked topics from both DI and LR. Use mock tests and previous year papers to get used to the format and time limits. Focus on accuracy first, then work on speed, and always choose sets wisely to avoid wasting time.
In DI, key topics include bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, tables, mixed graphs, spider/radar charts, scatter plots, and quant-based sets involving percentages, averages, and ratios. Graph-related questions are especially common and high-scoring.
The DILR section in CAT tests your ability to understand data and solve logical problems under time pressure. It includes 22 questions to be completed in 40 minutes and is considered both challenging and crucial for scoring well overall in the exam.
For LR, some of the most important topics include games and tournaments, arrangements (linear and circular), scheduling, binary logic, team distribution, routes and networks, and puzzles. These often appear in the exam and should be a priority during preparation.
On Question asked by student community
With a 70 percent in CAT Examination, you can go for various B-Schools or private collages. The S. K. Patel Institute of Management in Gandhinagar is an option for those who score 70-80 percent in their CAT examination or The Gujarat Institute of Management (GIM) in Goa with a cutoff of 60-80 percentage. These are the collages you can look for in Gujarat or nearby.
Collage in other regions: BA Colleges Accepting 70-80 Percentile in CAT 2025
Thank You.
Hello dear candidate,
NO. your application for CAT will not rejected for wrong gender small mistake in the OBC NCL certificate. You will be considered as an OBC candidate.
you just need to get your OBC certificate corrected and need to inform the CAT helpdesk about this error.
Hello,
Here are some top MBA colleges in India with fees under Rs. 2 lakh and their exam/cutoff details:
SIMSREE, Mumbai – Fee around Rs. 1.3–1.4 lakh for 2 years. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, MAT, ATMA. Cutoff is very high, usually 99+ percentile in CAT/CMAT.
PUMBA (Dept. of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University) – Fee around Rs. 1.2–1.3 lakh. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, ATMA. Cutoff approx. 75+ percentile in CAT, 90–95+ percentile in CMAT, high scores in MAH-CET.
TISS, Mumbai (MA HRM & other management-related programmes) – Fee around Rs. 1.7–1.9 lakh. Accepts CAT for some courses. Qualifying cutoff is around 60–70 percentile, but final selection cutoffs are higher.
These are the main government institutes where the full MBA/PG programme fee is within Rs. 2 lakh. Cutoffs vary slightly each year and by category, but SIMSREE and PUMBA generally need high scores, while TISS has its own process along with CAT shortlisting.
Hope it helps !
Hey! With a NEET score of 344 in the ST category, it is highly unlikely to get admission in any government BDS college in Delhi through the All India Quota. The cutoff for government BDS seats in Delhi usually falls around 400–450 for ST category, so your score is below that range.
You can consider private dental colleges, state quota seats in other states, or reattempt NEET next year to improve your chances.
Hello dear candidate,
YES, with NEET score 344in the ST category you have high chances of getting admission in a BDS College in J&K through JKBOPEE counselling.
check the seat availability and next participate in JKBOPEE Counselling with all the necessary documents.
Thank you.
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