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CAT Aspirant's Triad: Mastering Quadratic Equations, Introduction to Cubes, and Tenses All in One - Day 14
Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Sep 19, 2024 03:22 PM IST | #CAT
With the CAT 2024 exam date approaching, you may be confused about how to study effectively in just 2 months, what strategy to use, and the best sources for theory and practice. Questions about whether you can crack the CAT in 2 months, how much CAT preparation time is needed, and the best study plans are common. You might also be considering a 2-month crash course.
This Story also Contains
- Part-1: Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2024
- Part 2: CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation:
- Part-3: CAT Exam VARC
- Free PDFs for CAT 2024 preparation
For Day 14 of our CAT preparation, we’re focusing on Quadratic Equations questions. This article will help you practice and understand different types of Quadratic Equations that frequently appear on the exam.
Following the 60-day CAT exam preparation schedule we’ve provided will keep you on track with a structured plan. We’ve already covered strategies for Algebra (Linear Equations ), Direction ion (Logical Reasoning), and Future Tenses on Day 13. Today, we’ll dive into quadratic equations to further enhance your preparation.
Part-1: Quantitative Aptitude for CAT 2024
Topic: Quadratic Equation (Algebra) And Quadratic Equation Questions For CAT
Quadratic Equations are the equations with degree 2. Quadratic Equations are an important part of Algebra as well as for the CAT exam. You can expect 1 or 2 algebra questions for the CAT Exam (based on analysis of previous year's question papers).
Quadratic Equations are of the form of ax2 + bx + c =0.
Here ‘x’ denotes variables (unknown) and a, b, and c are constants and a≠ 0.
To prepare CAT Quadratic Equations questions, you should invest 4-5 hours. Here we will discuss the quadratic equation CAT questions, quadratic equation formula, quadratic equation solutions, roots of quadratic equations, Quadratic Equations examples etc.
Quadratic equation problems for CAT can be categorised into the following types:
Questions that involve calculations of some unknown variable.
Questions that involve calculations of the nature of roots.
Formation of the quadratic equation.
CAT 2025: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages
Comprehensive CAT prep guide with focused practice on Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
Download NowHow to solve quadratic Equations problems for CAT and quadratic equation questions for CAT.
There are three methods which are generally used to find the roots (zeros) of a quadratic equation.
Method of factorization
Example: 2x2 + 5x + 3 = 0
⇒ 2x2 + 2x + 3x + 3 = 0
⇒ 2x(x + 1) + 3(x + 1) = 0
⇒ (x + 1) (2x + 3) = 0
⇒ x = -1 or x = -3/2.
This method is suitable only if factors of the quadratic polynomial are possible.
Quadratic Formula (Sridharacharya Formula)
For equation ax2 + bx + c =0.
x = [-b ± √D] /2a
where D is discriminant which is equal to (b2 - 4ac).
Example: 2x2 + 5x + 3 = 0
D = 52 - 4 x 2 x 3 = 1
x = [-5 ± √1] /4 = [-5 ± 1] /4
⇒ x = -1 or -3/2.
Method of completing the square:
Convert the given equation in the form of either (A+B)2 or (A-B)2
Example:
2x2+ 5x + 3 = 0
⇒ x2 + 5x/2 + 3/2 = 0
⇒ x2 + 2 x 5x/4 + 25/16 – 25/16 + 3/2 = 0
⇒ (x + 5/4)2 – 1/16 = 0
⇒ (x + 5/4)2 = 1/16
⇒ (x + 5/4) = ± ¼
⇒ x = ± ¼ - 5/4
⇒ x = -1 or -3/2
CAT quadratic equation questions with solutions:
The two Previously Asked Questions from Quadratic Equations in the CAT exam are given below, aspirants can also download the CAT Previous Year Algebra Questions pdf for more practice and references.
Q.1. Suppose one of the roots of the equation ax2 - bx + c = 0 is 2 + √3, where a, b, and c are rational numbers and a ≠ 0. If b = c3 then |a| equals [CAT question paper - 2021]
2
3
4
1
Solution: (a)
For a quadratic equation, ax2 + bx + c = 0.
Since the roots, a, b, and c are all rational and if one of the roots is irrational, the other root of the equation will also be irrational and a conjugate of the first root.
So, the other root is 2 - √ 3.
Sum of roots = −(-b)/a = b/a = (2 + √ 3) + (2 - √ 3) = 4
And Product of roots = c/a = (2 + √ 3) (2 - √ 3) = 4 - 3 = 1
But here the quadratic equation is ax2 - bx + c = 0.
Therefore, b = 4a and c = a
It is given that b = c3
4a = a3
So, a = 2 or -2.
So, |a| = 2.
Q.2. Let m and n be positive integers, If x2 + mx + 2n = 0 and x2 + 2nx + m = 0 have real roots, then the smallest possible value of m + n is [CAT Question Paper 2020]
8
6
5
7
Ans: (b)
CAT 2024 quadratic equations questions with answers
For real roots b2 ≥ 4ac
From first equation: m2 ≥ 4 (2n)
⇒ m2 ≥ 8n
From second equation: (2n)2 ≥ 4m
⇒ 4n2 ≥ 4m
⇒ n2 ≥ m
If n = 1; m2≥ 8; m ≥ 3
If m ≥ 3 at n = 1, n2 ≥ m is not true.
If n = 2; m2 ≥ 16; m ≥ 4
If m ≥ 4 at n = 2, n2 ≥ m which is a valid result, if m = 4 and n = 2
So, the minimum sum of m and n is 4+2 = 6.
Q.3. The sum of twice a number and thrice its reciprocal is 25/2. What is the number?
(a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 5 (d) 4
Ans: (b)
Given: The sum of twice a number and thrice its reciprocal is 25/2.
Let the number be x.
According to the question,
⇒ 2x + 3/x = 25/2
⇒ 4x2 + 6 = 25x
⇒ 4x2 – 25x + 6 = 0
⇒ 4x2 – 24x – x + 6 = 0
⇒ (4x – 1)(x – 6) = 0
⇒ (4x–1) = 0 or (x–6) = 0
⇒ x = 6 or ¼
After checking the options, we get, x=6
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Q.4. If (x – 2)(x – p) = x2 – ax + 6, then the value of (a – p) is:
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 3
Ans: (c)
Given: (x – 2)(x – p) = x2 – ax + 6
⇒ x2– px – 2x + 2p=x2 – ax + 6
⇒ x2 – (p + 2)x + 2p=x2 –ax + 6
By comparing both sides of the equation,
p + 2 = a
⇒ a – p = 2
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
Q.5. If x2 + y2 + 2x + 1 = 0, then the value of x31 + y35 is:
(a) –1 (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 0
Ans: (a)
Given:
x2 + y2 + 2x + 1 = 0
⇒ x2 + 2x + 1 + y2 = 0
⇒ (x+1)2 + y2 = 0
Since the addition of the squares of the two terms is zero,
So, both the terms are individually zero.
Therefore, (x + 1)2 = 0 and y2 = 0
⇒ x = –1 and y = 0
Now, x31 + y35
= (–1)31 + (0)35
= –1
Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
Prerequisite to Solve Quadratic Equation Questions For CAT
For this topic, students must have knowledge of
Degree of Polynomials and zeros of a polynomial.
Tips to Prepare CAT previous year quadratic equations questions:
Learn all the methods of solving Quadratic Equations and use those methods according to the situation.
If the sum of zeros of a quadratic equation is ‘s’ and the product of zeros is ‘p’. Then the quadratic equation will be x2 - sx + p = 0
The nature of zeros is calculated by just finding the value of D.
If D = 0, zeros/ roots are real and equal.
If D > 0, zeros/ roots are real and unequal.
If D < 0, zeros/ roots are imaginary.The sum of the roots = -b/a; Product of roots = c/a.
Always check for the feasibility of solutions.
References to Study (Theory):
How to Prepare Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma (6th edition)
2iim (You-Tube)
References to Study (Practice) Quadratic Equation Problems For CAT:
NCERT Class 9-10
https://iim-cat-questions-answers.2iim.com
Part 2: CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation:
Questions based on cubes play an important role in CAT. Here we will discuss cube CAT questions, Cube Logical Reasoning questions, cube logical reasoning tricks etc.
Topic: Cube Part-1 (LR) And CAT Questions On Cubes
A cube is a 3-D figure which consists of 6 faces, 12 edges, and 8 vertices.
CAT questions on Cube are based on the following concepts:
Painted surface
Opposite faces
Consecutive faces
Number of cuts to make smaller cubes of equal dimension
Approaches and Tips to Solve Cube Questions Logical Reasoning:
If all the faces of a cube (n x n x n) painted with the same colour are cut into (n x n x n) equal parts.
Number of cubes with 3 faces painted = 8 cubes
Number of cubes with exactly 2 faces painted = (n-2) x 12
Number of cubes with exactly 1 face painted = (n – 2)2 x 6
Number of cubes with 0 faces painted = (n-2)3
You can assume your room is a cube to analyze the situation.
You can use the approach of the open cube to solve the question.
Six faces can be seen like this
(1,6), (2,4), and (3,5) form opposite pairs.
Adjacent faces to face 3 are 1,2,4 and 6. Similarly, we can find the others.
Number of cuts to small cubes of equal size (n) from a larger cuboid of dimension (a x b x c) = (a/2 -1) + (b/2 -1) + (c/2 -1)
Questions that can help you to build the concept of Cubes (Based on CAT EXAM):
An Iron cube is coloured black on four adjoining surfaces while the opposite sides are coloured red. The cube is then cut two times vertically and four times horizontally at right angles. Based on the same answer to the next question.
Q.1. How many cubes (cuboids) have exactly one face coloured black?
1
2
3
4
Ans: D
One cube/cuboid at each black face has exactly one face black colour.
Q.2. How many cubes/cuboids have only one face painted that too in red?
2
3
4
5
Ans: A
The cube/cuboid with each red face has exactly one face red coloured.
Q.3. How many cubes/cuboids have more than 2 sides painted?
2
4
6
8
Ans: D
More than two faces painted means 3 faces painted i.e. a number of cubes formed at each corner.
Prerequisite to solve Cube And Cuboid Questions:
To Prepare the questions based on Cube, students must have the knowledge of
This topic requires basic calculations
Imagination
Analytical Approach
References to Study (Theory):
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R S Aggarwal. (Basic)
Cat preparation-iQuanta (YouTube Channel)
References to Study (Practice):
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R S Aggarwal. (Basic)
LRDI for CAT and GMAT by Nishit K Sinha. (Advance)
Previous Year's Question Papers
Part-3: CAT Exam VARC
Topic: How to solve problems of sentence correction based on Tenses.
In previous articles, we have made strategies to prepare tenses. Today we are going to discuss how to solve problems of sentence correction based on Tenses. Also, we will explain error correction based on tenses, grammatical error correction, error correction examples etc.
Errors in sentences can be due to any of the following reasons:
Confusion in present tenses
Confusion in past tenses
Confusion in future tenses
Use of the wrong verb
You have to identify which type of error is there in the sentence and prepare them accordingly.
Practice Questions on Sentence correction that can boost your preparation: [Based on PYQs]
CAT Verbal Ability Questions
Here are some CAT verbal ability questions curated for aspirants to practice:
Find the correct phrase for underlining.
Q.1. The glass of the car broke while the players were playing football.
Broke
Was broken
No correction is required
Was broke
Ans: a
The action was done in the past but the time is not known. So, Past indefinite tense is used.
Q.2. I will be meeting you in the morning.
Meet
Meeting
No correction is required
Met
Ans: (a)
Future indefinite tense should be used.
Q.3. Preeti attended dance class every Thursday.
Attends
No correction required
Is attending
Will attending
Ans: (a)
Action is in the present time at a regular interval of time. Present indefinite should be used.
Q.4. Rani was playing when her father entered the room.
Played
No correction required
Plays
Is playing
Ans: (b)
Past continuous tense is to be used as the other sentence is in Past indefinite tense.
Q.5. It had stopped raining when I was leaving the office.
Leave
Was leaving
Left
Leaves
Ans: (c)
Past perfect tense should be used as the first phrase in the past perfect tense.
Prerequisite to solve problems of sentence correction based on tenses:
Basic Knowledge of Nouns, Pronouns and Verbs.
Basic knowledge of Tenses.
Knowledge of the use of helping verbs.
Tips to Prepare Error Correction in Tenses:
Practice a lot to improve your grammar.
Write rules and revise them on a regular basis.
During the examination, check on every possibility of error.
Attempt Mock-Test papers and solutions after the test to check your mistakes.
References to Study (Theory):
Advanced English grammar by Wren and Martin
GMATPrepNow (Youtube Channel)
References to Study (Practice):
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension for CAT by Meenakshi Upadhyay and Arun Sharma (9th Edition)
Practice CAT Sample Question Papers.
Free PDFs for CAT 2024 preparation
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Questions related to CAT
Have a question related to CAT ?
Hi aspirant,
- In general, PUMBA (Pune University's Department of Management Sciences) requires a higher CAT percentile, usually between 94 and 96.
- Nevertheless, final selection is based on a comprehensive process that includes your CAT score (which usually carries 50% weightage), performance in the Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds (30% weightage), academic record (10% weightage), and work experience (10% weightage).
- Even though your CAT score is strong, a strong performance in the subsequent selection rounds will be essential for admission.
- It is recommended to contact the institution directly for latest and up-to-date information.
You can refer to the link attached above for more information on the same.
All the best!
Rajeswari Dey 27 May,2025
Hi aspirant,
- Vadodara is an MHT CET exam center located outside of Maharashtra .
- This makes it easier for Gujarati applicants to take the exam.
- When completing your MHT CET application form, you will have the option of selecting your chosen exam centers , including those situated outside of Maharashtra.
You can refer to the link given above for more information on the same.
All the best!
Rajeswari Dey 25 May,2025
Hello dear,
The CAT exam requires a significant amount of time for preparation, including brushing up on basic concepts and practicing advanced problem-solving. Starting too early can feel overwhelming and may not be sustainable with other academic commitments.
The CAT exam requires a level of focus and maturity that is not always present in class 9. Starting preparation at this stage can be challenging to maintain. At class 9, you're primarily focused on learning foundational concepts. So you just need to boost your fundamentals by practicing more and more at class 9 because the Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT syllabus includes all the topics of Mathematics from Class 9 to 10 such as Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Mensuration.
Start Preparation 12 Months Prior:
- Begin your CAT preparation around 12 months before the exam date.
- Dedicate 5 to 6 hours daily for studying, focusing on smart work rather than just hard work.
Identify Weak Sections:
- Recognize your weak section at the start of your preparation.
- Allocate more time and attention to improving your weak areas while maintaining practice in all sections
I hope you got your answer, That's all Thank you.
Rajeswari 22 May,2025
IIFT CAT Cutoff 2024
IIFT Delhi
General: 95–98 percentile
OBC: 90+
SC: 85–95
ST/PwD: 75–93
IIFT Kolkata
General: 85–95 percentile
OBC/SC/ST: 50–95 (varies)
Note: Final selection also includes WAT, GD, PI, academics, and work experience.
harsh singh 21 May,2025
To prepare for CDS, CGL, and CAT during graduation, create a clear study schedule focusing on basics, reasoning, and aptitude. Practice daily mocks, improve time management, and stay consistent. Balance college and preparation with discipline and regular revision.
Sujal Singh 20 May,2025
Popular CAT Questions
Directions for question :
M/s Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, one of the top four audit and accounting firms in the world with headquarters at London, UK, and with an operational presence in 153 countries, hires Management Trainees (MT) from all the premier management institutes of India thrice every year, in the months of January, May and September.
Each new group of Management Trainees (MT) have to go through a four month rigorous training schedule, after which they have to pass through a test consisting of a written assessment and a case-analysis. The top hundred ranked Management Trainees (MT) based on the performance in the test are confirmed as Management Executives (ME). The rest are given the opportunity of undergoing the training for four months one more time along with the next batch of Management Trainees (MT) and then passing through the subsequent test consisting of the written assessment and case-analysis. The Management Trainee (MT) who fails to get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the second time is fired.
The scatter-graph below depicts the number of Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte taking the tests from January 2020 till May 2022, and the vis-à-vis hired Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte who were fired :
It is also known that for the month of September 2019 at Deloitte, 96 hired Management Trainees (MT) failed to be confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the first time, and that 36 hired Management Trainees (MT) were fired.
Question :
In which test did the minimum number of Management Trainees (MT) get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) in the second attempt ?
Option: 1
September 2020
Option: 2
May 2021
Option: 3
January 2021
Option: 4
January 2022
Directions for question:
The bar-graph given below shows the foreign exchange reserves of Nepal (in million Rupees) from 2014 to 2021. Answer the following questions based on the graph :
Question:
What was the percentage increase (rounded to the nearest integer, if deemed necessary) in the foreign exchange reserves in 2020 over 2016 ?
Option: 1 None
Option: 2 None
Option: 3 None
Option: 4 None
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