CAT Success Roadmap: Navigating Time and Work, DILR miscellaneous questions, and solving RC CAT PYQs - Day 29

Part-1: CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Preparation

Mastering Time and Work questions is essential for scoring well in the Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT 2025. These questions test your ability to calculate efficiency, ratios, and combined work using logical steps and smart shortcuts.

CAT Time and Work CAT Questions

Students can also take references from the time and work questions pdf for more practice on this topic. Time and Work aptitude questions can be bit tricky but is easy to learn as well. Students should have a clear understanding of the concepts and formulas for the topic.

CAT Syllabus 2025: Important Concept/Formula Used in CAT time and work questions:

1. Individual work time is given and time taken if working together is asked. (For an equal amount of work)
   1/T=1/A+1/B+1/C+…
   
   T is the time taken by all when working together
   A is the time taken by A when working alone
   C is the time taken by C when working alone
   B is the time taken by B when working alone

2. A group of few members with the same efficiency is working together, then
   M1. D1.R1/W1=M2. D2.R2/W2
   M1, M2 are the number of person
   D1, D2 time taken by M1 and M2 respectively.

R1, and R2 rate of doing work of M1 and M2 respectively.
W1, and W2 amount of work done by M1 and M2 respectively.

3. Concept of Negative work: Work done by emptying tape/Cistern is taken as negative work in the questions of pipes and cistern.

4. Efficiency is equal to Total work divided by the time taken.

Previous Year CAT Questions On Time And Work

Below listed are some Time and Work CAT previous year questions for students to learn and grasp the concepts and can also know the level and type of questions given in the examination. There are some Time and Work difficult questions as well listed below which can be helpful for students for reference:

Q1. At their usual efficiency levels, A and B together finish a task in 12 days. If A had worked half as efficiently as she usually does, and B had worked thrice as efficiently as he usually does, the task would have been completed in 9 days. How many days would A take to finish the task if she works alone at her usual efficiency? [CAT exam: 2019]

1. 18

2. 36

3. 24

4. 12

Answer: [1]

Let the efficiency of A and B is x and y respectively.

Then, according to the first condition;

Total amount of work = (x+ y) 12

If A had worked half as efficiently as she usually does, and B had worked thrice as efficiently as he usually does

Total amount of work = (x/2 + 3y) 9

Both works should be equal,

So, (x+ y) 12= (x/2 + 3y) 9

On solving, x = 2y

Let A will take D days if she works alone;

Total work = xD = (x+ y) 12

Put x = 2y in the above equation;

2y D = (2y + y) 12

On solving, we get D = 18 days.

Q2. When they work alone, B needs 25% more time to finish a job than A does. They two finish the job in 13 days in the following manner: A works alone till half the job is done, then A and B work together for four days, and finally B works alone to complete the remaining 5% of the job. In how many days can B alone finish the entire job? [CAT exam: 2018]

1. 16

2. 20

3. 22

4. 18

Solution: [2]

Since B took 25% more time than B

Let A and B finish a job in 4x and 5x days respectively.

45 % of the work was done by A and B together in 4 days since A did 50% of the work and B did 5% work alone.

Therefore, A and B together can finish the 100% job in 4x 100/45 = 80/9 days.

So,

4x.5x/4x+5x=80/9

On solving, we get x = 4.

So, B alone can finish the job in 20 days.

Important Concepts to Solve Time and Work Questions

Time and Work questions in the CAT test your understanding of efficiency, ratios, and logical thinking. Knowing the right concepts and formulas can help you solve them quickly and accurately, especially under time pressure during the exam.

Work = Time × Efficiency
This is the base formula for most questions. If a person can do a task in 5 days, their efficiency is 1/5 of the work per day.

Unit Work Method
Assume total work as a unit (usually 1 or a common multiple) to simplify calculations. This helps in comparing the work done by multiple people or machines.

HCF LCM Approach
Take the LCM of the given days to assume total work units. This makes the division of work and combined efforts easier to calculate.

Efficiency Ratio
If A is twice as efficient as B, then A’s one-day work is 2 times that of B. Use such ratios to distribute workload and calculate time.

Work and Wages
If multiple people work together and get paid, their wages are distributed in the ratio of work done by each. Calculate individual work contribution first.

Pipes and Cisterns (Variation)
Pipe filling or emptying tanks follows the same logic as Time and Work. Inlet = positive work, outlet = negative work. Combine rates to get the net flow.

Alternate Days Work
In some questions, two people work on alternate days. Calculate work done in 2-day cycles, then scale up based on the total days or remaining work.

Tips and Tricks for CAT Time and Work questions

1. Total work can be taken as LCM of time taken by all the individuals.

2. Dividing questions concept-wise may help in preparation.

3. Time taken by A and B is x days and y days, then the efficiency of A and B will be in the ratio of y: x.

4. The wages for any amount of work are directly proportional to the amount of work.

5. Questions about Pipes and Cisterns are solved by using the concept of Time and Work.

6. Total Work = Efficiency x Time taken.

7. Time taken by A and B is x days and y days, then both together will finish the work in xy/(x+ y) days.

CAT study material: References to Study Theory

• How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma (7th Edition: Page No 309- 314)

• Rodha (YouTube, Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oApzHGJNx38)

CAT study material: References to Practise Time and Work Aptitude Questions

• Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT – Sarvesh Verma.

• CAT Previous years questions Solutions by MBA Pathshala (YouTube)

• (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbcKt9CK2jU)

Part 2: CAT 2025 Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

CAT previous years questions Comprehension (RC for CAT):

Eight friends: Ajit, Byomkesh, Gargi, Jayanta, Kikira, Manik, Prodosh and Tapesh are going to Delhi from Kolkata on a flight operated by Cheap Air. In the flight, sitting is arranged in 30 rows, numbered 1 to 30, each consisting of 6 seats, marked by letters A to F from left to right, respectively. Seat A to C is to the left of the aisle (the passage running from the front of the aircraft to the back), and seats D to F are to the right of the aisle. Seats A and F are by the windows and referred to as Window seats, C and D are by the aisle and are referred to as Aisle seats while B and E are referred to as Middle seats. Seats marked by consecutive letters are called consecutive seats (or seats next to each other). A seat number is a combination of the row number, followed by the letter indicating the position in the row; e.g., 1A is the left window seat in the first row, while 12E is the right middle seat in the 12th row.

Cheap Air charges Rs. 1000 extra for any seats in Rows 1, 12 and 13 as those have extra legroom. For Rows 2-10, it charges Rs. 300 extra for Window seats and Rs. 500 extra for Aisle seats. For Rows 11 and 14 to 20, it charges Rs. 200 extra for Window seats and Rs. 400 extra for Aisle seats. All other seats are available at no extra charge.

The following are known:

The eight friends were seated in six different rows. They occupied 3 Window seats, 4 Aisle seats and 1 Middle seat. Seven of them had to pay extra amounts, totalling Rs. 4600, for their choices of seats. One of them did not pay any additional amount for his/her choice of seat.

Jayanta, Ajit and Byomkesh were sitting in seats marked by the same letter, in consecutive rows in increasing order of row numbers; but all of them paid different amounts for their choices of seats. One of these amounts may be zero.

Gargi was sitting next to Kikira, and Manik was sitting next to Jayanta.

Prodosh and Tapesh were sitting in seats marked by the same letter, in consecutive rows in increasing order of row numbers; but they paid different amounts for their choices of the seat. One of these amounts may be zero. [CAT exam: 2017 Slot-2]

Q1. In which row was Manik sitting?

1. 10

2. 11

3. 12

4. 13

Q2. How much extra did Jayanta pay for his choice of the seat?

1. Rs. 300

2. Rs. 400

3. Rs. 500

4. Rs. 1000

Q3. How much extra did Gargi pay for her choice of the seat?

1. 0

2. Rs. 300

3. Rs. 500

4. Rs. 1000

Q4. Who among the following did not pay any extra amount for his/her choice of the seat?

1. Kikira

2. Manik

3. Gargi

4. Tapesh

Solution:

CAT Tip 1: Use the Initial letter for each name

CAT Tip 2: Write Concrete information

1. 8 friends, six different rows, 3 window seats, 4 Aisle seats, 1 middle seat.

2. 7 paid extra amounts of Rs 4600 (Total)

3. J, A, and B are in consecutive rows with increasing numbers paid different amounts in seats marked by the same alphabet. So, the only possibility is rows 10, 11 or 12. All three Aisle or all three windows.

4. P and T were sitting in seats marked by the same letter, in consecutive rows in increasing order of row numbers; but they paid different amounts for their choices of the seat. One of these amounts may be zero.

Possibilities: 1 and 2 or 13 and 14 or 20 and 21. If JAB took window seats, they would take Aisle Seats and vice versa.

5. Gargi was sitting next to Kikira, and Manik was sitting next to Jayanta.

CAT Tip 3: Look for all the possibilities

Case 1: J, A, and B took Window seats

P, and T will take Aisle seats

If J is in the Window seat, then Manik (Row 10) must be in the middle seat.

G, K must be in two Aisle seats

Now, look for extra cost; for window seats of J, A, B = 300 + 200 + 1000 = 1500

For P, T: (Aisle Seats)

There are three Possibilities again

If G and K sit in row either 1 or 13, the extra cost will be Rs 2000. In this case total extra cost will be either less than 4600 or greater than 4600.

If G and K sit in rows other than 1 and 13, maximum extra cost will be Rs 1000; In this case total of extra amount will be less than 4600.

Therefore, this case is not possible.

Case 2: J, A, B took Aisle seats

P, T will take Window seats

If J is in the Aisle seat, then Manik (Row 10) must be in the Aisle seat.

G, K must be in middle seat and window seat (Interchangeable)

Now, look for extra cost; for Aisle seats of J, A, B and M = 500 + 400 + 1000 + 500 = 2400

For P, T: (Window Seats)

There are three Possibilities again

If G and K sit in row either 1 or 13, the extra cost will be Rs 2000. In this case, total extra cost will be equal to 4600 if P and T are in rows 20 and 21.

If G and K sit in rows other than 1 and 13, the extra cost cannot be 4600.

CAT Tip 4: Draw Final Table

Answers:

Q1. (1)

Q2. (3)

Q3. (4)

Q4. (4)

CAT entrance exam: Prerequisite:

1. The basics of LR include Direction Sense, Blood Relation, and Ranking.

2. Selection, Distribution and Arrangement-based Puzzles

Tips to Solve CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Questions

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) in CAT is all about smart thinking, pattern recognition, and time management. With regular practice and the right approach, you can handle complex sets confidently and boost your overall CAT score.

1. Understand the Question First, Don’t Rush

Before jumping into calculations, carefully read the entire set and instructions. Understand what the question is asking, identify variables, and note any constraints. Misreading one line can lead to the wrong path, wasting time and effort.

2. Choose the Right Sets to Attempt

You don’t have to solve all the DILR sets. Pick the ones that seem familiar or less time-consuming. Sometimes the easiest set is at the bottom. Quickly scan all sets in the beginning and make smart selections.

3. Practice Different Set Types Regularly

DILR questions can include tables, bar graphs, puzzles, seating arrangements, and more. Regularly practice a mix of these formats to build flexibility. This ensures you don’t get stuck if the pattern changes in the actual exam.

4. Improve Calculation Speed and Accuracy

Strengthen your mental math and learn shortcuts for common operations like percentages, ratios, and averages. Use approximation where needed and double-check your values. Fast and accurate calculations can save precious minutes.

5. Use Rough Work Smartly

Organize your rough work neatly so you can refer back if needed. Use tables, flowcharts, or symbols to track data and logic steps. Clear and structured working helps avoid confusion and allows faster revisions if time permits.

CAT Tips and Tricks:

1. Individualise the multiple concepts used in the puzzle.

2. Individual tables are drawn for each category.

3. Use Concrete information first.

4. Consider all the possibilities.

5. Eliminate the wrong possibilities

CAT Syllabus 2025: References to Study (Theory):

1. Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R S Agrawal (Pg No 384- 388)

2. Talent Sprint (YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfYKib1GAt4&list=PLffLKBjSzxT_usagQxX6MrC_ijpTQEV1x)

CAT Syllabus 2025: References to Study (Practice):

1. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri

2. https://careericons.com/verbal-reasoning/puzzles-test/jumbled-puzzles/64-1/

3. CAT Previous years Papers and CAT Sample Papers.

Part-3: CAT Exam Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Preparation 2025

CAT Exam Important Topic: Reading Comprehension Part-5 (Solving through CAT Previous Years Questions).

CAT Previous Years Question on RC: Comprehension (RC for CAT):

Read the passage and answer the question based on it.

The end of the age of the internal combustion engine is in sight. There are small signs everywhere: the shift to hybrid vehicles is already under way among manufacturers. Volvo has announced it will make no purely petrol-engined cars after 2019...and Tesla

has just started selling its first electric car aimed squarely at the middle classes: the Tesla 3 sells for $35,000 in the US, and 400,000 people have put down a small, refundable deposit towards one. Several thousand have already taken delivery, and the company hopes to sell half a million more next year. This is a remarkable figure for a machine with a fairly short range and a very limited number of specialised charging stations.

Some of it reflects the remarkable abilities of Elon Musk, the company's founder, as a salesman, engineer, and a man able to get the most out of his factory workers and the governments he deals with... Mr Musk is selling a dream that the world wants to believe in.

This last may be the most important factor in the story. The private car is...a device of immense practical help and economic significance but at the same time a theatre for myths of unattainable self-fulfilment. The one thing you will never see in a car

advertisement is traffic, even though that is the element in which drivers spend their lives. Every single driver in a traffic jam is trying to escape from it, yet it is the inevitable consequence of mass car ownership.

The sleek and swift electric car is at one level merely the most contemporary fantasy of autonomy and power. But it might also disrupt our exterior landscapes nearly as much as the fossil fuel-engine car did in the last century. Electrical cars would of course pollute far less than fossil fuel-driven ones; instead of oil reserves, the rarest materials for batteries would make undeserving despots and their dynasties fantastically rich. Petrol stations would disappear. The air in cities would once more be breathable and their streets as quiet as those of Venice. This isn't an unmixed good. Cars that were as silent as bicycles would still be as dangerous as they are now to anyone they hit without audible warning.

The dream goes further than that. The electric cars of the future will be so thoroughly equipped with sensors and reaction mechanisms that they will never hit anyone. Just as brakes don't let you skid today, the steering wheel of tomorrow will swerve

you away from danger before you have even noticed it...

This is where the fantasy of autonomy comes full circle. The logical outcome of cars which need no driver is that they will become cars which need no owner either. Instead, they will work as taxis do, summoned at will but only for the journeys we actually need. This is the future towards which Uber...is working. The ultimate development of the private car will be to reinvent public transport. Traffic jams will be abolished only when the private car becomes a public utility. What then will happen to our fantasies of independence? We'll all have to take electrically powered bicycles. [CAT exam: 2017]

Q1. Which of the following statements best reflects the author's argument?

1. Hybrid and electric vehicles signal the end of the age of internal combustion engines.

2. Elon Musk is a remarkably gifted salesman.

3. The private car represents an unattainable myth of independence.

4. The future Uber car will be environmentally friendlier than even the Tesla.

Ans: C

CAT Tips and Tricks: Look for the idea of the passage, and the argument will be related to it.

(B) and (D) are not argumentative statements.

From the last line of the second paragraph to the third paragraph gave your answer.

Q2. The author points out all of the following about electric cars EXCEPT

1. Their reliance on rare materials for batteries will support despotic rule.

2. They will reduce air and noise pollution.

3. They will not decrease the number of traffic jams.

4. They will ultimately undermine rather than further driver autonomy.

Ans: D

CAT Tips and Tricks: Search the statements to eliminate the irrelevant options

Option A: True (4th paragraph)

Option B: True (4th paragraph)

Option C: True (4th paragraph)

Q3. According to the author, the main reason for Tesla's remarkable sales is that

1. In the long run, Tesla is more cost-effective than fossil fuel-driven cars.

2. The US government has announced a tax subsidy for Tesla buyers.

3. The company is rapidly upscaling the number of specialised charging stations for customer convenience.

4. People believe in the autonomy represented by private cars.

Ans: D

CAT Tips and Tricks: Go through options and search in the passage

the 4th paragraph makes option D correct.

Q4. The author comes to the conclusion that

1. car drivers will no longer own cars but will have to use public transport.

2. cars will be controlled by technology that is more efficient than car drivers.

3. car drivers dream of autonomy but the future may be public transport.

4. electrically powered bicycles are the only way to achieve autonomy in transportation

Ans: C

Explanation: In the last paragraph, the author says “The logical outcome of cars which need no driver is that they will need no owner either”. This means that they will become public transport.

CAT 2025: Prerequisite:

1. Fluency/Skipping in reading

2. Understanding of the phrases

3. Phrasal verbs

CAT 2025: References to Study (Theory):

1. How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT’- by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay

2. https://unstop.com/blog/reading-comprehension-for-cat

CAT 2025: References to Study (Practice):

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT’ – by Nishit K Sinha

2. CAT Previous Years Question Papers RCs

3. CAT2CET (YouTube)

CAT 2025 Ebooks by Careers360

Careers360 offers a broad set of free downloadable CAT eBooks and sample papers featuring chapter-wise practice, formulas, and exam strategies. These include comprehensive PDF guides for Quant, DILR, and VARC preparation ideal for self-study with full syllabus coverage

We will be back with CAT Preparation Day 30 tomorrow of the CAT exam preparation guide 2025 for 60 days. Do practice and be focused.