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Data Interpretation (DI) on the CAT exam assesses your ability to evaluate data in various formats such as tables, charts, and graphs. Many candidates consider this portion, along with Logical Reasoning (DILR), as the most difficult due to its complexity and uncertainty. However, with the proper preparation, DI may be learned faster than other parts such as Quantitative Aptitude or Verbal Ability. With constant work and effective preparation, you can succeed in DI for CAT. In this article, we talk about tips and tricks on how to prepare for data interpretation for the CAT exam.
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Given that 40 minutes are allotted to complete the data interpretation in CAT 2024, where 5 sets of data have to be solved, the key to solving them is building familiarity and consistent practice. While the CAT exam consists of sets having data interpretation, pure logical Reasoning and a mix of both,. This article focuses on acing the data interpretation for the CAT exam. The table given below touches on CAT Data Interpretation topics that are important to crack the section.
Bar Charts | Pie Charts |
Line Charts | Pyramid Charts |
Bubble Charts | Missing Table Data |
Networks |
Each of these topics expands on ways to dissect the presented data and analyze it. Simplifying data given into easily analyzable forms is the most important skill one needs to master to crack data interpretation and, of course, use the skill to succeed as a manager later on. Strong fundamentals in certain quantitative areas will aid you in your preparation for Data Interpretation.
To crack DI in CAT, proficiency in these quantitative topics is also required:
Note: Focusing on the above-mentioned math topics at the start of your quantitative aptitude preparation can also help your DI preparation for CAT.
Check out Best Books, Study Material & Preparation Tips for CAT
Your preparation for the DI strategy can be broken down into two phases. The first phase includes the general building of concepts and strengthening fundamentals. The second phase of preparation sees you gauging what works for you and what doesn’t. The goal is to discover a winning strategy that combines speed in answering and accuracy in solving.
A maximum of 2 sets of pure DI and at least one set of logic-based data interpretation questions are expected in CAT 2024, which means the paper will not cover all the above-given topics. But you cannot afford to miss out on questions on any particular topic. Therefore, it is necessary to cover the entire breadth of topics in your initial preparation for DI. Clear the fundamentals of each concept during this phase and solve basic problems.
You can also refer to and solve the DI questions from past CAT question papers. The more questions you see about a particular topic, the better your ability to understand the data. Aim to finish a chapter in two days of study and then move on to the next. During this phase, the time you take to solve a question can be ignored.
Parallelly, improving your calculation speed is essential. Data interpretation is a game of speed. The more time you save in DI, the more time you have to give to other sets. Although a calculator will be available during the exam, you can save precious seconds by doing the calculations yourself. Some tips in this direction are
Multiplication tables up to 20 are a must-know.
Knowing the decimal values from 1/2 to 1/20 can help save time on some percentage-related questions.
Adding numbers faster, finding whole number estimates of fractions help in solving that little bit quicker.
Techniques in Vedic math for multiplications can be handy.
If you find yourself bad at basic calculation, start your preparation for DI by spending at least 30 minutes a day doing calculations with random numbers. The speed and accuracy of calculations are incredibly crucial in the CAT exam. Repetition will help with improving and getting better at calculations.
Also check: CAT Exam - Know best books to prepare for DI and LR
Once your fundamentals are in place, we begin to factor in the time taken to solve a question. Practice 3 to 4 sets (excluding the mock questions, if any) of DI questions every day with a timer. Each set should, ideally, take less than 8 to 10 minutes. Any longer, and you should bid goodbye to the set (during mocks). Fixating on a particular set can cost you the exam, which you will eventually discover during your mock writing sessions. But remember, worrying about the time isn't going to help you solve the question at hand. Instead, focus solely on the question and the time taken will automatically be shaved off.
Once your fundamentals are secure, start by giving topical tests and mocks. The crucial part isn't taking the test; it is the post-test analysis that helps you improve. See how long you spent on each of the DI sets and what you could have done differently that would have saved you time. Solve the DI sets again outside the test with a timer on.
Note: Do not brush off calculation mistakes as silly. Make a conscious effort to improve accuracy.
Ultimately, repetition is the name of the game, more so when it comes to preparation for data interpretation for the CAT exam. The more you become familiar with standard templates, the faster you synthesize the data. The more you solve, the quicker you calculate. And the more aware you are, the better your accuracy. Also, having a way with numbers will be mighty handy in acing the DI section in CAT. The aim is simple - save time here to use elsewhere.
An aura of unpredictability surrounds this section, creating an unnecessary fear/pressure that makes you put the paper on a pedestal. You need to realize that all other candidates must face the same paper, and the one who maintains equanimity will come out on top.
Try not to get intimidated by seeing voluminous data sets. Very often, these are the easiest, and the data is there to throw you off the track.
Practice questions on increasing/decreasing percentages and comparing ratios.
When solving a set in DI, do not solve the dataset entirely before moving to questions. Read the question first and do the bare minimum to be able to answer that question. Tabulate the values you have obtained during the calculation as they might help solve questions that come later.
Learn to use options to get to the answer. If comparing numbers, do not drill down to decimal places. Instead, bring them to comparable forms (fractions mostly).
Using the on-screen calculator can be helpful for lengthier calculations. Hence a few hours can be devoted to getting comfortable with the calculator. However, accurate mental calculations would be ideal for saving time.
The following data is taken after careful analysis of the previous year’s CAT question papers. All the questions from each set making a total of 60 questions are considered for this analysis.
Subject: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | |
Scatter Graphs | 5 |
Bar Graphs | 5 |
Table based DI | 5 |
Subject: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | |
6 | |
Bar Graphs | 8 |
Table based DI | 21 |
4 |
Subject: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | |
Chapter Names | Number of Questions |
Table based DI | 28 |
6 | |
6 | |
6 | |
4 |
For CAT Data Interpretation preparation, choosing the best books is crucial as they provide comprehensive coverage of various types of data sets and interpretation techniques. These books offer numerous practice exercises and detailed solutions, which help in developing analytical skills and improving accuracy. They include a wide range of problems, from basic to advanced levels, enabling you to gradually build your proficiency. Additionally, these books often contain tips and strategies for quick problem-solving and time management, which are essential for performing well in the exam. By consistently practising with these resources, you can enhance your ability to interpret data efficiently and confidently tackle the DI section of the CAT exam.
Book Title | Author(s) |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha |
A maximum of 2 sets of pure DI and at least one set of logic-based data interpretation questions are expected in CAT 2024.
Many students find DI difficult since it needs rapid thinking and good data analysis abilities. The variety of data might be difficult to understand at first, but with experience and suitable methods, it becomes simpler.
To develop your DI skills, work with different types of data on a regular basis. Concentrate on learning basic mathematical terms such as percentages and ratios. Solving practice issues and learning from mistakes can help you improve over time.
Accuracy is more crucial than speed in DI. While responding promptly to questions is beneficial, committing mistakes might lose you points. Begin by concentrating on accurately answering questions, and then concentrate on improving your speed through practice.
To score well and get comfortable with exam patterns, practicing the Mock test is very important for candidates.
Hello,
A blurry signature on your CAT admit card may raise concerns, as it could be difficult for authorities to verify your identity. However, if the rest of the admit card details, such as your photograph and personal information, are clear and accurate, it might not cause an immediate issue. It's advisable to ensure that your signature is clear during future document submissions.
But if your signature is still recognizable, even if it's slightly blurry, it should generally not cause a major issue. As long as the exam authorities can identify your signature, they may accept it. However, it's always best to ensure that all details on your admit card are clear to avoid any potential problems during the exam.
To know more about CAT admit card, visit: https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-admit-card
Hope it helps !
If you have a leg fracture and are scheduled to appear for the CAT entrance exam, it’s best to contact the CAT exam conducting authorities directly rather than the local exam center alone. CAT is managed centrally by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and they have established protocols for handling candidates with medical needs. Informing the CAT exam cell (via their official contact channels) will ensure that your request is processed appropriately and documented centrally.
You should explain your medical situation and, if needed, request specific arrangements, such as additional assistance to navigate the exam center or seating adjustments. While reaching out to the CAT exam cell, you may also inquire if additional documentation, such as a medical certificate, is required to facilitate the arrangements. Additionally, contacting the allotted test center as a secondary step could be beneficial, as the local administrators may also help with on-ground assistance.
For official contact information, refer to the CAT website’s helpdesk or contact page, which will have the latest guidelines for handling such requests. Taking these steps should ensure a smoother exam experience despite your injury.
https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/cat-eligibility-criteria
Hello aspirant,
If you signature is blur and readable or visible then it will not cause any problem but if it is too much blur or not visible then it can cause the problem. I suggest you to correct you signature at the time when correction window opens.
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Hope it helps you
Yes, you can certainly attempt the CAT exam with a fractured leg, but there are a few practical considerations to help make the experience smoother. Since CAT is a computer-based test (CBT) and requires candidates to be seated for a few hours, it's essential to ensure you’re comfortable during this time. To manage discomfort, consider arranging seating adjustments or leg support if needed. You may also need assistance getting to the exam center and moving around, as most exam centers may not allow additional mobility devices unless pre-arranged.
The CAT exam authorities generally don’t have special accommodations specifically for fractured limbs, but they do provide support for candidates with disabilities. You could reach out to the exam organizers or your designated exam center to discuss any specific needs, such as seating arrangements. Also, be mindful of pain management strategies; consult your doctor for guidance on managing pain during the exam and consider adjusting your study posture to prevent strain.
Ultimately, with careful planning and by reaching out for any necessary accommodations, it is entirely possible to successfully attempt CAT with a fractured leg.
To access your free CAT mock tests on the Career 360 app first of all enroll yourself for free mock test then , log in to your account and navigate to the "CAT Preparation" section within the app. You should see a dedicated area for mock tests where you can access and take the ones you've enrolled for.
Here are a few steps to follow:
1.Open the Career 360 app: Launch the app on your phone or device.
2.Login with your credentials: Use your registered email and password to log in to your account.
3.Access the CAT section: Once logged in, look for a section labeled "CAT Preparation" or similar.
4.Find your mock tests: Within the CAT section, you should see an option for "Mock Tests" or "Test Series." Click on it to view your available mock tests.
If you are still having problem in accessing free cat mock test contact support from career 360 app your problem or issue will be resolved in 24 hours and you will be able to give free mock test.apart from this you can check preparation study material on our app.
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