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Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Preparation for CAT by Arun Sharma

Jul 9, 2024

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Preparation for CAT by Arun Sharma

Introduction

  • Presenter: Arun Sharma, IIM Bangalore alumnus and author
  • 22-time CAT qualifier, multiple 99.9+ percentiles, scored 100% in Data Interpretation (DI)
  • Focus: DI and Logical Reasoning (LR) for CAT

Importance of DI & LR

  • Make or break section for CAT
  • Shortest prep cycle compared to Verbal and Quant
  • Section contains 4 sets, 20 questions in total
  • Solving one set correctly gives all 5 questions within that set
  • 15 marks difference can significantly impact percentile (e.g., from 97% to 99%)

Challenges

  • 10-12 steps needed to solve one set
  • 80% of steps are basic; remaining steps present the real challenge
  • Repetitive and pattern-based barriers
  • Key to solving: Identify and overcome recurring barriers through practice

Preparation Strategy

Roadmap for Logical Reasoning

  1. Familiarization
    • Types of sets/puzzles: Arrangements, puzzles, quantitative reasoning, network diagrams, set theory, games and tournaments, cubes and dice, etc.
    • Recommended: Complete around 20 sets per type
  2. Problem Solving
    • No theory; learn through problem-solving
    • Assisted Problem Solving: Guided examples
    • Self Problem Solving: Individual practice
    • Targets: 50 sets (assisted) and 200-250 sets (self)
    • Maintain a rejection rate; focus on persistence
  3. Evaluation
    • Use mock tests and past CAT papers to assess progress
    • Increase problem-solving if performance is lacking

Roadmap for Data Interpretation

  1. Foundation in Quant Topics
    • Ensure understanding of percentages, averages, ratios, etc.
    • Start DI prep concurrently or slightly after LR prep
  2. Traditional Data Interpretation
    • Initial focus on reading and extracting data
    • Targets: 25 sets (assisted) and 100 sets (self)
  3. Logical Data Interpretation
    • Integrates data analysis and logical reasoning
    • Majority of CAT questions are of this type
    • Targets: 50 sets (assisted) and 150-200 sets (self)
  4. Evaluation
    • Assess through mock tests and past CAT papers
    • Additional sets if needed to strengthen skills

Conclusion

  • Strengthen preparation through consistent and smart practice
  • Evaluate regularly through mock tests and previous year papers
  • Preparation remains the same, adjust workload based on timeline (3-month, 6-month, or 12-month frameworks)
  • Aim: Efficient and confident solving of DI and LR sections

Full transcript