Introduction
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based test for admission into graduate management programs in India [1]. CAT is conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and is considered one of the most competitive exams in India. The exam consists of three sections – Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. The exam follows a variable sectional time limit, where candidates get 40 minutes for each section they attempt first and 20 minutes for the sections attempted later. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes.
The CAT exam is divided into three slots or sessions – Slot 1 (8:30 AM – 10:30 AM), Slot 2 (12:30 PM – 2:30 PM) and Slot 3 (4:30 PM – 6:30 PM). Candidates are randomly allotted one of the three slots during the registration process. There is an ongoing debate among CAT aspirants regarding which of the three slots is the most difficult. This article examines the key differences between the three CAT exam slots and analyzes which one poses maximum challenges for test takers.
Quantitative Aptitude
The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT tests a candidate’s math, arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data interpretation skills. It comprises around 30 questions that need to be solved in 60 minutes. This section often poses the biggest challenge for many CAT aspirants.
According to a Quora thread, “The ‘quant’ section in CAT is in fact the most easiest to crack. The reason people find it difficult is a clear lack of practice.” Source
However, many on Reddit believe the Quant section is the most difficult. As one user commented, “I think, you need to be a total genuis to score 99 percentile in quants section. It’s the hardest thing in the world!” Source
According to 2IIM, some common traps to avoid in Quant are – getting stuck on difficult questions, not having a sectional strategy, and mismanaging time. They recommend practicing a variety of questions and having an organized approach. Source
Data Interpretation
The Data Interpretation section tests a candidate’s ability to analyze and interpret charts, tables, graphs and other visual data presentations. Many candidates find this section challenging as it requires strong quantitative and analytical skills.
Data Interpretation questions typically involve pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, tables, caselets and combinations of these. Candidates need to thoroughly understand the given data, identify trends and patterns, and answer questions based on their analysis. The questions can involve calculations like percentages, ratios, averages etc. According to experts, this section is considered more difficult than Logical Reasoning in CAT.
Some strategies to prepare for Data Interpretation include:
- Practice interpreting various charts, graphs and tables to build speed and efficiency.
- Pay attention to units, labels, scales, legends to correctly understand the data.
- Create rough calculations and estimates before solving questions.
- Learn shortcuts and tricks for percentage calculations, ratios, averages etc.
- Always re-verify calculations and avoid silly mistakes.
With regular practice, strong fundamentals and good time management, Data Interpretation section can be mastered for CAT.
Logical Reasoning
The Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) section assesses the logical thinking and quantitative skills of candidates. This section consists of 34 questions which must be solved in 60 minutes. The questions require rapid thinking, analysis and sound reasoning abilities. Logical Reasoning questions test a candidate’s ability to analyze and draw conclusions from a given set of statements or premises. Some key aspects of LRDI are:
Type of Questions: The questions are usually set based or individual questions involving mental ability, analytical reasoning, logical deductions etc. Questions can be in the form of statements, courses of action, inferences based on conditions and conclusions based on given statements.
Difficulty Level: Questions range from easy and direct to inferential and complex. The level of difficulty is moderate to high. According to experts, this section requires regular practice to master (source).
Preparation Tips:
- Practice different types of reasoning questions including syllogisms, statements and conclusions, logical sequences etc.
- Improve speed and accuracy.
- Learn to identify patterns and apply quick logic.
- Avoid assumptions. Analyze each option methodically.
Overall, Logical Reasoning aims to assess the ability to think rationally, critically examine options and make analytic decisions within a short time. With regular practice, one can achieve mastery over the concepts and types of questions asked in this section.
Verbal Ability
The Verbal Ability section tests a candidate’s English language skills including vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension and verbal reasoning abilities. This section carries 34 questions and accounts for around 25% of the total CAT exam score.
Many candidates find the Verbal Ability section to be one of the most challenging in CAT. The questions test not just language skills but also critical thinking and logic. According to experts, consistently practicing reading comprehension passages and building vocabulary is key to cracking this section.
Some tips to prepare for the Verbal Ability section in CAT include:
- Read English newspapers, magazines, novels etc. regularly to improve reading speed, comprehension and vocabulary
- Practice reading comprehension passages from reputed coaching institutes
- Learn common roots, prefixes and suffixes to understand word meanings
- Revise basic English grammar rules including tenses, clauses, active/passive voice etc.
- Attempt previous year CAT question papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level
With rigorous practice and a strategic approach, it is possible to master the Verbal Ability section for CAT.
Sources:
https://www.2iim.com/howtoprepare/verbalsection
https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-improve-my-verbal-ability-for-the-CAT-examination
Reading Comprehension
The Reading Comprehension section in CAT tests a candidate’s ability to understand, analyze and interpret written information. It consists of passages followed by questions based on the passage content, intent, tone and structure.
CAT reading comprehension passages can be short (250-350 words) or long (350-450 words). Both require different reading strategies.
For short passages, it’s advisable to read the passage once thoroughly before attempting the questions. Focus on grasping the central theme and tone. Underline important points or keywords that stand out.
Long passages require a more strategic approach as you may not be able to read the entire passage at once. Skim through the passage to understand the structure and scan for keywords. Then read the questions first and search for relevant portions of the text to answer each question (Source).
Practice reading complex texts on diverse topics to build speed, accuracy and retention skills. Learn to identify key arguments, eliminate distractors and focus on the author’s viewpoints and reasoning. With regular practice, you can master comprehension of both short and long CAT reading passages.
Verbal Reasoning
One of the most challenging parts of the Verbal Reasoning section in CAT is the critical reasoning questions. These questions test your ability to analyze an argument and evaluate its logic and reasoning. According to a CAT preparation expert, “Difficulty in the CAT is in the questions and closeness in the answer options, not in the passage. You will never find a passage in the CAT that is boring or difficult to comprehend” (source).
Critical reasoning questions require strong analytical and logical thinking skills. You need to be able to break down the argument, understand the assumptions made, and identify flaws in the reasoning. Oftentimes, the answer choices may seem logical but only one choice correctly addresses the logic of the argument. You have to be able to spot subtle differences in the answer options to arrive at the right choice.
Preparation for critical reasoning involves building up your analytical skills through regular practice. Start by reading editorials, op-eds, and other argumentative writing to train yourself to critically evaluate arguments. Work through critical reasoning questions from past CAT exams to become familiar with the types of arguments and question formats. The more exposure you have to these questions, the better you will become at spotting assumptions, evaluating implications, and analyzing the logic of an argument.
Slot 1 vs Slot 2
Many CAT takers wonder if there is a difference in difficulty level between Slot 1 and Slot 2. According to the CAT Exam Analysis 2023 For Slot 1, Slot 2, Slot 3, the overall difficulty level between Slot 1 and Slot 2 was quite similar. However, some minor differences in section difficulty have been noted.
In the quantitative aptitude section, Slot 2 was considered slightly more difficult than Slot 1. Slot 2 contained more difficult arithmetic problems compared to Slot 1. However, in logical reasoning, Slot 1 had a marginally higher difficulty level.
For verbal ability, reading comprehension passages were easier in Slot 2 compared to Slot 1. But overall, the difficulty level in verbal ability was balanced between the two slots. According to test takers’ analyses, Slot 2 RC passages were more fact-based while Slot 1 had more abstract passages.
Overall, the quantitative aptitude and verbal ability sections were well-balanced in difficulty level between Slot 1 and Slot 2. While minor variations in difficulty between certain question types exist between slots, the overall exam difficulty is comparable.
Slot 2 vs Slot 3
When comparing the difficulty levels between Slot 2 and Slot 3 of the CAT exam, most experts and test takers agree that Slot 3 tends to be slightly more difficult overall. According to analysis of the CAT 2022 exam, Slot 3 was considered moderately to highly difficult, while Slot 2 was moderately difficult [1].
In particular, test takers found the Verbal Ability section to be more difficult in Slot 3 compared to Slot 2. The Reading Comprehension passages were considered more complex with difficult vocabulary in Slot 3. The Verbal Reasoning questions also appeared to be trickier in Slot 3 [2].
The Quantitative Aptitude section was on par in terms of difficulty across both slots. However, Data Interpretation was slightly tougher in Slot 3 with more calculation intensive questions. Logical Reasoning was moderately difficult in both slots [3].
Overall, Slot 3 places greater demand on verbal ability and mathematical reasoning skills. Test takers need to judiciously manage time and accuracy across sections to maximize scores. With thorough preparation, it is possible to excel in either slot.
Conclusion
In summary, the general consensus among CAT exam takers and experts seems to be that Slot 2 is considered the most difficult, especially for Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning. The main reasons cited are:
- Quantitative Aptitude in Slot 2 tends to have more calculation-heavy and time-consuming questions compared to other slots.
- The Data Interpretation sets in Slot 2 are usually considered more complex and tricky.
- By Slot 2, test takers are more fatigued which makes the questions seem harder.
- The exam pressure builds up through the day from Slot 1 to 3, making concentration difficult in Slot 2.
However, difficulty is also subjective based on an individual’s strengths and weaknesses. Some find Slot 1 most challenging as it requires test takers to start sharp. Others feel Slot 3 VARC is toughest due to mental fatigue. Overall, Slot 2 requires maximum stamina and rigorous preparation.