CAT Exam Analysis 2023: Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 CAT 2023 Exam Analysis

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Updated on
June 23, 2023

CAT 2023 Analysis: Exam on Nov 26 in 3 Slots; Expect 66 Questions; Check Slot Wise Analysis with Cut offs from 11 AM on Exam Day

 

CAT 2023 Exam date is November 26, 2023 and the exam will be conducted in three slots in 155+ Cities at 400+ test centres. Last year 2.56 lakh candidates had registered for CAT and 2.22 lakh appeared in the exam. It appears that CAT 2023 may witness higher number of registrations and test takers. CAT 2023 exam is being conducted by IIM Lucknow on the previous CAT pattern with minimal changes.

 

Immediately after the CAT exam gets over, MBAUniverse.com will release the CAT 2023 exam analysis slot wise. The CAT question paper duration for each of the 3 slots is of 2 hours. The exam is expected to have 66 total questions as were last year.  This change will help the test takers to maximise their score with fewer questions. MBAUniverse.com has been the first to release CAT analysis in previous years immediately after the exam was over and will release Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 CAT 2023 Exam Analysis from 11 AM onwards on November 26, 2023. 

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But before we go deep into details of CAT 2023 Exam Analysis for Slot 1, Slot 2 & Slot 3, it is important to know the CAT 2023 Exam duration, expected time to publish CAT slot wise Analysis, CAT Exam Pattern and CAT day guidelines so that you can appear in the exam stress free.

LIVE! MBAUniverse.com CAT Percentile Predictor - Check Your % in 5 Minutes 

CAT 2023 Exam: Total Questions & Duration

  • CAT 2023 Exam Date: November 26, 2023
  • CAT 2023 Total Questions and Test Duration: 66 Qs in 120 Minutes
  • Section-1 VARC Questions & Duration: 24 Question in 40 Minutes
  • Section-2: DILR Questions & Duration: 20 Questions in 40 Minutes
  • Section-3: Quant Questions & Time Duration: 22 Questions in 40 Minutes

CAT Exam Slots & Time to Release Slot wise MBAUniverse.com CAT Analysis

Below are the CAT Time slots and slot wise CAT Analysis release time by MBAUniverse.com

CAT 2023 Exam Slot
MBAUniverse.com CAT Analysis Release Time
CAT Morning Slot: 8.30 AM to 10.30 AM
11 AM
CAT Afternoon Slot: 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM
3 PM
CAT Evening Slot 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM
7 PM
Overall CAT 2023 Exam Analysis
8 PM

CAT 2023 Paper Analysis: Check Expected Exam Pattern

CAT experts at CL, IMS, MBAUniverse.com expect following structure and pattern of CAT 2023 Exam

CAT 2023 Exam Components
CAT 2023 Pattern
Test duration
   2 hrs (120 Minutes)
Test sessions/Slots
   3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)
Total questions
   66
Total score
  198
Number of Sections in CAT question paper
    3 (VARC; DILR; QA)
Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam
 40 Minutes
Total questions in VARC Section
  24
Total Questions in DILR section
  20
Total Questions in QA section
  22

CAT Paper 2023: Sectional composition

CAT paper analysis 2023 will be based on the sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section as shown below: (Sectional Number & type of questions are based on last year pattern which is likely to remain similar for CAT 2023 also)

CAT 2023 exam components
Total questions
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)
Highlights
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
19
5
4 RC Passages with MCQs; VA Non MCQs divided into Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
15
5
LR – 10 Ques
DI – 10 Ques
All in Sets of 3 & 4 Qs
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra
Total
66
 48
18
 --

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis 

What are the things to carry on CAT exam day? Check Here

You must carry the following to CAT exam centre to appear in the CAT exam, else you may not be allowed to take CAT 2023:

  • Your CAT Admit Card with photo affixed on it
  • Covid Self Declaration form duly signed
  • Mask & Gloves
  • Personal hand sanitizer (50ml)
  • Transparent water Bottle
  • 2 simple pens  

CAT 2023 Analysis by MBAUniverse.com: Key Features and Highlights

CAT exam 2023 analysis by MBAUniverse.com will consist of following:

  • CAT Exam Analysis Slot Wise will be released on the exam day 
  • CAT Analysis will reflect upon key changes in exam pattern, type of questions, scoring pattern
  • CAT 2023 Analysis will also reflect upon overall and sectional difficulty level as compared to previous years
  • The CAT Analysis will also share expected cut off score for different percentile range say 80 to 99
  • Apart from CAT Analysis by MBAUniverse.com, the CAT Analysis by top CAT coaching institutes like IMS, CL, TIME will also be published with their take on cut offs

MBAUniverse.com CAT 2023 Exam Analysis: Key Coverage Areas

MBAUniverse.com CAT 2023 Analysis Slot 1, Slot 2, Slot 3 and overall will be published immediately after the exam is over for each slot. It will cover the following:

  1. CAT Exam Pattern & key changes
  2. Variation as compared to last year in Topics, Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) 
  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2023 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise Analysis by Experts
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Sectional Cut off Predictions Slot wise for Slot-1, Slot-2 and Slot-3 as per the difficulty level
  8. Overall CAT 2023 cut offs predictions by Experts for each of the three slots to help the aspirants to assess their performance and check their call chances by top B-schools
  9. Percentile Predictions & Cut off CAT score range

Watch for detailed Overall & Sectional CAT 2023 Analysis at 11 AM on Nov 26 by MBAUniverse.com 

CAT 2023 Analysis by Top CAT Coaching Institutes & Experts -TIME, IMS, CL, Arun Sharma

MBAUniverse.com will also separately publish the CAT Analysis 2023 from top CAT coaching institutes & CAT experts like TIME, IMS, CL, Arun Sharma for all the exam slots with their take on exam difficulty level, sectional and overall changes and expected cut offs. The expected time schedule for release of slot wise CAT 2023 analysis is as given below.

CAT 2023 Slots & Expected Time of CAT Analysis Release by Top Coaching Institutes

On November 26, 2023, top CAT coaching institutes and experts - IMS, CL, TIME, Arun Sharma will share with MBAUniverse.com slot wise analysis with CAT 2023 paper difficulty level, key changes in question paper, good attempts and likely cut off score for different percentile range in the changed CAT exam pattern.  The expected time schedule for release CAT 2023 Analysis by these leading institutes and experts is shared below: 

CAT 2023 Exam Time Slots on Nov 26, 2023
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by IMS-Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by CL – Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by TIME – Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 1: 8.30 AM to 10.30 AM
12.30 PM
1.00 PM
1.30 PM
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 2: 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM
 4.30 PM
5.00 PM
6.00 PM
CAT Exam Analysis 2023 Slot 3: 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM
8.30 PM
9.30 PM
10.00 PM
Overall CAT 2023 Exam Analysis
10.00 PM
10.30 PM
11.00 PM

CAT 2023 Slot 1 Exam Analysis: At 11 AM on November 26

This analysis will cover following

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section
  2. Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions
  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2023 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2023 Cut off Predictions in Slot-1
  8. IMS CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-1
  9. Career Launcher CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-1
  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-1

CAT 2023 Slot 2 Exam Analysis: At 3.00 PM on November 26

This analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section
  2. Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions
  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2023 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2022 Cut off Predictions in Slot-2
  8. IMS CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-2
  9. Career Launcher CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-2
  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-2

CAT 2023 Slot 3 Exam Analysis: At 7.30 PM on November 26

This analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section
  2. Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions
  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2023 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2023 Cut off Predictions in Slot-3
  8. IMS CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-3
  9. Career Launcher CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-3
  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2023 Analysis Slot-3

 Comprehensive Overall CAT Exam Analysis 2023: 9 PM on November 26

This overall CAT 2023 analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section
  2. Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions
  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2023 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2023 Cut off Predictions  
  8. IMS CAT 2023 Analysis Overall
  9. Career Launcher CAT 2023 Analysis Overall
  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2023 Analysis Overall

CAT Previous Year Exam Analysis

CAT Exam Slots & Time
Below are the CAT Time slots and Exam Analysis Release time

CAT 2022 Exam Slot
MBAUniverse.com CAT Slot wise Analysis Release time
CAT Morning Slot: 8.30 AM to 10.30 AM
11 AM
CAT Afternoon Slot: 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM
3.00 PM
CAT Evening Slot 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM
7.00 PM
Overall CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
7.30 PM
CAT 2022 Slot 1 Detailed Exam Analysis Download PDF

CAT 2022 Analysis: Key Highlights

  • Total Question remain same 66 as were last year
  • Questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs): MCQ 51; Non MCQs 15            
  • Number of Non MCQs reduced to 15 from 18
  • VARC had new type of questions on fill in the blanks with sentences
  • ‘Odd Sentence Out’ questions Dropped from VARC section
  • DILR with 4 problem sets was found easier than last year

CAT Exam 2022 Overall Analysis
CAT 2022 Exam was conducted in 150+ Cities in India on November 27 in 3 slots of 2 hours duration each. As per information shared by candidates and our expert team who took the exam in Delhi NCR, this year’s CAT question paper had 66 total questions as were last year. CAT 2022 was rated as moderate difficulty level with a few questions at higher difficulty level.

CAT 2022 Slot 2 Detailed Exam Analysis Download PDF

CAT 2022 Analysis: Question Paper Pattern
The CAT 2022 Question paper with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition.

CAT 2022 Exam Components
CAT 2022 Pattern
Test duration
   2 hrs (120 Minutes)
Test sessions/Slots
   3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)
Total questions
   66
Total score
  198
Number of Sections in CAT question paper
    3 (VARC; DILR; QA)
Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam
 40 Minutes
Total questions in VARC Section
  24
Total Questions in DILR section
  20
Total Questions in QA section
  22

Source: MBAUniverse.com CAT Exam Analysis

CAT 2022 Slot 3 Detailed Exam Analysis Download PDF

CAT 2022 Exam Analysis: Sectional Composition
CAT Exam 2022 Section Wise Analysis is shared below for sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam.

CAT 2022 exam components
Total questions
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)
Highlights
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
21
3
4 RC Passages with 16 Qs; VA had 8 Qs divided in 5 MCQs & 3 Non MCQs on Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Fill in the blank of Sentence in paragraph
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
16
4
LR – 10 Ques
DI – 10 Ques
All in Sets of 5 Qs
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
High on Arithmetic. Other on Geometry, Roots, Integers, Number system, Algebra
Total
66
51
15
 --

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis  

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Sectional CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
CAT 2022 Exam Sectional Analysis for each section by experts at MBAUniverse.com is as below:

 

Key Highlights of CAT Exam 2022 Sectional Analysis

  • Each of the 3 Sections with 40 Minutes Individual Time Duration
  • Candidates Not allowed to move to next section till 40 minutes are over
  • No change in Order of Sections in CAT 2022 with Section-1 VARC, Section-2 DILR, Section-3 Quant
  • Candidates found it difficult to use CAT On Screen Calculator and preferred own calculation methodology

Section Wise CAT Analysis at a Glance:
Below is shared the section wise CAT analysis at a glance followed by detailed Sectional CAT Analysis

 

Section-1: VARC

  • Total No of Questions: 24
  • No of MCQS – 3
  • No of NMCQs – 21
  • 4 RC Passage with 16 Questions
  • New Type of VA questions to fill in the sentence in the blanks appeared
  • Odd sentence out type questions not appeared
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate with 2-3 questions difficult

Section-2: DILR

  • Total No of Questions: 20
  • No of MCQS – 16
  • Non MCQS – 4
  • LR 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • DI 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

 

Section-3: Quantitative Ability

  • Total No of Questions: 22
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 8
  • Arithmetic commanded major part

Section wise CAT 2022 Analysis in Detail
Detailed section wise CAT exam 2022 analysis is shared below:

 

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2022
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2022 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 24 Questions
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 72
  • Number of MCQs were 21
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 3 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of RC Passages: 4 passages,
  • Number of RC Based questions: 16, each passage was followed by 4 questions  
  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain and draw inference from the passages,  phrases, vocabulary,  Synonyms/Antonyms, Statement/Argument as used in RC passages,
  • Difficulty Level: Overall difficulty level was moderate. 2 RC Passages were found of a little higher difficulty level
  • Good Attempts of 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: Score of 36-40 marks

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2022
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2022 question paper. The section, which is known for its tricky language and time consuming process, was found moderate by the test takers. Key highlights of DILR section analysis in CAT 2022 are

  • DILR section had 20 Questions
  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 60 in CAT 2022
  • Number of MCQs were 16
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 4 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of DI Problems: 2 Sets
  • Number of DI Questions: Each problem set followed by 5 questions
  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on Text and Data, True and False Statements, Mathematical calculations  
  • Number of LR Problems: 2 Sets
  • Total LR Questions: 10 (5 for each problem set)
  • Type of LR Based Questions: Two problem sets and each followed by 5 questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Good Attempts of 11 to 13 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 32 to 34 marks

Section-3: Quantitative Ability Analysis in CAT 2022
Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2022 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic with highest number of Non-MCQs. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra, Integers had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs.  Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2022 were:  

  • QA section had 22 Questions in CAT 2022
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 66
  • Number of MCQs: 14
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs): 8 (Same as last year)
  • More Questions were based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to high
  • Good Attempts: 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch high percentile to clear the cut offs
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: A score of 36 to 40 marks can get 99 sectional percentile

Overall Predictions for 85 -99 Percentile: Good Attempts, Accuracy Level
The table below displays the required good attempts in CAT with Accuracy level needed for 95 -98 percentile range:

Section in CAT exam 2022
Good Attempts
Accuracy Level
Raw Score
Likely percentile in CAT 2022
Section-1: VARC
13-15
85
34-38
95
Section-2: DILR
 8-10
90
26-30
95
Section-3: QA
14-16
85
35-40
95
Overall
35-41
85
95-108
95

CAT Percentile Predictions by IMS

Percentile
Score VA-RC
Score DI-LR
Score QA
Overall Score
99.5 %ile
44
36
39
101
99 %ile
41
31
36
91
98 %ile
35
28
31
80
95%ile
29
22
24
66
90%ile
24
18
17
53
85%ile
20
15
14
45
80%ile
17
13
11
40

This year too, CAT exam witnessed Covid pandemic-related SOPs. No shoes and no metallic objects including metal jewelry were allowed. Only the admit card and the ID proof were allowed. As in the previous years, the authorities took possession of the admit cards. The candidates were given a small pad with IIM CAT Logo on the cover (32 pages) for rough work and a pen – which were also taken away at the end of the exam.  

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CAT 2022 Slot 3 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • CAT 2022 Overall Exam Difficulty Level: Moderate with few questions difficult
  • Total Questions: 66 Same as last year
  • Questions split: MCQ 51; Non MCQs 15

CAT 2022 Analysis: Question Paper Pattern
The CAT 2022 Question paper with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition.

CAT 2022 Exam Components
CAT 2022 Pattern
Test duration
   2 hrs (120 Minutes)
Test sessions/Slots
   3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)
Total questions
   66
Total score
  198
Number of Sections in CAT question paper
    3 (VARC; DILR; QA)
Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam
 40 Minutes
Total questions in VARC Section
  24
Total Questions in DILR section
  20
Total Questions in QA section
  22

 Source: MBAUniverse.com CAT Exam Analysis

 

CAT 2022 Exam Analysis: Sectional Composition
CAT Exam 2022 Section Wise Analysis is shared below for sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam.

CAT 2022 exam components
Total questions
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)
Highlights
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
21
3
4 RC Passages with 16 Qs; VA had 8 Qs divided in 3 MCQs & 5 Non MCQs on Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Fill in the blank of sentence in paragraph
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
16
4
LR – 10 Ques
DI – 10 Ques
All in Sets of 5 Qs
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra
Total
66
51
15
 --

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

Sectional CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
CAT 2022 Exam Sectional Analysis for each section by experts at MBAUniverse.com is as below:

 

Key Highlights of CAT Exam 2022 Sectional Analysis

  • Each of the 3 Sections with 40 Minutes Individual Time Duration
  • Candidates Not allowed to move to next section till 40 minutes are over
  • No change in Order of Sections in CAT 2022 with Section-1 VARC, Section-2 DILR, Section-3 Quant

Section Wise CAT Analysis at a Glance:
Below is shared the section wise CAT analysis at a glance followed by detailed Sectional CAT Analysis

 

Section-1: VARC

  • Total No of Questions: 24
  • No of MCQS – 3
  • No of NMCQs – 21
  • 4 RC Passage with 16 Questions
  • New Type of VA questions to fill in the blank of paragraph with the given sentence appeared
  • Questions in VA on Odd Sentence Out from jumbled para with 5 sentences dropped this year
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate with 2-3 RC questions difficult

Section-2: DILR

  • Total No of Questions: 20
  • No of MCQS – 16
  • Non MCQS – 4
  • LR 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • DI 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability

  • Total No of Questions: 22
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 8
  • Arithmetic commanded major part

Section wise CAT 2022 Analysis in Detail
Detailed section wise CAT exam 2022 analysis is shared below:

 

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2022
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2022 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 24 Questions
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 72
  • Number of MCQs were 21
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 3 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of RC Passages: 4 passages,
  • Number of RC Based questions: 16, each passage was followed by 4 questions  
  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain and draw inference from the passages,  phrases, vocabulary,  Synonyms/Antonyms, Statement/Argument as used in RC passages,
  • Difficulty Level: Overall difficulty level was moderate. 2 RC Passages were found of a little higher difficulty level
  • Good Attempts of 15 to 17 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: Score of 36-40 marks

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2022
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2022 question paper. The section, which is known for its tricky language and time consuming process, was found moderate by the test takers. Key highlights of DILR section analysis in CAT 2022 are

  • DILR section had 20 Questions
  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 60 in CAT 2022
  • Number of MCQs were 16
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 4 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of DI Problems: 2 Sets
  • Number of DI Questions: Each problem set followed by 5 questions
  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on Text and Data, True and False Statements, Mathematical calculations  
  • Number of LR Problems: 2 Sets
  • Total LR Questions: 10 (5 for each problem set)
  • Type of LR Based Questions: Two problem sets and each followed by 5 questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Good Attempts of 11 to 13 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 32 to 34 marks

Section-3: Quantitative Ability Analysis in CAT 2022
Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2022 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic with highest number of Non-MCQs. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra, Integers had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs.  Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2022 were:  

  • QA section had 22 Questions in CAT 2022
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 66
  • Number of MCQs: 14
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs): 8 (Same as last year)
  • More Questions were based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to high
  • Good Attempts: 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch high percentile to clear the cut offs
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: A score of 36 to 40 marks can get 99 sectional percentile

CAT 2022 official Mock Test was on lines of actual CAT test paper in terms of total and section wise questions. An arrow was provided near the question palette which expanded the question window, when clicked, to full-screen view by hiding the question palette. At the end of the test, a summary of the number of questions attempted, visited, and not visited was displayed for each section.  A button marked ‘Question Paper’ opened a screen containing all the questions of the section. This was used by students for planning their approach for the respective section.

 

CAT 2022 Analysis – Slot 2
IIM Bangalore conducted Slot-2 of CAT 2022 exam from 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM. More or less Slot 2 was like slot-1 with slight deviation in difficulty level. However, Slot-2 of CAT 2022 was also rated as moderate difficulty level exam like slot-1.  The marking scheme was +3 for every correct answer and -1 for each incorrect answer for MCQ type questions. The Non-MCQs did not carry any negative marking for wrong answer.

 

CAT 2022 Slot 2 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • CAT 2022 Overall Exam Difficulty Level: Moderate with few questions difficult
  • Total Questions: 66 Same as last year
  • Questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs): MCQ 51; Non MCQs 15            

CAT 2022 Analysis: Question Paper Pattern
The CAT 2022 Question paper with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition.

CAT 2022 Exam Components
CAT 2022 Pattern
Test duration
   2 hrs (120 Minutes)
Test sessions/Slots
   3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)
Total questions
   66
Total score
  198
Number of Sections in CAT question paper
    3 (VARC; DILR; QA)
Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam
 40 Minutes
Total questions in VARC Section
  24
Total Questions in DILR section
  20
Total Questions in QA section
  22

 Source: MBAUniverse.com CAT Exam Analysis

 

CAT 2022 Exam Analysis: Sectional Composition
CAT Exam 2022 Section Wise Analysis is shared below for sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam.

CAT 2022 exam components
Total questions
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)
Highlights
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
21
3
4 RC Passages with 16 Qs; VA had 8 Qs divided in 3 MCQs & 5 Non MCQs on Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Fill in the blank with a sentence in the paragraph
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
16
4
LR – 10 Ques
DI – 10 Ques
All in Sets of 5 Qs
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra
Total
66
51
15
 --

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

Sectional CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
CAT 2022 Exam Sectional Analysis for each section by experts at MBAUniverse.com is as below:

 

Key Highlights of CAT Exam 2022 Sectional Analysis

  • Each of the 3 Sections with 40 Minutes Individual Time Duration
  • Candidates Not allowed to move to next section till 40 minutes are over
  • No change in Order of Sections in CAT 2022 with Section-1 VARC, Section-2 DILR, Section-3 Quant

Section Wise CAT Analysis at a Glance:
Below is shared the section wise CAT analysis at a glance followed by detailed Sectional CAT Analysis

 

Section-1: VARC

  • Total No of Questions: 24
  • No of MCQS – 3
  • No of NMCQs – 21
  • 4 RC Passage with 16 Questions
  • New Type of VA questions to fill in the blank of paragraph with the given sentence appeared
  • Questions in VA on Odd Sentence Out from jumbled para with 5 sentences dropped this year
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate with 2-3 RC questions difficult

Section-2: DILR

  • Total No of Questions: 20
  • No of MCQS – 16
  • Non MCQS – 4
  • LR 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • DI 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability

  • Total No of Questions: 22
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 8
  • Arithmetic commanded major part

Section wise CAT 2022 Analysis in Detail
Detailed section wise CAT exam 2022 analysis is shared below:

 

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2022
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2022 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 24 Questions
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 72
  • Number of MCQs were 21
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 3 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of RC Passages: 4 passages,
  • Number of RC Based questions: 16, each passage was followed by 4 questions  
  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain and draw inference from the passages,  phrases, vocabulary,  Synonyms/Antonyms, Statement/Argument as used in RC passages,
  • Difficulty Level: Overall difficulty level was moderate. 2 RC Passages were found of a little higher difficulty level
  • Good Attempts of 15 to 17 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: Score of 36-40 marks

Question Composition in VARC Section 

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Type of Questions
RC-1: Cephalopods’ camouflage
4
MCQs
RC-2: Musicking and modern Humanity
4
MCQs
RC-3: Institutions
4
MCQs
RC-4: Technical social Dualism
4
MCQs
Verbal Ability: Para summary
3
MCQs
Jumbled Para graphs
3
Non MCQs
Fill in the Given Sentence in the blank at correct place in the paragraph
2
MCQ
Odd Sentence Out from Jumbled Paragraph
No question asked
--

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2022
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2022 question paper. The section, which is known for its tricky language and time consuming process, was found moderate by the test takers. Key highlights of DILR section analysis in CAT 2022 are

  • DILR section had 20 Questions
  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 60 in CAT 2022
  • Number of MCQs were 16
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 4 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of DI Problems: 2 Sets
  • Number of DI Questions: Each problem set followed by 5 questions
  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on Text and Data, True and False Statements, Mathematical calculations  
  • Number of LR Problems: 2 Sets
  • Total LR Questions: 10 (5 for each problem set)
  • Type of LR Based Questions: Two problem sets and each followed by 5 questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Good Attempts of 11 to 13 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 32 to 34 marks

Question Composition in DILR Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
DI Set1: Plot Revenue and costs of 4 companies
5
Moderate
DI Set 2: Three sales representatives selling products  
5
Moderate
LR Set-1: A warehouse and 4 destinations
5
Moderate to High
LR Set-2: Cosmetic and nutrition products
5
Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability Analysis in CAT 2022
Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2022 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic with highest number of Non-MCQs. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra, Integers had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs.  Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2022 were:  

  • QA section had 22 Questions in CAT 2022
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 66
  • Number of MCQs: 14
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs): 8 (Same as last year)
  • More Questions were based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to high
  • Good Attempts: 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch high percentile to clear the cut offs
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: A score of 36 to 40 marks can get 99 sectional percentile

Question Composition in Quant Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
Arithmetic: Percentage, Interest, Profit & Loss, Ratio, Time-Speed-Distance, Averages 
9
Moderate
Algebra
 6
Moderate
Geometry/Solid Geometry/Coordinate Geometry
4
Moderate to High
Number system & Modern Math
3
Moderate

Overall Predictions for 95 -98 Percentile: Good Attempts, Accuracy Level
The table below displays the required good attempts in CAT with Accuracy level needed for 95 -98 percentile range:

Section in CAT exam 2022
Good Attempts
Accuracy Level
Raw Score
Likely percentile in CAT 2022
Section-1: VARC
13-15
85
34-38
95
Section-2: DILR
 8-10
90
26-30
95
Section-3: QA
14-16
85
35-40
95
Overall
35-41
85
95-108
95

CAT Exam 2022 Slot 1 Analysis

CAT 2022 Slot 1 Exam got over at 10.30 AM across 150+ Cities in India on November 27. As per information shared by candidates and our expert team who took the exam in Delhi NCR, this year’s CAT question paper had 66 total questions as were last year. CAT 2022 slot-1 was rated as moderate difficulty level with a few questions at higher difficulty level.

 

CAT 2022 Slot 1 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • CAT 2022 Overall Exam Difficulty Level: Moderate with few questions difficult
  • Total Questions: 66 Same as last year
  • Questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs): MCQ 51; Non MCQs 15            

CAT 2022 Slot-1 Analysis: Question Paper Pattern
The CAT 2022 slot-1 question paper with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition.

CAT 2022 Exam Components
CAT 2022 Pattern
Test duration
   2 hrs (120 Minutes)
Test sessions/Slots
   3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)
Total questions
   66
Total score
  198
Number of Sections in CAT question paper
    3 (VARC; DILR; QA)
Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam
 40 Minutes
Total questions in VARC Section
  24
Total Questions in DILR section
  20
Total Questions in QA section
  22

 Source: MBAUniverse.com CAT Exam Analysis

 

CAT 2022 Exam Slot 1 Analysis: Sectional Composition
CAT Exam 2022 Section Wise Analysis shares below the CAT exam 2022 section wise analysis with sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam.

CAT 2022 exam components
Total questions
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)
Highlights
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
21
3
4 RC Passages with 16 Qs; VA had 8 Qs divided in 3 MCQs & 5 Non MCQs on Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
16
4
LR – 10 Ques
DI – 10 Ques
All in Sets of 3 & 4 Qs
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra
Total
66
51
15
 --

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

Sectional CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
CAT 2022 Exam Sectional Analysis for each section by experts at MBAUniverse.com is as below:

 

Key Highlights of CAT Exam 2022 Sectional Analysis

  • Each of the 3 Sections with 40 Minutes Individual Time Duration
  • Candidates Not allowed to move to next section till 40 minutes are over
  • No change in Order of Sections in CAT 2022 with Section-1 VARC, Section-2 DILR, Section-3 Quant
  • Candidates found it difficult to use CAT On Screen Calculator and preferred own calculation methodology

Section Wise CAT Analysis at a Glance:
Below is shared the section wise CAT analysis at a glance followed by detailed Sectional CAT Analysis

 

Section-1: VARC

  • Total No of Questions: 24
  • No of MCQS – 3
  • No of NMCQs – 21
  • 4 RC Passage with 16 Questions
  • New Type of VA questions to fill in the sentence in the blanks appeared
  • Odd sentence out type questions not appeared
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate with 2-3 questions difficult

Section-2: DILR

  • Total No of Questions: 20
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 4
  • LR 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • DI 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 5 Questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability

  • Total No of Questions: 22
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 8
  • Arithmetic commanded major part

Section wise CAT 2022 Analysis in Detail
Detailed section wise CAT exam 2022 analysis is shared below:

CAT Exam Analysisi

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2022
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2022 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 24 Questions
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 72
  • Number of MCQs were 21
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 3 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of RC Passages: 4 passages,
  • Number of RC Based questions: 16, each passage was followed by 4 questions  
  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain and draw inference from the passages,  phrases, vocabulary,  Synonyms/Antonyms, Statement/Argument as used in RC passages,
  • Difficulty Level: Overall difficulty level was moderate. 2 RC Passages were found of a little higher difficulty level
  • Good Attempts of 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: Score of 36-40 marks

Question Composition in VARC Section 

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Type of Questions
RC-1: Stoicism Founded in 300 BC
4
MCQs
RC-2: Critical Theory of Technology
4
MCQs
RC-3: Chinese have two different Concepts
4
MCQs
RC-4: Stories Concerning Undead
4
MCQs
Verbal Ability: Para summary
3
MCQs
Jumbled Para
3
Non MCQs
Fill in the Sentence in the blank at correct place in the para
2
MCQ
Odd Sentence Out from Jumbled Paragraph
No, Missing in CAT 2022
--

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2022
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2022 question paper. The section, which is known for its tricky language and time consuming process, was found moderate by the test takers. Key highlights of DILR section analysis in CAT 2022 are

  • DILR section had 20 Questions
  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 60 in CAT 2022
  • Number of MCQs were 16
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 4 (Reduced from 5 last year)
  • Number of DI Problems: 2 Sets
  • Number of DI Questions: Each problem set followed by 5 questions
  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on Text and Data, True and False Statements, Mathematical calculations  
  • Number of LR Problems: 2 Sets
  • Total LR Questions: 10 (5 for each problem set)
  • Type of LR Based Questions: Two problem sets and each followed by 5 questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Good Attempts of 11 to 13 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 32 to 34 marks

Question Composition in DILR Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
DI Set1: Five interviewers in a process
5
Moderate
DI Set 2:  15 girls and some boys in graduating class planning get together  
5
Moderate
LR Set-1: Metro Lines in a City
5
Moderate to High
LR Set-2: University Holding Team Evaluation Performance of 4 women players
5
Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability Analysis in CAT 2022
Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2022 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic with highest number of Non-MCQs. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra, Integers had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs.  Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2022 were:  

  • QA section had 22 Questions in CAT 2022
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 66
  • Number of MCQs: 14
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs): 8 (Same as last year)
  • More Questions were based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to high
  • Good Attempts: 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch high percentile to clear the cut offs
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: A score of 36 to 40 marks can get 99 sectional percentile

Question Composition in Quant Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
Arithmetic: Interest, Profit & Loss, Ratio, Time-Speed-Distance, Time and Work, Averages 
11
Moderate
Algebra
 3
Moderate
Geometry/Solid Geometry/Coordinate Geometry
4
Moderate to High
Number system & Modern Math
4
Moderate

Overall Predictions for 95 -98 Percentile: Good Attempts, Accuracy Level
The table below displays the required good attempts in CAT with Accuracy level needed for 95 -98 percentile range:

Section in CAT exam 2022
Good Attempts
Accuracy Level
Raw Score
Likely percentile in CAT 2022
Section-1: VARC
13-15
85
34-38
95
Section-2: DILR
 8-10
90
26-30
95
Section-3: QA
14-16
85
35-40
95
Overall
35-41
85
95-108
95

Watch for MBAUniverse.com detailed Overall & Sectional CAT 2022 Analysis for Slot-2 and Slot-3

 

MBAUniverse.com CAT 2022 Exam Analysis Slot-2, Slot-3 Soon: Key Coverage Areas
MBAUniverse.com CAT 2022 Analysis Slot 2, Slot 3 and overall will also be published and it covers the following:

  1. CAT Exam Pattern key changes
  2. Variation as compared to last year in Topics, Type of Questions for each section
  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) 
  4. Surprise elements in CAT 2022 Exam paper
  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise Analysis by Experts
  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise
  7. Sectional Cut off Predictions
  8. Overall CAT 2022 cut offs predictions by Experts to help the aspirants to assess their performance and check their call chances by top B-schools
  9. Percentile Predictions & Cut off CAT score range 

CAT 2022 Analysis by Top CAT Coaching Institutes & Experts -TIME, IMS, CL, Arun Sharma
MBAUniverse.com will also separately publish the CAT Analysis 2022 from top CAT coaching institutes & CAT experts like TIME, IMS, CL, Arun Sharma for all the exam slots with their take on exam difficulty level, sectional and overall changes and expected cut offs. The expected time schedule for release of slot wise CAT 2022 analysis is as given below.

 

CAT 2022 Slots & Expected Time of CAT Analysis Release by Top Coaching Institutes
On November 27, 2022, top CAT coaching institutes and experts - IMS, CL, TIME, Arun Sharma will share with MBAUniverse.com slot wise analysis with CAT 2022 paper difficulty level, key changes in question paper, good attempts and likely cut off score for different percentile range in the changed CAT exam pattern.  The expected time schedule for release CAT 2022 Analysis by these leading institutes and experts is shared below: 

CAT 2022 Exam Time Slots on Nov 27, 2022
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by IMS-Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by CL – Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 by TIME – Expected Time
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 1: 8.30 AM to 10.30 AM
12.30 PM
1.00 PM
1.30 PM
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 2: 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM
 4.30 PM
5.00 PM
6.00 PM
CAT Exam Analysis 2022 Slot 3: 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM
8.30 PM
9.30 PM
10.00 PM
Overall CAT 2022 Exam Analysis
10.00 PM
10.30 PM
11.00 PM

CAT Previous Year Exam Analysis

CAT 2021 Slot 3 Exam got over at 6.30 PM across 400 centers in 159 Cities in India. As per information shared by candidates who took the exam, Slot 3 question paper duration was 2 hours and had only 66 total questions. This provided some relief to the test takers who could take exam with ease and maximize their score. 

 

CAT 2021 Slot 3 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • Total Number of Questions for CAT 2021 Slot 3: Reduced to only 66, compared to 76 last year
  • Difficulty Level for CAT 2021 Slot 3 Exam: Lower compared to last year and similar to Slot 2.
  • Sectional Analysis for CAT 2021 Slot 3: Balanced paper. Same number of Questions as Slot 2; VARC with most weightage 

CAT 2021 Slot - 2 Question Paper Pattern: Overall & Sectional Composition

CAT 2021 exam components
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs  (TITA Qs Without negative marking)
Total Questions
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) (Time limit: 40 Minutes)
19
5
24
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
15
5
20
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
14
8
22
Total (Overall) (Time limit: 120 Minutes)
48
18
66

CAT 2021 Slot 2 Exam Over, Moderately Difficult Paper with 66 Questions; Check In-depth Slot 1 Analysis & Cut offs
CAT 2021 Slot 2 Exam got over at 2.30 PM across 400 centers in 159 Cities in India. As per information shared by candidates who took the exam, Slot 2 question paper duration was 2 hours and had only 66 total questions. This provided some relief to the test takers who could take exam with ease and maximize their score.

 

CAT 2021 Slot 2 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • Total Number of Questions for CAT 2021 Slot 2: Reduced to only 66, compared to 76 last year
  • Difficulty Level for CAT 2021 Slot 2 Exam: Lower compared to last year and similar to Slot 1.
  • Sectional Analysis for CAT 2021 Slot 2: Balanced paper. Same number of Questions as Slot 1; VARC with most weightage

CAT 2021 Slot - 2 Question Paper Pattern: Overall & Sectional Composition

CAT 2021 exam components
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs  (TITA Qs Without negative marking)
Total Questions
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) (Time limit: 40 Minutes)
19
5
24
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
15
5
20
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
14
8
22
Total (Overall) (Time limit: 120 Minutes)
48
18
66

CAT 2021 Slot 1 Exam Over; DILR Easier, No technical glitches reported; Check Exam Highlights, Good Attempts, Expected Cut offs
CAT 2021 Slot 1 Exam got over at 10.30 AM across 400 centers in 159 Cities in India. As per information shared by candidates who took the exam in Delhi NCR, this year’s CAT question paper duration was 2 hours like last year, but had only 66 total questions as against 76 last year. This provided some relief to the test takers who could take exam with ease and maximize their score. 

 

LIVE! MBAUniverse.com CAT Percentile Predictor - Check Your % in 5 Minutes 

 

CAT 2021 Slot 1 Exam Analysis: Key Highlights

  • CAT 2021 Overall Exam Difficulty Level was Moderate.
  • Key changes: Total Questions Reduced to 66 from 76 last year
  • Questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs): MCQ 48; Non MCQs 18            
  • Sectional Key Changes in CAT 2021:

VARC

  • Total No of Questions: 24
  • No of MCQS – 5
  • No of NMCQs – 19
  • 4 RC Passage with 16 Questions

DILR

  • Total No of Questions: 20
  • No of MCQS – 15
  • Non MCQS – 5
  • LR 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 6 Questions
  • DI 2 Sets: Each set was followed by 4 Questions

Quantitative Ability

  • Total No of Questions: 22
  • No of MCQS – 14
  • Non MCQS – 8

CAT 2021 Slot - 1 Question Paper Pattern: Overall & Sectional Composition
The table below shares the CAT exam sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam 2021. The CAT 2021 question paper with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition.

CAT 2021 exam components
Total MCQs (With negative marking)
Total Non-MCQs  (TITA Qs Without negative marking)
Total Questions
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) (Time limit: 40 Minutes)
19
5
24
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
15
5
20
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
(Time Limit: 40 Minutes)
14
8
22
Total (Overall) (Time limit: 120 Minutes)
48
18
66

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

CAT 2021 Analysis: Section Wise

 

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2021 Slot 1
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2021 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 24 Questions as against 26 last year
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 72 as against 78 earlier
  • Number of MCQs were 19
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 5
  • Number of RC Passages: 4 passages,
  • Number of RC Based questions: 16, each passage was followed by 4 questions  
  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain the phrases, vocabulary,  Synonyms/Antonyms, Statement/Argument as used in RC passages, inferences 
  • Difficulty Level: Overall difficulty level was moderate. 2 RC Passages were found of a little higher difficulty level
  • Good Attempts of 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: Score of 36-40 marks

Question Composition in VARC Section 

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Type of Questions
RC-1: Maya of Classic Period
4
MCQs
RC-2: Evolution of Tea from China Drink
4
MCQs
RC-3 Utopia -Transparency
4
MCQs
RC-4 Marshmallow Test Cuttlefish
4
MCQs
Verbal Ability: Para summary
3
MCQs
Jumbled Para
3
Non MCQs
Odd Sentence Out from Jumbled Paragraph
2
Non MCQs

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2021 Slot 1
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2021 question paper. The section, which is known for its tricky language and time consuming process, was found easier than last year by the test takers. Key highlights of DILR section analysis in CAT 2021 are

  • DILR section had 20 Questions as against 24 last year
  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 60 in CAT 2021 as against 72 in CAT 2020
  • Number of MCQs were 15
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 5
  • Number of DI Questions: 2 problem sets, each followed 4 questions
  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on Tables and horizontal bar graphs  
  • Number of LR Questions: 12
  • Type of LR Based Questions: Two problem sets and each followed by 6 questions
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate and considered easier than last year
  • Good Attempts of 10 to 12 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch a high percentile
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 32 to 34 marks

Question Composition in DILR Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
DI Set1: Table and text information based on Ganga, Kaveri Godavari fruit selling
4
Moderate
DI Set 2: Horizontal Bar on sales comparison of 2019 & 2020  
4
Moderate
LR Set-1: Friends Acquaintances & Strangers in City
6
Moderate to High
LR Set-2: Journal Publication for 18 Research Projects
6
Moderate

Section-3: Quantitative Ability Analysis in CAT 2021 Slot 1
Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2021 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic with highest number of Non-MCQs. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs.  Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2021 were:  

  • QA section had 22 Questions in CAT 2021 as against 26 in CAT 2020
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 66 as against 78 earlier
  • Number of MCQs were 14
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 8
  • More Questions were based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to high
  • Good Attempts: 14 to 16 questions with 85% accuracy can fetch high percentile to clear the cut offs
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: A score of 36 to 40 marks can get 99 sectional percentile

Question Composition in Quant Section

Question Topics
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
Arithmetic: Interest, Profit & Loss, Ratio, Time-Speed-Distance, Time and Work, Averages 
10
Moderate
Algebra
5
Moderate
Geometry
3
Moderate to High
Number system & Modern Math
4
Moderate

Overall Predictions for 95 -98 Percentile: Good Attempts, Accuracy Level
The table below displays the required good attempts in CAT with Accuracy level needed for 95 -98 percentile range:

Section in CAT exam 2021

Good Attempts

Accuracy Level

Raw Score

Likely percentile in CAT 2021

Section-1: VARC

13-15

85

34-38

95

Section-2: DILR

 8-10

90

26-30

95

Section-3: QA

14-16

85

35-40

95

Overall

35-41

85

95-108

95

CAT 2021 Analysis by Top CAT Coaching Institutes & Experts -IMS, CL, TIME, Arun Sharma
MBAUniverse.com has also published separately the CAT Analysis 2021 from top CAT coaching institutes & CAT experts like TIME, IMS, CL, Arun Sharma for all the exam slots with their take on exam difficulty level, sectional and overall changes and expected cut offs. The time schedule for release of slot wise CAT 2021 analysis is as given below. 

 

CAT 2021 Slots & Time of CAT Analysis Release by Top Coaching Institutes
On November 28, 2021, top CAT coaching institutes and experts - IMS, CL, TIME, Arun Sharma have shares with MBAUniverse.com slot wise analysis with CAT 2021 paper difficulty level, key changes in question paper, good attempts and likely cut off score for different percentile range in the changed CAT exam pattern.  The expected time schedule for release CAT 2021 Analysis by these leading institutes and experts  is shared below: 

CAT 2021 Exam Time Slots on Nov 28, 2021

CAT 2021 Analysis by IMS Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3- Time

CAT 2021 Analysis by CL Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 – Expected Time

CAT 2021 Analysis by TIME Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3 – Expected Time

CAT Exam Analysis 2021 Slot 1: 8.30 AM to 10.30 AM

12.30 PM
(Live Now – Check)

1.00 PM

1.30 PM

CAT Exam Analysis 2021 Slot 2: 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM

 4.30 PM

5.00 PM

6.00 PM

CAT Exam Analysis 2021 Slot 3: 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM

8.30 PM

9.30 PM

10.00 PM

Overall CAT 2021 Exam Analysis

10.00 PM

10.30 PM

11.00 PM

CAT Paper Analysis 2021
Given the reputation of CAT exam over the years, the CAT 2021 Test paper has been changed again by IIM Ahmedabad. Although the actual CAT paper analysis 2021 by experts will be made after the exam is over, all the leading CAT prep institutes and CAT experts expect following changes in CAT exam and expect the following CAT pattern

 

CAT 2021: Expected Question Paper
The CAT 2021 question paper with key changes is likely to have the following pattern and sectional composition. CAT exam keeps on getting revamped at least to some extent after each CAT exam. IIM Ahmedabad which is conducting CAT 2021 will conduct the exam in 3 slots of 2 hours duration each.

CAT 2021 Exam Components

CAT 2021 Pattern

Test duration

2 hrs (120 Minutes)

Test sessions/Slots

3 (Morning, Afternoon and Evening)

Total questions

64 to 68 (Expected)

Total score

192 to 204 (Expected)

Number of Sections in CAT question paper

3 (VARC; DILR; QA)

Time Allotted for Each Section in CAT exam

40 Minutes

Total questions in VARC Section

22-24 (Likely)

Total Questions in DILR section

20-22 (Likely)

Total Questions in QA section

22-24 (Likely)

CAT Paper Analysis 2021: Expected Sectional Composition
CAT 2021 paper analysis, immediately after the exam, is likely to be based on the following exam pattern. The table below shares the CAT exam sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, expected number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section for the 2 hours CAT exam.

CAT 2021 exam components

Total questions

Total MCQs (With negative marking)

Total Non-MCQs
(Without negative marking)

Highlights

Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

22 to 24

14-16

8

4 RC Passages with MCQs; VA Non MCQs divided into Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences

Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

20

14

6

LR – 10 Ques

DI – 10 Ques

All in Sets of 3 & 4 Qs

Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)

22 to 24

14-16

8

High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra

Total

64 to 68

 42- 46

22 

 

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

CAT Paper Analysis 2021: Actual To be Updated at 10.30 AM on Nov 28
Since IIM Ahmedabad has neither shared nor updated overall or sectional number of number of questions, the CAT 2021 paper analysis will be released immediately after the slot-1 of CAT is over at 10.30 AM. The CAT 2021 Analysis will share the actual number of section wise questions, split into MCQs and Non MCQs, respective sectional and overall difficulty level slot wise. The following CAT exam analysis tables will be updated on November 28.

CAT 2021 exam components

Expected Total questions

Actual Total Questions (To be Updated)

Expected Difficulty Level

Actual Difficulty Level (To be Updated)

Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

22 to 24

(MCQs: 14; Non MCQs:8)

 

Moderate to High

 

Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

20

(MCQs:14; Non-MCQs: 6)

 

Moderate

 

Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)

22 to 24

(MCQs:14; Non-MCQs:8)

 

Moderate to High

 

Overall

64 to 68

 

Moderate

 

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

CAT Toppers Rely on MBAUniverse.com
Many CAT toppers studying at IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, SPJIMR, FMS Delhi, IIM Lucknow, IIM Udaipur have been relying on MBAUniverse.com in their CAT preparation, assessing their performance with CAT percentile predictor, GD-PI preparation, making a choice of preferred MBA college with the expected cut offs release by MBAUniverse.com and more.

Anushree Naik: IIM Ahmedabad Student of 2020-22 batch is of the view that MBAUniverse.com played a big role in her CAT journey. She said, “The website helped me a lot during my interview preparation. I read content on a lot of general awareness and current affairs topics on the MBAUniverse.com website that helped me form an opinion on those topics.” 

Nandan Goel, Pragya Malik, Shubham Bajaj, Ekansh Gupta, Nancy Jain, all the IIM Calcutta students of 2021-23 batch have shared that MBAUniverse.com has been helpful in one way or other in their CAT and GD-PI journey. Some of them also participated in the CAT preparation webinar organized by MBAUniverse.com. 

CAT 2021 Slot 1 Exam Analysis: At 11 AM on November 28
This analysis will cover following

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section

  2. Type of Questions for each section

  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions

  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2021 Exam paper

  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis

  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise

  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2021 Cut off Predictions in Slot-1

  8. IMS CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-1

  9. Career Launcher CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-1

  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-1

CAT 2021 Slot 2 Exam Analysis: At 3.00 PM on November 28
This analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section

  2. Type of Questions for each section

  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions

  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2021 Exam paper

  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis

  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise

  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2021 Cut off Predictions in Slot-2

  8. IMS CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-2

  9. Career Launcher CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-2

  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-2

CAT 2021 Slot 3 Exam Analysis: At 7.30 PM on November 28
This analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section

  2. Type of Questions for each section

  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions

  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2021 Exam paper

  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise CAT Analysis

  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise

  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2021 Cut off Predictions in Slot-3

  8. IMS CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-3

  9. Career Launcher CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-3

  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2021 Analysis Slot-3

Comprehensive Overall CAT Exam Analysis 2021: 9 PM on November 28
This overall CAT 2021 analysis will cover following key points

  1. Exam Pattern including Number of Questions by each Section

  2. Type of Questions for each section

  3. Changes in questions split (MCQs and Non-MCQs) and Type of Questions

  4. Any Surprise elements in CAT 2021 Exam paper

  5. Exam Difficulty Level: Overall & Section wise

  6. Required Good Attempts: Overall and Section wise

  7. Overall and Section wise CAT 2021 Cut off Predictions  

  8. IMS CAT 2021 Analysis Overall

  9. Career Launcher CAT 2021 Analysis Overall

  10. T.I.M.E. CAT 2021 Analysis Overall

Major Changes introduced in CAT 2021 Exam 
CAT 2021 Centre has introduced following key changes in CAT 2021 exam

  • Barcode Printed on the Admit Card will be scanned at the Scanning Desk
  • Location of CAT Exam Lab will be communicated after scanning the Barcode.
  • CAT 2021 Exam will have reduced number of Questions as compared to last year CAT exam
  • There will be fewer MCQs and Non-MCQ type questions as announced by IIM Ahmedabad
  • CAT 2021 Exam duration is of 2 hours
  • CAT exam 2021 will be conducted in three separate sessions on Nov 28
  • Exam is Divided into three sections: VARC; DILR; Quant
  • 40 Minutes will be allotted to attempt each section
  • You cannot move to other section till the time limit for the present section you are attempting is over.  
  • MCQs have negative marking for wrong answer and Non-MCQs do not carry penalty of negative marking
  • Questions with negative marking (MCQs) are 70 to 75%
  • 4 answer options for MCQ type questions, click on correct answer option
  • Questions without negative marking (Non-MCQs) are 25 to 30%
  • Answer must be typed in the given space on computer screen for Non-MCQ.
  • Score awarded for each correct answer: +3 marks
  • Negative marking (Applicable for  wrong answers in MCQs): -1 mark
  • Fixed order of sections to move beginning with VARC Section

CAT Analysis for Previous Exams 

 

CAT Exam Pattern: Last 5 Years
CAT exam pattern was totally changed in 2015 by IIM Ahmedabad. Major changes since then have continued till the last year CAT exam. In 2020, IIM Indore had again substantially changed the CAT exam pattern with reduced test duration, reduced sectional time limit, increased time slots and fewer number of questions.  During the last 5 years, CAT exam had effected many changes as under:

  • CAT exam had increased number of 100 questions from 60

  • In 2020, number of questions reduced to 76

  • There are 3 sections in CAT exam now instead of 2 sections

  • Two types of questions are placed in CAT question paper: MCQs with negative marking and Non-MCQs without negative marking

  • There are 70-72% MCQ type questions in CAT and 25-30% Non-MCQ type questions

  • The CAT exam 2020 analysis reflected a changed difficulty level and twisted type of questions among other things

CAT 2020 Exam Analysis: Check No of Questions, Paper Pattern & Difficulty Level

Observing COVID 19 precautions, all the three Slots of CAT 2020 exam were held successfully on November 29, 2020. CAT 2020 greeted the test takers with different difficulty level which went up in each slot. Read this MBAUniverse.com report on CAT 2020 slot-wise Exam Analysis with likely cut off,  information about important changes in exam pattern, number & type of questions, difficulty level overall and section-wise.

 

Three slot timings for CAT 2020 on Nov 29 were as under

  • Slot-1 (Morning Slot): 8.30AM to 10.30AM
  • Slot-2 (Afternoon Slot): 12.30PM to 2.30PM
  • Slot-3 (Evening Slot): 4.30PM to 6.30 PM

CAT 2020 Slot-1 Exam Analysis
CAT Exam Slot 1 Analysis 2020 by MBAUniverse.com is the first CAT analysis released immediately after the CAT exam. This year CAT exam has gone with multiple changes and the CAT 2020 slot wise analysis from MBAUniverse.com consists of changes in exam pattern, difficulty level, expected cut offs, good attempts etc. 

 

Key highlights of CAT 2020 Slot 1 Exam Analysis:

  • Total Duration: 120 Mins

  • Total Number of Questions: 76

  • Non MCQs: 22

  • Number of Question in Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): 26 

  • Number of Question in Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): 24

  • Number of Question in Quantitative Ability (QA): 26

  • Overall Difficulty Level: Paper was lengthy but with moderate difficulty.

  • Nature of questions was similar to last year.

CAT 2020: Major Changes in Exam Pattern  
CAT 2020 Centre has substantially changed the CAT 2020 exam pattern

  • CAT 2020 Exam had 76 Questions as against 100 questions earlier
  • Difficulty level in CAT 2020 was similar to earlier CAT exam
  • CAT 2020 Exam duration was changed to 2 hours from earlier 3 hours
  • 40 Minutes were allotted to attempt each section instead of earlier 60 minutes
  • MCQs had 1/3 negative marking and Non-MCQs do not carry penalty of negative marking
  • 4 answer options for each MCQ type question
  • Answer had to be typed in the given space on computer screen for Non-MCQ.
  • Score awarded for each correct answer: + 3 marks
  • Negative marking (Applicable for wrong answers in MCQs): - 1 mark 

CAT 2020 Slot 1 Question Paper Pattern & Changes

The CAT 2020 question paper of 2 hours duration with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition. CAT exam sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section are as below:

Section as per CAT exam Pattern

Total questions

Total MCQs (With negative marking)

Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)

Highlights

Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

26

18

8

4 RC Passages with 18 Qs – All MCQs

All Non MCQs divided into Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences

Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

24

18

6

LR – 14 Ques

DI – 10 Ques

All in Sets of 6 & 4 Qs

Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)

26

18

8

High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra

Total

 

 

 

 

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

 

CAT 2020 Exam Sectional Analysis: Key Highlights
With the changed overall and sectional time limit, CAT 2020 exam brought many surprises for the test takers. As against earlier CAT exams, this year official CAT mock test did not reveal the expected number of total or sectional composition of questions. This kept the CAT 2020 test takers in the dark till last minute. 

Section-1: VARC Analysis for CAT 2020
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2020 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 26 Questions as against 34 earlier

  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 earlier

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 8

  • Number of RC Passages: 4

  • Number of RC Based questions: 18

  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain the phrases, vocabulary as used in RC Passage, inferences, Main Idea 

  • Number of VA questions: 8

  • Type of VA questions: Non-MCQs

  • Verbal Question Topics: Para Summary, Jumbled paragraphs, Out of context sentence in Jumbled paragraph

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 40-45 marks 

Area & Question Topics

No of Questions

Type of question

Reading Comprehension

18

MCQ

RC-1:  China’s complex financial system during Tang Dynasty (618-907) 

4

MCQ

RC- 2: Northern Elephant Seal Population 

4

MCQ

RC-3: Vocabulary used in Speech or Writing 

5

MCQ

RC-4: Anarchy free Greek   

5

MCQ

Verbal Ability

08

Non-MCQ

Parajumbles ( 4 sentences)

3

Non-MCQ

Out of Context sentence

2

Non-MCQ

Para Summary

3

Non-MCQ

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2020
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2020 question paper. The section is known for its tricky language and time consuming process to answer the question sets. Despite having fewer number of questions in CAT 2020, only those test takers who practiced variety of problems of different difficulty level could make required number of good attempts as the time limit was also reduced to only 40 minutes. Key highlights of DILR section in CAT 2020 were as under.

  • DILR section had 24 Questions

  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 72 as against 96 earlier

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 6

  • Number of DI Questions: 14 in CAT 2020 as against 16 earlier

  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on 3 sets.  

  • Type of DI Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 or 4 questions. DI Sets were based on Comparison Tables, data analysis but no graphs and diagrams were present in the question paper

  • Number of LR Questions were 10 in CAT 2020 as against 16 earlier

  • Type of LR Based Questions: All questions were based on 2 sets.

  • Type of LR Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 and 4 four questions.

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 38-44 marks

Area & Problem Sets

No. of Questions

Question Type

DI: 6 students appearing for exam in 5 subjects

6

4 MCQ + 2 TITA

LR:  4 companies competing for Contracts

6

6 MCQ

DI: 1000 patients getting treated with 4 different drugs

4

4 TITA

LR: 10 Musicians expert in at least one of the 3 instruments

4

4 MCQ

DI: Payment to taxi drivers

4

 4 MCQ

Section-3: QA Analysis in CAT 2020

Quantitative Ability (QA) was the 3rd and last section in CAT 2020 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs. Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2020 slot-1 were: 

  • QA section had 26 Questions as against 34 earlier
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 earlier
  • Number of MCQs were 18
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 8
  • More Questions based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 42-48 marks 

Question Topics

No of Questions 

Numbers

2

Arithmetic

10

Algebra

8

Geometry

3

Modern Maths

3

Based on attempts and accuracy in CAT 2020, you can check your likely CAT percentile at MBAUniverse.com CAT Percentile predictor which is live now

CAT 2020 Slot-2 Exam Analysis: Difficulty Level higher than slot-1; Cut off for 99 percentile likely at 100-105

CAT 2020 Slot 2 Question Paper Pattern & Changes

The CAT 2020 Slot-2 question paper of 2 hours duration with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition. CAT exam sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section are as below:

Section as per CAT exam Pattern

Total questions

Total MCQs (With negative marking)

Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)

Highlights

Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

26

18

8

4 RC Passages with 18 MCQs

8 Non MCQs on VA questions  divided into Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences

Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

24

18

6

LR – 10 Ques

DI – 14 Ques

All in Sets of 6 & 4 Questions

Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)

26

18

8

High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra

Total

 76

 54

22 

 

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

Difficulty level in CAT 2020 Slot-2

Overall and sectional difficulty level in CAT 2020 slot-2 has gone up as compared to slot-1. Arun Sharma, top CAT expert is of the view that the cut off for 99 percentile in slot-2 of CAT 2020 especially for DILR section would go down to 28-33 marks as compared to 33-38 marks in slot-1.

 

CAT 2020 Slot-2: Section-wise Analysis
Below is shared the sectional analysis for CAT 2020 slot-2 exam 

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2020 slot-2 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 26 Questions as against 34 last year

  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 last year

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of Non-MCQs were 8

  • Number of RC Passages: 4

  • Number of RC Based questions: 18

  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain the phrases, vocabulary as used in RC Passage, inferences, Main Idea 

  • Number of VA questions: 8

  • Type of VA questions: Non-MCQs

  • Verbal Question Topics: Para Summary, Jumbled paragraphs, Out of context sentence in Jumbled paragraph

  • Difficulty Level: Higher than Slot-1

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 38-44 marks

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2020
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2020 Slot-2 question paper. The section was more difficult than in slot-1 and was more time consuming. Only those test takers who practiced variety of problems of different difficulty level could make required number of good attempts as the time limit was less.  Key highlights, difficulty level and likely cut off for DILR section in CAT 2020 Slot-2 are as under.

  • DILR section had 24 Questions

  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 72 as against 96 last year

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 6

  • Number of DI Questions: 14 in CAT 2020 as against 16 earlier

  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on sets.  

  • Type of DI Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 or 4 questions. DI Sets were based on Comparison Tables, data analysis

  • Number of LR Questions were 10 in CAT 2020 as against 16 last year

  • Type of LR Based Questions: All questions were based on sets.

  • Type of LR Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 and 4 four questions.

  • Difficulty Level: DILR Difficulty in Slot-2 was higher than slot-1

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 28-33 marks

Section-3: QA Analysis in CAT 2020 Slot-2
Quantitative Ability (QA) in CAT 2020 slot-2 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs. Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2020 slot-2 were:  

  • QA section had 26 Questions as against 34 last year
  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 last year
  • Number of MCQs were 18
  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 8
  • More Questions based on Arithmetic
  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed
  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry
  • Difficulty Level: Higher than slot-1
  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 38-45 marks

Overall & Sectional Cut off for Slot-2

Overall Good Attempts

VA & RC

Good Attempts

DI & LR Good Attempts

QA Good

Attempts

Raw Score

Expected Percentile

52-55

17-21

13-17

16-19

115

99.5

47-52

16-19

12-15

14-17

105

99

42-45

13-17

9-14

11-15

93

97

32-35

11-15

6-10

10-14

74

95

22-30

9-13

5-9

7-11

50

90

15-22

7-11

4-8

5-8

40

80

CAT 2020 Slot-3 Exam Analysis: Most Difficult of all Slots; Cut off for 99 Percentile likely at 95-100 marks

CAT 2020 Slot 3 Question Paper Pattern & Changes

The CAT 2020 Slot-3 question paper of 2 hours duration with key changes had the following pattern and sectional composition. CAT exam sectional order from Section-1 to Section-3, number and type of questions in each section, questions with and without negative marking and total maximum marks available for each section are as below:

Section as per CAT exam Pattern

Total questions

Total MCQs (With negative marking)

Total Non-MCQs (Without negative marking)

Highlights

Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

26

18

8

4 RC Passages with 18 MCQs

8 Non MCQs on VA questions  divided into Para jumbles, Para Summary, and Out of Context Sentences

Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

24

18

6

All in Sets of 6 & 4 Questions

Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)

26

18

8

High on Arithmetic. Other on Log, Geometry, Roots, Algebra

Total

 76

 54

22 

 

Source: MBAUniverse.com analysis

Difficulty level in CAT 2020 Slot-3
Overall and sectional difficulty level in CAT 2020 slot-3 was higher than Slot-1 and slot-2. According to Arks Srinivas from Career Launcher (CL) the 99 percentile for slot-3 would not be more than 95 while for slot-2 it would be 100 and for slot-1 it would be 105. 

 

CAT 2020 Slot-3: Section-wise Analysis
Below is shared the sectional analysis for CAT 2020 slot-3 exam

 

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension was the first section in CAT 2020 slot-3 question paper. Key highlights of the section are:

  • VARC section had 26 Questions as against 34 last year

  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 last year

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of Non-MCQs were 8

  • Number of RC Passages: 4

  • Number of RC Based questions: 18

  • Type of RC Based Questions: MCQs asking to explain the phrases, vocabulary as used in RC Passage, inferences, Main Idea 

  • Number of VA questions: 8

  • Type of VA questions: Non-MCQs

  • Verbal Question Topics: Para Summary, Jumbled paragraphs, Out of context sentence in Jumbled paragraph

  • Difficulty Level: Higher than earlier Slots

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 35-40 marks

Section-2: DILR Analysis for CAT 2020
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning was the second section in CAT 2020 Slot-3 question paper. The section was more difficult than in slot-2 and slot-1and was more time consuming. Only those test takers who practiced variety of problems of different difficulty level could make required number of good attempts as the time limit was less.  Key highlights, difficulty level and likely cut off for DILR section in CAT 2020 Slot-3 are as under.

  • DILR section had 24 Questions

  • Total Maximum Marks assigned for the section were 72 as against 96 last year

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 6

  • Number of DI Questions: 14 in CAT 2020 as against 16 earlier

  • Type of DI Based Questions: All questions were based on sets.  

  • Type of DI Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 or 4 questions. DI Sets were based on Comparison Tables, data analysis

  • Number of LR Questions were 10 in CAT 2020 as against 16 last year

  • Type of LR Based Questions: All questions were based on sets.

  • Type of LR Problem Sets: Each followed by 6 and 4 four questions.

  • Difficulty Level: DILR Difficulty in Slot-3 was higher than slot-2 and slot-1

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 24-26 marks

Section-3: QA Analysis in CAT 2020 Slot-2
Quantitative Ability (QA) in CAT 2020 slot-3 question paper. This section had more number of questions based on Arithmetic. Many candidates, especially from Non-Mathematics and Non-Engineering background, who are not well versed with Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Algebra had an opportunity to crack the QA section by solving Arithmetic questions with 90% accuracy level to cross the IIM cut offs. Key highlights of the QA section in CAT 2020 slot-3 were: 

  • QA section had 26 Questions as against 34 last year

  • Total Maximum marks allotted for the section were 78 as against 102 last year

  • Number of MCQs were 18

  • Number of TITA questions (Non-MCQs) were 8

  • More Questions based on Arithmetic

  • Type of Arithmetic Based Questions: Percentage, Ratio, Interest, Number System, Time, Speed

  • Other QA Question topics: Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Trigonometry

  • Difficulty Level: Higher than slot-2 and slot-1

  • Cut off Expected for 99 Percentile: 38-42 marks

Overall & Sectional Cut off for Slot-3

Overall Good Attempts

VA & RC

Good Attempts

DI & LR Good Attempts

QA Good

Attempts

Raw Score

Expected Percentile

51-53

17-20

13-15

16-18

105

99.5

45-50

15-17

12-14

14-16

95

99

41-44

12-15

9-12

10-14

92

97

32-35

11-14

6-9

8-12

72

95

21-23

8-12

5-8

6-10

50

90

15-20

7-11

4-8

5-8

40

80

CAT 2020 Analysis by Top Coaching Institutes
MBAUniverse.com has published the CAT Exam analysis 2020 by IMS, CL, TIME, Hitbulls eye. The comprehensive CAT analysis by top coaching institutes is released for all the slots.

 

CAT 2020 Analysis by IMS

  • Comprehensive CAT Analysis 2020 by IMS with key changes in exam pattern

  • Impact of changes in CAT pattern on cut offs

  • CAT Analysis by IMS covers comparative CAT exam 2020 difficulty level as against the last year

  • The analysis also reflects upon the changes in question pattern, number & type of questions – MCQs & Non MCQs, Surprise elements, ideal attempts among other key features

IMS has shared that based on the feedback received from several candidates who appeared in the first slot, they estimate the cut off scores and percentiles as follows:

Percentile

Score VA-RC

Score DI-LR

Score  QA

Overall Score

99.5 %ile

44

39

49

120

99 %ile

40

34

44

110

97 %ile

37

31

40

100

95%ile

35

29

38

 94

90%ile

30

26

34

81

85%ile 

27

23

31

72

Read in Detail the CAT 2020 Analysis by IMS

CAT 2020 Analysis by Career Launcher (CL)

MBAUniverse.com has published CAT 2020 Analysis by Career Launcher with following key features

  • Comprehensive CAT Analysis 2020 by CL with key changes in exam pattern

  • Impact of changes in CAT pattern on cut offs

  • CAT Analysis by CL will cover comparative CAT exam 2020 difficulty level as against the last year

  • The analysis will also reflect upon the changes in question pattern, number & type of questions – MCQs & Non MCQs, Surprise elements, ideal attempts among other key features

  • CAT Exam Analysis 2020 also compares the changes in expected percentile viz-a-viz CAT score and cut offs over last year.

  • CAT aspirants had to face 76 questions in 2 hours. Section- wise distribution of questions was again, as expected; and had been discussed multiple times in Career Launcher's classes and open sessions. That is:

CAT 2020 VARC: 26 questions
CAT 2020 DILR: 24 questions
CAT 2020 QA: 26 questions

The marking scheme remained the same: +3/-1 for MCQs, and +3/0 for non-MCQs. The overall level of difficulty for CAT 2020 slot 1 was slightly higher than that of CAT 2019. In terms of section-wise level of difficulty, VARC was lengthy and slightly tricky. DILR went back to CAT 2016- 18 levels after a short breather in CAT 2018. QA was slightly easier than CAT 2019, in terms of LOD. 

 

An overall raw score of around 105-110 should fetch a 99%ile in CAT 2020. Read Detailed CAT 2020 Analysis by CL

 

CAT 2020 Analysis by HitbullsEye
The detailed CAT 2020 analysis by Hitbullseye has been published by MBAUniverse.com with following key features:

  • Comprehensive CAT Analysis 2020 with key changes in exam pattern
  • Impact of changes in CAT pattern on cut offs
  • CAT Analysis covers comparative CAT exam 2020 difficulty level as against the last year
  • The analysis also reflects upon the changes in question pattern, number & type of questions – MCQs & Non MCQs, Surprise elements, ideal attempts among other key features 

Attempts & Expected Percentile by Hitbullseye

Overall Attempt
VA & RC
Attempt
DI & LR Attempt
QA
Attempt
Probable Score
Expected Percentile
55+
18-21
15-18
17-20
120+
99.5
50-55
16-19
13-16
15-19
 
99
45-50
14-18
10-14
12-16
 
97
32-36
11-15
8-12
10-14
 
95
24-32
9-13
6-10
7-11
 
90
18-24
7-11
5-8
5-8
 
80

Read Detailed CAT 2020 Analysis by Hitbullseye 

 

CAT 2020 Analysis by T.I.M.E
CAT 2020 Analysis by TIME is published by MBAUniverse.com with following features

  • Comprehensive CAT Analysis 2020 with key changes in exam pattern
  • Impact of changes in CAT pattern on cut offs
  • CAT Analysis has covered comparative CAT exam 2020 difficulty level as against the last year
  • The analysis also reflects upon the changes in question pattern, number & type of questions – MCQs & Non MCQs, Surprise elements, ideal attempts among other key features Read Detailed CAT 2020 Analysis by T.I.M.E.

Read More: CAT 2023 - Exam Date, Registration, Syllabus, Preparation, Books

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