CAT 2023 Exam Analysis: No Change in Exam Pattern; Very Difficult Quant Section to Lower Cut Offs for IIMs

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Updated on
November 28, 2023

CAT 2023 exam was conducted on November 26, 2023 in three Slots across 160+ Cities in India. MBAUniverse.com presents complete CAT 2023 analysis including coverage of Difficulty Level, CAT Score Vs Percentile and new Cut Offs for top B-schools. Continue reading for CAT Analysis 2023 from most trusted expert sources including IMS Learning and Arun Sharma.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of CAT 2023 Analysis
  2. Slot-1 CAT Analysis
  3. Slot-2 CAT Analysis
  4. Slot-3 CAT Analysis

1. CAT 2023 Analysis: Overview

Let’s start with the big picture trends:

  • Same Exam Pattern: There was No Change in CAT 2023 Exam Pattern. It was same as CAT 2022. Total Questions remain same at 66 like last year. Sectional composition of MCQs and Non MCQs have changed.
  • More Difficult Exam Paper: CAT 2023 Exam is rated as more difficult than last year by Experts. Check details below.
  • Lower Cut Offs for IIMs: Given the higher difficulty level of the paper, Cut Offs for IIMs are expected to go down. Check details below.

Summarizing CAT 2023 exam, Mr Arun Sharma, regarded as one of India’s top CAT experts, said: “This year while the overall exam pattern was same as last year, the questions in the Quantitative section in CAT 2023 exam paper were the toughest in last 5 Years!” His take on section wise CAT 2023 difficulty level on a scale of 1-10 is as below: 

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CAT 2023 Difficulty Level Compared to CAT 2022 (Difficulty Score Out of 10)

Sections
CAT 2022 Difficulty Level
CAT 2023 Difficulty Level
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
7
6
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
7
8
Quantitative Ability (QA)
6
8-9
Overall
7
8-9

CAT 2023 Score Vs Percentile: Predication by Leading Experts  

Students can check expected Cut off scores for different CAT 2023 percentile range as predicted by CAT experts: 

CAT 2023 Percentile
IMS Learning (IMS)
Carrer Launcher (CL) 
Arun Sharma 
99 %ile
77-81
78-80
79-80
95%ile
56-59
57-58
55-56 
90%ile
48-50
46-48
47-48 
85%ile
39-41
40-41
38-39 
80%ile
35-36
36-37
34-35 

Now it’s time for a detailed CAT 2023 Analysis for each of the slot. This analysis is based on inputs shared by IMS Learning.   

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2. CAT 2023 Slot 1 Exam Analysis

  • Slot-1 of CAT 2023 exam was held from 8.30AM to 10.30 AM. Following are the key highlights of CAT 2023 Slot-1 Exam
  • Total Questions: 66
  • Number of MCQs: 47
  • Number of Non-MCQs: 19
  • Marks for each correct answer: +3
  • Negative Marking for Wrong Answer (MCQs): -1
  • Negative Marking for TITA Questions: Nil
  • Difficulty Level: VARC Moderate, DILR & Quant Difficult
  • Overall: Difficult
  • Expected cut off for 99%ile: 80-82

CAT 2023 Exam Slot 1: Sectional Composition

Sections
Total questions
MCQs
Non-MCQs
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
20
4
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
12
8
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
15
7
Total
66
47
19

Section Wise CAT 2023 Slot-1 Analysis in Detail

Below is shared detailed section wise CAT 2023 Slot-1 Analysis in detail

CAT 2023 Slot-1 Analysis - Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

  • VARC had 4 RC passages of 500 to 700 words with 16 Questions
  • Verbal Ability questions were based on 4 topics as below with total 8 questions
  • VARC was moderate to difficult section with VA questions slightly more difficult
  • An attempt of 15 to 17 questions with accuracy of approximately 80% is a good performance in VARC.
Reading Comprehension Topic
Number of Questions
Return of wolves’ predation in a French region
4
Current economies of North and South Korea.
4
Indian Ocean Literature"
4
Modern materialism versus ancient societies
4
Verbal Ability
Number of Questions
Para Summary
2
Odd one out
2
Para Jumble
2
Sentence Completion
2

CAT 2023 Slot-1 Analysis - Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

  • DILR section in CAT 2023 slot-1 had 4 sets – 2 on DI and 2 on LR
  • The section was rated as difficult
Sets & Topics
Number of Questions
LR: Arrangements - Professors in departments
5
LR: Houses on Sale
5
DI: Visa Office Equation Handling
5
DI: Gig workers and Restaurants, Based on Statistics -Measures of central tendency
5

CAT 2023 Slot-1 Analysis - Quantitative Ability (QA)

  • QA was dominated by Algebra with 8 questions on Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus Functions & Polynomials
  • Arithmetic had 7 questions on SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Clocks, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations and Profit & Loss
  • 4 questions on Geometry on Triangle, Coordinate Geometry, Cyclic Quadrilateral
  • 2 questions on Modern Math and one on Numbers.
  • 1 question was on Indices
  • The section was rated a bit mor difficult
Topics
Number of Questions
Arithmetic
7
Algebra
8
Modern Math
2
Geometry
4
Number System
2

CAT 2023 Slot-1: CAT Score Vs Percentile Cut Off

The table below displays the required score needed for 80 to 99+ percentile range:

Percentile
Score VA-RC
Score DI-LR
Score QA
Overall Score
99.5 %ile
44
32
32
89
99 %ile
40
28
28
80
95%ile
30
19
19
57
Percentile
Score VA-RC
Score DI-LR
Score QA
Overall Score
90%ile
25
16
15
49
85%ile
21
13
12
40
80%ile
19
11
10
36

Source: IMS Learning 

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3. CAT 2023 Slot 2 Exam Analysis

Slot-2 of CAT 2023 exam was conducted from 12.30 PM to 2.30 PM on November 26, 2023. Following are the key highlights of CAT 2023 Slot-2 Exam

  • Total Questions: 66
  • Number of MCQs: 46
  • Number of Non-MCQs: 20
  • Marks for each correct answer: +3
  • Negative Marking for Wrong Answer (MCQs): -1
  • Negative Marking for TITA Questions: Nil
  • Difficulty Level: VARC Moderate, DILR & Quant Difficult
  • Overall: Moderate to Difficult
  • Expected cut off for 99%ile: 81-83

CAT 2023 Slot 2: Sectional Composition

Sections
Total questions
Total MCQs
Total Non-MCQs
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
20
4
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
12
8
Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
Total
66
46
20

Section Wise CAT 2023 Slot-2 Analysis in Detail

Below is shared detailed section wise CAT 2023 Slot-2 Analysis in detail

CAT 2023 Slot-2: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

  • RC passages were Easy to moderate with one bit difficult
  • One question in the Verbal Ability section was marked with an alert icon and indicated that it was a Mandatory Question.
  • An attempt of 17 to 19 questions with accuracy of approximately 70% will be a good performance in VARC.
Area / Questions No of Qs. Type
Reading Comprehension 16 MCQ
RC-1: Second-hand Shopping and Fast Fashion 4 MCQ
RC-2: Translated Streaming on Netflix in Europe 4 MCQ
RC-3: Why Liberalism Failed (Book Review) 4 MCQ
RC-4: What is Historical Fact 4 MCQ
Verbal Ability 8 MCQ & TITA
Para jumbles (4 sentences) 2 TITA
Para-completion 2 MCQ
Summary 2 MCQ
Odd Sentence Questions 2 TITA

CAT 2023 Slot-2: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

  • Last year pattern is maintained this year also with 2 DI and 2 LR problem sets
  • Level of difficulty of the section was Medium to Difficult.
  • An attempt of 10 to 12 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.
Set No.
Area
Set Description
No. of Questions
Question Type
 
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
20
MCQ and TITA
1
Data Interpretation
5 firms - Funds raised in consecutive years
5
4 MCQ, 1 TITA
2
Data Interpretation
Draw competition
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
3
Logical Reasoning
3 friends visited a park. Many rides. Scheduling questions.
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
4
Data Interpretation
Nine Boxes - sudoku type puzzle
5
2 MCQ, 3 TITA

CAT 2023 Slot-2: Quantitative Ability

This section was tougher than last year in terms of level of difficulty compared to CAT 2022. Following was the composition of QA section: 

  • In Arithmetic, the questions were on SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations and Profit & Loss
  • In Algebra, the questions were dominated by Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus, Maxima -Minima, Inequality & Polynomials
  • In Modern Math, the questions were on Logarithms, Sequences
  • In Geometry, the questions were on Triangle, Rectangle, Coordinate Geometry & Parallelogram
  • In Number system, questions were on indices and number of factors
  • Number of MCQs were 14 and TITA questions were 8
  • An attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.
Area/Q Type
No of Questions
Quantitative Ability
14 MCQs, 8 Non MCQs
Arithmetic
7
Algebra
8
Modern Math
2
Geometry
3
Numbers
2

CAT 2023 Cut offs: Slot-2

Below are the expected CAT 2023 slot-2 score cut offs for different percentile range:

Slot -2 CAT 2023 Percentile
VARC Score
DILR Score
QA Score
Overall CAT score
99.5 %ile
46
34
30
91
99 %ile
42
30
26
81
95%ile
32
20
18
59
90%ile
26
17
14
50
85%ile
22
13
12
41
80%ile
20
11
10
36

Source: IMS Learning

4. CAT 2023 Slot 3 Exam Analysis

Slot-3 of CAT 2023 exam was conducted from 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM on November 26, 2023. Following are the key highlights of CAT 2023 Slot-3 Exam

  • Total Questions: 66
  • Number of MCQs: 46
  • Number of Non-MCQs: 20
  • Marks for each correct answer: +3
  • Negative Marking for Wrong Answer (MCQs): -1
  • Negative Marking for TITA Questions: Nil
  • Difficulty Level: VARC Moderate, DILR & Quant Difficult
  • Overall: Difficult
  • Expected cut off for 99%ile: 80-81

CAT 2023 Slot 3: Sectional Composition

Sections
Total questions
Total MCQs
Total Non-MCQs
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24
20
4
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20
12
8
Quantitative Ability (QA)
22
14
8
Total
66
46
20

Section Wise CAT 2023 Slot-3 Analysis in Detail

Below is shared detailed section wise CAT 2023 Slot-3 Analysis in detail

CAT 2023 Slot-3: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

  • No direct Grammar or Vocabulary based questions
  • RC passages were not very reader friendly
  • Rationality by Steven Pinker passage posed some challenge.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • An attempt of 16 to 18 questions with accuracy of approximately 70% will be good 
Area / Questions
No of Qs.
Type of questions
Reading Comprehension
16
MCQ
RC-1: Colonialism and Global Warming (The Nutmeg’s Curse)
4
MCQ
RC-2: Understanding Romantic Aesthetics
4
MCQ
RC-3: Cultural Patrimony Laws
4
MCQ
RC-4: Rationality by Steven Pinker
4
MCQ
Verbal Ability
08
MCQ & TITA
Para jumbles (4 sentences)
2
TITA
Para-completion
2
MCQ
Summary
2
MCQ
Odd Sentence Questions
2
TITA

CAT 2023 Slot-3: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

  • There were 2 DI and 2 LR Problem sets followed by 5 question each
  • Difficulty level: Difficult
  • An attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% is good
Area
Set Description
No. of Questions
Question Type
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
20
 
Data Interpretation
Number of enrollments in offline and online courses
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Logical Reasoning
Six police stations with maps (route-based set)
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Data Interpretation
3 friends visited a park. Many rides. Scheduling questions.
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Data Interpretation
AC company - 4 dealers
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA

CAT 2023 Slot-3: Quantitative Ability

  • This section was more difficult
  • Dominated by Arithmetic with 8 questions), followed by Modern Math with 4 questions.
  • Arithmetic questions were on Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations, Averages, Percentages and Profit & Loss
  • Algebra questions were on Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus, Maxima -Minima, Inequality & Polynomials etc.
  • Modern Math questions were on Logarithms, Sequences
  • Geometry questions were on Triangle, Rectangle and Polygon
  • In Numbers, questions were on indices and number of factors
  • An attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% is good
Area/Q Type
No of Questions
Quantitative Ability
14 MCQs, 8 TITA
Arithmetic
8
Algebra
4
Modern Math
4
Geometry
3
Numbers
3

Slot-3 CAT 2023 Cut offs

Below are the expected CAT 2023 slot-3 score cut offs for different percentile range:

Slot -3 CAT 2023 Percentile
VARC Score
DILR Score
QA Score
Overall CAT score
99.5 %ile
42
32
30
86-88
99 %ile
38
28
26
76-77
95%ile
28
19
18
56-58
90%ile
23
16
14
48-50
85%ile
20
13
12
39-40
80%ile
18
11
10
34-35

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

MBAUniverse.com has also separately published the CAT Analysis 2023 from top CAT coaching institutes & CAT experts like TIME, IMS, CL with their take on exam difficulty level, sectional and overall changes and expected cut offs. Check the analysis and predictions of IMS, CL and T.I.M.E below

CAT 2023 Analysis by IMS - Slot 1

The first slot of CAT 2023 took place today between 8.30 am and 10:30 am.

 

The structure of CAT 2023 remained largely the same as in 2022, with 66 questions in all. However, the DILR and Verbal sections saw some changes in segmentation and the number of MCQs and TITA. Verbal Section saw a minor change in segmentation with the Odd Sentence Questions coming back after 2021. The VA Section had 2 questions each of Summary, Paragraph Jumbles, Paragraph Completion, and Odd Sentence questions.

Section No.
Section Name
Duration
MCQs
TITA
Total
I
VARC
40 min
20
4
24
II
DI and LR
40 min
12
8
20
III
QA
40 min
15
7
22
Total
 
120 min
49
17
66

The marking scheme was +3 for every correct and -1 for incorrect. There was no negative marking for TITA Qs.

 

Based on the feedback received from several candidates who have appeared in the first slot, our initial estimate of the percentiles and scores*** is as follows. These estimates will be suitably revised soon after the CAT releases the response sheets.

Percentile
Score VA-RC
Score DI-LR
Score QA
Overall Score
99.9 %ile
48
36
48
106
99.5 %ile
44
32
32
89
99 %ile
40
28
28
80
98 %ile
36
25
24
71
95%ile
30
19
19
57
Percentile
Score VA-RC
Score DI-LR
Score QA
Overall Score
90%ile
25
16
15
49
85%ile
21
13
12
40
80%ile
19
11
10
36
75%ile
17
10
9
31
70%ile
15
9
8
29

*** Students are advised not to take any B-School application decision based on these initial estimates. They serve only as the first indicator of likely performance. 

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Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

The VA-RC section consisted of 16 Reading Comprehension questions and 8 Verbal Ability questions. As in the past several years, there were no direct Grammar or Vocabulary questions. The passages were mainly Easy except for the one on Modern Materialism. About 12 RC questions could be attempted with high accuracy. The out-of-context-sentence (Odd Sentence) questions made a comeback this year, replacing one each of Summary and Paragraph Jumbles. So, the section had 2 questions each of Summary (MCQ), Paragraph Jumbles (TITA), Paragraph Completion(MCQ), and Odd Sentence questions (TITA). In VA, 6 or 7 attempts with high accuracy were possible. Overall, the section was Easy.

Area / Questions
No of Qs.
Type
LOD
Reading Comprehension
16
MCQ
Overall: Easy to Medium
RC-1: Return of wolves’ predation in a French regio
4
MCQ
Easy
RC-2: Current economies of North and South Korea.
4
MCQ
Easy
RC-3: “Indian Ocean Literature"
4
MCQ
Medium
RC-4: Modern materialism versus ancient societies
4
MCQ
Difficult
Verbal Ability
8
MCQ & TITA
Overall: Easy
Para jumbles (4 sentences)
2
TITA
1 Easy, 1 Medium
Para-completion
2
MCQ
2 Easy
Summary
2
MCQ
1 Easy, 1 Medium
Odd Sentence Questions
2
TITA
1 Easy, 1 Medium

An attempt of 16 to 18 questions with accuracy of approximately 70% will be a good performance in VARC.

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Last year, there were a total of four sets, each comprising five questions. This pattern has been maintained in CAT 2023.

 

Overall, the Level of difficulty of the section was Medium to Difficult.

 

Overall, the level of difficulty of this section was on par with the DILR Section of Slot 1 of CAT 2022.

Set No. Area Set Description No. of Questions Question Type LOD
  Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning 20 MCQ and TITA Medium to Difficult
1 Logical Reasoning (Arrangements) Professors in departments 5 5 MCQ Easy to Medi
2 Data Interpretation (Reasoning based DI) Gig workers and Restaurants, Mathematical Reasoning Involved Measures of central tendency 5 1 MCQ, 4 TITA Medium to Difficult
3 Logical Reasoning Houses on sale 5 3 MCQ, 2 TITA Medium to Difficult
4 Data Interpretation Visa Office Special Equation handling 5 3 MCQ, 2 TITA Medium to Difficult

Overall, an attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

Quantitative Ability

This section was tougher in terms of level of difficulty compared to last year’s slots and was dominated by Algebra (8 questions), followed by Arithmetic (7 questions). There were 4 questions on Geometry, 2 questions on Modern Math and one on Numbers. In Algebra, the questions were dominated by Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus Functions & Polynomials etc. In Arithmetic, the questions were on SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Clocks, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations and Profit & Loss. In Modern Math, the questions were on Logarithms, Sequences etc. In Geometry, the questions were on Triangle, Coordinate Geometry, Cyclic Quadrilateral etc. There was a question on Indices.

 

Number of TITA (7 questions) and MCQ (15 questions) in this section.

Area/Q Type
No of Questions
Quantitative Ability
15 MCQs, 7 TITA Overall LOD: MEDIUM
Arithmetic
7
Algebra
8
Geometry
4
Modern Math
2
Numbers
1

Selecting the right questions to attempt was the key.

 

Overall, an attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

 

THE PROCESS
At many centers, shoes and metallic objects (including metal) jewelry were not 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 for rough work, and a pen – which were also taken away at the end of the exam.

 

TEST INTERFACE
The test interface was user-friendly and exactly the one provided in the official CAT Mock Test. There were no subdivisions within each section. A simple calculator was provided, and not a scientific one. There was an arrow provided near the question palette which when clicked expanded the question window to full-screen view by hiding the question palette & vice versa

 

At the end of the test, a summary of the number of questions attempted, visited, and not visited was displayed for each section.

 

There was a button marked ‘Question Paper’ that opened up a screen containing all the questions of the section. This was used by students for planning their approach for the section.

 

*** The scores and percentiles mentioned in this analysis are indicators based on the feedback from students and IMS experts. They are in no way related to the results which IIMs are expected to declare in January 2024. You are advised to wait for the results.

CAT 2023 Analysis by IMS - Slot 2

The second slot of CAT 2023 took place today between 12.30 pm and 2:30 pm. The structure of CAT 2023 Slot 2 remained largely the same as in 2022, with 66 questions in all. However, the DILR and Verbal sections saw some changes in segmentation and the number of MCQs and TITA. The Verbal Section saw a minor change in segmentation with the Odd Sentence Questions coming back after 2021. The VA Section had 2 questions each of Summary, Paragraph Jumbles, Paragraph Completion, and Odd Sentence questions.

Section No.

Section Name

Duration

MCQs

TITA

Total

I

VARC

40 min

20

4

24

II

DI and LR

40 min

12

8

20

III

QA

40 min

14

8

22

Total

 

120 min

49

20

66

The marking scheme was +3 for every correct and -1 for incorrect. There was no negative marking for TITA Qs. Based on the feedback received from several candidates who have appeared in the first slot, our initial estimate of the percentiles and scores*** is as follows. These estimates will be suitably revised soon after the CAT releases the response sheets.

Percentile Score VA-RC Score DI-LR Score QA Overall Score
99.9 %ile 50 38 46 108
99.5 %ile 46 34 30 91
99 %ile 42 30 26 81
98 %ile 38 26 23 73
95%ile 32 20 18 59
90%ile 26 17 14 50
85%ile 22 13 12 41
80%ile 20 11 10 36
75%ile 18 10 9 32
70%ile 16 9 8 30

*** Students are advised not to take any B-School application decision based on these initial estimates. They serve only as the first indicator of likely performance.

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

The VA-RC section consisted of 16 Reading Comprehension questions and 8 Verbal Ability questions. As in the past several years, there were no direct Grammar or Vocabulary questions. The passages were mainly Easy except for the one on Historical Fact. About 12 RC questions could be attempted with high accuracy. The out-of-context-sentence (Odd Sentence) questions made a comeback this year, replacing one each of Summary and Paragraph Jumbles. So, the section had 2 questions each of Summary (MCQ), Paragraph Jumbles (TITA), Paragraph Completion(MCQ), and Odd Sentence questions (TITA). One question in the Verbal Ability section was marked with an alert icon and indicated that it was a Mandatory Question. In VA, 6 or 7 attempts with high accuracy were possible. Overall, the section was Easy.

Area / Questions

No of Qs.

Type

LOD

Reading Comprehension

16

MCQ

Overall: Easy to Medium

RC-1: Second-hand Shopping and Fast Fashion

4

MCQ

Easy

RC-2: Translated Streaming on Netflix in Europe

4

MCQ

Easy

RC-3: Why Liberalism Failed (Book Review)

4

MCQ

Medium

RC-4: What is Historical Fact

4

MCQ

Difficult

Verbal Ability

8

MCQ & TITA

Overall: Easy

Para jumbles (4 sentences)

2

TITA

1 Easy, 1 Medium

Para-completion

2

MCQ

2 Easy

Summary

2

MCQ

1 Easy, 1 Medium

Odd Sentence Questions

2

TITA

1 Easy, 1 Medium

An attempt of 17 to 19 questions with accuracy of approximately 70% will be a good performance in VARC.

 

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Last year, there were a total of four sets, each comprising five questions. This pattern has been maintained in CAT 2023. Overall, the Level of difficulty of the section was Medium to Difficult. Overall the level of difficulty of this section was on par with the DILR Section of Slot 1 of CAT 2023.

Set No.

Area

Set Description

No. of Questions

Question Type

LOD

 

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

20

MCQ and TITA

Medium to Difficult

1

Data Interpretation

5 firms - Funds raised in consecutive years

5

4 MCQ, 1 TITA

Easy to Medium

2

Data Interpretation

Draw competition

5

3 MCQ, 2 TITA

Medium to Difficult

3

Logical Reasoning

3 friends visited a park. Many rides. Scheduling questions.

5

3 MCQ, 2 TITA

Medium to Difficult

4

Data Interpretation

Nine Boxes - sudoku type puzzle

5

2 MCQ, 3 TITA

Medium to Difficult

Overall, an attempt of 10 to 12 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

 

Quantitative Ability

This section was slightly tougher in terms of level of difficulty compared to CAT 2023 Slot 1 QA and was dominated by Algebra (8 questions), followed by Arithmetic (7 questions). There were 3 questions on Geometry, 2 questions on Modern Math and 2 questions on Numbers. In Arithmetic, the questions were on SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations and Profit & Loss. In Algebra, the questions were dominated by Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus, Maxima -Minima, Inequality & Polynomials etc. In Modern Math, the questions were on Logarithms, Sequences etc. In Geometry, the questions were on Triangle, Rectangle, Coordinate Geometry & Parallelogram etc. In Numbers , questions were on indices and number of factors

 

Number of TITA (8 questions) and MCQ (14 questions) in this section:

Area/Q Type
No of Questions
Quantitative Ability
14 MCQs, 8 TITA Overall LOD: MEDIUM
Arithmetic
7
Algebra
8
Modern Math
2
Geometry
3
Numbers
2

Selecting the right questions to attempt was the key. Overall, an attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

 

THE PROCESS
At many centers, shoes and metallic objects (including metal) jewelry were not 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 for rough work, and a pen – which were also taken away at the end of the exam.

 

TEST INTERFACE
The test interface was user-friendly and exactly the one provided in the official CAT Mock Test. There were no subdivisions within each section. A simple calculator was provided, and not a scientific one. There was an arrow provided near the question palette which when clicked expanded the question window to full-screen view by hiding the question palette & vice versa

At the end of the test, a summary of the number of questions attempted, visited, and not visited was displayed for each section..

There was a button marked ‘Question Paper’ that opened up a screen containing all the questions of the section. This was used by students for planning their approach for the section.

*** The scores and percentiles mentioned in this analysis are indicators based on the feedback from students and IMS experts. They are in no way related to the results which IIMs are expected to declare in January 2024. You are advised to wait for the results. 

CAT 2023 Analysis by IMS - Slot 3

The third slot of CAT 2023 took place today between 4.30 pm and 6:30 pm. The structure of CAT 2023 Slot 3 remained the same as in the first two slots, with 66 questions in all. However, the DILR and Verbal sections saw some changes in segmentation and the number of MCQs and TITA. The Verbal Section saw a minor change in segmentation with the Odd Sentence Questions coming back after 2021. The VA Section had 2 questions each of Summary, Paragraph Jumbles, Paragraph Completion, and Odd Sentence questions.

Section No.
Section Name
Duration
MCQs
TITA
Total
I
VARC
40 min
20
4
24
II
DI and LR
40 min
12
8
20
III
QA
40 min
14
8
22
Total
 
120 min
49
20
66

The marking scheme was +3 for every correct and -1 for incorrect. There was no negative marking for TITA Qs. Based on the feedback received from several candidates who have appeared in the first slot, our initial estimate of the percentiles and scores*** is as follows. These estimates will be suitably revised soon after the CAT releases the response sheets.

Percentile Score VA-RC Score DI-LR Score QA Overall Score
99.9 %ile 46 36 46 104
99.5 %ile 42 32 30 87
99 %ile 38 28 26 77
98 %ile 34 26 25 23
95%ile 28 19 18 56
90%ile 23 16 14 48
85%ile 20 13 12 39
80%ile 18 11 10 35
75%ile 16 10 9 30
70%ile 14 9 8 28

*** Students are advised not to take any B-School application decision based on these initial estimates. They serve only as the first indicator of likely performance.

 

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

The VA-RC section consisted of 16 Reading Comprehension questions and 8 Verbal Ability questions. As in the past several years, there were no direct Grammar or Vocabulary questions. The passages were rather dense and not very reader friendly; however, the questions were manageable. Rationality by Steven Pinker passage likely posed some challenge. 9 or 10 RC questions could be attempted with high accuracy. The out-of-context-sentence (Odd Sentence) questions made a comeback this year, replacing one each of Summary and Paragraph Jumbles. So, the section had 2 questions each of Summary (MCQ), Paragraph Jumbles (TITA), Paragraph Completion (MCQ), and Odd Sentence questions (TITA). In VA, 5 to 6 attempts with high accuracy were possible. Overall, the section was Medium.

Area / Questions
No of Qs.
Type
LOD
Reading Comprehension
16
MCQ
Overall: Medium
RC-1: Colonialism and Global Warming (The Nutmeg’s Curse)
4
MCQ
Easy
RC-2: Understanding Romantic Aesthetics
4
MCQ
Easy
RC-3: Cultural Patrimony Laws
4
MCQ
Easy-Medium
RC-4: Rationality by Steven Pinker
4
MCQ
Difficult
Verbal Ability
08
MCQ & TITA
Overall: Easy
Para jumbles (4 sentences)
2
TITA
1 Easy, 1 Medium
Para-completion
2
MCQ
1 Easy, 1 Medium
Summary
2
MCQ
1 Easy, 1 Medium
Odd Sentence Questions
2
TITA
1 Easy, 1 Medium

An attempt of 16 to 18 questions with accuracy of approximately 70% will be a good performance in VARC.

 

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Last year, there were a total of four sets, each comprising five questions. This pattern has been maintained in CAT 2023. Overall, the Level of difficulty of the section was Medium to Difficult

 

Overall the level of difficulty of this section was similar to the DILR Section of Slot 1 of CAT 2023.

Set No.
Area
Set Description
No. of Questions
Question Type
LOD
 
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
20
MCQ and TITA
Medium to Difficult
1
Data Interpretation
Number of enrollments in offline and online courses
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Easy to Medium
2
Logical Reasoning
Six police stations with maps (route-based set)
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Medium
3
Data Interpretation
3 friends visited a park. Many rides. Scheduling questions.
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Medium to Difficult
4
Data Interpretation
AC company - 4 dealers
5
3 MCQ, 2 TITA
Medium to Difficult

Overall, an attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

 

Quantitative Ability

This section was slightly tougher in terms of level of difficulty compared to CAT 2023 Slot 1 QA and was dominated by Arithmetic (8 questions), followed by Modern Math (4 questions). There were 3 questions on Geometry, 4 questions on Algebra and 3 questions on Numbers. In Arithmetic, the questions were on Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations, Averages, Percentages and Profit & Loss. In Algebra, the questions were dominated by Quadratic equations, Linear Equations, Modulus, Maxima -Minima, Inequality & Polynomials etc. In Modern Math, the questions were on Logarithms, Sequences etc. In Geometry, the questions were on Triangle, Rectangle and Polygon etc. In Numbers, questions were on indices and number of factors. Number of TITA (8 questions) and MCQ (14 questions) in this section:

Area/Q Type
No of Questions
Quantitative Ability
14 MCQs, 8 TITA Overall LOD: MEDIUM
Arithmetic
8
Algebra
4
Modern Math
4
Geometry
3
Numbers
3

Selecting the right questions to attempt was the key. Overall, an attempt of 9 to 11 questions with accuracy of approximately 75-80% will be a good performance.

 

THE PROCESS
At many centers, shoes and metallic objects (including metal) jewelry were not 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 for rough work, and a pen – which were also taken away at the end of the exam.

 

TEST INTERFACE

The test interface was user-friendly and exactly the one provided in the official CAT Mock Test. There were no subdivisions within each section. A simple calculator was provided, and not a scientific one. There was an arrow provided near the question palette which when clicked expanded the question window to full-screen view by hiding the question palette & vice versa At the end of the test, a summary of the number of questions attempted, visited, and not visited was displayed for each section. There was a button marked ‘Question Paper’ that opened up a screen containing all the questions of the section. This was used by students for planning their approach for the section.

 

*** The scores and percentiles mentioned in this analysis are indicators based on the feedback from students and IMS experts. They are in no way related to the results which IIMs are expected to declare in January 2024. You are advised to wait for the results.

CAT 2023 Analysis by CL - Slot 1

As per the expectations, the CAT 2023 exam pattern was the same as the previous years. The paper comprised 66 questions which were to be attempted in 120 minutes. The sections, the order of which was predetermined, were to be attempted in 40 minutes each and candidates could not submit the section before time. The division of the questions also remained the same.

 

CAT 2023 slot 1 was moderate to difficult. The section-wise level of difficulty was as follows:

  • VARC was easier than last year
  • DILR maintained the difficulty was the same as last year
  • QA was difficult as compared to last year (Especially the algebra questions)

CAT 2023 Paper Pattern & Section-wise expected score for 99%ile+

Section

No. of questions

Non-MCQ Questions

Difficulty Level

VARC

24

4

Moderate

DILR

20

6

Moderate- Difficult

QA 

22

6

Difficult

Total

66

16

 Moderate - Difficult

The marking scheme of CAT 2023 was as follows:

  • +3 marks for every right answer
  • -1 mark for every wrong answer in MCQs
  • TITA had no negative marking

CAT 2023 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Analysis

The VARC section was easier as compared to last year and had a moderate level of difficulty. There were a total of 24 questions to be attempted in 40 minutes.

  • 4 questions were Non-MCQs or TITA questions
  • The RC passages were around 400-450 words each.
  • Odd-sentence-out questions and para completion were both included in the section this year.

CAT 2023 Slot 1 Analysis: Reading Comprehension

Passage Number

Passage Topic/ Area

No. of Questions

Difficulty Level

Description/ Doable

1

Wolf → Environmentalists vs Farmer

4

Easy read

400 words

2- Fact based- Doable

2- Inference based

2

Philosophy → Change in Work Culture

4

Difficult read, 

Easy to solve

400 words 

4 Doable

3

Indian Ocean-based Geographical Literature

4

Difficult read

400 words 

3 Doable

4

Human Behavior

4

Easy read

450 words

2 - Doable

Total

 

16

 

 

CAT 2023 Slot 1 Analysis: Verbal Ability

Question Type

Easy

Moderate

Difficult

Total

Para Summary

0

2

0

2

Odd Sentence

0

0

2

2

Para Jumbles

2

0

0

2

 

1

1

0

2

Total

3

 8

CAT 2023 Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Analysis

CAT 2023 DILR was the same as the CAT 2022 DILR section in terms of difficulty.

  • The DILR section had 20 questions distributed across 4 sets with 5 questions each.
  • The number of non-MCQs or TITA questions was 6.

CAT 2023 Slot 1 DILR Question-wise Breakup:

Set Number

Topic

No of Questions

Difficulty Level

Description/ Doable

1

College Elections (LR)

5

Moderate - Difficult

2- Doable, 3- Tough

2

Visa Applications (LR)

(Time & Sequence set)

5

Moderate

3- Doable, 2- Tough

3

12 Houses (LR-DI)

Rectangular diagram (3*2)

5

Moderate - Difficult

2- Doable, 3- Tough

4

Restaurant→ Rating 

(Mean, Median, Mode)

5

Moderate

3- Doable, 2-Tough

Total

 

20

Moderate - Difficult

Similar to CAT 2022 

CAT 2023 Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Analysis

As expected, the QA section of CAT 2023 was difficult in terms of the level of difficulty.

  • It had 22 questions to be attempted in 40 minutes.
  • The section had 6 non-MCQs or TITA questions.
  • As expected, arithmetic dominated the section followed by algebra.

CAT 2023 Slot 1 QA Questions-wise Breakup:

Topic

Description/ Doable

Total Questions

Difficulty Level

Number System

Surds-1, 

1

Easy

Algebra

Log-1

Equations-3

Surds-1

Sequence & Series-2

8

Moderate- Difficult

Arithmetic

TSD-2

T&W-1

Ratio-1

SI CI-1

PLD-1

Mixture-1

Clock-1

9

Easy- Moderate

Modern Math

P&C-1

1

Easy

Geometry & Mensuration

Triangle-1

Quadrilateral- 1

Coordinate Geo Circle - 1

3

Moderate

Total

 

22

 

CAT 2023: Expected Percentile

Based on the overall and section-wise scores, level of difficulty and good attempts, given below are the score required for various percentiles:

Percentile

VARC

DILR

QA

Overall

99

40

25-27

25-28

80

95

28-30

18-20

20-22

55

90

22-24

15-17

15-17

45-48

85

20-22

13-14

12-14

39-41

80

18-20

11-12

10-12

35-37

The overall raw score for a 99 percentile is expected to range around 80!

CAT 2023 Analysis by Career Launcher - Slot 2 

CAT 2023 Slot 2 followed the pattern of CAT 2023 slot 1. However, this slot had one mandatory Verbal Ability question in the VARC section. The VARC section comprised 24 questions, DILR had 20 questions and QA had 22 questions with 40 minutes allotted to attempt each section.

 

CAT 2023 slot 2 was difficult in comparison to CAT 2022 and CAT 2023 slot 1. The QA section also increased in the level of difficulty as compared to slot 1. The section-wise level of difficulty was as follows:

  • VARC: Moderate; It was easier than last year and the same as CAT 2023 slot 1
  • DILR: Moderate - Difficult; Difficulty was same as last year and CAT 2023 slot 1
  • QA: Difficult; It was difficult compared to CAT 2022 and CAT 2023 slot 1

CAT 2023 Paper Pattern & Section-wise expected score for 99%ile+

Section

Total questions

Non MCQ Questions

Difficulty Level

No. of Doable Questions

VARC

24

4

Moderate

14-15

DILR

20

6

Moderate - Difficult

8-9

QA

22

7

Difficult

9-10

Total

66

17

Moderate - Difficult

30

CAT 2023 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Analysis

IN CAT 2023 Slot 2, there was a mandatory VA question that had to be attempted by the aspirants. Overall, the level of difficulty of CAT 2023 slot 2 was similar to sot 1.

  • There were a total of 24 questions to be attempted in 40 minutes.
  • 4 questions were non-MCQs or TITA questions.
  • The RC passages were around ~400-450 words each.

CAT 2023 Slot 2 Analysis: Reading Comprehension

Passage Number

Passage – Topic/ Area

No. of Questions

Difficulty Level

Description/ Doable

1

Garments/ fashion Industry & Pollution

4

Easy to Moderate

400-450 words

4- Doable

2

Netflix Dubbing of titles for europe→ Good or Bad for Europe?

4

Easy to Moderate

400-450 words 

3 Doable

3

Liberalism is Dying

4

Moderate to Difficult

400-450 words

2- Doable, 2- Difficult

4

Facts & Interpretation in History

4

Easy

400-450 words

2 - Doable, 2- Difficult

Total

 

16

Moderate

Easier than CAT 2022

CAT 2023 Slot 2 Analysis: Verbal Ability

Question Type

Easy

Moderate

Difficult

Total

Para Summary

1

1

0

2

Odd Sentence

0

1

1

2

Para Completion

0

2

0

2

Para Jumbles

1

1

0

2

Total

2

5

1

8

CAT 2023 Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Analysis

Section of CAT 2023 Slot 2 was similar to Slot 1 and CAT 2022.

  • The DILR section had 4 sets with 5 questions each, much like slot 1.
  • Again, the number of non-MCQs or TITA questions was 6.
  • 2 sets were doable and aspirants could aim to attempt 8-9 questions.

CAT 2023 Slot 2 DILR Question-wise Breakup:

Set Number

Topic

No of Questions

Difficulty Level

Description/ Doable

1

Arrangement → Scores → two days average

5

Moderate - Difficult

2- Doable, 3- Tough

2

Missing Values Based Table→ Company Starting/ Closing Years

5

Easy - Moderate

4- Doable, 1- Tough

3

Rides & Timings

5

Moderate - Difficult

3- Doable, 2- Tough

4

Grid Based→two 3*3 tables (Mean, Median, Mode)

5

Difficult

0- Doable, 5-Tough

Total

 

20

Moderate - Difficult

8-9 Questions Doable

CAT 2023 Quantitative Aptitude (QA) Analysis

The QA section of CAT 2023 Slot 2 was difficult compared to CAT 2022 while there was only a slight increase in difficulty compared to CAT 2023 slot 1.

  • Of the 22 questions, 9-10 questions were doable for the section.
  • The section had 7 non-MCQs or TITA questions.
  • Muck like in Slot 1, the Slot 2 QA section was dominated by Arithmetic followed by Algebra.

CAT 2023 Slot 2 QA Questions-wise Breakup:

Topic

Description/ Doable

Total Questions

Difficulty Level

Number System

Factors-1, Divisibility-1,

3

Easy

Algebra

Log-1, Equations- 1,

Sequence & Series-2, Maxima & Minima - 2 , Inequalities-1

7

Moderate- Difficult

Arithmetic

TSD-1, T&W-1, Ratio-2, SI CI-1,

PLD-2, Mixture-1, Averages - 1

9

Easy- Moderate

Modern Math

-

0

-

Geometry & Mensuration

Rectangle-1, Circle- 1,

Coordinate Geo - 1

3

Moderate

Total

 

22

Difficult

CAT 2023: Expected Percentile

Based on the overall and section-wise scores, level of difficulty and good attempts, given below are the score required for various percentiles:

Percentile

VARC

DILR

QA

Overall

99

40-42

25-26

28-30

82-83

95

30-33

18-20

20-22

57-58

90

24-26

14-15

15-17

46-48

85

20-22

12-13

12-14

40-43

80

18-20

10-11

10-12

36-39

The overall cutoff for a 99+ percentile is expected to range around 82-83.

CAT 2023 Analysis by T.I.M.E.

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CAT Previous Year Exam Analysis

CAT Exam Analysis for previous year is shared below 

CAT 2022 Exam Analysis: Sectional Composition

CAT Exam 2022 Section Wise Analysis is shared below with number and type of questions as appeared in the 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  

CAT Percentile Predictions

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

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 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 

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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 

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