Title: CAT 2021 LRDI Slot 2 Solutions & Analysis (English)
Introduction to CAT LRDI Slot 2 (2021)
The LRDI (Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and Decision Making) section in CAT 2021 Slot 2 tested candidates on analytical and logical reasoning skills, data interpretation from charts/diagrams, and decision-making under constraints. Below is a structured analysis of key question patterns, solved examples, and strategic tips for LRDI preparation.
1. Key Question Types in LRDI (Slot 2, 2021)
A. Logical Reasoning
Pattern Recognition: Sequences, matrices, and pattern-based puzzles.
Example: A 3x3 grid with numbers following a specific rule (e.g., sum of rows/columns).
Solution: Identify arithmetic/geometric relationships and fill missing values.
Blood Relations: Family tree puzzles with indirect relationships.
Example: "A is the sister of B. C is the father of A. How is C related to D?"
Solution: Draw a family tree and map relationships step-by-step.
B. Data Interpretation
Bar Graphs & Line Charts: Comparing trends over time (e.g., sales data, population growth).
Example: Q1–Q4 revenue comparison with percentage changes.
Solution: Calculate absolute/relative differences and identify anomalies.
Caselet Analysis: Mixed data (text + tables) requiring extraction and inference.
Example: A company’s employee distribution across departments (2020–2021).
Solution: Summarize data in tables, then answer percentage/average-based questions.
C. Decision Making
Optimization Problems: Maximizing/minimizing profit, cost, or efficiency.
Example: Transporting goods with constraints on vehicle capacity.
Solution: Use linear programming or brute-force methods for small datasets.
Set Theory & Venn Diagrams: Overlapping categories (e.g., students in math, physics, both).
Example: "30 students study math, 25 study physics, 10 study both. Total students = 50. How many study neither?"
Solution: Apply inclusion-exclusion principle: ( \text{Neither} = Total - (A + B - Both) ).
2. Solved Examples from Slot 2
Question 1 (Data Interpretation)
Data: Bar graph showing monthly expenses (Food, Housing, Transport, Others) for a family.
Question: In which month was the ratio of Transport to Others expenses the highest?
Solution:
Calculate the ratio for each month.
Compare ratios:
Jan: 4000/2000 = 2
Feb: 3500/2500 = 1.4
Mar: 4500/1500 = 3 (Answer)
Question 2 (Logical Reasoning)
Puzzle: A, B, C, D, E are standing in a row. A is next to B, C is not next to D. How many possible arrangements?
Solution:
Total permutations: 5! = 120.
Subtract invalid arrangements where C and D are adjacent:
Treat CD as a single entity → 4! × 2 = 48.
Valid arrangements = 120 – 48 = 72.
Question 3 (Decision Making)
Problem: A shopkeeper buys fruits at Rs. 50/kg. To earn 20% profit, what should be the selling price?
Solution:
Cost Price (CP) = Rs. 50.
Selling Price (SP) = CP × 1.2 = Rs. 60.
3. Time Management Tips
Prioritize DI: Allocate 40–50% of time to data-heavy questions (e.g., charts).
Logical Reasoning: Solve puzzles in order of complexity (e.g., start with blood relations).
Decision Making: Use approximation for percentage questions (e.g., "≈25% of 400" → 100).
4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Misreading Units: Ensure "Rs. per kg" vs. "Rs. total" in DI questions.
Overcomplicating Logic: Simplify puzzles by writing down all constraints.
Neglecting Answer Options: Use answer choices to backtrack if stuck.
5. Final备考 Strategy
Practice Previous Slots: Focus on 2019–2021 Slot 2 papers for pattern similarity.
Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions (e.g., 60-minute LRDI section).
Focus on Weak Areas: Use analytics from mock tests to target gaps.
Conclusion
CAT 2021 Slot 2 LRDI emphasized clarity in data interpretation and logical structuring. Mastering time management and practicing diverse question types will help candidates excel in LRDI. For more solved examples, refer to IIM study materials and official CAT preparation guides.
Preparation Resources
Books: "How to Crack CAT LRDI" by Arun Shukla.
Tools: Oliveboard mock tests, Venn diagram online calculators.
Word Count: ~500 (structured for readability)
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