CAT 2018 DILR Slot 1: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Solution Guide
Question Overview
This section includes a set of logical reasoning problems based on a real-world scenario. The task involves analyzing a table or chart to answer questions about relationships, sequences, or constraints. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of a typical game-based question from this slot, along with strategies to solve such problems efficiently.
Sample Question (Hypothetical Example)
Context:
A company has 6 employees (A, B, C, D, E, F) who need to be assigned to 3 projects (X, Y, Z) with the following constraints:
Each project must have exactly 2 employees.
A cannot work with C.
B and D must work together.
E cannot work in Project X.
Questions:
How many valid assignments are possible?
If F is assigned to Project Z, who cannot be paired with E?
Solving Strategy
Step 1: Break Down Constraints
Hard Constraints: B and D must work together (group them as BD).
Soft Constraints: A ≠ C, E ≠ X.
Step 2: Group Employees
Group 1: BD (must stay together).
Remaining Individuals: A, C, E, F.
Step 3: Assign Groups to Projects
Project X: Cannot include E.
Project Y & Z: No restrictions.
Possible Assignments:
Assign BD to one project.
Assign remaining individuals (A, C, E, F) to the other projects, ensuring E ≠ X.
Step 4: Calculate Valid Combinations

Case 1: BD in Project X
Remaining employees: A, C, E, F
Assign 2 to X (but BD already occupies X). Invalid.
Case 2: BD in Project Y
Assign E to Project Z (since E ≠ X).
Remaining: A, C, F → Split into Y (already has BD) and Z.
Valid pairs: (A, C), (A, F), (C, F).
Case 3: BD in Project Z
Assign E to Project Y (since E ≠ X).
Remaining: A, C, F → Split into X and Y.
Valid pairs: (A, C), (A, F), (C, F).
Total Valid Assignments: 3 (Case 2) + 3 (Case 3) = 6.
Step 5: Answer Specific Questions
If F is in Z:
Z has F and BD (from Case 3).
E must be in Y.
Remaining in X: A and C (but A ≠ C is allowed).
Answer: E cannot be paired with A or C in Project X.
Key Tips for CAT DILR
Prioritize Constraints: Start with "must" conditions (e.g., B and D together).
Visualize with Piles/Groups: Use mental frameworks to track relationships.
Elimination: Rule out invalid options quickly (e.g., E in X).
Time Management: Spend ≤ 2 minutes per question in the actual test.
Answer Key (Hypothetical)
Total Valid Assignments: 6
Pairing Restriction: E cannot be paired with A or C if F is in Z.
Final Note: Always practice with official CAT papers to熟悉 real-time scenarios and improve speed. For more game-based questions, refer to GMAT Official Guide or Crack CAT by Arindam Chaudhary.
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