The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of India’s toughest MBA entrance exams. Among its three sections, the Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) section is known to be tricky. Why? Because it tests not only your accuracy but also your speed and logical thinking under pressure.
If you score well here, your overall CAT percentile can improve dramatically. Therefore, this guide will walk you through key CAT DILR topics, past year weightage, effective strategies, and the best books to prepare for CAT 2025.
What is DILR in the CAT Exam?
The DILR section checks how well you can analyze data, identify patterns, and apply reasoning. It is as important as the other two sections—Quantitative Ability (QA) and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC).
Here’s a quick overview:
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Total Questions: Usually 20–22. For instance, CAT 2024 had 22 questions, while CAT 2023 had 20.
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Time Limit: 40 minutes are given only for DILR.
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Question Types: Both MCQs and Type in the Answer (TITA).
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Difficulty Level: Mostly moderate to high.
Division of DILR
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Data Interpretation (DI): Data from tables, graphs, and caselets. Strong calculations are needed.
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Logical Reasoning (LR): Includes puzzles, arrangements, games, and tournaments. Tests clarity of thought and smart problem-solving.
Key DILR Topics for CAT 2025
Let’s now look at the must-prepare topics.
Data Interpretation Topics
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Tables
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Bar Graph
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Pie Chart
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Line Graph
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Venn Diagram
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Radar Chart
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Histogram
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Caselets
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Networks & Diagrams
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Reasoning-based DI
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Data Arrangement
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Mathematical Puzzles
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Bubble Charts
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Column Graphs
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Scatter Plots
Logical Reasoning Topics
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Linear Arrangement
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Circular Arrangement
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Selection
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Sequencing
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Binary Logic
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Cubes
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Routes
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Games & Tournaments
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2D/3D Space LRs
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Coin Picking
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Conditional Reasoning
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Case-based LR Sets
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Order & Rankings
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Team Formations
Tip: Start with familiar topics. Slowly expand to the harder ones to build confidence.
CAT DILR Topic-Wise Weightage (Past Year Trends)
Looking at past years helps you spot patterns. Some topics appear more often, while others rotate in importance.
CAT 2024
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22 Questions in total.
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Included sets on Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, Games & Tournaments, and advanced DI caselets.
CAT 2023
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20 Questions.
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Heavy focus on Mathematical Reasoning and Puzzles.
CAT 2022
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Questions on Games & Tournaments, Venn Diagrams, Routes, and Tables & Graphs.
CAT 2021
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Sets from Selection & Distribution, Graphs, Puzzles, and Caselets.
➡️ Takeaway: Year after year, Arrangements, Games & Tournaments, Graphs, and Puzzles remain essential.
Tips to Improve CAT DILR Performance
Cracking DILR is not about luck. It’s about smart preparation. Here’s how:
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Build a Personalized Strategy
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Play to your strengths.
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Attempt easier sets first to save time.
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Expose Yourself to Different Question Types
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Don’t stick to only one style.
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Practice across varied topics to be ready for surprises.
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Work on Time Management
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Aim to solve one set in 8–10 minutes.
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Balance speed with accuracy.
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Take Regular Mock Tests
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Attempt mocks at the same time as your actual exam slot.
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Analyze mistakes carefully.
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Study Previous Year Papers
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Spot recurring trends.
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Adjust your preparation plan based on these insights.
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Best Books for CAT DILR 2025
Books are your best companions. Here are the top ones:
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How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT – Arun Sharma
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Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation for the CAT – Nishit Sinha
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A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal
These provide concept clarity, solved examples, and practice sets. Combine them with online mocks for a balanced prep.
Conclusion
The DILR section in CAT 2025 can make or break your score. To master it, you need:
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Consistent practice.
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Sharp time management.
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A clear strategy for attempting sets.
By solving past papers, analyzing mocks, and focusing on high-weightage topics, you can convert DILR into your strength. Remember, regular practice turns complexity into confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many questions are there in DILR?
Usually 20–22.
Q2. How much time do I get for DILR?
40 minutes.
Q3. What are the most important DI topics?
Tables, Graphs, Pie Charts, Caselets, and Venn Diagrams.
Q4. What are the major LR topics?
Arrangements, Puzzles, Games & Tournaments, and Conditional Reasoning.
Q5. Is DILR tough?
Yes, it is tricky. But with the right preparation, you can improve steadily.
Q6. Which books are best for CAT DILR?
Arun Sharma, Nishit Sinha, and R.S. Aggarwal.
Conclusion
The DILR section is often seen as a hurdle, but with the right strategy, it becomes an opportunity. Consistent practice, strong time management, and familiarity with past trends help you master it.
If you practice regularly, analyze mocks carefully, and strengthen weak areas, you will be well-prepared to face CAT 2025 with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many questions are asked in CAT DILR?
Usually 20–22. CAT 2024 had 22 questions.
Q2. How much time is given for DILR?
40 minutes are allotted.
Q3. Which DI topics are most important?
Tables, Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, and Venn Diagrams.
Q4. Which LR topics should I focus on?
Arrangements, Binary Logic, Games & Tournaments, Routes, and Conditional Logic.
Q5. Which books are best for CAT DILR 2025?
Arun Sharma, Nishit Sinha, and R.S. Aggarwal’s books are the top recommendations.
Q6. Is the DILR section difficult?
Yes, it is rated moderate to tough. However, with consistent practice, it becomes manageable.
Q7. Why is DILR important in CAT?
It carries one-third of the marks and tests your reasoning ability, making it crucial for a high percentile.
