[8 Steps] How to Improve CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation [LRDI]

How to improve CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation [LRDI]- The Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) section of CAT has undergone significant changes by the IIMs. Previously, this section consisted of an equal number of sets from logical reasoning and data interpretation. However, with the introduction of online calculators, the calculation-intensive data interpretation sets have been replaced by logical reasoning driven data interpretation sets. In these sets, numbers are derived from a given set of conditions, and the calculation part is just the final step to arrive at the right answer. Therefore, the LRDI section of CAT is now primarily focused on logical reasoning. As a result, aspirants are facing difficulties in devising the right strategy for this section.

There are two main challenges that students often encounter in the LRDI section: how to get started and where to practice. These questions can be easily answered. Unlike Quantitative Aptitude, logical reasoning does not require the application of concepts. Instead, aspirants must carefully work out logical conditions to arrive at missing details or numbers, which can directly lead to the correct answers. Therefore, there is no need for extensive groundwork in this section. Aspirants can directly start solving sets from past year CAT papers. However, it is important to use solutions that provide a step-by-step approach to LRDI sets.

To begin, it is advisable to solve basic LR sets based on arrangement and combination. These sets teach aspirants how to use logical conditions to arrive at conclusive answers by selecting the logically correct possibility from multiple cases. This tactic is frequently used in both easy and difficult LRDI sets. It is recommended to start with easy sets and gradually move on to more difficult ones, although this may not always be the case. Solving easier and average difficulty sets first will help aspirants adapt to more complex sets without getting discouraged or losing motivation.

Steps to Improve CAT Logical Reasoning LRDI

If you have already started preparing but are still struggling to solve LRDI questions, there are a few things you can do to improve:

1. Neat work: Make sure to maintain neatness and clarity in your tables, conditions, and logical deductions written or drawn on paper. Clear and organized work will prevent confusion and save time and effort.

2. Remember key information and conditions: Develop the ability to keep critical conditions in mind, especially in long and complex sets. Forgetting important conditions can lead to incorrect answers.

3. Identify the structure or pattern of sets: In the first five minutes, quickly assess the difficulty of the section by categorizing sets based on type and complexity. Start with relatively easier sets to build confidence and maximize your score.

4. Represent data and conditions pictorially or symbolically: To save time, use visual representation of data and conditions instead of constantly referring back to the screen. Develop standard symbols to codify frequently occurring logical conditions.

5. Understand conditional phrases: Familiarize yourself with common conditional phrases such as only, some, at least, and only if. Poor interpretation of these phrases can lead to misunderstanding the data and conditions given in the sets.

6. Avoid unnecessary assumptions: Do not make assumptions that are not supported by the given statements. Analyze the statements carefully and avoid drawing conclusions that are not explicitly stated.

7. Analyze the sets: After solving sets, analyze your mistakes and compare your solutions with others who have solved the same sets methodically. This will help you identify areas for improvement.

8. Write sectional tests and mocks: Test your ability to think under time constraints by writing sectional tests and mocks. Overcoming fear and experiencing the time pressure will ultimately improve your performance.

By following these steps and consistently practicing LRDI sets, you can improve your skills in this section of CAT.