DI-LR: Improving your core strength

Improving your core strength in DI-LR is essential for CAT preparation. To excel in DI-LR, there are two main factors to consider: set selection and comfort with mathematical reasoning. Many sets in recent years have been based on Arithmetic and Modern Math concepts. However, even with these skills, it is crucial to practice DI-LR sets regularly to develop the necessary speed and accuracy.

To understand the importance of core strength, I drew parallels with my own experience in yoga, strength training, and breathing exercises. I realized that without a certain level of core strength and mobility in key areas such as the core, legs, lower back, hips, and back, attempts at complex poses or movements were futile. Similarly, in DI-LR, specific skills are required to crack the sets DI-LR: Improving your core strength. I questioned whether there could be targeted practice to develop these skills.

Reflecting on my teaching experience, I remembered teaching Analytical Reasoning to GRE students after completing my engineering degree. I downloaded the ETS GRE Big Book, which contained 27 full-length tests with two Analytical Reasoning sections per test. Each section consisted of 25 questions to be solved within 30 minutes, with approximately 18-19 LR questions spread over 4 sets and 6 CR questions. I found that compared to CAT LR sets, these GRE sets were relatively easy. However, they served as good practice as they were well-designed and required critical thinking.

To maximize the benefits for students, I introduced an additional complexity to these sets. I challenged myself to solve them mentally without putting pen to paper, except when necessary. By doing so, I transformed a 30-question practice session into a great LR core conditioning exercise. This constraint forced me to improve my core LR skills:

1. Remembering the conditions and the set details
2. Decoding the logical implications of the information provided
3. Finding the most optimum route to answer questions
4. Concentrating harder

Using this approach, I realized the significance of minimizing writing for LR just as I had advocated for Math in previous blog posts. Solving sets mentally required honing these core LR skills. It is similar to sharpening the pencil tip to create a finer sketch and can make the difference between a good and great performance.

To demonstrate how to solve a set mentally, let’s consider an example. A museum curator needs to group nine paintings (F, G, H, J, K, L, M, N, and O) in twelve spaces numbered 1-12. The paintings must be divided into three groups representing different centuries. The groups must have at least one unused wall space separating them. Some paintings belong to the eighteenth century, some to the nineteenth century, and some to the twentieth century.

I provide questions related to the set that can be solved mentally. After attempting the questions on your own, you can compare your solution with mine. Remember to visualize the set as you go through the solution. By incorporating mental solving techniques and strengthening key LR skills, you can enhance your performance in DI-LR.