The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024, one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India, began with Slot 1 on its scheduled date. Known for its rigour and relevance in admissions to top B-schools, including the IIMs, CAT is a milestone for MBA aspirants. Slot 1 of CAT 2024 has already sparked discussions about its difficulty level, section-wise analysis, and how it compares to previous years.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of Slot 1, offering insights into the exam’s difficulty level, question patterns, and expert opinions. Whether you’re a Slot 2 or 3 aspirant or evaluating your performance, this analysis will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and how to strategize for the remaining slots or future attempts.
Overview Table: Important Dates and Details
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| CAT 2024 Exam Date | November 24, 2024 | Conducted in three slots. |
| Slot 1 Answer Key Release | Late November 2024 | Unofficial answer keys are available; official keys were pending. |
| Objection Window for Answer Key | Early December 2024 | Candidates can raise objections online. |
| CAT 2024 Result Announcement | January 2025 | Unofficial answer keys are available; official keys pending. |
CAT 2024 Slot 1 Exam Details
The CAT 2024 Slot 1 exam was conducted across multiple centres nationwide, adhering to strict guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency. The test followed the usual pattern:
- Total Duration: 2 hours
- Sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Total Questions: 66 (non-MCQ and MCQ format)
Aspirants noted that the overall exam was moderately easier compared to last year, though some sections posed challenges. The test’s adaptive nature and its impact on percentile scoring remain critical factors for students to consider.
Section-Wise Analysis of CAT 2024 Slot 1
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Number of Questions: 24
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Insights:
The VARC section featured passages that were relatively straightforward, with moderate complexity in vocabulary and structure. Key topics included:- Abstract themes
- Technology and societal impact
- Literature-based passages
Most students found the questions on inference and main idea easier than last year. However, para-jumbles required focused attention, especially the non-MCQ types.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Number of Questions: 20
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Insights:
DILR maintained its reputation for being tricky, with most sets requiring time-intensive analysis. Key observations included:- A balanced mix of logical puzzles and data-driven sets.
- At least one set was significantly easier, giving candidates a scoring opportunity.
- Effective time management was crucial to solving this section.
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Number of Questions: 22
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Insights:
QA continued to be a scoring section for well-prepared candidates. Key features of the section:- Emphasis on arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- Fewer tricky questions compared to 2023, but accuracy was essential.
- Topics like profit-loss, percentages, and linear equations dominated the questions.
Key Takeaways from CAT 2024 Slot 1
- Overall Difficulty Level:
- Slot 1 was easier than CAT 2023.
- Candidates with balanced preparation across all sections could perform well.
- Time Management:
- Managing the DILR section within the allocated time remained a challenge.
- Prioritizing easy questions across sections helped many candidates maximize their scores.
- Adaptability:
- Familiarity with non-MCQ formats played a vital role in saving time and boosting confidence.
Expected Percentile Trends
Based on Slot 1 analysis, here’s a general expectation for percentile scores:
| Percentile | Expected Raw Score |
|---|---|
| 99+ | 100–105 |
| 95+ | 85–90 |
| 90+ | 75–80 |
These estimates may vary slightly based on performance across all slots and normalization factors applied by IIMs.
What Aspirants Should Do Next
- For Slot 2 and Slot 3 Candidates:
Use this analysis to focus on time management and identify scoring areas in each section. Allocate extra practice time to DILR and VARC for better performance. - For Slot 1 Candidates:
- Download unofficial answer keys to estimate your raw score.
- Wait for the official answer key and submit objections if necessary.
- Start researching B-school cutoffs based on your expected percentile.
- For Future Aspirants:
Analyze trends in this year’s paper to prepare better for CAT 2025. Focus on building speed and accuracy in arithmetic, data analysis, and comprehension skills.
Conclusion
CAT 2024 Slot 1 lived up to its reputation of being a fair yet challenging assessment for MBA aspirants. While the exam was moderately easier than in 2023, strategic preparation and adaptability remained key to success. Candidates should focus on evaluating their performance using answer keys and look forward to the official results.
Stay tuned for updates on answer keys and percentile cutoffs by visiting the official CAT portal or trusted education platforms. Best of luck to all aspirants aiming to secure their dream B-school seat!