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CAT 2024 Slot 1 Exam Analysis: Detailed Overview

The first slot of the CAT 2024 exam set the tone for this year’s test, offering candidates a balanced mix of approachable and moderately challenging questions. Slot 1 showcased a predictable pattern across sections, with VARC being notably easier compared to previous years, while DILR and QA sections demanded sharp decision-making and time management skills.
With 68 questions spread across three sections—VARC, DILR, and QA—this slot provided ample opportunities for those who prepared strategically. In this detailed analysis, we break down the exam structure, section-wise performance, and key takeaways to help you understand what worked and how this slot compares with CAT 2023.


Overall Exam Structure

Responsive Table
SectionNumber of QuestionsDuration (Minutes)MCQsTITADifficulty Level
VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension)2440222Easy
DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning)22401012Easy-Moderate
QA (Quantitative Ability)2240148Moderate
Total681204820Moderate

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

The VARC section featured 4 RC passages and a mix of verbal ability questions. The section was rated as easy, with good opportunities for high attempts and accuracy.

Breakdown of VARC


Responsive Table
Question TypeNumber of QuestionsMCQsTITADifficulty LevelDoable Questions
RC: Utility & Human Economics440Moderate2
RC: Entertainment/Netflix440Easy3
RC: Australian Spices440Easy3
RC: Craftsmanship440Moderate4
Paragraph Completion3301 Easy, 2 Moderate2
Paragraph Summary3301 Easy, 1 Medium, 1 Difficult1-2
Odd Sentence Out (TITA)2021 Easy, 1 Medium1-2

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The DILR section maintained a balance between data-heavy and logical reasoning sets. It was rated as easy to moderate, with the right selection of sets playing a crucial role.

Breakdown of DILR

Responsive Table
Set NumberTopic/AreaNo. of QuestionsMCQsTITADifficulty LevelDoable Questions
1Candlestick (Shares-Based)431Easy4
2Tournament (Teams)505Medium3-4
3Blogger-Based Bar Graph422Moderate2-3
4Set Theory Bar Graph413Moderate2-3
5Caselet (Percentages)550Medium3-4

Quantitative Ability (QA)

QA in Slot 1 leaned towards being moderate. Arithmetic dominated the section, making it accessible for candidates with good conceptual clarity in this area.

Breakdown of QA

Responsive Table
Topic/AreaNo. of QuestionsMCQsTITADifficulty LevelDoable Questions
Arithmetic (TSD, Percentages, Ratios)862Easy6-7
Algebra (Log, Equations, Functions)752Moderate4-5
Geometry (Circles, Coordinate)321Moderate2
Modern Math (P&C, Probability)312Moderate-Difficult1-2
Numbers101Moderate-Difficult1

Percentile vs. Score for CAT 2024 Slot 1


Responsive Table
PercentileVARC ScoreDILR ScoreQA ScoreOverall Score
99.9484948120-124
99.5404343106-110
9936403595-98
9520291868-70
9017231459-61

Key Observations for Slot 1

  1. Sectional Trends:
    • VARC was the easiest, giving an edge to candidates strong in language skills.
    • DILR required careful selection of sets but had doable questions.
    • QA, while moderate overall, rewarded candidates who prioritized Arithmetic and Algebra.
  2. Overall Difficulty:
    Slot 1 was easier than CAT 2023, with a balanced paper and a manageable difficulty level across sections.
  3. Preparation Takeaways:
    • Build strong basics in Arithmetic and RCs for scoring opportunities.
    • Develop strategic selection skills for DILR.
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