CAT 2024: How to prepare for mixed data interpretation sets

In 2024, approximately 2 to 2.8 lakh candidates are expected to take the CAT exam out of the nearly 3.5 lakh participants registered, reflecting the ongoing strong interest in pursuing management education.

The exam assesses candidate proficiency in various domains such as quantitative ability, verbal ability, reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and data interpretation. Among these sections, data interpretation is often a challenging section for many aspirants due to its complexity, especially when presented in mixed data sets. These sets typically involve data presented in multiple formats, like tables, graphs, and charts, which must be interpreted simultaneously.

Here are the key strategies to master mixed data interpretation sets in CAT 2024 exams:

Try to master the basic mathematical concepts

Before tackling the complexities of mixed Data Interpretation (DI) sets, it’s important to build a strong foundation in essential mathematical concepts. These include percentages, ratios & proportions, and averages, frequently used in DI problems for comparisons, data analysis, and summarisation. Mastering these basic concepts not only enhances one’s ability to interpret complex data but also improves accuracy and speed in solving DI problems.

Understand the relationships between the given data

Mixed DI sets often require linking data from multiple sources to solve a problem. For example, a table might show raw sales numbers, while a pie chart provides a breakdown of sales by region. So one needs to develop the ability to draw connections between these data sets and interpret the big picture. Take proper time to analyse how the pieces of data relate to one another before starting your calculations.

Accuracy first, then speed

In the initial stages of your preparation, prioritise accuracy over speed. Mixed DI sets can be intricate, and small mistakes can lead to incorrect conclusions. Once you have built confidence in your accuracy, gradually incorporate time-based practice to enhance your speed while maintaining precision.

Utilise approximation techniques

In many cases, exact calculations are not necessary, approximation values can also be sufficient. When you are dealing with complex calculations, especially under time constraints, it is beneficial to round numbers or use simpler values to estimate answers quickly. This approach allows you to avoid lengthy computations while still coming to a close approximation of the correct result.

Eliminating the wrong options

Since data in DI sets is frequently correlated, questions are also interconnected to each other. As a result, when answering any problem, keep in mind that the answer to even one question can help you solve any other question by identifying the incorrect options. You only have to improve your analytical skills, and most of the time, you may get the perfect answer by removing the incorrect one, saving you time and energy.

Practice with previous year papers and mock tests

Regularly solving past CAT papers and taking mock tests is essential for building familiarity with different types of DI questions. Mock tests help simulate exam conditions, allowing you to practice under time pressure while identifying your strengths and areas for improvement. The more you practice, the better you will become at solving mixed DI sets.

After each mock test, analyse your performance to understand where you went wrong and how you can improve. Focus on the mistakes and challenges you face with mixed DI sets and then refine your strategy accordingly.

Additionally, the rigorous demands of CAT preparation can lead to heightened stress and fatigue. Incorporating mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation can significantly enhance one’s overall well-being and exam performance. Yoga helps to reduce stress while promoting physical strength and flexibility. Also, practicing meditation even for just 15-20 minutes daily can help to develop a calm and focused mindset, which enhances your ability to concentrate on complex data interpretation tasks. Mindfulness meditation can help you clear your mental chaos and approach your studies more clearly. Integrating these mindfulness practices into one’s regular routine can help to retain balance and serenity while preparing for the examination.

(The writer is the Chairman of FOSTIIMA Business School- Delhi)