CAT DILR: Solving 2 sets vs 3—what changes in percentile?

Introduction

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of the Common Admission Test (CAT) is often considered the make-or-break section for many aspirants. Unlike Quant or VARC, DILR doesn’t have formulas to memorize or vocabulary to build. It’s all about logic, speed, and decision-making. One of the most common doubts among CAT aspirants is this: How much difference does solving 2 sets vs 3 sets in DILR really make in terms of percentile? Let’s dive into this using data trends and percentile patterns. If you're preparing for the CAT exam, understanding the CAT exam pattern, CAT exam syllabus, and being updated on the CAT exam date and CAT application form deadlines is essential.

Section structure and challenges

The DILR section in CAT typically consists of 4 sets with 5-6 questions each. Aspirants usually get 40 minutes (in the current exam pattern) to attempt the section. These sets vary in difficulty: some are straightforward data-based questions, while others are complex puzzles that require considerable time investment.

Given the time constraint and the high level of difficulty, attempting all 4 sets accurately is rare. Most aspirants aim to solve 2 to 3 sets correctly. But what exactly does that translate into in terms of percentile?

What happens when you solve 2 sets?

Solving 2 sets accurately (around 10-12 questions) with high accuracy can usually fetch you somewhere between 85 to 95 percentile, depending on the difficulty level of the section that year. In years where DILR is particularly tough, even 2 complete sets can push you close to the 97 percentile mark.

For example:

• In CAT 2022 (Slot 2), solving just 2 sets (10 correct answers) could get you close to 94-95 percentile.
  
  

• In CAT 2021 (Slot 1), 10 correct answers in DILR meant crossing 90 percentile.
  
  

What happens when you solve 3 sets?

Solving 3 sets accurately (15-18 questions) can push your percentile to 98+ easily. With high accuracy, you could even cross the 99 percentile mark.

For example:

• In CAT 2023 (Slot 3), 15-16 correct answers in DILR translated to 99+ percentile.
  
  

• In CAT 2020, candidates who solved 3 sets often found themselves in the 98-99.5 percentile range.
  
  

The marginal leap from 2 to 3 sets

The leap from solving 2 sets to 3 is not linear; it is exponential in terms of percentile gain. That’s because the number of students who manage to solve 3 sets accurately is significantly lower. As a result, even a small increase in raw score gives a substantial jump in percentile.

Strategy takeaway

• If the section is difficult: focus on solving 2 sets with 100% accuracy. Don’t chase the third set if it’s time-consuming or confusing.
  
  

• If the section is moderate: try for 2.5 to 3 sets. Prioritize sets that you can understand quickly.
  
  

• Don’t blindly aim for 3 sets. It’s better to solve 2 perfectly than to rush through 3 with errors.
  
  

Conclusion

In DILR, accuracy and smart selection matter more than volume. Solving 2 sets can already place you among the top 10-15% of candidates. But if you can manage to solve 3 sets correctly, you're looking at the elite 98-99 percentile range. Practice a variety of sets, build your logical stamina, and aim for consistency. Every set counts, but accuracy counts more.

While focusing on DILR strategy, also ensure you're aligned with the broader preparation by tracking the CAT exam date, filling out the CAT application form on time, and covering the CAT exam syllabus thoroughly as per the latest CAT exam pattern.

Stay focused, and may your DILR section turn into a scoring opportunity rather than a stumbling block.