CAT Exam Analysis 2024 (Available): Slot-Wise Analysis, Difficulty Level, and Exam Pattern

Vaishali Pandey
Updated On:
Feb 21, 2025

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The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024 has concluded, and candidates across the nation are eager to dive into its slot-wise analysis. The CAT exam analysis is a vital tool for aspirants aiming to decode the intricacies of the test. This analysis not only helps identify the strengths and weaknesses of the various slots but also sheds light on trends in sectional weightage, expected cutoffs, and time management strategies. 

This article presents a comprehensive CAT exam analysis 2024, exploring slot-wise difficulty levels, exam patterns, and key insights to help you optimise your preparation strategy. 

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • The difficulty levels and key variations across the different CAT 2024 slots.
  • Insights into the exam pattern and which slot is easy in CAT?
  • Predictions for percentile scoring and cutoffs based on CAT exam analysis.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024:Overall Analysis

The CAT 2024 paper introduced changes in section structures and difficulty distribution, making it a mix of surprises and familiar trends for test-takers. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the exam, including significant trends, recent data, and expert observations.

1. Slots 1 and 2 displayed similar patterns, suggesting that their overall scores may be scaled down.

2. Slot 3 posed more challenges compared to the other slots, standing out as the most difficult.

3. The CAT 2024 exam was generally easier compared to CAT 2023.

4. Notable changes were observed in the DILR and VARC sections: the DILR section included two extra questions, while the VARC section omitted para jumbles entirely.

5. Due to the moderate difficulty level of the paper, overall cutoffs for CAT 2024 are expected to increase.

6. The total number of questions rose from 66 in 2023 to 68 in 2024.

7. The difficulty level for VARC remained consistent with last year, while both DILR and Quant sections were relatively easier.

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CAT Exam Analysis 2024: (Changed) Exam Pattern

As CAT continues to be one of the most competitive management entrance exams, the slight modifications in its pattern reflect the evolving nature of testing. 

Here’s a table providing a breakdown of the CAT 2024 exam pattern.

CAT Exam 2024 Components

CAT Paper 2024 Pattern

Total Number of Questions

68

Number of MCQs

48

Number of TITAs

20

Number of Sections

3

Sections

VARC, DILR and QA

Exam Duration

2 hours

Time Allotted per Section

40 minutes

Slots for Exam

3 Shifts

Mode of Exam

Computer-Based Exam

Medium of Instruction

English

Types of Questions

MCQ and TITA

Don't miss out on our detailed guide about the CAT Exam Pattern 2024, covering everything from sectional cutoffs to syllabus insights and top preparation tips. 

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CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Section-Wise Analysis & Difficulty Level

The CAT Exam Analysis 2024 provides insights into the nature and difficulty of each section, helping candidates assess the areas they need to focus on and fine-tune their strategies. 

Below is a breakdown of the CAT 2024 exam analysis of the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA) sections.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: VARC Section

The VARC section continues to test candidates’ ability to understand and analyse written content under time pressure.

1. Changes in Question Types

This year, para jumbles were notably absent in the VARC section, marking a significant shift in the pattern. Instead, the focus was more heavily on reading comprehension passages.

2. Difficulty Level

According to reports from candidates, the difficulty level of the VARC section was largely in line with previous years.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: DILR Section

The DILR section is traditionally known for its difficulty, but in CAT 2024, it came as a pleasant surprise for many candidates who found it somewhat easier to handle compared to previous years.

1. Changes in Question Composition

One of the notable updates this year was the addition of two extra questions. Candidates faced five sets in the DILR section as opposed to the four sets in the previous year. 

2. Difficulty Level

Despite the additional questions, the overall difficulty of the section was reported as moderate, with most candidates finding the sets to be more approachable than in previous years. 

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: QA Section

The QA section in CAT 2024 posed a balanced challenge, as candidates found it relatively easier than last year, though there were still some tricky questions to navigate.

1. Question Distribution

Arithmetic and algebra dominated the Quantitative Ability section, and candidates felt that the questions from these areas were doable but still required considerable effort to solve. 

2. Difficulty Level

Overall, QA was on the easier side this year, especially compared to the tougher years in the past. However, a few challenging questions tested candidates’ ability to think critically under pressure.

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CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot-Wise Analysis, Difficulty Level, & Number of Good Attempts

The CAT 2024 exam saw participation from a total of 2.93 lakh aspirants vying for a spot in India’s top management schools. With an ever-growing number of aspirants, it’s important to understand how each slot performed in terms of difficulty.

Let’s break down the slot-wise analysis based on candidate feedback, difficulty levels, and the number of good attempts needed to secure a good percentile.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 1 

The table below shows the overall breakdown of the CAT slot 1 analysis, including the number and type of questions and the exam’s difficulty level.

CAT Exam 2024 Sections

Number of Questions 

Questions

MCQs

(Multiple Choice Questions)

TITA

(Type in The Answer)

Difficulty Level

Good Attempt

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

4 Passages of 4 Questions each,

3 Para summary, 

3 Para completion, 2 Odd one out

22

2

Easy

14-16

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

22

2 Sets of 5 Questions

3 Sets of 4 Questions

12

10

Easy-Moderate

10-11

Quantitative Ability (QA)

22

Algebra - 5-6, Arithmetic- 10-11, Geometry- 3, Number System- 2, 

Modern Maths- 1

14

8

Moderate 

10

TOTAL

68

 

48

20

Moderate

 

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 1 Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of the CAT 2024 Slot 1 paper has been relatively favourable for aspirants this year. Here's a quick overview of the exam's difficulty across various sections.

1. VARC

The CAT 2024 Slot 1 was graded as easy to moderate, a shift from last year's more challenging pattern.

2. DILR

This section was notably easier compared to the CAT 2023, making it more manageable for candidates.

3. QA

Similarly, the Quantitative Ability section in CAT 2024 Slot 1 was also easier in comparison to CAT 2023.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 2

The table below provides a breakdown of the CAT exam 2024- Slot 2, including the number of questions and the exam’s difficulty level.

CAT Exam 2024 Sections

Number of Questions 

Questions

MCQs -

(Multiple Choice Questions)

TITA

-(Type in The Answer)

Difficulty Level

Good Attempt

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

4 Passages of 4 Questions each,

3 Para summary, 

3 Para completion, 2 Odd one out

22

2

Moderate

10-12

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

22

2 Sets of 5 Questions

3 Sets of 4 Questions

12

10

Easy-Moderate

10-11

Quantitative Ability (QA)

22

Algebra - 5-6, Arithmetic- 10-11, Geometry- 3, Number System- 2, 

Modern Maths- 1

14

8

Moderate 

11-12

TOTAL

68

 

48

20

Moderate

 

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 2 Difficulty Level

This year, the CAT 2024 Slot 2 exam followed a similar pattern to Slot 1, making it easier for candidates compared to the CAT 2023 paper. Here’s a brief breakdown of the difficulty level across the sections.

1. VARC

In Slot 2, the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section was easier than the previous year. Notably, like Slot 1, there were no para jumble questions. The difficulty level remained consistent with CAT 2024 Slot 1.

2. DILR

The DILR section in Slot 2 mirrored the pattern in Slot 1, making it relatively easy compared to CAT 2023. There were 3 to 4 sets that were manageable, allowing candidates to approach them with confidence.

3. QA

The Quantitative Ability section was also easier in Slot 2 compared to CAT 2023, with a similar structure to Slot 1.

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 3

The table below shows a breakdown of the CAT slot 3 analysis, including the number and type of questions and the exam’s difficulty level.

CAT Exam 2024 Sections

Number of Questions 

Questions

MCQs -

(Multiple Choice Questions)

TITA

-(Type in The Answer)

Difficulty Level

Good Attempt

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

4 Passages of 4 Questions each, 3 Para summary, 3 Para completion, 2 Odd one out

22

2

Moderate

17-18

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

22

2 Sets of 5 Questions

3 Sets of 4 Questions

12

10

Moderate- Difficult

10-11

Quantitative Ability (QA)

22

Algebra - 5-6, Arithmetic- 10-11, Geometry- 3, Number System- 2, 

Modern Maths- 1

14

8

Easy

13-15

TOTAL

68

 

48

20

Moderate

 

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot 3 Difficulty Level

Overall, the CAT 2024 Slot 3 exam pattern was easier compared to CAT 2023. Here's a detailed look at the difficulty level in each section.

1. VARC

The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section in Slot 3 followed a similar trend to Slot 1, with no para-jumbles. 

2. DILR

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section in Slot 3 was easier than Slot 1 but aligned closely with Slot 2. There were 2 to 3 sets that were manageable, offering a relatively smooth experience compared to previous years.

3. QA

The Quantitative Ability section in Slot 3 turned out to be the easiest of the three slots. It was simpler when compared to Slot 1 and Slot 2 and also more approachable than last year’s paper.

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CAT Exam 2024: Marking Scheme

The CAT 2024 Marking Scheme follows a pattern consistent with previous years, designed to assess candidates on a range of skills across three sections. 

Here’s a table highlighting the CAT exam 2024 marking scheme.

CAT 2024 Type of Question

For Correct Answers

For Incorrect Answers

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

+3

-1

Type in the Answer (TITA)

+3

0

CAT Exam Analysis 2024: Slot-Wise Difficulty Level

The CAT 2024 exam witnessed a variation in difficulty levels across its three slots, impacting the overall experience for the aspirants. 

Here is a table with a closer look at the slot-wise CAT exam analysis 2024. 

Section (CAT 2024)

Most Difficult

Moderately Difficult

Least Difficult

VARC

Slot 2

Slot 1

Slot 3

DILR

Slot 1

Slot 2/3

-

QA

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

CAT Exam Score vs Percentile 2024 (Expected)

In CAT 2024, score-to-percentile mapping is crucial for those targeting specific IIMs or other top B-schools. 

The table below shows how your raw CAT 2024 score corresponds to your percentile.

CAT Percentile

VARC score

DILR score

QA score

Overall score

99.9 %ile

48

36

40

102

99.5 %ile

44

32

30

89

99 %ile

40

28

27

80

98 %ile

36

25

23

71

95 %ile

30

19

18

57

90 %ile

25

16

15

49

85 %ile

21

13

12

40

80 %ile

19

11

10

36

75 %ile

17

10

9

31

70 %ile

15

9

8

29

CAT Exam Analysis 2023 - CAT 2023 Difficulty Level

In CAT 2023, the exam maintained a balanced pattern, but there were notable differences compared to previous years. 

The table below provides a breakdown of the CAT 2023 Difficulty Level across various sections.

Section (CAT 2023)

Most Difficult

Moderately Difficult

Least Difficult

VARC

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

DILR

Slot 3

Slot 1

Slot 2

QA

Slot 3

Slot 2

Slot 1

CAT Exam Analysis 2022 

The CAT 2022 exam followed the standard pattern, requiring candidates to complete 66 questions within a total of 2 hours. 

The table highlights the CAT 2022 Exam Pattern.

Section Name

Total Questions

Time Limit

Score for 99%ile

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

24

40 Minutes

39

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

20

40 Minutes

29

Quantitative Ability (QA)

22

40 Minutes

33

CAT Exam Analysis 2021

For the CAT 2021 exam, a few key observations were made, including changes in the pattern and difficulty levels. The below table provides a snapshot of CAT 2021's structure and difficulty levels. 

Section

No of questions

Non-MCQ Questions

Time in Minutes

Difficulty Level

Ideal Score/Attempts for 99 %ile

VARC

24

5

40

Moderate

35-38 (15-18)

DILR

20

5

40

Moderate

28-30 (10-12)

QA 

22

8

40

Easy

39-42 (15-17)

Total

66

18

120

 

97-99 (42-48)

The CAT Exam 2024 offers a significant level of competitiveness with its varied difficulty levels across slots. Understanding the CAT exam analysis and recognising patterns in the difficulty levels can help you in preparing strategically. By focusing on the structure and key elements like time management and accuracy, you can enhance your chances of performing well. 

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FAQs About the CAT Exam Analysis 2024

What is the overall CAT slot 1 analysis for CAT 2024? 

The CAT slot 1 analysis indicates that the exam was moderately difficult, with a balanced distribution of questions across sections. Candidates found the quantitative aptitude section to be slightly challenging compared to verbal ability.

How does the CAT slot 3 analysis compare to other slots? 

The CAT slot 3 analysis reveals that this slot had a higher number of tricky questions, particularly in the logical reasoning section.

What were the key takeaways from the CAT 2021 QA slot 2? 

The CAT 2021 QA slot 2 highlighted a significant focus on data interpretation and problem-solving, with many candidates noting the complexity of the questions.

What is the CAT 2023 difficulty level compared to previous years? 

The CAT 2023 difficulty level was rated as higher than in 2022, with many students struggling with the quantitative sections, which had more application-based questions.

Which slot is easy in CAT? 

Many candidates believe that cat slot 1 analysis shows it to be the easiest slot, as it had a more straightforward set of questions compared to the other slots.

What insights can be drawn from the CAT slot 3 analysis? 

The cat slot 3 analysis suggests that candidates should focus on time management, as many reported running out of time due to the complexity of the questions.

What strategies can help with the CAT difficulty level? 

To manage the CAT difficulty level, develop a study plan that includes regular practice and review of challenging topics.

Is there a significant difference between the CAT slot 1 analysis and the CAT slot 3 analysis? 

Yes, the CAT slot 1 analysis indicates a more balanced question distribution, while the CAT slot 3 analysis shows a higher concentration of difficult questions.

What are the common mistakes in the CAT slot 1 analysis? 

Common mistakes in the CAT slot 1 analysis included misreading questions and poor time management.

What resources are recommended for understanding the CAT slot 3 analysis? 

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the CAT slot 3 analysis, utilise online forums, coaching materials, and previous year question papers to assess the nature of the exam.

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