Understanding the CAT 2020 Question Pattern: A Comprehensive Guide

One of the most significant changes in the CAT 2020 exam pattern was the reduction in the number of questions and a shift in the organization of the exam. This change reflects a broader strategic move by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) to make the CAT exam more efficient and reduce the overall test duration. In this article, we will delve into the nitty-gritty details of the CAT 2020, leaving no aspect uncovered.

Overview of the CAT 2020 Exam Details

Since 2015, the CAT exam pattern has largely remained consistent. However, the CAT 2020 marked a substantial departure with several key alterations. This shift in the exam structure includes changes in the time duration, test slots, number of questions, and sectional time limits.

The 120-Minute CAT Exam

The CAT 2020 is a computer-delivered test, but it is important to note that this is not an online exam. The test spans 120 minutes total. This shift in the exam type from pen-and-paper to computer-based not only changes the mode of test-taking but also the strategies and preparations required for candidates.

Reduced Question Count

A significant aspect of the CAT 2020 is the reduction in the number of questions. The exam is expected to have between 66 to 70 questions in total, divided into three sections: Verbal Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

Previously, the CAT had 100 questions, all spread across these three sections. This reduction in the number of questions makes the test more manageable and focuses on assessment of higher-order thinking skills.

25 No-Penalty Questions

One of the notable changes in the CAT 2020 is the increase in the number of no-negative-marking questions. More than 25 questions will not carry any penalty, whereas the rest of the questions, over 70, will be of the multiple-choice question (MCQ) type and will carry a penalty of 1/3. This strategy aims to reduce the burden of negative marking on test-takers and encourage risk-taking and attempting more questions.

Question Breakdown by Section

Let's delve deeper into the question breakdown by section:

VARC

Verbal Ability (VA): 18 questions, including Reading Comprehension (RC) passages, Parajumbles, and Paragraph Summaries. RC Passages: 5-6 passages, each followed by 2-3 questions. The level is marked as average. Parajumbles: 3 questions, each with 2-3 odd one out options. The level is marked as average. Paragraph Summaries: 2-3 questions, each based on a given passage.

DILR

Logical Reasoning (LR) and Data Interpretation Logical Reasoning (LRDI): 24 questions spread across 5 sets. The level is marked as average, similar to CAT 2018. Set Types: 4-5 sets of logical reasoning or data interpretation questions. The level is marked as average.

Quantitative Ability (QA)

Total Questions: 26 questions. Topic Distribution: Arithmetic: 10-12 questions. Geometry: 5-6 questions. Algebra: 6-7 questions. Number Theory and Permutations and Combinations (PNC): 3-4 questions, focusing only on counting. Level of Difficulty: The difficulty level is marked as average, same as CAT 2017.

Minimum CAT Score Requirement by IIMs

For candidates to be shortlisted for the final admission round at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), a minimum CAT score is required. The IIMs have set a minimum qualifying score between 70 and 90 percentile in each of the three sections. This ensures a level of consistency and fairness in the selection process. However, a high score alone is not sufficient; candidates must also have a strong academic profile and demonstrate diversity in their backgrounds.

Additional Criteria for Admission

While the CAT score is a crucial criterion, it is not the only one. Candidates need to have a strong academic profile and show diversity in their backgrounds. This holistic evaluation ensures that candidates with well-rounded profiles and a variety of experiences are selected for the IIMs.

Conclusion

The CAT 2020 marked a significant shift in the exam pattern. A reduction in the number of questions, increased no-negative-marking questions, and more focused sections tailored to higher-order thinking are some of the key changes. These changes aim to make the exam more manageable and assess higher-order skills. For more help with preparation, you can join our free Facebook group The CATway or The VARC Master.