CAT2024:IIM Calcutta has successfully conducted the first slot of CAT 2024 on November 24, 2024, marking the commencement of one of the most anticipated management entrance exams of the year. Held across 170 exam cities, CAT 2024 is being conducted in three slots, with the first one taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Slot 1, highlighting student reactions, exam difficulty, question patterns, and expected cutoffs.

Exam Day Structure

The CAT 2024 Slot 1 comprised three sections:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
• Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Candidates had 40 minutes to complete each section, summing up to a 120-minute exam duration. The question paper featured a total of 66 questions, divided among the sections, as detailed below:

Section	Number of Questions	Difficulty Level
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24	Moderate to Difficult
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)	20	Easy to Moderate
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	22	Moderate to Difficult

Key Observations from Slot 1

1. Overall Exam Experience
   • The first impressions from students indicated that the VARC section was challenging, with tougher comprehension passages compared to previous years.
   • The Quantitative Aptitude section was tricky, especially for those less confident in arithmetic. However, it included direct formula-based questions that eased the difficulty for well-prepared candidates.
   • The DILR section struck a balance with a moderate difficulty level and well-structured problem sets.
2. Section-Wise Breakdown
   • VARC: With 24 questions, this section featured no para jumbles—a deviation from earlier patterns. Topics included reading comprehension passages and questions on para-summary and odd sentence identification. Some candidates found the comprehension passages to be more abstract and nuanced this year.
   • DILR: This section, featuring 20 questions, leaned towards moderate difficulty. Notable sets included stock market charts, country-based set theory problems, and star distribution tasks. Students attempting three out of the five sets could expect strong percentile performance.
   • QA: Comprising 22 questions, the QA section emphasized arithmetic topics like time-speed-distance, profit-loss, and ratios, alongside a few algebra and geometry problems. Many students noted that while the questions were solvable, the section required sharp time management.

Expert Analysis

According to experts, Slot 1 of CAT 2024 maintained its reputation for rigorous testing. VARC emerged as the most challenging section, testing candidates’ comprehension and critical reasoning skills. Conversely, DILR and QA were comparatively manageable, offering some relief to test-takers.

First-Hand Student Feedback

• VARC: “The comprehension passages were lengthy and complex, especially the ones on technology and AI. Odd one out questions provided some respite,” said a candidate.
• QA: “Quant had its fair share of challenges, but it wasn’t as daunting as last year. Arithmetic questions stood out for their simplicity,” remarked another test-taker.
• DILR: “The logical reasoning sets were interesting and doable, with stock market chart questions being the highlight,” shared a student.

Expected Cutoffs

Based on initial responses, the cutoffs for CAT 2024 Slot 1 are expected to align closely with previous years. However, the increased difficulty in VARC may lower the sectional cutoff for this segment slightly. Candidates aiming for top-tier IIMs should target:

• VARC: 40–45 percentile for sectional cutoff
• DILR: 45–50 percentile for sectional cutoff
• QA: 45–50 percentile for sectional cutoff

What’s Next?

• Slot 2 Exam Timing: 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Slot 3 Exam Timing: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Stay tuned for a detailed analysis of these slots, along with comprehensive reviews and cutoff predictions for the entire CAT 2024 examination.

Final Thoughts

CAT 2024 Slot 1 presented a mix of challenges and opportunities for candidates. With a balanced approach across sections and effective time management, aspirants can still achieve competitive scores. For those preparing for upcoming slots, analyzing these patterns can provide a strategic advantage.

Keep visiting this page for updates on CAT 2024 and detailed insights into Slot 2 and 3!