CAT DILR Syllabus 2026 PDF Download [Weightage & Important Topics]

Overview: Understanding CAT DILR Syllabus is one of the essential steps while preparing for CAT 2026. The section typically asks 22 questions covering various topics. Read on to get the complete DILR CAT syllabus here!

• DILR stands for Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. It is the second most difficult section of the CAT exam, consisting of 22 questions that must be solved in 40 minutes.
• Most DILR questions are asked in sets of 3-4; only a few are standalone questions.

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Continue reading to know the complete CAT DILR syllabus 2026 here!

What is CAT DILR Syllabus 2026?

The DILR, or Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, is one of the key sections of the CAT exam.

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DI LR) section, as outlined in the CAT DILR syllabus, tests your ability to analyse data, recognise patterns, and solve complex problems using logic and reasoning.

CAT DILR Syllabus Pattern 2026

Before diving into the DILR syllabus for CAT 2026, it is important to understand the exam structure of the DILR section:

Section	Total Questions	MCQs	Non-MCQs	Duration
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)	20	~14	~6	40 minutes

Please note: The number of questions may vary slightly each year as the paper pattern is not fixed.

Here are the key highlights of the DILR section 

Total Questions: Approximately 20-22 questions (varies slightly each year)

• Time Duration: 40 minutes
• Question Types: Combination of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQS) and Type in the Answer (TITA) questions
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
• This section is typically divided into two parts:
  • Data Interpretation (DI): This involves analysing charts, graphs, tables, and data sets that require calculations.
  • Logical Reasoning (LR): Tests your ability to solve puzzles, arrangements, blood relations, and other logical constructs.

Check: VARC Syllabus for CAT 2026

CAT DILR Syllabus 2026: Key Topics in the Data Interpretation Section

CAT DILR Syllabus Breakdown :The DILR section in CAT is divided into two main components: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

Here are the topics covered in the Data Interpretation section of the CAT exam:

Tables	Extracting and analysing data using calculations like averages, percentages, ratios, and trends.
Bar Graphs	Interpreting data using bar lengths; questions may involve differences, sums, or percentage changes.
Line Graphs	Understanding trends and relationships over time, including growth rates and comparisons between multiple lines.
Pie Charts	Analysing proportional data often requires converting percentages to absolute values or comparing segments.
Venn Diagrams	Solving problems involving overlapping sets using two or more circles to show relationships.
Caselets	Reading short paragraphs with embedded data and answering questions using both data interpretation and logical reasoning.
Radar Charts	Analysing multivariate data on a circular graph with multiple axes (also called Spider Charts).
Histograms	Understanding frequency distributions of numerical data grouped into intervals or bins.
Scatter Plots	Examining relationships or correlations between two variables through plotted data points.
Data Sufficiency	Determining if the provided statements contain enough information to answer a specific question.
Reasoning-based DI	Combining logical reasoning with data interpretation to solve complex sets.
Data Arrangement	Organising data logically based on conditions or rules given in the problem.
Mathematical Puzzles	Solving DI sets using mathematical reasoning and logic.
Networks and Diagrams	Interpreting information from flowcharts, networks, or schematic diagrams.

Know: Important Formulas For CAT

Logical Reasoning Syllabus for CAT 2026

Here are the topics covered in the Logical Reasoning section of the CAT exam:

Topic	Subtopics / Description
Arrangements	Linear Arrangements: Arrange people/objects in a straight line according to specific conditions. Circular Arrangements: Arrange around a circle. Complex Arrangements: Combine linear, circular, or add constraints.
Puzzles	Seating Arrangements: Who sits next to whom is based on the rules. Scheduling: Allocate tasks/events to times. Floor Puzzles: Place people/items on different floors.
Blood Relations	Determine relationships from family-based clues; includes coded relations and family trees.
Venn Diagrams	Use Venn diagrams to represent and analyse logical relationships between groups.
Clocks and Calendars	Solve problems involving time, dates, and calendar-based logic.
Cubes	Solve cube-related problems: cutting, painting, folding, and spatial reassembly.
Routes and Networks	Analyse flow diagrams, maps, or route-based setups.
Binary Logic	Deduce conclusions from statements marked as true or false.
Games and Tournaments	Analyse outcomes, scores, or rankings in competitive setups.
2D/3D Space LRs	Visualise and reason with objects in two or three dimensions.
Coin Picking	Solve logical puzzles involving selecting coins under constraints.
Conditional LRs	Logic-based problems using "if-then" conditions.
Case-based LRs	Logical reasoning is embedded within case study formats.
Selection	Select people/items based on specific rules or criteria.
Sequencing	Arrange items/events in a logical order using clues.
Logical Connectives	Apply logical operators like AND, OR, NOT, and IF-THEN in reasoning.
Truth and Lie	Deduce truth based on statements from truth-tellers and liars.
Logical Matching	Match elements from different sets based on given conditions.

Check: Logical Reasoning Questions for CAT

CAT 2026 DILR Syllabus: Expected Topic-wise Weightage

According to the CAT DILR syllabus, the Data Interpretation part of the CAT DILR section typically focuses on tables and graphs. Logical Reasoning questions, however, can cover a wider range of topics, including verbal, non-verbal, and abstract reasoning.

The table below shows the general structure and difficulty level of the DILR section based on previous CAT exams.

CAT DILR Syllabus	No. of Questions	Level of Difficulty
Data Interpretation	4-6	Easy
Data Interpretation	4-6	Moderate
Logical Reasoning	4-6	Moderate to Difficult
Logical Reasoning	4-6	Easy to Moderate
Overall	20	Moderate to Difficult

Note: Please note that the question format and difficulty within this section are subject to change from year to year.

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Best Books for CAT DILR Syllabus 2026 Preparation

When it comes to cracking CAT DILR section, the right study material can make all the difference, and we’ve built ours from the ground up, just for you.

Our in-house study material and mock test series are thoughtfully designed by a team of subject matter experts who understand the evolving exam patterns of CAT exam. Every book, every module, and every mock test is crafted to ensure you’re not just covering the syllabus you’re building mastery over it.

Our Flagship Study Material Series

Here’s a look at our handpicked, topic-wise resources:

S. No.	Book Name	Focus Area
1	RSM Lateral Thinking Book	Puzzle-solving & critical thinking
2	RSM 07 Critical Reasoning Grail	Critical reasoning, assumption, logic
3	RSM 01 Absolute DI 01	Basic Data Interpretation drills
4	RSM 02 Logic Mania 01	Intro to Logical Reasoning
5	RSM 03 Logic Mania 02	Advanced Logical Reasoning sets
6	RSM 04 Logic Mania 03	CAT-level puzzles, sets & patterns
7	RSM 05 Absolute DI 02	Advanced DI sets with visuals & tables

Some Other Useful Study Materials to Boost CAT 2026 DILR Preparation 

Book Title	Author	Key Highlights
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT	Arun Sharma	Concept-wise theory, past CAT questions, and ample practice sets
How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT	Arun Sharma	Comprehensive LR topics, shortcut methods, CAT-style exercises
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT	Nishit K. Sinha	Beginner to advanced exercises, detailed explanations, mock practice sets

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CAT DILR Preparation Tips for 2026

To prepare well for the DILR syllabus for CAT 2026, here are the key tips that every CAT aspirant should follow:

• Remember, the DILR section focuses on charts, graphs, and series. To get a good handle on this section, practice questions based on these topics.
• Since the CAT DILR Syllabus asks questions based on mathematical operations, it is essential to be strong in mathematical calculations.
• To achieve this, memorise tables up to 20, as well as squares and square roots, cubes and cube roots, and practice speed math questions.
• The CAT exam's Logical Reasoning section includes questions on blood relations, family trees, coding and decoding, seating arrangements, caselets, and more.
• To master these DILR syllabus for CAT topics, it is best to solve as many questions as possible. Also, try to solve the previous year's CAT question paper.

Practice with: CAT Trigonometry Question with Solutions

Conclusion

The CAT DILR syllabus is extensive and requires dedication, but consistent practice, including mock tests and past papers, can lead to a high score.

Visit Toprankers for mock tests and previous year papers. Join us today to enhance your preparation and achieve your scoring goals!

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