As a CAT aspirant in India, I have often grappled with one critical question: What is the most effective order to attempt the CAT sections? With each section—VARC (verbal ability and reading comprehension), DILR (data interpretation and logical reasoning), and QA (quantitative aptitude)—demanding a different skill set, finding the optimal sequence can have a big impact on performance. After multiple mocks and detailed analysis, here are my insights on what tends to work best and why.

Understanding the CAT exam format and pattern

The CAT exam is divided into three sections:

1. VARC – 40 minutes

2. DILR – 40 minutes

3. QA – 40 minutes

Each section is timed individually and must be attempted in a fixed order as per the official CAT exam pattern. However, the strategy discussed here is more relevant during mock tests or practice sessions, where you have the flexibility to experiment with different sequences to develop your comfort level.

Make sure you are familiar with the CAT exam syllabus, which outlines the topics under each section. Thorough understanding of the syllabus helps in designing your sequence based on your strengths.

Also, ensure that your CAT application form is filled correctly and that you download your CAT admit card well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Why the sequence matters

While the actual exam has a fixed order, the preparation phase is where experimenting with sequences makes a difference. Your brain has different energy levels at different points of time during the test, and each section places a different kind of cognitive load on you. Choosing the right starting point in practice can:

• Build early confidence

• Maximize energy utilization

• Reduce stress and fatigue

The most commonly preferred sequence: VARC → DILR → QA

1. Start with VARC: a calm beginning

Most students (including myself) prefer to begin with VARC. Here's why:

• It requires more focus than calculations, making it ideal when your concentration is at its peak.

• Reading comprehension passages demand patience and clarity of thought.

• Verbal ability questions (like para jumbles) are less taxing and can provide early momentum.

2. Move to DILR: the midway battle

DILR is mentally intense but does not involve heavy calculation. Attempting it second has benefits:

• You are warmed up after VARC, but not too tired.

• It allows you to allocate fresh mental bandwidth to puzzle-solving.

• Helps in managing time pressure since solving even two good sets can fetch decent marks.

3. End with QA: save the crunch for last

QA can be draining if taken first, especially if math isn’t your strength. Doing it last has these advantages:

• You can pick and choose easier questions to maximize attempts.

• You’ll know how much you need to score based on the previous sections.

• If your confidence is high from a good DILR performance, it boosts your QA attempts.

Alternatives: what others try

QA → VARC → DILR

This works for students strong in math. Starting with QA can help boost confidence if you're good with numbers.

DILR → QA → VARC

Some aspirants prefer solving the most difficult section first (DILR), when their mind is fresh.

What worked best for me

Personally, the VARC → DILR → QA sequence has worked best in my mocks. It allowed me to:

• Build early confidence

• Avoid getting stuck in DILR too soon

• End strong with QA by picking selective questions

Final thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy. The ideal sequence depends on your individual strengths and weaknesses. I recommend:

• Taking multiple mocks with different section orders (wherever possible)

• Analyzing your performance and mental fatigue levels

• Locking in the sequence that leaves you least exhausted and most confident

In the official exam, the sequence is fixed as per the CAT exam pattern, but by adapting your preparation accordingly, you can train your brain to perform optimally within the given structure. Also, don’t forget to stay updated on deadlines for the CAT application form and download your CAT admit card as soon as it is released. A thorough understanding of the CAT exam syllabus and strategic preparation will go a long way. Good luck with your CAT prep!