1. Identify the Real Problem

Before trying to fix your score, understand what’s going wrong.

Ask yourself:

• Are you unable to solve sets?
• Or are you choosing the wrong sets in mocks?
• Are you running out of time?

Most students struggle with either:

• Set selection, or
• Lack of structured approach

Clarity here is crucial.

2. Stop Random Practice

Solving random DILR sets without a plan won’t help.

Instead:

• Practice topic-wise sets (arrangements, puzzles, DI caselets)
• Start with easier sets and gradually increase difficulty

Structured practice builds confidence and clarity.

3. Focus on Set Selection in Mocks

A major reason for low scores is attempting the wrong sets.

In CAT:

• Not all sets are meant to be solved
• Some are deliberately time-consuming

What to do:

• Spend initial minutes scanning all sets
• Pick ones that look familiar and structured
• Avoid overly lengthy or confusing sets

Better selection can instantly improve your score.

4. Develop a Structured Approach

Many students struggle because they don’t know how to start a set.

Work on:

• Breaking down the information
• Organizing it using tables, grids, or diagrams
• Solving step-by-step

A structured approach reduces confusion and saves time.

5. Re-Solve Previous Sets

Instead of always solving new sets:

• Revisit sets you’ve already attempted
• Solve them again without looking at the solution

This helps you:

• Understand patterns
• Improve speed
• Build confidence

6. Analyze Every Set Deeply

Improvement in DILR comes from analysis.

After each set:

• Understand the correct approach
• Identify where you got stuck
• Look for a faster method

Learning from each set is more important than solving many.

7. Practice Under Time Pressure

Once you build some comfort:

• Solve sets within time limits
• Take DILR sectionals regularly

This helps you:

• Improve speed
• Get used to exam pressure

8. Don’t Try to Solve All Sets

Trying to attempt every set is a mistake.

• Aim to solve 2–3 sets correctly in the exam
• Focus on accuracy over quantity

Even a few correct sets can give a high percentile.

9. Improve Patience and Focus

DILR requires sustained attention.

• Avoid rushing
• Stay patient when a set doesn’t click immediately

Often, a few extra seconds of thinking can unlock the entire set.

10. Stay Consistent

DILR improvement is gradual.

• Solve 1–2 sets daily
• Don’t skip practice

Consistency is the biggest factor in improvement.

Final Takeaway

If your DILR score is stuck, don’t get discouraged—it’s one of the most improvable sections in CAT. The key is to shift from random practice to smart practice, focus on set selection, and develop a clear solving approach.

With consistent effort and the right strategy, you can break out of the low-percentile zone and turn DILR into a scoring section.