CAT 2021 Question Paper with Solution PDF: Marking Scheme

Hafsha Qureshi

Updated on - Aug 16, 2024

CAT 2021 question paper with solution PDF is provided to understand the exam better. Candidates can attempt to answer the questions and check the number of correct answers with the help of CAT answer keys. It will help them to gauge the preparation level and focus on areas that require attention.

IIM Ahmedabad conducted the CAT 2021 on November 28, 2021. Additionally, the exam was conducted in three slots following the Covid-19 protocol.

CAT 2021 Question Paper with Solution PDF

CAT 2021 question paper constituted three sections: Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. The level of difficulty varied for each slot for each section. Nonetheless, the CAT 2021 question paper with solution PDF is attached in the table below.

Also Check: CAT Books

CAT 2021 Question Paper Marking Scheme

The CAT marking scheme remained unchanged for the year 2021. For each MCQ and correct descriptive answer, 3 marks were allotted. For each incorrect MCQ answer, there was a deduction of 1 mark. However, there was no negative marking for descriptive answers. Nonetheless, there was no marking for unattempted questions.

Also Check: CAT Exam Pattern

CAT 2021 Question Paper Slot-Wise Breakdown of Difficulty Level

CAT 2021 question paper was reviewed as moderate to difficult by the candidates. The slot-wise sectional division of questions is as follows. The number of questions from each section also differed.

Also Check: CAT Syllabus

CAT 2021 Question Paper Analysis

We have created this section to provide a detailed analysis of the CAT 2021 question paper with solution PDF. Here, candidates will find the elaborate slot-wise discussion of the paper:

Slot 1

• There were 26 questions from VARC, of which 18 were MCQs and 8 non-MCQs. Candidates remarked that this section was difficult and only the ones with good command over reading, vocabulary, and verbal ability could score worthy marks.
• From QA, there were 18 MCQ questions and 8 TITAs. It was easy to solve as most of the questions were from arithmetic. Algebra, roots, logs, and geometry.
• In the DILR, 6 questions were from non-MCQ and 16 MCQs. Most were based on data interpretation, reasoning, and the Venn diagram. The section was moderately difficult.

Slot 2

• The VARC section had questions about reading, verbal ability, and vocabulary. It was reviewed as an easy section.
• Algebra, time and distance, number system, permutation & combination, work, speed, and arithmetic questions dominated the section. The section ranged from moderate to difficult.
• Maximum questions were from logical reasoning for the DILR section. Candidates found it to be moderately challenging.

Slot 3

• The VARC section remained easy as the previous slots. 26 questions were there mixed from various areas.
• Geometry, coordinate geometry, algebra, arithmetic, mensuration, and number system dominated the QA section. Candidates found it to be challenging.
• The DILR section of slot 3 was the most difficult. Questions were mixed from various areas, and candidates reviewed it to be a tricky part.

Also Read

• CAT 2020 Question Paper
• CAT 2019 Question Paper
• CAT 2018 Question Paper
• CAT 2017 Question Paper