The Integrated Reasoning (IR) section of the EA consists of 12 questions, but they aren't delivered in one continuous block. Instead, you'll face two separate, timed modules of six questions each. This structure is important because the EA is section-adaptive. Your performance on the first six-question module determines the difficulty level of the second.

Performing well on the first set of questions unlocks a harder second module. This is precisely what you want. A higher difficulty level gives you the opportunity to achieve a top-tier score. To manage this, we'll use a specific pacing strategy called the 3:2:1 method.

The 3:2:1 method is a framework for allocating your time across the two IR modules to maximize your score. It's not a rigid rule for every single question, but a strategic approach to the section as a whole.

Here’s the breakdown:

• 3 Minutes: For the first two or three questions in the first module, allow yourself up to three minutes per question. These are the most critical. Focus on accuracy to prove to the algorithm that you're ready for more challenging problems.
• 2 Minutes: For the remaining questions in the first module, aim for around two minutes each. You've already set a strong baseline, so you can pick up the pace slightly.
• 1.5 Minutes: When you reach the second module, your pace should increase. Aim for an average of 90 seconds per question. Because you performed well in the first module, these questions will be harder. You won't know everything, and that's by design. Your task here is to identify what you can solve quickly and make educated guesses on the rest. Don't get bogged down trying to solve a complex problem that will eat up three minutes.

Pacing is only half the battle. You also need efficient tactics for each question format. The goal is to avoid getting lost in the data and to answer questions by spotting patterns and relationships, not by brute-force calculation.

The prompt will present information across two or three tabs. Your job is to connect the dots. After reading the question, form a quick plan. Ask yourself: "What pieces of information do I need, and where am I likely to find them?" One tab might have an email, another a chart, and a third a project plan. Scan each tab for the key data points identified in your plan. Look for names, dates, or technical terms that appear in more than one source. These are the links that reveal the answer.

For Table Analysis questions, your best tool is the sort function. The table is designed to be interactive for a reason. Instead of manually scanning rows and columns, use sorting to make the answer visually obvious.

If a question asks for the region with the third-highest sales in a specific year, don't read every number. Click the header for that year's sales to sort the column in descending order. The answer will be the third one down. This turns a calculation problem into a simple visual task, saving you valuable time and reducing the chance of error.

Finally, Graphics Interpretation questions test your ability to understand charts and graphs. The key here is to identify relationships and correlations. Before you even read the question, take a few seconds to understand the graphic. What do the axes represent? What is the trend? Is there a positive or negative correlation between the variables?

Questions often try to trick you with 'eye-catcher' answers that are visually appealing but factually incorrect. For example, a bar chart might show one bar as the tallest, but the question might be about percentage growth, not absolute value. Always confirm that you are answering the specific question being asked and not just reacting to the most obvious visual feature.

By combining a smart pacing strategy with efficient, type-specific tactics, you can navigate the IR section confidently and strategically position yourself for a higher score.