IE5552 Operations Research Previous Year Question Papers | Anna University

Prepare for the IE5552 Operations Research examination using previous year question papers, topic-wise analysis, important topics, revision planning and exam preparation strategies.

📚 Subject Details

Subject Code	IE5552
Subject Name	Operations Research
University	Anna University
Degree	B.E. Industrial Engineering
Department	Industrial Engineering
Regulation	Regulation 2019
Semester	5
Question Papers Analysed	1

📊 Topic Weightage Analysis

The following chart summarizes the topic recurrence identified from the available previous year question papers.

📊 IE5552 Topic Weightage

Based on 1 available previous year question papers, this analysis shows how frequently each topic appears.

Topic Recurrence Distribution

Note: Topic weightage represents the percentage of available question papers containing a topic. It does not represent the percentage of examination marks allocated to that topic.

⭐ Important Topics

Based on the analysis of 1 previous year question paper, the following topics deserve special attention.

• Linear Programming and Solution Methods
  Forms the fundamental base for solving optimization problems using algebraic and tabular iterations like Simplex and Big-M.
• Advanced Linear Programming Concepts
  Crucial for understanding the economic interpretation of dual variables and assessing how parameter changes affect the optimal solution.
• Transportation and Assignment Models
  Specialized classes of linear programming widely applied in supply chain, logistics, and resource allocation.
• Network Models
  Essential for determining optimal pathways, spanning trees, and maximum flow through interconnected systems.
• Inventory Control Models
  Key for minimizing total inventory costs under continuous review (Q system), periodic review (P system), and quantity discounts.
• Project Management (PERT/CPM)
  Vital for scheduling, path identification, time-cost trade-offs, and resource management in complex engineering projects.

📅 7-Day Revision Plan

Day	Topics	Revision Focus
Day 1	• Linear Programming and Solution Methods	Review basic formulation, Simplex method table iterations, and handling artificial variables with the Big-M method.
Day 2	• Advanced Linear Programming Concepts	Practice converting primal to dual problems and interpreting sensitivity analysis changes.
Day 3	• Transportation and Assignment Models	Revise initial basic feasible solution methods, optimality tests, and the Hungarian method for assignment.
Day 4	• Network Models	Solve problems on minimal spanning trees, shortest routes, and maximal flow algorithms.
Day 5	• Inventory Control Models	Understand inventory formulas for P systems, Q systems, and price break calculations.
Day 6	• Queuing Theory	Revise standard queue operating characteristics formulas and single/multi-server models.
Day 7	• Project Management	Practice network diagram drawing, critical path calculation, and PERT expected time estimations.

📄 Previous Year Question Papers

Download the available IE5552 previous year question papers below.

Exam	Regulation	Semester	File	Download
Nov/Dec 2023	Regulation 2019	5	Question Paper	Download

⚡ Last Minute Revision Tips

• Memorize standard formulas for inventory control (Economic Order Quantity and related parameters) and queuing operating characteristics.
• Practice step-by-step table formats for Simplex and Big-M methods to avoid arithmetic calculation errors.
• Ensure network diagrams (PERT/CPM, Minimal Spanning Tree) are neat, clearly labeled, and show directional arrows.
• Understand the economic interpretation of duality and shadow prices for conceptual questions.
• Be precise with units and calculations in transportation, assignment, and network problems.

📝 Exam Strategy

Time Management ⏱️

• Allocate time proportionally between numerical problem-solving and conceptual or derivation questions.
• Do not get stuck on lengthy calculation steps in Simplex or Transportation tables; move forward and come back if time permits.

Answer Writing Tips ✍️

• Write out formula statements clearly before substituting values in numerical problems.
• State assumptions and constraints explicitly when formulating linear programming or inventory models.

Diagram Presentation 📐

• Draw clear network diagrams for PERT/CPM, shortest route, and minimal spanning tree problems with distinct node numbers.
• Use neat tables for Simplex iterations, transportation allocations, and assignment matrices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid ⚠️

• Arithmetic errors in Simplex table updates or matrix calculations.
• Forgetting to check for degeneracy in transportation or assignment models.
• Misidentifying critical paths or activity dependencies in project management networks.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What are the core topics covered under Operations Research?

Core topics include Linear Programming (Simplex, Big-M, Duality, Sensitivity Analysis), Transportation and Assignment Models, Network Models, Inventory Models, Queuing Theory, and Project Management (PERT/CPM).

How should I approach numerical problems in the exam?

Always write down the given parameters, state the relevant formula or method being used, show systematic step-by-step calculations, and highlight the final answer with appropriate units.

Are network diagrams mandatory for PERT/CPM questions?

Yes, drawing a clear precedence network diagram is essential for identifying the critical path and calculating float times accurately.

How are P and Q inventory systems tested?

Questions typically test your ability to determine order quantities, reorder points, safety stock, and total inventory costs under continuous (Q) or periodic (P) review frameworks.

What is the significance of Duality in Linear Programming?

Duality provides alternative economic interpretations of the primal problem, offering valuable shadow prices and simplifying computations in certain sensitivity analyses.

Is sensitivity analysis important for exams?

Yes, sensitivity analysis evaluates how changes in objective function coefficients, resource availability, or constraint parameters impact the current optimal solution.

🎯 Final Preparation Advice

Use these previous year question papers to identify recurring concepts and prioritize your revision. Focus particularly on the important topics, practise numerical problems where applicable, and revise important diagrams and formulas before the examination.

Consistent practice and strategic revision can make your examination preparation more effective.