Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) is a critical section of the CAT (Common Admission Test) that tests candidates’ proficiency in English language skills. For many CAT aspirants, VARC can be challenging due to its diverse question types and the need for both speed and accuracy. This is why we are with some effective strategies and tips to enhance VARC skills, helping aspirants perform better in this crucial section of the CAT exam.
Introduction
The VARC section in CAT evaluates candidates’ ability to comprehend written passages, analyze arguments, and use correct grammar and vocabulary. Success in VARC requires not only a strong command of the English language but also strategic reading and analytical skills. With this article, we aim to provide aspiring CAT candidates with practical insights and techniques to improve their VARC performance through structured preparation.
Understanding the CAT VARC Section
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand the components and structure of the CAT VARC section:
- Reading Comprehension (RC): This section comprises passages followed by questions that test comprehension, inference, and critical reasoning skills.
- Verbal Ability (VA): VA includes questions on grammar, vocabulary usage, para-jumbles, para-summary, and sentence correction.
- Time Management: VARC is typically allotted 40 minutes in the CAT exam, with around 24 questions. Effective time management is crucial to answering all questions within the stipulated time.
Strategies to Improve VARC Skills
1. Develop a Reading Habit
- Diverse Reading Material: Read articles, editorials, and essays from various domains to improve comprehension of different topics.
- Active Reading: Engage actively with the content by summarizing key points, identifying arguments, and predicting outcomes.
- Increase Reading Speed: Practice speed reading techniques to cover passages efficiently without compromising comprehension.
2. Enhance Vocabulary and Grammar Skills
- Vocabulary Building: Learn new words daily and use them in sentences to understand their context and usage.
- Grammar Practice: Brush up on grammar rules and practice sentence correction exercises to avoid common errors.
3. Practice Reading Comprehension
- Understand Passage Structure: Analyze the structure of passages (main idea, supporting details, conclusion) to grasp the author’s intent.
- Answer Approach: Practice summarizing passages in your own words and predicting answers before looking at the options.
- Types of RC Questions: Familiarize yourself with different question types (fact-based, inference-based, vocabulary-based) to strategize your approach.
4. Master Verbal Reasoning and Logical Ability
- Critical Reasoning: Practice identifying assumptions, strengthening and weakening arguments, and drawing logical conclusions.
- Para-jumbles and Para-summary: Develop a systematic approach to arranging sentences logically and summarizing passages accurately.
5. Mock Tests and Time Management
- Mock Test Practice: Regularly take CAT MBA mock tests to simulate exam conditions and improve time management.
- Analyzing Mock Tests: Review and analyze your performance in mock tests to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Time Allocation: Allocate time strategically to each question and passage based on its complexity and proficiency.
Conclusion
Improving VARC skills requires consistent practice, strategic reading, and a systematic approach to tackling different question types. By implementing the strategies, and even with CAT coaching online, CAT aspirants can significantly enhance their performance in the VARC section and increase their overall CAT score.
In conclusion, VARC is not just about language proficiency but also about analytical thinking and effective communication skills. With diligent practice and focused preparation, CAT aspirants can strengthen their VARC skills and approach the exam with confidence, achieving their desired score and paving the way for a successful management career.
