Crack CAT 2021 VARC Slot 3 with Ease: Tips and Strategies

The CAT 2021 VARC Slot 3 is one of the most crucial sections of the exam, carrying significant weightage. To conquer this section and maximize your score, it's imperative to arm yourself with effective strategies and knowledge. This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know to achieve success.

Section Overview and Syllabus

The VARC section of CAT 2021 Slot 3 consists of 24 questions divided into three sub-sections:

1. Verbal Ability (10 questions): Tests your vocabulary, grammar, and reading comprehension skills.
2. Reading Comprehension (12 questions): Evaluates your ability to analyze and understand written passages.
3. Critical Reasoning (2 questions): Assesses your logical reasoning and argument evaluation abilities.

Time Management and Sectional Cutoff

The time allotted for this section is 60 minutes. Experts recommend allocating the following time to each sub-section:

• Verbal Ability: 22-25 minutes
• Reading Comprehension: 28-32 minutes
• Critical Reasoning: 5-8 minutes

The sectional cutoff for CAT 2021 VARC Slot 3 is expected to be around 85-90 percentile.

Effective Preparation Strategies

1. Enhance Your Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary is the cornerstone of success in VARC. Dedicate time to learning new words daily through flashcards, reading newspapers and articles, or using online vocabulary builders.

2. Practice Reading and Comprehension

Read extensively from various sources like novels, magazines, and news articles. This will enhance your reading speed, comprehension, and ability to identify key points.

3. Develop Critical Reasoning Skills

Practice solving logical reasoning questions and analyzing arguments. Identify patterns, draw inferences, and evaluate the validity of statements.

4. Master Grammar and Usage

Brush up on the basics of English grammar and usage rules. This will help you better understand the structure and meaning of sentences.

5. Solve Mock Tests and Analyze Performance

Regularly take mock tests and analyze your performance. Identify areas of improvement and work on them systematically.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Lack of Practice: Not practicing enough can lead to poor performance and missed opportunities.
2. Overconfidence: Assuming you are well-prepared without putting in the necessary effort can be a recipe for disaster.
3. Time Management Issues: Failing to allocate time effectively can result in rushing through questions and making careless mistakes.
4. Ignoring Grammar and Usage: Underestimating the importance of grammar can hinder your ability to understand and answer questions accurately.
5. Lack of Focus: Staying distracted during the exam can disrupt your concentration and impact your performance.

Interesting Stories to Learn From

1. The Case of the Missing Cat

A pet owner realized that her beloved cat was missing. She searched everywhere but couldn't find it. Desperate, she posted a reward for its return. A few weeks later, she received a message from a neighbor who claimed to have found her cat. When she went to retrieve it, she discovered that it was not her cat but a lookalike. The moral of the story: Don't jump to conclusions based on superficial similarities.

2. The Language Barrier

A student preparing for an international exam was struggling to understand a particular concept in English. He was tempted to leave it out but decided to seek help from his professor. The professor explained the concept in the student's native language, which helped him grasp it instantly. This teaches us the importance of seeking clarification when needed and not shying away from obstacles.

3. The Power of Perseverance

A group of friends decided to hike a challenging mountain trail. Along the way, they encountered unexpected obstacles like rain and slippery terrain. Despite the difficulties, they encouraged each other to keep going. Finally, they reached the summit, exhilarated and proud of their accomplishment. Their journey reminds us of the value of determination and teamwork in overcoming challenges.

FAQs

1. What is the syllabus for CAT 2021 VARC Slot 3?
   The syllabus includes verbal ability, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning.

2. How should I allocate my time for each sub-section?
   Recommended time allocation: Verbal Ability (22-25 minutes), Reading Comprehension (28-32 minutes), Critical Reasoning (5-8 minutes).

3. What is the expected sectional cutoff for VARC Slot 3?
   The expected sectional cutoff is around 85-90 percentile.

   

4. What are the common mistakes to avoid in VARC?
   Lack of practice, overconfidence, time management issues, ignoring grammar and usage, and lack of focus.

5. How can I improve my vocabulary?
   Learn new words daily through flashcards, reading, and online vocabulary builders.

6. What is the importance of reading comprehension?
   Reading comprehension helps you analyze, understand, and identify key points in written passages.

7. How can I develop critical reasoning skills?
   Practice solving logical reasoning questions, analyze arguments, and evaluate the validity of statements.

8. What is the benefit of taking mock tests?
   Mock tests help you identify areas of improvement, manage your time effectively, and boost your confidence.

Call to Action

To excel in CAT 2021 VARC Slot 3, it's crucial to follow these strategies, avoid common pitfalls, and practice diligently. With dedication and effort, you can conquer this section and boost your overall CAT score. Remember, success is not a destination but a journey, and every step you take towards it brings you closer to your goals.