Cracking the CAT 2021: A Comprehensive Guide to the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Section

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive MBA entrance exams in India. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the CAT exam tests candidates' ability to read, comprehend, and analyze written text. This section carries a weightage of 24% in the overall score, making it a crucial component of the exam.

Understanding the VARC Section

The VARC section consists of 24 questions and is divided into three sub-sections:

• Reading Comprehension (RC): This sub-section consists of four passages, each followed by 5-6 questions. The passages cover a wide range of topics, including literature, science, social sciences, and business.
• Verbal Ability (VA): This sub-section tests candidates' vocabulary, grammar, and usage of the English language. It includes questions on synonyms, antonyms, analogies, fill in the blanks, sentence correction, and paragraph jumbles.
• Critical Reasoning (CR): This sub-section tests candidates' ability to analyze and evaluate arguments. It includes questions on syllogisms, logical reasoning, and inference.

Preparing for the VARC Section

To ace the VARC section of the CAT 2021, candidates need to adopt a holistic preparation strategy that focuses on both conceptual understanding and practice. Here are some key preparation tips:

• Build a Strong Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding and interpreting written text. Read extensively to expand your vocabulary and learn the meanings of new words. Refer to dictionaries, thesauruses, and word lists to enhance your word power.
• Practice Reading Comprehension: Reading comprehension is a skill that improves with practice. Solve practice passages from various sources, including newspapers, magazines, and online platforms. Time yourself while practicing to develop your speed and accuracy.
• Analyze Passages Critically: Don't just read passages passively. Actively engage with the text by highlighting key points, identifying the author's purpose, and evaluating the arguments presented.
• Master Verbal Ability Concepts: Brush up on your grammar, usage, and vocabulary. Study the rules and concepts related to synonyms, antonyms, analogies, fill in the blanks, and sentence correction.
• Improve Critical Reasoning Skills: Develop your ability to analyze and evaluate arguments. Practice identifying logical fallacies, drawing inferences, and solving syllogisms.
• Take Mock Tests: Mock tests help you simulate the actual exam experience and identify areas where you need improvement. Take mock tests regularly to assess your progress and gain confidence.

Slot 1: 3 Golden Rules for Success

For candidates attempting the CAT 2021 in Slot 1, here are three golden rules for success:

1. Time Management: The VARC section has a time limit of 60 minutes. Manage your time wisely by allocating a specific amount of time to each passage and question type.
2. Focus on Accuracy: Don't rush through the questions. Take your time and focus on getting the answers right. Accuracy is more important than speed in this section.
3. Don't Guess: If you're not sure about an answer, it's better to leave it blank than to guess randomly. Guessing can lead to negative marking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes while preparing for the VARC section:

• Ignoring Reading Comprehension: Some candidates focus primarily on Verbal Ability, neglecting Reading Comprehension. Remember that Reading Comprehension carries a higher weightage and is equally important.
• Overestimating Comprehension: It's tempting to believe that you understand the passage without actually reading it carefully. Don't fall into this trap. Read the passage thoroughly before answering the questions.
• Relying on Shortcuts: There are no shortcuts to success in the VARC section. Build a strong foundation in vocabulary, grammar, and critical reasoning through consistent practice.
• Neglecting Practice: Practice is the key to success in the CAT VARC. Solve as many practice passages and questions as possible to enhance your comprehension and reasoning skills.

Why VARC Matters

Aceing the VARC section is crucial for several reasons:

• High Weightage: VARC carries a weightage of 24% in the overall CAT score. Performing well in this section can significantly boost your overall score.
• Communication Skills: VARC tests your ability to communicate effectively in writing and speech. Strong communication skills are essential for success in business and management.
• Critical Thinking: The VARC section tests your critical thinking, analysis, and reasoning abilities. These abilities are indispensable for managers who need to make informed decisions in complex business environments.

Benefits of Excelling in VARC

Excelling in the VARC section of the CAT 2021 offers several benefits:

• Increased Overall Score: A high VARC score can improve your overall CAT score, making you more competitive for admission to top MBA programs.
• Enhanced Communication Skills: Improved VARC skills will enhance your written and verbal communication abilities, which are vital for success in business.
• Analytical Advantage: Strong VARC skills will give you an analytical advantage, enabling you to analyze data, evaluate arguments, and make informed decisions.
• Time Management Skills: Practicing VARC improves your time management skills, which are essential for effective performance in the CAT exam and beyond.

Call to Action

Prepare for the CAT 2021 VARC section with dedication and determination. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can develop strong verbal ability and reading comprehension skills that will not only help you ace the CAT but also prepare you for success in your future career.

Additional Resources

• CAT Official Website
• VARC Preparation Tips from Experts

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

• The Case of the Misunderstood Idiom: A candidate read the phrase "kick the bucket" in a RC passage and answered the question based on the literal meaning. He received zero marks, learning the hard lesson that idioms must be interpreted figuratively.
• The Overconfident Critic: A candidate was so confident in his analytical abilities that he skipped reading the passage and answered the CR questions based on his preconceived assumptions. He ended up with a poor score, realizing that critical reasoning requires a thorough understanding of the given context.
• The Time-Bound Typo: A candidate was rushing through the VA section when he made a typo in a simple fill-in-the-blank question. The correct answer was "above," but he typed "abobe" instead. This careless mistake cost him valuable marks, teaching him the importance of accuracy even under time pressure.