CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC: A Comprehensive Guide to Ace the Verbal Ability Section

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a standardized entrance exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of the exam is designed to assess candidates' ability to understand and interpret written text. Slot 1 of the CAT 2018 VARC section consisted of 24 questions, including 10 Reading Comprehension (RC) passages and 14 Verbal Ability (VA) questions.

Understanding the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Exam Pattern

Number of Questions: 24

Time Duration: 60 minutes

Type of Questions:

• Reading Comprehension (10 passages)
• Verbal Ability (14 questions)

Distribution of Questions:

Effective Strategies for the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

1. Time Management:
- Allocate ample time for each question, especially for the RC passages.
- Use the elimination strategy to rule out incorrect options quickly.
- Avoid spending excessive time on difficult questions.

2. Reading Comprehension:
- Preview the passage: Quickly skim through the passage to understand the main idea and structure.
- Active reading: Read the passage carefully, highlighting key points and making annotations.
- Summarize: After reading each paragraph, briefly summarize the main points in your mind.
- Answer questions sequentially: Start with the questions that are directly related to the passage.

3. Verbal Ability:
- Practice different question types such as sentence completion, paragraph completion, analogies, and odd one out.
- Develop a strong vocabulary by studying word lists and using flashcards.
- Improve your grammatical skills by reviewing grammar concepts and practicing exercises.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

1. Misreading the Passage:
- Read the passages carefully and avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions.
- Pay attention to the tone and context of the writing.

2. Failing to Eliminate Options:
- Carefully analyze each option and eliminate those that are clearly incorrect.
- Consider the meaning of the passage and the context of the question.

3. Spending Too Much Time on Difficult Questions:
- Don't dwell on difficult questions. Move on and revisit them later if time permits.
- Allocate your time wisely to maximize your score.

A Step-by-Step Approach to the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

1. Pre-Exam Preparation:
- Study the exam pattern and question types thoroughly.
- Practice mock tests and analyze your performance.
- Build a strong vocabulary and grammar foundation.

2. Day of the Exam:
- Arrive at the exam hall early and remain calm.
- Read the instructions carefully and manage your time wisely.
- Attempt the questions sequentially and use elimination strategies.

3. Post-Exam Analysis:
- Review your performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Analyze the difficult questions and learn from your mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the level of difficulty of the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC section?
- The difficulty level was moderate to challenging. The RC passages were lengthy and required close reading.

2. How many marks can I expect in the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC section?
- A score of 60-70% is considered a good performance.

3. What is the importance of a good score in the VARC section?
- A high VARC score can significantly boost your overall CAT score and improve your chances of securing admission to top B-schools.

Tables for Reference

Table 1: Distribution of Questions in the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

Table 2: Marking Scheme for the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

Table 3: Recommended Time Allocation for the CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC Section

Inspirational Quote

"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Conclusion

The CAT 2018 Slot 1 VARC section was designed to test candidates' reading comprehension skills and verbal ability. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, understanding the exam pattern, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can maximize your score and achieve success in the exam. Remember, with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.